The Black Edition of the Audi Q3 35TFSI Sportback is a stylish iteration of a desirable compact crossover, but is it worth the premium price tag?
The Audi Q3 35TFSI Sportback Black Edition brings a curated set of popular options to a well-regarded compact SUV-coupé. However, at R904 650, it demands a premium that raises a critical question: is it worth the price? Would buyers be better off configuring their own version, or even considering a left-field option like the Omoda C5?
What you get
The Black Edition builds upon the standard Q3 35TFSI Sportback with enhanced aesthetics and features. This includes black exterior styling elements, a panoramic glass sunroof, 19-inch alloy wheels, sports seats, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and a host of comfort features like electric front seats and a powered tailgate.
Inside, Audi maintains its modern, hexagonal design theme, and while the build quality is mostly solid, some plastic elements (like the indicator stalk) feel a little out of place for a premium vehicle.
Engine
The driving experience is competent but not exceptional. The 1,4-litre turbo petrol engine produces 110 kW and 250 Nm, paired with a six-speed S tronic transmission. It delivers a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 9,3 seconds, Audi says. Handling is impressive, even though it lacks quattro all-wheel drive. Fuel consumption is reasonable, and the ride is mostly comfortable, though typical Audi suspension noise can be an issue.
Let’s talk value
Price is where things get interesting. The standard Audi Q3 Sportback 35TFSI starts at R765 700. The Black Edition costs R904 650 – a hefty R138 950 more. Is that premium justified?
A quick exercise on Audi’s configurator reveals that a thoughtfully specced standard Q3 Sportback 35TFSI with desirable options like adaptive cruise control, Matrix LED headlights, power front seats, black headlining (ceiling fabric) and a sport steering wheel with paddles, and an electrically operated luggage compartment lid comes in at R851 010.
A big saving
That’s a saving of over R50 000 compared to the Black Edition, and you get to pick the non-standard equipment.
However, car configurators can be tricky. Some options appear free but end up bundling mandatory extras, increasing the final price. You might also ‘lose’ a feature that you specifically wanted when these forced additions are included. If you’re considering an Audi, it’s advisable to work with a competent salesperson to ensure you’re getting what you actually want.
Compared to an Omoda?
For context, the Omoda C5 1.5T 230T Elegance S, which we tested in the same month, costs R509 900. Its 1,5-litre turbo engine produces 115 kW and 230 Nm, making it comparable to the Q3’s output. Crucially, it comes packed with advanced features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, ventilated seats, and a surround-view camera – many of which are expensive add-ons in European brands.
For a further shock to the system, consider that the much larger, more powerful Omoda C9 2.0TGDI 400T Inspire costs R785 900, while the AWD version tops out at R885 900. That’s still less than the Black Edition Q3.
Should you shortlist the Black Edition?
If badge prestige and aesthetics are your priorities, the Audi Q3 35TFSI Sportback Black Edition is an attractive package. It drives well, looks stunning, and boasts strong resale value. However, it does not offer significantly better performance, comfort, or technology than the standard model, nor is it particularly competitive in value compared to high-spec Chinese alternatives.
Build your own
The smarter play? Configure your own Q3 Sportback 35TFSI. That way, you get the features you need without paying for unnecessary extras. And if you’re open to alternatives, test-driving the Omoda C5 might leave you questioning whether a German badge is worth an extra R400k.
Conclusion and rating
At the end of the day, the Black Edition is a stylish proposition. But in a world where premium brands are no longer the default choice for quality and tech, buyers should think carefully before taking the plunge.
The Audi Q3 35TFSI Sportback Black Edition scores 3 out of 5.
3.0 out of 5.0 stars
