Don’t dismiss the Audi Q3 as a Volkswagen Tiguan in its Sunday best. There are reasons to consider the Audi over the VW other than badge snobbery.
There’s no doubt that the cabin finish in the Audi is of a higher standard, with precise fit and lots of soft-touch plastics.
More importantly, most of our test drivers felt that the Q3 had a slight but noticeable edge over the Tiguan in terms of stability. It bullied the caravan in the lane-change test, even at high speeds, with very little movement in crosswinds.
It’s a quicker car, too, thanks to the 177PS version of the VW Group’s 2.0-litre diesel, although it is worth noting that the VW is also available with this more powerful engine.
The Q3 may be stable when towing and fun to drive, but our practicality team couldn’t squeeze as much luggage in the boot of the Audi as they could in the Volkswagen. For an SUV with a price tag the wrong side of £30k, there’s no getting away from the relatively small cabin.
If you don’t need more space, though, the Q3 makes a stable and entertaining tow car. But for our money the cheaper VW Tiguan is better value.