Audi was late to the crossover coupe game, but they’re making up for lost time by introducing the 2020 Q3 Sportback.

Based on the standard Q3, the Sportback features a sportier appearance as it adopts a black Singleframe grille and trapezoidal air intakes. The crossover also has a sculpted hood and optional Matrix LED headlights.

The sporty styling continues further back as the designers gave the model chiseled bodywork which is contrasted by flowing lines above the wheel arches. Of course, the biggest changes are the sloping roofline and upward sweeping beltline. This helps to give the model a more dynamic appearance and Audi says it helps to make the crossover look longer than the standard Q3.

Other notable styling features include plastic body cladding, a rakish rear window and a stylish rear bumper with an integrated diffuser. There’s also a tailgate-mounted spoiler, a hidden exhaust and wraparound taillights.

A Stylish, If Familiar Interior

The cabin largely carries over from the Q3 and drivers will find a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.1-inch infotainment system which is surrounded by black accents. The crossover also has a flat-bottomed steering wheel, metallic trim and controls than are angled towards the driver’s seat.

The rear seat recline and can slide up to 5.1 inches (130 mm) to either maximize legroom or cargo space. Speaking of the latter, the boot holds 18.7 cubic feet (530 liters) of luggage but can be expanded to 49.4 cubic feet (1,400 liters) by folding the rear seats down.

An assortment of options will be available including a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a motion activated tailgate and sport seats with contrast stitching as well as colored stripes.  Customers will also be able to order heated seats and an ambient lighting system with 30 selectable colors.

Two Engines At Launch

In Europe, the model will be launched with two different engines.  The Q3 Sportback 35 TDI S tronic features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel that develops 148 hp (110 kW / 150 PS) and 251 lb-ft (340 Nm) of torque.  It is paired to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission that sends power to the front wheels.  This setup enables the crossover to accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 9.3 seconds, before hitting a top speed of 127 mph (205 km/h).

Customers can also opt for the Q3 Sportback 45 TFSI quattro s-tronic which has a turbocharged 2.0-liter petrol engine with 227 hp (169 kW / 230 PS) and 258 lb-ft (350 Nm) of torque.  It too has a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, but it’s paired to a quattro all-wheel drive system.  Thanks to the extra power and grip, the 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time drops to 6.5 seconds while the top speed increases to 145 mph (233 km/h).

Shortly after launch, Audi will offer a version with a manual transmission and all-wheel drive.  Additional engines will follow including an entry-level petrol and a more powerful diesel.

Goes On Sale This Fall

As with most new vehicles, the Q3 Sportback comes with an assortment of driver assistance systems.  Standard features include pre sense front, lane change warning and lane departure warning.  Customers can also order adaptive cruise control, park assist, rear cross traffic alert and a 360 degree camera system.

The Q3 Sportback will be launched in Europe this fall and German pricing will start at €40,200 for the 35 TDI S tronic and €46,200 for the 45 TFSI quattro S tronic.  To help promote the model, Audi will offer two special editions called the Edition One Dew Silver and the Edition One Mythos Black.

Named after the exterior paint job, the special editions will be based on the Q3 Sportback S line and come equipped with the black styling package.  The models will also have Matrix LED headlights, 20-inch wheels and special interior trimmings.