Latest news with #MatrixLED
Straits Times
4 days ago
- Automotive
- Straits Times
Car review: Audi Q7 shows combustion cars are not going quietly into the night
SINGAPORE – Some people say that once you have driven an electric car, you can never go back to one with a combustion engine. Besides the instant gratification an electric drivetrain often offers, electric vehicles (EVs) have gizmos spilling out from their wing mirrors that make them so modern, so high-tech and so cool. To test that hypothesis, I take out an Audi Q7, a model which has not changed substantially since it first appeared 20 years ago. The variant on hand is a 3-litre turbocharged V6 putting out 340hp and 500Nm from 1,370rpm. It is the second facelift of the second-generation Q7, spruced up with a new grille, new wheels, cabin inlays and seats with contrasting stitching. It is equipped with high-definition Matrix LED headlights and organic LED rear lights (with four selectable designs, no less). The Q7 looks rather distinguished, having aged better than many cars of its era. Measuring 5,072mm long, 1,970mm wide and 1,734mm tall with a 2,995mm wheelbase, the car is still imposing, but it is no longer the bulkiest in town. That superlative belongs to a slew of electric behemoths, mostly from China. At 2,115kg, the Q7 3.0 is not considered overweight either. Again, that honour belongs to the battery behemoths. At the wheel, the Q7 acquits itself very well for an ageing Audi. The 0-100kmh sprint is done in 5.6 seconds and the top speed is an electronically regulated 250kmh. These figures compare well against sportier, dual-motor electric cars. You may not get the instantaneous throttle response electric cars usually deliver, but you get the staccato progression in speed as the car's eight-speed transmission matches cog to revs. The mechanical proceedings may be less efficient than electric drive, and even a tad sluggish when you want a quick getaway, but it is more emotional. Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. World Trump says countries to start paying tariffs on Aug 1, floats range of 10% to 70% Singapore Sengkang murder: Man accused of killing elderly mother escorted back to crime scene Singapore Multiple charges for man accused of damaging PAP campaign materials on GE2025 Polling Day Singapore Jail for man who recruited 2 Japanese women for prostitution at MBS Singapore Seller's stamp duty rates for private homes raised; holding period increased from 3 years to 4 Asia Malaysia dismantles Islamic State network involving workers from Bangladesh Asia Chinese national missing in Thailand rescued, embassy warns of shady job offers Asia Indonesian rescuers widen search for missing after ferry sinks Familiar territory: The cockpit of the Q7 has not changed dramatically over the years. ST PHOTO: ARIFFIN JAMAR Driving the Audi is thus akin to listening to an unplugged version of your favourite song. Not better or worse, just different. For me, driving the Q7 is like a small homecoming. I have driven several variants of the car in several countries over the years. And it has never failed to bring a smile to my face. I like the Q7's seven-seat configuration for transporting my entire family. Surprisingly, my youngest and tallest son, at 1.78cm tall, can still sit comfortably in the last row. When this row is not in use, the car has a whopping 780 litres of stowage. Flattening and reinstating the seats can be done at the touch of buttons in the boot. You can also raise or lower loading height with buttons. With its adaptive air suspension, the Q7 3.0 dishes out a palatable blend of ride comfort and handling. It is a car which you can drive effortlessly with its easy-to-use adaptive cruise control or enthusiastically in Dynamic mode, with your fingers determining gear changes. Floor flaw: Occupant of centre seat in second row has to contend with an enormous transmission tunnel. ST PHOTO: ARIFFIN JAMAR Two-step tango: Accessing the third row requires pulling two levers to fold and lift second-row seats. ST PHOTO: ARIFFIN JAMAR The Q7's cockpit is pleasantly familiar. Although Audi was among the first to go digital, the Q7 does not overwhelm, as many common adjustments can still be done manually. I am glad its cabin has not yet been 'upgraded' to the new format seen in the Audi A5. The latter, I feel, is not an improvement. The Q7's tech suite is sufficient but not superfluous. It has wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, the former of which I can say reconnects automatically and unfailingly. There is a