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Audi Q3 vs Nissan Qashqai – Which car suits you better?

Both models have their strengths – but which one suits you more?
Compare performance, efficiency, price and space directly: Audi Q3 or Nissan Qashqai?

Q3 @ Audi AG

Battle of the SUVs: Audi Q3 vs Nissan Qashqai

The compact SUV segment is growing rapidly, and two prominent contenders vying for supremacy are the Audi Q3 and the Nissan Qashqai. Both vehicles offer a compelling mix of style, innovation, and functionality. However, they have their unique characteristics and technologies that set them apart. In this article, we will dig deep into their technical aspects to help you decide which SUV reigns supreme.

Qashqai @ Nissan Motor Corporation

Performance and Engine Options

The Audi Q3 boasts a diverse range of engine options, offering both petrol and diesel variants. Power outputs range from 150 HP to an impressive 245 HP, ensuring that there's a choice for every driver. The Q3's turbocharged engines deliver robust torque ranging from 250 Nm to 400 Nm, resulting in swift acceleration. The model can achieve 0-100 km/h in as little as 5.8 seconds, while top speeds can reach up to 237 km/h, depending on the engine configuration.

On the other side, the Nissan Qashqai introduces a blend of petrol MHEV and full hybrid engines, creating a different performance spectrum. Power outputs range from 140 HP to 190 HP, with peak torque hitting 330 Nm. The Qashqai manages 0-100 km/h in 7.9 seconds for its swiftest variant, with a top speed of 206 km/h. Although slightly less powerful than the Q3, the Qashqai leans into efficiency with consumption figures as low as 5.1 L/100km in its hybrid configurations.

Q3 @ Audi AG

Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Considerations

Fuel consumption is an essential factor for many drivers. With the Audi Q3, fuel efficiency varies across its engine lineup, with estimates generally around 5.5 to 8.5 L/100km. The diesel variants offer some of the best efficiencies in the lineup. However, the Qashqai shines particularly in this department, with consumption figures as low as 5.1 L/100km for its hybrid models and a CO2 emission range that can go as low as 116 g/km.

In terms of environmental impact, the Qashqai has a slight edge due to its advanced hybrid technology, allowing Nissan to classify its CO2 efficiency as 'D' or better. Conversely, the Q3 sits in classes 'E' and 'F', signaling less environmentally friendly performance metrics compared to its rival.

Qashqai @ Nissan Motor Corporation

Interior Comfort and Technology

The interior quality of the Audi Q3 is often lauded as luxurious and sophisticated, showcasing premium materials and high-end finishes. The Q3's trunk capacity stands at 530 liters, offering generous storage for everyday needs. Its robust infotainment system, including the Audi Virtual Cockpit, provides an immersive driving experience with top-tier digital interfaces.

Meanwhile, the Nissan Qashqai offers a more pragmatic approach to interior comfort. The cabin is spacious, with a focus on usability. The Qashqai provides a slightly smaller trunk capacity of 479-504 liters, depending on the specific model. Infotainment options in the Qashqai include modern connectivity features, but they may lack the polish of Audi's superior technology. However, the Qashqai includes nifty driver-assistance features as standard, including ProPILOT Assist, enhancing the driving experience.

Q3 @ Audi AG

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Safety is non-negotiable for vehicles in this segment, and both Audi Q3 and Nissan Qashqai are equipped with a suite of safety technologies. The Q3 incorporates Audi's advanced safety and driver-assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and emergency braking. These features blend seamlessly into the high-tech offerings that Audi is known for, providing not just security but also peace of mind.

The Qashqai, trained on Nissan's Safety Shield technology, includes features like intelligent emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind-spot warning. While the Qashqai’s offerings are commendable, the Q3’s systems are often seen as more refined and integrated, catering to those who prioritize an all-encompassing luxury experience.

Qashqai @ Nissan Motor Corporation

Conclusion: Which SUV Comes Out on Top?

Choosing between the Audi Q3 and Nissan Qashqai ultimately hinges on personal preference. If you seek luxury, powerful performance, and high-end technology, the Audi Q3 is your go-to option. Conversely, if efficiency, practicality, and cost-effectiveness are your priorities, the Nissan Qashqai makes a compelling case.

