Compact, crossover, luxury--the intersection of those terms is a relatively new set of vehicles with timeless brand names and a clear mission to displace some mass-market utes out of some driveways.
The Q3's most direct rival is the Mercedes GLA, a CLA-Class spin-off ready to roll with an AMG edition and more headroom than in the decidedly cramped CLA rear seat.
The Buick Encore's been a moderate hit for the GM brand; it's compact and nimble enough, but not at all quick and more premium than luxurious in feel.
In a slightly bigger size class, the Acura RDX has a big V-6 engine in place of its former turbo four, and has some of the zesty feel of these smaller utes.
The BMW X1 is new this year; we're eager to drive it, since it's been transformed into a front-drive-based vehicle related to the MINI Countryman.
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 2016 Audi Q3Browse Used Listings |  2016 Acura RDXBrowse Used Listings |  2016 BMW X1Browse Used Listings |  2016 Buick EncoreBrowse Used Listings |  2016 Mercedes-Benz GLA ClassBrowse Used Listings |
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| Quick Specs | ||||
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The 2016 Audi Q3 gives compact luxury SUVs a good name with cozy ride quality and accommodations—but it's not the most space- or fuel-efficient vehicle of its kind. |
The 2016 Acura RDX is a smooth and responsive crossover SUV; it’s easy to live with, as long as the back seat fits your passengers. |
The 2016 BMW X1 is heavy on sport and light on utility -- a combination that's likely to please a number of buyers. |
The 2016 Buick Encore masks its economy-car roots well, but tepid performance keeps its from earning a premium label. |
The 2016 Mercedes GLA isn't the roomiest of crossovers, but its luxury badge and a double shot of urban attitude give it a distinct appeal. |
| MSRP From | ||||
| $33,700 | $35,370 | $34,800 | $24,065 | $32,500 |
| Gas Mileage | ||||
| 20 MPG City / 29 MPG Hwy | 19 MPG City / 29 MPG Hwy | 22 MPG City / 32 MPG Hwy | 23 MPG City / 34 MPG Hwy | 22 MPG City / 35 MPG Hwy |
| Engine | ||||
| Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4 | Premium Unleaded V-6 | Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4 | Turbocharged I4 | Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4 |
| EPA Class | ||||
| N/A | Small SUV 2WD | Large Cars | 2WD Sport Utility Vehicle | Small SUV 2WD |
| Style Name | ||||
| FrontTrak 4-Door Premium Plus | FWD 4-Door | AWD 4-Door xDrive28i | FWD 4-Door | FWD 4-Door GLA 250 |
| Drivetrain | ||||
| Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | All Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive |
| Passenger Capacity | ||||
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Passenger Doors | ||||
| N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Body Style | ||||
| Sport Utility | Sport Utility | Sports Activity Vehicle | Sport Utility Vehicle | Sport Utility |
| Transmission | ||||
| Automatic w/OD | Automatic w/OD | Automatic w/OD | Automatic | Auto-Shift Manual w/OD |
| Detailed Spec Comparison | ||||
| 2016 Audi Q3 vs. 2016 Acura RDX | 2016 Audi Q3 vs. 2016 BMW X1 | 2016 Audi Q3 vs. 2016 Buick Encore | 2016 Audi Q3 vs. 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLA Class | |
