Audi Q3 45 TFSI e is brand’s latest plug-in hybrid

• Available in SUV and Sportback body styles
• Audi’s eighth plug-in hybrid model
• UK prices to be revealed

The Audi Q3 and Audi Q3 Sportback will be available as ‘45 TFSI e’ plug-in hybrid models from spring 2021. Using a tried-and-tested 242bhp powertrain, the Q3 pair means there are now Audi-badged alternatives to the plug-in hybrid Mercedes GLA, BMW X1 and Volvo XC40 models.

Q3 45 TFSI e models combine a 1.4-litre petrol engine and an 85kW electric motor for a total output of 242bhp. Unlike the Audi A3 40 TFSI e, the bigger Q3 uses the more powerful version, which has also appeared in the Cupra Formentor, Volkswagen Golf GTE and Skoda Superb iV. Earlier this week, we reported that the large SEAT Tarraco e-Hybrid will use this powertrain too.

Here, it allows the Q3 to hit 0-62mph in a nippy 7.3 seconds and the top speed is 130mph. When driven normally, Audi says you can expect up to 31 miles of electric range from a fully charged battery, and topping it back up takes under four hours from a normal plug socket.

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Audi is yet to reveal UK pricing and economy details but the hybrid Q3 should manage high MPG and low CO2 figures. This means it’ll likely be the best choice for company-car drivers keen on a Q3, as the Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) tax will be much lower than for conventional petrol and diesel models.

It’s highly likely that the plug-in hybrid powertrain will be one of the most expensive options available but it will at least be available in the cheaper trim levels. The 45 TFSI e engine is offered in Technik (Q3 SUV only), S line, Black Edition and Vorsprung trims. Full specs are to be released later on but all cars get Audi’s MMI navigation plus system.

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Top-spec Vorsprung will be considerably more expensive but come with a vast array of features including big 20-inch alloy wheels, electrically controlled suspension, matrix LED headlights, a premium sound system, a panoramic sunroof, wireless phone charging and an upgraded version of Audi’s Virtual Cockpit.

Passenger space should be unaffected by the hybrid powertrain and the rear seats can recline through seven positions to offer the best possible comfort. Each rear seat folds individually and behind them is a 380-litre boot. Like most plug-in hybrids, the boot is a little smaller than petrol or diesel versions, but it still matches a Volkswagen Golf hatchback. The rakish Q3 Sportback boasts this capacity too, although offers slightly less total boot space when only the rear seats are in place.

Read our guides to the best plug-in hybrids and the best electric SUVs.