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Audi Q3 vs Dacia Duster comparison

Compare performance (272 HP vs 158 HP), boot space and price (38,200 £ vs 16,300 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Audi Q3 or Dacia Duster?

Audi Q3 vs Dacia Duster: Key differences

Audi Q3

5 (1 Reviews)
rate
  • considerably more power
  • clearly more efficient
  • considerably quicker 0–100 km/h
details

Dacia Duster

4.8 (3 Reviews)
rate
  • clearly cheaper
  • slightly lighter
  • very slightly more trunk space
details

All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

By Achim Sedelmaier

Q3

Clash of the Compact SUVs: Audi Q3 vs Dacia Duster

With the rise of compact SUVs in the automotive market, the Audi Q3 and Dacia Duster have garnered significant attention. Both offer a blend of design, performance, and practicality, but they cater to different preferences. Let's delve into the technical aspects and innovations that distinguish these two models.

Duster

Performance and Engine Options

The Audi Q3 showcases a diverse range of engine options with its 2024 model featuring both petrol and diesel variants, capable of producing between 150 to 245 horsepower. A choice between a manual gearbox and a dual-clutch automatic transmission further enhances its versatility. Furthermore, the Q3 offers the option of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, ensuring superior adaptability to various driving conditions.

By contrast, the Dacia Duster emphasizes efficiency and eco-friendliness with its engine choices, which include LPG, full hybrid, and petrol mild-hybrid (MHEV) variations. Although it has a lower maximum power range of 91 to 140 horsepower, the Duster compensates with impressive fuel economy, consuming as low as 5 to 6.5 litres per 100 km. Like the Q3, it also offers both manual and automated manual transmission options.

Q3

Acceleration and Top Speed

In terms of acceleration, the Audi Q3 is the sportier option, capable of sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.8 to 9.5 seconds, depending on the engine variant. The top speed ranges from 204 to 237 km/h, underlining its performance-oriented design.

While the Dacia Duster falls behind in acceleration, with times ranging from 9.9 to 14 seconds, it retains a respectable top speed of up to 180 km/h. This performance, though modest compared to the Q3, aligns with its economical and accessible nature.

Duster

Dimensions and Practicality

The Audi Q3 measures between 4484 and 4500 mm in length, with a trunk capacity of 530 litres, making it a practical choice for those who require ample space without sacrificing luxury. It also offers a payload ranging from 455 to 495 kg.

On the other hand, the Dacia Duster, slightly more compact at 4343 mm in length, offers a range of trunk capacities from 430 to 517 litres. Its payload capacity varies from 414 to 430 kg, catering well to families and adventure enthusiasts looking for practicality.

Q3

Environmental Impact and Efficiency

Both SUVs come equipped with emissions control, but the Duster edges out with a lower CO2 efficiency class, ranging from C to E, compared to the Q3's E to G classification. The Duster's lower CO2 output, between 114 and 147 g/km, highlights its eco-friendly credentials over the Q3 which ranges from 149 to 193 g/km.

Duster

Conclusion: Luxury vs. Practicality

The Audi Q3 prides itself on its luxury and performance, offering more power and speed, supplemented by high-end features and an all-around more opulent driving experience. Conversely, the Dacia Duster focuses on practicality and economy, making it an attractive alternative for budget-conscious buyers seeking value and efficiency in a compact SUV.

Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to one's personal priorities: the sporty sophistication of the Audi Q3 or the functional pragmatism of the Dacia Duster.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Q3

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are often the first things buyers look at. Here it becomes clear which model has the long-term edge – whether at the pump, the plug, or in purchase price.

Dacia Duster is clearly cheaper – starting at 16,300 £ , while the Audi Q3 costs 38,200 £ . That’s a price difference of around 21,951 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the Audi Q3 uses 1.7 L/100km and is clearly more efficient than the Dacia Duster with 4.7 L/100km. The difference is about 3 L/100km.

Duster

Engine and Performance:

Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

When it comes to engine power, the Audi Q3 offers considerably more power – delivering 272 HP compared to 158 HP. That’s roughly 114 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Audi Q3 is considerably quicker – completing the sprint in 5.7 s, while the Dacia Duster takes 9.4 s. That’s about 3.7 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Audi Q3 delivers substantially more torque with 400 Nm compared to 230 Nm. That’s about 170 Nm more.

Q3

Space and Everyday Use:

Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, Dacia Duster is slightly lighter – 1,377 kg compared to 1,635 kg. The difference is around 258 kg.

Looking at boot space, the Dacia Duster offers very slightly more boot space – 517 L compared to 488 L. That’s a difference of about 29 L.

When it comes to payload, the Audi Q3 carries a bit more – 535 kg compared to 453 kg. That’s a difference of about 82 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Audi Q3 stands well ahead of its rival in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from £38,200
Q3

Audi Q3

  • Engine Type : Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 150 - 272 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 1.7 - 8.6 L/100km
  • Electric Range : 118 - 119 km
Audi Q3
Dacia Duster

Costs and Consumption

View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance

View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body

View detailed analysis

Audi Q3

The Audi Q3 is a compact premium crossover that blends sharp styling with a well-crafted interior, making it an appealing choice for urban drivers who want a touch of luxury. It delivers a composed ride, intuitive tech features and a practical cabin, so it works well as a comfortable daily driver with an upscale feel.

details

Dacia Duster

The Dacia Duster is a straightforward, budget-friendly SUV that prioritizes practicality and value over flashy features. Its rugged styling and simple, roomy interior make it a sensible choice for buyers who want capable everyday transport without paying for extras they won’t use.

details
Audi Q3
Dacia Duster

Costs and Consumption

Price
38,200 - 52,900 £
Price
16,300 - 24,900 £
Consumption L/100km
1.7 - 8.6 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
4.7 - 7.6 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
118 - 119 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
39 - 195 g/km
co2
107 - 140 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,635 - 1,900 kg
Curb weight
1,377 - 1,559 kg
Trunk capacity
375 - 488 L
Trunk capacity
348 - 517 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,859 mm
Width
1,813 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
505 - 535 kg
Payload
402 - 453 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Full Hybrid, LPG
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Automated Manual, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
150 - 272 HP
Power HP
115 - 158 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.7 - 9.2 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
9.4 - 11.7 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
250 - 400 Nm
Torque
190 - 230 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Power kW
110 - 200 kW
Power kW
84 - 116 kW
Engine capacity
1,498 - 1,984 cm3
Engine capacity
1,199 - 1,789 cm3

General

Model Year
2,025 - 2,026
Model Year
2,025 - 2,026
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, G, B, F
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, C
Brand
Audi
Brand
Dacia
DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.