wireless phone charger, but it is not very fast. All-wheel steering makes driving the luxe barge easier, and conveniences such as soft door closing and head-up display are other welcome frills. But even without these, the Q7 is eminently likeable. Its only blemishes are a prominent hump in the middle of the second row, and a sticky centre console lid. Boot cramp: Still sufficient for weekend grocery shopping. ST PHOTO: ARIFFIN JAMAR The test unit averages 12.7 litres/100km, which is not too shoddy for a car of its size and performance, and not far from Audi's stated 11.8 litres/100km. When this 3-litre turbocharged V6 variant was first reviewed in February 2021, it clocked 15 litres/100km. With its 85-litre fuel tank, the latest Q7 3.0 can be driven to Ipoh non-stop with plenty of range to spare. And that may be yet another reason I feel an EV owner can easily go back to combustion if there are attractive options available. That may also be why a growing list of carmakers, including Audi, are delaying their goal to ditch combustion engines for an all-EV future. Audi Q7 S Line 55 TFSI quattro Price: $525,999 with certificate of entitlement (COE), before applicable discounts Engine: 2,995cc 24-valve V6 turbocharged Transmission: Eight-speed Tiptronic with paddle shift Power: 340hp at 5,200rpm Torque: 500Nm at 1,370-4,500rpm 0-100kmh: 5.6 seconds Top speed: 250kmh (electronically limited) Fuel consumption: 11.8 litres/100km Agent: Audi Singapore Rating: ★★★☆☆ Comparable considerations Volvo XC90 B5 Ultra ($418,000 with COE) The XC90 does not match the Q7's bristling performance, but it is more frugal, has more usable space and comes with a more compelling price. Its cabin feels more contemporary than the Audi's and is a degree better in fit and finish. Although it lacks the brute force of the Q7, it feels breezy and lightfooted on the go. BMW X5 xDrive40i ($554,888 with COE) The X5 still reigns as the most driver-engaging multi-seater in town. The xDrive40i packs a slightly bigger punch than the Q7 3.0 yet delivers better efficiency. Space-wise, it is similar to the Audi. Like the Q7, it is arguably a more agreeable car than its electric equivalent overall.
Time of India
18-06-2025
- Automotive
- Time of India
2026 Audi Q3 makes global debut: Design, features, specs & more
2026 Audi Q3 makes global debut. Audi has lifted the curtain on the third generation of its best-selling Q3 SUV, packing it with an updated design, newer powertrains, and a host of upgrades in terms of features and safety. Globally, the Q3 has already sold over two million units since its debut in 2011. Here's a quick look at what's on offer. 2026 Audi Q3 Global Debut: All you need to know Speaking of the changes made to the exterior, the new Q3 gets a bolder single-frame grille, digital Matrix LED headlights with micro-LED tech, and a rear that now features split tail lamps with optional OLEDs and an LED light bar. New alloy wheel options span from 17- to 20-inches, and buyers can choose from 11 paint finishes, including new shades like Sage Green and Madeira Brown. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch CFD với công nghệ và tốc độ tốt hơn IC Markets Đăng ký Undo As for the interiors, the cabin is dominated by a 12.8-inch MMI touchscreen and an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster. It also features a new dual-lever steering wheel and a steering wheel-mounted gear selector. Audi also offers a 420W Sonos sound system, acoustic glass for quieter rides, and eco-conscious interior materials like recycled polyester and Econyl. Under the hood, the new Q3 offers multiple powertrains. These include a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol mild hybrid with 148 bhp, a 2.0-litre petrol Quattro with 261 bhp, and a 2.0-litre diesel that also delivers 148 bhp. For those looking at electrified mobility, there's a new plug-in hybrid option. It combines a petrol engine with an electric motor to produce 268 bhp and 400 Nm of torque, and promises an all-electric range of up to 119 km, courtesy of a 25.7 kWh battery pack. Audi Q8 Review: Brilliant mix of Comfort and Sportiness | TOI Auto Safety has also been given a major boost. The new Q3 includes lane departure warning, driver fatigue monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and active braking assist with front cross-traffic alerts. There's even a trained parking assist system that can memorise parking maneuvers, along with a 360-degree camera and smart lighting. Discover everything about the automotive world at Times of India .
