Locking horns at the top

Apart from being the only all-wheel-drive sports utility vehicle in the entry-level luxury segment, the new Audi Q3 Dynamic also has adjustable suspensions. Do these make it better than the Mercedes-B

In 2013, Audi became the top luxury car manufacturer in India when it overtook BMW in sales. Since then, the car maker hasn't shown any sign of slowing down. In a constant effort to stay at the helm, Audi has introduced a new variant of its compact sports utility vehicle - the Q3 Dynamic - to ward off newcomer Mercedes-Benz GLA, which, after its launch, has been closing in on the gap between the two.

I have to be honest. I didn't know what to expect from the Q3 Dynamic. I was only hoping it wouldn't be a mere cosmetic job undertaken to keep the GLA at bay. The Q3 Dynamic does comes with some cosmetic changes: the bumpers have been slightly re-designed and buffed up to give the offroader a more rugged look and the rear LED lamps now come in clear lens, though the jury is still out on whether that is an eyesore or a sight for sore eyes. The Dynamic also sports a new five-spoke, 17-inch alloy wheels and the 'Bavarian beard' grille has gone all chrome. It is now fitted with underbody protection skid plates both in the front and the rear as a standard feature. Thankfully, Audi stayed away from the gimmicky Dynamic badging on the exterior. Obviously, the company wants the subtle changes to speak for themselves rather than leaning heavily on its name, and I can't agree more with this philosophy.

The GLA, on the other hand, is all about making a style statement, and though it has been criticised for looking like the A-Class hatchback on stilts, the coupe design makes it the most futuristic looking compact SUV in the luxury class. Its bold grille, well-sculpted bumper, and the striking jewel-like cluster of LED lamps make it look sportier than the Q3, though where boldness is concerned, it is the Audi that scores. Mercedes-Benz has tried to enhance the GLA's masculinity with beefed-up wheel arches and body cladding, but it still gives the impression of a lesser crossover. The Mercedes comes with 18-inch alloy wheels and aluminium roof rails as standard features.

Inside, both the SUVs stick to their strengths, though they also have new features. The Q3's cabin looks all familiar with the foldable, multi-functional MMI screen being the centre of attention. The walnut-coloured interiors and the panoramic sunroof impart a sense of airy space to the cabin. To up the ante in the comfort stakes, the Audi's front seats are electrically adjustable and come with four-way adjustable lumbar support.

What makes this Q3 a dynamic SUV is Audi's Drive Select, which gives you the liberty to choose the suspension set-up that you require for specific road conditions or for your preferred driving style. The Drive Select gives you the option of three driving modes - Comfort, Auto and, of course, Dynamic. Comfort is really the default setting and this mode swallows most of the ditches on the road. While taking sharp turns, you experience a slight bodyroll. This mode is perfect for commuting in the city. Dynamic, or the bad boy set-up, is where the Q3 Dynamic transforms into a handler that holds its line to the T. Though the suspensions stiffen up, the ride quality is not bad unless you crash into a deep pothole. The Auto mode is like driving on auto pilot - the computer decides what is best for the vehicle.

As for the Mercedes Benz vehicle, the interiors come in colour options like beige or all black. The GLA's dashboard is identical to that of the A-Class, which can dampen your excitement. The fit and finish stand up to the demands of the luxury segment, barring some plastic inserts that feel cheap. The high-end variant comes with an amazing Harman Kardon sound system, seven airbags, Anti-Skid Regulation (ASR), anti-lock brakes (ABS) and Brake Assist System (BAS).

The Dynamic is powered by the ever reliable 2-litre diesel engine with 174 bhp and is mated with the precise and efficient 7-speed DSG transmission. The icing on the cake is the all-wheel drive (Quattro) that makes the Q3 the only SUV in this class to actually have off-roading capabilities.

The GLA's diesel version is powered by a 2,143-cc engine. With 134 bhp, it is all about economy and is excellent in the low range, making it an urban-friendly car. The engine is complemented by the 7-speed automatic transmission system and come with paddle shifts for manual adjustments.

The GLA, no doubt, makes a style statement with its classy appearance and leaves you preening like a million dollars. Starting at Rs 32.75 lakh and going all the way up to Rs 37 lakh, the GLA flirts with the very expensive range for compact SUVs. This leaves it vulnerable against the all-wheel drive Audi Q3 Dynamic, which, at a bit more, offers genuine offroading capabilities. The Q3 has all the comfort and safety features expected of a car in this segment. The diesel engine means it is a stable commuter's vehicle with great looks.

If you want to be more adventurous, at Rs 38.40 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), the top Q3 Dynamic is the one to go for. The interiors are ageing but the quality, fit and finish are right up there, and apart from its being an SUV for all driving conditions, it feels spacious from the inside, especially for the rear passengers, which is a boon in this segment.

AUDI Q3 DYNAMIC

Engine: 1,968 cc
Power: 174 bhp @ 4,200 rpm
Torque: 380 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm
Fuel economy: 15.7 kmpl (ARAI)
Top speed: 212 km/h
Price: Rs 38.40 lakh (Ex-showroom, Delhi)

MERCEDES-BENZ GLA 200 CDI

Engine: 2,143 cc
Power: 134 bhp @ 3600-4400 rpm
Torque: 300 Nm @ 1600-3000 rpm
Fuel economy: 17.9 kmpl (ARAI)
Top speed: 205 km/h
Price: Rs 32.75-36.9 lakh (Ex-showroom, Delhi)

Arup Das is Features Editor at Auto X