The Audi Q3 I (8U) facelift, specifically the 2.0 TDI ultra variant producing 150 horsepower, was a key model in Audi’s compact luxury SUV lineup from 2014 to 2018. Positioned as a fuel-efficient option within the Q3 range, it aimed to balance practicality, comfort, and running costs. This version of the Q3, built on the Volkswagen Group’s PQ25 platform (also known as the A3 platform), represented a mid-cycle refresh of the original Q3 introduced in 2011, bringing updated styling, improved technology, and enhanced efficiency. The “ultra” designation signified Audi’s efforts to optimize fuel economy through weight reduction and engine tuning.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | Q3 |
| Generation | Q3 I (8U, facelift 2014) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI ultra (150 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.9 l/100 km (60.3 US mpg, 72.4 UK mpg, 25.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 109 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 204 km/h (126.76 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.9 kg/Hp, 101 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 229 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 3500-4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 1750-3000 rpm (250.77 lb.-ft. @ 1750-3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA288 / CUVC, DBBA, DFTA |
| Engine displacement | 1968 cm3 (120.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.6 l (4.86 US qt | 4.05 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1485 kg (3273.86 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2085 kg (4596.64 lbs.) |
| Max load | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 460 l (16.24 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1365 l (48.2 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 64 l (16.91 US gal | 14.08 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 12 l (3.17 US gal | 2.64 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4388 mm (172.76 in.) |
| Width | 1831 mm (72.09 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2019 mm (79.49 in.) |
| Height | 1608 mm (63.31 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2603 mm (102.48 in.) |
| Front track | 1571 mm (61.85 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1575 mm (62.01 in.) |
| Front overhang | 905 mm (35.63 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 880 mm (34.65 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/65 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Q3 2.0 TDI ultra is the EA288 series four-cylinder diesel engine. Specifically, engine codes CUVC, DBBA, and DFTA were commonly found in this variant. This engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power and efficiency. The engine features four valves per cylinder and a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) to enhance responsiveness across the rev range. The 1968cc displacement provides a good balance between power and fuel economy. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels. The six-speed manual transmission was standard, offering precise gear changes and contributing to the vehicle’s overall efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 150 horsepower and 340 Nm (250 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the 2.0 TDI ultra engine provided adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 9.1 seconds, and top speed was 126.76 mph. While not a sports car, the Q3 offered sufficient power for overtaking and highway cruising. The manual transmission allowed for driver engagement, but the gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency rather than outright performance. Compared to the more powerful 2.0 TDI quattro variants, the ultra model felt less eager to accelerate, but it compensated with significantly improved fuel economy. The front-wheel-drive configuration provided predictable handling, although it lacked the all-weather capability of the quattro all-wheel-drive system.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Q3 2.0 TDI ultra typically came well-equipped, though specific features varied depending on the market and optional packages. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, a multi-function steering wheel, an infotainment system with a color display, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels added features such as leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, parking sensors, and a more advanced infotainment system with navigation. Audi’s MMI (Multi Media Interface) system was a key feature, allowing drivers to control various vehicle functions through a central rotary dial and display screen. Safety features like ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags were standard across the range.
Chassis & Braking
The Q3’s chassis featured independent suspension all around, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. This configuration provided a comfortable ride and decent handling characteristics. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The steering was electrically assisted, offering a light and precise feel. The suspension was tuned to prioritize comfort over sporty handling, making it well-suited for everyday driving. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi Q3 2.0 TDI ultra was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and well-appointed interior. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the punch of more powerful alternatives. Compared to other trims in the Q3 lineup, the ultra model offered the best fuel economy but the least amount of performance. It competed with other compact luxury SUVs such as the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA, offering a compelling combination of practicality, comfort, and efficiency.
Legacy
The EA288 engine family, including the 2.0 TDI found in the Q3, has proven to be relatively reliable, although some early versions were affected by diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and DPF regeneration, is crucial for long-term reliability. On the used car market, the Q3 2.0 TDI ultra remains a popular choice due to its fuel efficiency and relatively low running costs. It represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a compact luxury SUV with a focus on practicality and economy.
