Audi Q3 versus BMW X1: Which is better?

BMW India is the No.1 luxury car brand in terms of sales volume. The X1 has been one of the volume models for the company, thanks to its competitive pricing and the brand image. So far, the X1 does not have any direct rivals. But now the Q3 takes on the BMW X1.

The Q3 is the most affordable Audi in the country. The Q3 will be the key model to help the German brand sustain its hold in the luxury SUV segment. The Q3 5-seater SUV is priced at Rs. 26.21 lakh for the base variant and Rs. 31.49 lakh for the top-end variant. Let’s find out whether the Q3 is better than the BMW X1.

Performance and Handling

The X1 sDrive 1.8i is powered by a 2.0 litre petrol engine that produces 150 Bhp of power while the X1 sDrive 2.0d is powered by a 2.0 litre diesel engine that puts out 177 Bhp of power. On the other hand, the Q3 petrol is powered by a 2.0 litre TFSI engine that puts out 211 Bhp of power while the Q3 diesel is powered by a 2.0 litre TDI engine that puts out 176 Bhp of power. Also read: BMW X1 face lift images leaked, India launch in 2012

Hence, based on the engine specifications, it is clear that the Q3 petrol is more powerful than the X1 petrol while the Q3 diesel has a power output that is close to the diesel X1. What gives the Q3 a real advantage is its Quattro all-wheel-drive system that makes it capable for occasional off roading unlike the X1 which doesn’t offer an all-wheel-drive system.

BMW cars are known for their handling and the X1 is no exception. But, we are yet to test the Q3 and hence cannot say which car handles better just yet. Summing up, the Q3 (especially the petrol) will most likely perform better than the X1 and the all-wheel-drive system will likely make the Q3, a more capable SUV.

Space and comfort

The Q3 seems to have an edge over the X1 when it comes to interior space. This is because the Q3 is wider and taller, offering more shoulder room and headroom than the X1. Also, the rear seat in the Q3 offers a bit more space than that of the X1. Comfort wise, both the X1 and the Q3 can be expected to be a close match. Also read: Audi launches Q3 in India

Looks

The Q3 has a coupe-like styling similar to the Q5 and the Q7. The striking headlights and flat-set rear window lends the Q3, a menacing road presence. The X1 has the typical BMW kidney grille and a long snout gives it a majestic look. The interiors of both the luxury cars look fresh and have top notch plastic quality and fit and finish.

Overall, when compared to the BMW X1, the Q3 looks more SUV-like than a crossover and hence, would appeal to more buyers.

Features

The X1 comes with safety features such as six airbags, ABS, brake assist, dynamic stability control, dynamic traction control and gadgets such as eight loudspeakers, hard disc (12 GB) supported system, and a iPod-USB cable.

The Q3 will likely come with on-board computer with a fuel efficiency program, start-stop technology, keyless entry, dual-zone AC, ambient lighting package with LEDs, sporty seats, electrically adjustable and heated seats, and tinted rear windows. Expect both the X1 and the Q3 to have comfort and safety features that are very similar in nature.

Price, mileage and VFM

The BMW X1 is offered in three variants, the sDrive18i priced at Rs. 22.40 lakh, the sDrive20d priced at Rs. 24.40 lakh and the sDrive20d Exclusive priced at Rs. 30.40 lakh. The Q3 is expected to be priced at around Rs. 25 lakh. So, both the mini SUVs will likely be in the same price range.

With regard to mileage, the fuel efficiency of the X1 petrol is 11.25 Kmpl and that of the X1 diesel is 15.24 Kmpl. The Q3 can be expected to offer similar mileage figures. Hence, there may not be clear winner in terms of mileage.

Whether the Q3 is a better value for money proposition than the X1 can be determined only after the prices of the Q3 are officially announced.

Conclusion

The Q3 has aggressive looks, a sporty exterior design, powerful engines with all-wheel-drive system and being an Audi, will also have impressive list of creature comforts. Assuming that the Q3 is priced in the same range as the X1, the Q3 seems to offer more value than the X1 and hence is the winner in this preliminary comparison.