Hindustan Times
18-06-2025
- Automotive
- Hindustan Times
Auto recap, June 17: 2025 Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara S-CNG launched, New-gen Audi Q3 debuts, Bajaj Chetak 3001 launched
Here is your quick check on the biggest developments in the world of automobiles. Check Offers The automotive sector is undergoing swift transformations, making it challenging to remain updated on all the recent developments. At HT Auto, we are committed to providing the most pertinent and up-to-date information as it is released. Below is a brief summary of the main highlights from Tuesday, June 17. VinFast's India strategy detailed - What does the Vietnamese carmaker have in store? Vietnamese carmaker VinFast has set its sights on India as its next big market. The EV maker made its presence felt at the 2025 Bharat Mobility Global Expo in January, and is now raring to go live with the VF7 and VF6 electric SUVs soon. But what is VinFast's long-term plan for India? We decode the brand's strategy. Also Read : VinFast's India strategy detailed - What does the Vietnamese carmaker have in store? 2025 Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara S-CNG launched, gets new features and 6 airbags Maruti Suzuki India Limited has launched the 2025 Grand Vitara S-CNG in the Indian market. The prices start at ₹ 13.48 lakh ex-showroom for the Delta CNG variant, whereas the Zeta CNG trim costs ₹ 15.62 lakh ex-showroom. The updated model comes with new features and safety equipment as well. Also Read : 2025 Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara S-CNG launched, gets new features and 6 airbags India-bound new-gen Audi Q3 makes global debut with Matrix LED tech, hybrid engines Audi AG has taken the wraps off the third-generation Q3 globally, bringing all-new styling, tech, and new hybrid engines to the mix. The Audi Q3 is one of the most successful SUVs on sale from the Ingolstadt automaker, with over two million units sold since the first-generation model arrived. The latest Audi Q3 borrows cues from the bigger Q5 with the sporty design language and gets the Matrix LED and OLED technology for its lighting systems, previously restricted to the bigger models. Moreover, the compact luxury SUV is now available in mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid engine options. Also Read : India-bound new-gen Audi Q3 makes global debut with Matrix LED tech, hybrid engines Bajaj Chetak 3001 launched as the entry-level variant, priced at ₹ 1 lakh Bajaj Auto has launched the new Chetak 3001 variant of the electric scooter priced at ₹ 1 lakh (ex-showroom). The Bajaj Chetak 3001 is the new entry-level variant, replacing the Chetak 2903, which was previously available. Compared to the 2903, the new Chetak 3001 is approximately ₹ 1,500 more expensive, but is based on the newer Chetak 35 Series, featuring a newer frame, a larger battery, a longer range, and additional features. Also Read : Bajaj Chetak 3001 launched as the entry-level variant, priced at ₹ 1 lakh 2025 Honda SP 125 and SP 160 get TFT screen and other features Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India has added a TFT instrument cluster to the SP 125 and the SP 160. Apart from this, there are a few cosmetic changes as well. The price of the SP 125 starts at ₹ 92,678, whereas the SP 160 starts at ₹ 122,478. Both prices are ex-showroom. Both motorcycles now come with a new TFT meter that supports Bluetooth connectivity. When connected to the Honda RoadSync application, it can show turn-by-turn navigation on the screen. The TFT cluster also shows real-time fuel economy, range and average fuel efficiency along with other basic information such as speedometer, fuel gauge, odometer and trip meter. There is also a gear position indicator on offer. Also Read : 2025 Honda SP 125 and SP 160 get TFT screen and other features Get insights into Upcoming Cars In India, Electric Vehicles, Upcoming Bikes in India and cutting-edge technology transforming the automotive landscape. First Published Date: 18 Jun 2025, 06:59 AM IST
NDTV
17-06-2025
- Automotive
- NDTV
2026 Audi Q3 Breaks Cover Globally: Design, Features, Specs, Price
