The 2016 Audi Q3 is a subcompact luxury crossover SUV, introduced to the US market after success in other regions. It offers a blend of Audi's premium feel and a practical, smaller footprint. Key trims include Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige. Pricing ranged from the low $30,000s new. Its stylish design, upscale interior, and available Quattro all-wheel drive contributed to its popularity.
The Good
The 2016 Audi Q3 offers a comfortable ride and a stylish, well-appointed interior, appealing to emotional buyers. Its turbocharged engine provides adequate performance. For practical buyers, it boasts decent fuel efficiency for its class and available all-wheel drive for enhanced safety and handling in various conditions.
The Bad
The 2016 Audi Q3's weaknesses include somewhat limited cargo space compared to some competitors. Some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system and occasional turbocharger problems. The rear seats can feel cramped for taller passengers. Regular maintenance is crucial to avoid potential issues.
2016 Audi Q3: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4
- Horsepower: 200 hp
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- Front-Wheel Drive: 20 mpg city / 29 mpg highway
- Quattro All-Wheel Drive: 20 mpg city / 28 mpg highway
- 0–60 Times: Around 7.8 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended for towing
- Trim-Level Features:
- Premium: Leather upholstery, panoramic sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, rearview camera, Audi connect, and a 6.5-inch display screen.
- Premium Plus (adds to Premium): Power liftgate, heated front seats, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and xenon headlights.
- Prestige (adds to Premium Plus): S line exterior trim, adaptive headlights, a 14-speaker Bose sound system, a navigation system, and Audi side assist (blind spot monitoring).
- Key Features Across Trims:
- Available Quattro all-wheel drive.
- Leather seats.
- Panoramic Sunroof.
2016 Audi Q3 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2016 |
| Make | Audi |
| Model | Q3 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle Vehicle |
| Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle Medium Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Spain |
| Manufacturing City | MARTORELL |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 5000 pounds |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2 L 4-Cyl. |
| Engine Size | 2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | - |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
History
History
All History
Events
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Check
Accident
Check
Check
Theft
Check
Check
Open Lien
Check
Check
Past Sale
Listings
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Recalls
Odometer
Check
Check
Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2016 Audi Q3 Have?
Frequently reported problems for the 2016 Audi Q3 include issues with the infotainment system, such as freezing or lagging. Some owners have also reported problems with the turbocharger, including premature failure. Oil consumption can also be a concern, so regular monitoring is advised. There have been recalls related to airbags and fuel pump issues, so checking the vehicle's recall history is important before purchasing. Long-term reliability can be affected by these issues, particularly if maintenance is neglected. While not widespread, some owners have experienced issues with the transmission. Addressing any warning signs promptly is key to preventing more significant problems down the road. Keeping up with scheduled maintenance, including oil changes and fluid checks, can help mitigate some of these potential issues. Always check for any outstanding recalls and ensure they have been addressed by an authorized Audi dealer.
How long will the 2016 Audi Q3 last?
With proper maintenance, a 2016 Audi Q3 can realistically provide 150,000 to 200,000 miles or 10-13 years of service. However, long-term durability hinges on consistent and timely maintenance. Weaknesses over time often relate to the turbocharger, oil leaks, and infotainment system malfunctions. Neglecting oil changes and other scheduled services can significantly shorten its lifespan. Models with Quattro may require more frequent maintenance on the all-wheel-drive system. Addressing minor issues promptly can prevent them from escalating into more costly repairs.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2016 Audi Q3 comes equipped with a 6.5-inch display screen, Audi Connect (offering online services), Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Entertainment features include a standard audio system and available Bose surround sound system.
Driver-assistance features, depending on the trim, may include Audi Side Assist (blind-spot monitoring).
Safety features include standard airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control.
Optional features included a navigation system, parking sensors, and adaptive headlights.
The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) gave the 2016 Audi Q3 a 4-star overall safety rating. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) gave it a "Good" rating in several crash tests. It is important to note that safety feature availability can vary based on trim level. More advanced features like adaptive cruise control were not available on this model year.
Reviewing the specific vehicle's options list is important when considering purchasing.
Driver-assistance features, depending on the trim, may include Audi Side Assist (blind-spot monitoring).
Safety features include standard airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control.
Optional features included a navigation system, parking sensors, and adaptive headlights.
The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) gave the 2016 Audi Q3 a 4-star overall safety rating. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) gave it a "Good" rating in several crash tests. It is important to note that safety feature availability can vary based on trim level. More advanced features like adaptive cruise control were not available on this model year.
Reviewing the specific vehicle's options list is important when considering purchasing.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Brilliant Black
Cortina White
Cuvee Silver Metallic
Hainan Blue Metallic
Misano Red Pearl Effect
Monometallic Beige Metallic
Oak Brown Metallic
Glacier White Metallic
Titanium Gray Metallic
Interior Colors
Black Leather
Chestnut Brown Leather
Titanium Gray Cloth
2016 Audi Q3 Prices and Market Value
The 2016 Audi Q3 had a starting price in the low $30,000s when new. Current used market prices typically range from $12,000 to $20,000, depending on condition, mileage, and trim level. Depreciation has been significant, as expected for a luxury vehicle. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, maintenance history, accident history, and the presence of desirable options like Quattro and higher trim levels. Vehicles with clean titles and documented service records command higher prices.
