Audi Q3 1.4 TFSI : new entry-level model due in February

The new petrol 1.4-litre TFSI will become the least expensive model in the Audi Q3 range, with an expected starting price of less than $45,000.

The 1.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine will produce 110kW of power and 250Nm of torque, with power sent to the front wheels via a standard six-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Although local details are yet to be announced, according to German-market specifications the Q3 1.4 TFSI weighs 110kg less than the previous entry-level petrol Q3 2.0 TDI quattro variant, claiming an 8.9 second 0-100km/h and 6.2L/100km combined-cycle economy.

The new Q3 variant will be the only model in the range to feature front-wheel drive - all other Q3 models are offered with quattro all-wheel drive, following the brand's stratification of its lineup late in 2013.

The cheapest Q3 currently available is the 2.0 TDI quattro, which is priced from $47,500 plus on-road costs, while the most affordable petrol currently on sale is the 2.0 TFSI 125kW model, priced at $49,450 plus costs.