Audi has introduced the all-new 2026 Audi Q3, marking the third generation of the brand's popular compact SUV. The new Q3 features a refreshed design, an upgraded interior, powerful engine options, advanced technology, and enhanced safety features. Here's an overview of the 2026 Audi Q3. Audi Q3 2026: Modern Yet Sporty Design The 2026 Audi Q3 front features a wide Singleframe grille and sleek Matrix LED headlights with new micro-LED technology. This offers brighter and clearer lights, making night driving safer. From the side, a strong shoulder line runs between the front and rear lights, adding style and giving the car a powerful look. At the rear, the SUV gets optional digital OLED tail lamps and a glowing LED light strip. Customers can pick from 11 different body colors, including new shades like Sage Green and Madeira Brown. Wheels come in sizes ranging from 17 inches to 20 inches. Audi Q3 2026: Smart Interior Inside, the new Audi Q3 is more spacious and practical than before. The digital cockpit includes a large 11.9-inch instrument display and a 12.8-inch touchscreen. The dashboard design makes the cabin feel wider and cleaner. The steering wheel now has two new levers, freeing up storage space in the center console. Acoustic glass for the front side windows keeps road noise low. Audi has used eco-friendly materials like recycled polyester and Econyl in the seats and carpets. 2026 Audi Q3 Interior Audi Q3 2026: Powertrain The 2026 Q3 offers a range of engine options. The base model has a 1.5-liter turbo petrol engine with 148 hp and a mild-hybrid system. For more power, there's a 2.0-liter turbo engine that provides 261 hp and features Audi's Quattro all-wheel drive. Additionally, there's a new plug-in hybrid that combines the 1.5-liter engine with an electric motor for a total of 268 hp. This variant has a 19.7 kWh battery, allowing it to travel up to 75 miles on electric power alone. The battery can charge up to 80 percent in less than 30 minutes using fast DC charging. Also Read: Volkswagen Golf GTI Edition 50 Sets Record At Nurburgring Audi Q3 2026: Features and Safety The Q3 2026 is loaded with technology. It has adjustable suspension options, including a new two-valve damper system for a smoother ride. Moreover, the compact SUV introduces advanced lighting technology, using digital Matrix LED headlights for the first time in the compact segment. It features a micro-LED module with 25,600 micro-LEDs, each about 40 micrometers wide, which is half the thickness of a human hair. This technology enhances illumination and improves contrast on the road, particularly in challenging weather conditions. The optional SONOS premium sound system features speakers in the upper doors for an immersive listening experience with virtually generated surround sound. It includes twelve high-performance speakers and offers four sound profiles: neutral, concert, lounge, and podcast. Functions on Demand (FoD) is also available, which provides bass intensification, automatic level adjustment, and music revitalization. The Audi assistant, a voice-controlled feature with integrated AI, operates various vehicle functions and appears as an avatar on the MMI's central touch display and in the head-up display. Recognized inputs are also shown in the instrument cluster. For safety, it includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, emergency assist, driver attention monitoring, and trained parking, which allows the car to learn and repeat parking maneuvers. The vehicle also comes with parking sensors, 360-degree cameras, and assistance for reversing in tight spots. An internal camera checks if the driver is tired or distracted. The Matrix LED lights provide warnings for lane changes and icy conditions. Audi Q3 2026: Competitive Pricing In Germany, the petrol version starts at 44,600 Euros (approximately Rs 39.88 Lakh), while the plug-in hybrid version begins at 49,300 Euros (approximately Rs 49.09 Lakh). The car will be produced in Germany and Hungary, with deliveries expected to start in October 2025. The 2026 Audi Q3 is set to launch internationally by September and is expected in India shortly after.
