New Audi Q3 2020 pricing and specs detailed: Premium small SUV scores new engine to take on Mercedes GLA

Audi Australia has bolstered its Q3 small SUV line-up with the introduction of two new mid-tier grades powered by a 2.0-litre petrol engine.

As before, the Q3 range kicks off at $46,400 before on-road costs for the 35 TFSI S tronic, but the new 40 TFSI quattro ($54,990) and 40 TFSI quattro S line ($59,400) now offer two more stepping stones before the flagship RS Q3 ($89,000).

Both 40 TFSI grades are powered by a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine, outputting 132kW/320Nm, that sends drive to all four wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT).

As a result, the new Q3s will accelerate from zero to 100km/h in 7.8 seconds, while fuel economy and CO2 emissions are pegged at 8.3 litres per 100km and 188 grams per kilometre respectively.

By comparison the base 35 TFSI variant features a 110kW/250Nm 1.4-litre turbo-petrol engine, which drives the front axle via a six-speed DCT for a 0-100km/h time of 9.3s.

Standard gear on the 40 TFSI quattro include 19-inch wheels, power-folding exterior mirrors, keyless entry, push-button start, electric tailgate, dual-zone climate control, leather upholstery, paddle shifters, digital radio, virtual cockpit instrumentation and wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity.

Stepping up to the S line version adds 20-inch Audi Sport wheels, tinted rear windows, progressive steering and a sports bodykit, as well as an Alcantara-clad interior, heated front seats, stainless steel pedals, flat-bottom steering wheel, illuminated door sills and larger 12.3-inch virtual cockpit display.

Both 40 TFSI variants serve up a boot capable of swallowing 675 litres of storage, which expands to 1525L with the 40:20:40 rear seats folded flat. The rear seats also feature a sliding function that can increase legroom by 150mm.

Safety features included across both new grades include autonomous emergency braking with cyclist and pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert, tyre pressure monitor, hill decent control, reversing camera and parking sensors.

The 40 TFSI quattro S line also nabs a surround-view monitor, high beam assist, adaptive cruise control and park assist.

2020 Audi Q3 pricing before on-road costs