Both vehicles cater to the specific needs of modern drivers, ensuring that regardless of your ultimate choice, you'll be acquiring a well-engineered SUV that promises comfort, performance, and style. Therefore, it may just boil down to which driving experience resonates more with your lifestyle needs.

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

Q3 @ Audi AG

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

Nissan Qashqai has a evident advantage in terms of price – it starts at 29600 £, while the Audi Q3 costs 38200 £. That’s a price difference of around 8623 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Audi Q3 manages with 1.70 L and is therefore decisively more efficient than the Nissan Qashqai with 4.50 L. The difference is about 2.80 L per 100 km.

Qashqai @ Nissan Motor Corporation

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the Audi Q3 has a evident edge – offering 272 HP compared to 205 HP. That’s roughly 67 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Audi Q3 is distinct quicker – completing the sprint in 5.70 s, while the Nissan Qashqai takes 7.60 s. That’s about 1.90 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Audi Q3 performs a bit better – reaching 240 km/h, while the Nissan Qashqai tops out at 206 km/h. The difference is around 34 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Audi Q3 pulls slightly stronger with 400 Nm compared to 330 Nm. That’s about 70 Nm difference.

Q3 @ Audi AG

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 curb weight, Nissan Qashqai is a bit lighter – 1420 kg compared to 1635 kg. The difference is around 215 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Nissan Qashqai offers minimal more room – 504 L compared to 488 L. That’s a difference of about 16 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Nissan Qashqai performs minimal better – up to 1447 L, which is about 61 L more than the Audi Q3.

When it comes to payload, Audi Q3 hardly perceptible takes the win – 535 kg compared to 520 kg. That’s a difference of about 15 kg.

Who wins the race?

The Audi Q3 proves to be leaves the rival little chance and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
Audi Q3 is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

from about £38,200
Q3 @ Audi AG

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
  • Electric Range : 118 - 119 km
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Audi Q3

5 (1)
rate

The Audi Q3 feels like a grown-up compact SUV with premium polish and city-friendly agility, the sort of car that makes weekend escapes and daily commutes equally satisfying. Inside, you get quality materials and smart packaging that keep things practical without skimping on style, so it’s an easy pick for buyers who want luxury without the drama.

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Nissan Qashqai

The Nissan Qashqai blends practical, family-friendly packaging with SUV styling that refuses to shout, making it a sensible and dependable choice for everyday life. It’s comfortable to live with, economical on the road, and neatly equipped enough to feel modern without ever feeling precious — perfect if you want crossover versatility without the drama.

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Nissan_Qashqai_4X4_005 @ Nissan Motor Corporation
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Q3 @ Audi AG
Qashqai @ Nissan Motor Corporation

Costs and Consumption
Price
38200 - 52900 £
Price
29600 - 39900 £
Consumption L/100km
1.7 - 8.6 L
Consumption L/100km
4.5 - 6.8 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
118 - 119 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
19.70 kWh
Battery Capacity
-
co2
39 - 195 g/km
co2
102 - 154 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
45 - 60 L
Fuel tank capacity
55 L

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1635 - 1900 kg
Curb weight
1420 - 1665 kg
Trunk capacity
375 - 488 L
Trunk capacity
479 - 504 L
Length
4531 mm
Length
4425 mm
Width
1859 mm
Width
1835 mm
Height
1559 - 1601 mm
Height
1625 mm
Max trunk capacity
1196 - 1386 L
Max trunk capacity
1422 - 1447 L
Payload
505 - 535 kg
Payload
466 - 520 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Full Hybrid
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, CVT, Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
150 - 272 HP
Power HP
140 - 205 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.7 - 9.2 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.6 - 10.2 s
Max Speed
208 - 240 km/h
Max Speed
170 - 206 km/h
Torque
250 - 400 Nm
Torque
240 - 330 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Power kW
110 - 200 kW
Power kW
103 - 151 kW
Engine capacity
1498 - 1984 cm3
Engine capacity
1332 - 1498 cm3

General
Model Year
2025
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, G, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, C
Brand
Audi
Brand
Nissan

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Is the Audi Q3 offered with different drivetrains?

The Audi Q3 is available as Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.