Hindustan Times
17-06-2025
- Automotive
- Hindustan Times
India-bound New-gen Audi Q3 makes global debut with Matrix LED tech, hybrid engines
The 2026 Audi Q3 gets a sporty appearance identical to the new Q5, while also going big on tech and a futuristic cabin Check Offers Audi AG has taken the wraps off the third-generation Q3 globally, bringing all-new styling, tech, and new hybrid engines to the mix. The Audi Q3 is one of the most successful SUVs on sale from the Ingolstadt automaker, with over two million units sold since the first-generation model arrived. The latest Audi Q3 borrows cues from the bigger Q5 with the sporty design language and gets the Matrix LED and OLED technology for its lighting systems, previously restricted to the bigger models. Moreover, the compact luxury SUV is now available in mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid engine options. New-gen Audi Q3: Design The latest-gen Audi Q3 looks like a shrunken Q5 with the larger single-frame honeycomb mesh grille at the front, flanked by the split headlamps with the Matrix LED technology. The pixel-shaped LED DRLs look futuristic, while the Matrix headlamps positioned below come with 25,600 micro-LEDs that maximise illumination. Also Read : Audi A4 Signature Edition launched in India at ₹ 57.11 lakh. Check details The new Q3 gets the massive single-frame grille and split headlamps with the pixels-shaped LED DRLs, and Matrix LED headlamps The profile remains true to the Q3 and is proportionate with several sharp cuts along the side. The window line extends around the D-pillar and blends well into the rear windscreen, while the roofline has a sloping effect at the rear, albeit without eating into the rear headroom. The side skirts are now finished in body colour, while the window trim is finished in black for a sporty look. Audi offers a range of wheel sizes ranging from 17 to 20 inches. The rear sports an equally sporty appearance as the front, with the split-light setup, followed by the connected bar sitting lower, similar to the new-generation Audi A6. The taillights come with OLED technology (optional) and offer up to six graphics, while the four rings logo is illuminated as well. The bumper looks more aggressive while hiding the exhaust tips on the SUV. The connected taillights on the new Q3 are similar to the new-gen Audi A6 New-gen Audi Q3: Cabin The cabin gets an all-new layout, ditching the vertically stacked screens. The new dashboard features an 11.9-inch digital instrument console, complemented by a new 12.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, angled towards the driver. The new infotainment unit runs on Android Automotive OS, bringing more seamless connectivity for Android phone users. It does get wireless Apple CarPlay as well. Other upgrades include the new three-spoke steering wheel with capacitive touch buttons. The gear selector has now moved from the centre console to behind the wheel, similar to Mercedes-Benz cars, liberating more storage space between the seats. The cabin gets an all-new dashboard with the three-spoke steering wheel, while the infotainment system runs on the Android Automotive OS New-gen Audi Q3: Tech Apart from the latest Matrix and OLED lighting technology, the third-generation Q3 comes with additional technology, including a more advanced ADAS system with active support at speeds up to 210 kmph. The new ADAS tech will also support lane change assists in excess of 90 kmph. The new assistance systems use cloud-based data to actively maintain a lane even when there are no lane markings. That said, the feature is available as a subscription after the first three years. The new Q3 goes big on tech with advanced ADAS and even an Emergency Assistant that will self-steer the SUV to the side of the road if the driver is unresponsive The new Q3 also features the Emergency Assistant that will be able to self-steer the SUV to the shoulder of the road, in case the driver becomes unresponsive. This system will provide auditory, visual, and haptic warnings, including brake jolts, before pulling the car to the side of the road. Furthermore, the system will inform emergency services if the driver does not respond to any warnings. New-gen Audi Q3: Engines The new Q3 will be available with turbo petrol and diesel mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, depending on the market. The 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine will come with 148 bhp and 320 Nm with cylinder deactivation tech. There will also be the 2.0-litre turbo petrol churning out 261 bhp and 400 Nm that sends power to all four wheels via the Quattro all-wheel drive system. Diesel power will come from the 2.0-litre oil burner tuned for 148 bhp and 360 Nm, sending power to the front wheels. All three engines will come paired with the 7-speed DSG automatic transmission. The new Q3 will be available in 2 turbo petrol, 1 diesel, and PHEV powertrain options, depending on the market Audi will also offer the Q3 Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) in select markets with the 1.5-litre TFSI motor producing 114 bhp and 330 Nm, coupled with an electric motor churning out a combined output of 268 bhp and 400 Nm. The PHEV model uses a 25.7 kWh battery pack that delivers an EV-only range of up to 119 km. New-Gen Audi Q3: India Launch & Rivals The next-generation Audi Q3 is slated to go on sale in Europe in the last quarter of 2025 (October - December). The luxury SUV will make its way to the Indian market sometime in 2026 and is likely to be locally assembled. The new-generation Q3 will continue to compete against the BMW X1, Mercedes-Benz GLA, Range Rover Evoque, and Lexus NX. However, the segment also has full-size SUVs like the Toyota Fortuner and Skoda Kodiaq at similar price points. Expect the new Q3 to witness a bump in price when it arrives next year. Check out Upcoming Cars in India 2024, Best SUVs in India. First Published Date: 17 Jun 2025, 16:33 PM IST