2016 Audi Q3 Cost of Ownership
The 2016 Audi Q3 is moderately costly to own long-term. Insurance costs are higher than average due to its luxury status. Fuel costs are reasonable, but premium fuel is recommended. Maintenance, including oil changes and servicing the turbocharger, can be expensive. Repairs, especially those related to the infotainment system or all-wheel drive, can also be costly. Budgeting for potential repairs is essential for long-term ownership.
2016 Audi Q3 Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2016 Audi Q3 Safety Rating
NHTSA
2016 Audi Q3 Recalls & Defects
Electrical System:software
Recall date
2016-09-06
Recall no.
16v642000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2016 TT Roadster, A3 Cabriolet, A3 Sedan and A3 E-Tron, 2016-2017 TT Coupe, 2017 A4 Sedan and Q7 and 2015-2017 Q3 Vehicles. THE Affected Vehicles MAY Have Been Programmed With NEW Software That Inadvertently Makes THE Side Marker Lights Inoperative IN Conjunction With THE Parking Lights or THE Headlights. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (Fmvss) Number 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence
IF THE Side Marker Lights DO NOT Illuminate, THE Vehicle MAY BE Less Visible AT Night, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Audi Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Upload Revised Software TO Correct THE Issue, Free OF Charge. This Recall Began November 2016. Owners MAY Contact Audi Customer Service AT 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's Number FOR This Recall IS 97cb.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting
Recall date
2016-09-06
Recall no.
16v642000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2016 TT Roadster, A3 Cabriolet, A3 Sedan and A3 E-Tron, 2016-2017 TT Coupe, 2017 A4 Sedan and Q7 and 2015-2017 Q3 Vehicles. THE Affected Vehicles MAY Have Been Programmed With NEW Software That Inadvertently Makes THE Side Marker Lights Inoperative IN Conjunction With THE Parking Lights or THE Headlights. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (Fmvss) Number 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence
IF THE Side Marker Lights DO NOT Illuminate, THE Vehicle MAY BE Less Visible AT Night, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Audi Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Upload Revised Software TO Correct THE Issue, Free OF Charge. This Recall Began November 2016. Owners MAY Contact Audi Customer Service AT 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's Number FOR This Recall IS 97cb.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting:brake Lights
Recall date
2017-06-26
Recall no.
17v400000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain 2016-2017 Audi Q3 Vehicles. IF THE Parking Brake IS Used During Emergency Braking, THE Brake Lights ON THE Vehicle Will NOT Activate. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (Fmvss) Number 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence
A Vehicle Approaching From Behind MAY NOT Have ANY Warning That THE Vehicle IS Stopping, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Audi Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Update THE Vehicle Software, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began July 31, 2017. Owners MAY Contact Audi Customer Service AT 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's Number FOR This Recall IS 45g6.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Forward Collision Avoidance: Crash Imminent Braking
Recall date
2017-06-26
Recall no.
17v400000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain 2016-2017 Audi Q3 Vehicles. IF THE Parking Brake IS Used During Emergency Braking, THE Brake Lights ON THE Vehicle Will NOT Activate. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (Fmvss) Number 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence
A Vehicle Approaching From Behind MAY NOT Have ANY Warning That THE Vehicle IS Stopping, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Audi Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Update THE Vehicle Software, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began July 31, 2017. Owners MAY Contact Audi Customer Service AT 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's Number FOR This Recall IS 45g6.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting:turn Signal
Recall date
2019-05-23
Recall no.
19v385000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Audi) IS Recalling Certain 2016-2018 Audi Q3 Vehicles Equipped With LED Headlights. AN Inoperable Front Turn Signal MAY NOT Illuminate AN Indicator, Failing TO Alert THE Driver TO THE Issue. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (Fmvss) Number 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence
Without AN Indicator Informing THE Driver OF AN Inoperable Turn Signal, THE Driver MAY Turn or Change Lanes Without A Signal, Increasing THE Risk OF Crash.
Remedy
Audi Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Update THE Body Control Module (Bcm), Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began June 21, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Audi Customer Service AT 1-800-253-2834. Audi's Number FOR This Recall IS 97dk.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
2016 Audi Q3 Insurance
Insurance for a 2016 Audi Q3 is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sport Utility Vehicle Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2016 Audi Q3 Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle Vehicle?
The 2016 Audi Q3 competes with the BMW X1, Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class, and Lexus NX. In terms of performance, the BMW X1 often offers slightly sportier handling. The Q3 provides a more comfortable ride than the GLA-Class. Feature-wise, the Lexus NX may offer a more user-friendly infotainment system. Reliability is comparable across these models, but the Q3's turbocharger can be a potential weak point. Price-wise, the Q3 is generally competitive, but used prices can vary significantly.
Alternatives to consider:
Alternatives to consider:
- BMW X1: For sportier handling and slightly more cargo space.
- Lexus NX: Known for reliability and a comfortable interior.
- Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class: More stylish exterior design.
Ranks #873 SUV
| 1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (3.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
| 873 | 2016 Audi Q3 | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2016 Audi Q3 a Good Sport Utility Vehicle Vehicle?
The 2016 Audi Q3 is ideal for individuals or small families seeking a stylish and comfortable subcompact luxury SUV. It's worth buying as a used vehicle if you prioritize the Audi brand and are willing to accept potentially higher maintenance costs. The Premium Plus trim offers a good balance of features and value. Thoroughly inspect any used Q3, paying close attention to the maintenance history and potential turbocharger issues. Ensure all recalls have been addressed. If you prefer greater reliability and potentially lower long-term costs, consider alternatives like the Lexus NX. For driving enthusiasts the BMW X1 might be a better choice.
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.