The Audi Q3 is a luxury subcompact SUV that may be one of the newest competitors in the segment, but it’s easily one of the best. The 2019 model year, in particular, saw a complete redesign that brought the Q3 to the forefront of luxury SUV rankings. In fact, the nearly new 2019 Audi Q3 is so good, there may not be any point in looking at a newer model.

The near-new 2019 Audi Q3: best of luxury subcompact SUVs

The 2019 Audi Q3 came out redesigned for the model year and immediately earned a spot among the best in the luxury SUV segment. According to U.S. News experts, the 2019 Audi Q3 was a “star in the class,” earning an overall expert score of 8.6/10 and the No. 1 ranking among all luxury subcompact SUVs of the same model year. And even though it technically isn’t “new” anymore, the 2019 Q3’s impressive standing still applies. U.S. News experts also name the 2019 Audi Q3 its No. 1 choice for used luxury subcompact SUVs ($30,000 and up).

Whether fresh off the lot or with a few miles under its belt, the 2019 Audi Q3 is a true performer. In addition to featuring Audi’s well-respected “elegant interior lined with premium materials and intuitive high-tech features,” the Q3 supplies drivers with a sporty, non-SUV-like driving experience. The subcompact SUV has an impressively peppy engine, gentle ride quality, and super-sharp steering.

Even base trim 2019 Audi Q3s reek of luxury and is “richly equipped” with standard all-wheel drive, a turbocharged eight-cylinder engine, an 8.8-inch touchscreen, leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, power liftgate, and more. Available options include an enormous 10.1-inch touchscreen display, Audi’s Virtual Cockpit, and even handwriting recognition.

Does the newest model have anything the 2019 model doesn’t?

The 2019 model year is the Q3’s most recent redesign, bringing with it standard Quattro all-wheel drive, a stronger engine, and even a brand-new, eight-speed automatic transmission. Audi didn’t just focus on improving what was under the hood either, designing the 2019 Q3 with “more standard and newly available features.” And as the Q3 was fully redesigned for the 2019 model year, it should come as no surprise that the newer 2020 Q3 sees no significant changes. 

According to Car Buying Strategies, the 2020 Audi Q3 sees “very minimal changes,” with most of the SUV’s specs remaining the same as the previous model’s. Aside from a slightly wider grille and more chrome at the front end, as well as some new LED taillights, the 2020 Audi Q3 is much the same as its predecessor.

Should you buy new or used?

Starting prices for the new Audi Q3 range from just under $35,000 to nearly $43,000. And with no significant changes to the 2020 model year, it’s essentially the same Q3 as it was the previous model year. Not just one of the best-ranked luxury vehicles of the year, the 2019 Audi Q3 offers the same quality and features, at a not-new-price.

According to U.S. News, the average price paid for the 2019 model ranges from between $31,000-$35,000. This means that even at the top end, a used 2019 model will still cost you less than any new Q3 model.

As a nearly-new model, the 2019 Q3 should also have minimal (to no) mileage and may even still be covered under warranty/maintenance agreements. Lower price points also mean higher trims and available options could become more financially viable. When considering whether to buy the Q3 new or used, the 2019 model offers the best of the Q3, at the best price. New doesn’t always mean better.