Audi Q3

A tidy, compact crossover, the Q3 competes with the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA. Overall, it manages to deliver a premium driving experience similar to that of the Q5 but in a package that's 10 inches shorter. The energetic 200-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is mated to a conventional six-speed automatic transmission and returned 22 mpg overall in our tests. This is a quiet SUV with a firm, comfortable ride and responsive handling. The cabin is a bit simplistic-looking, but it gives a sense of quality. Demerits include the tight quarters and cramped driving position. The controls are complicated at first, but they prove to be logical with some familiarity. A redesigned Q3 arrives this summer. It has grown longer and wider, which should bring more interior room.

Slotted below the Q5, the Q3 competes with the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA. Overall it manages to deliver a similarly premium driving experience as in the Q5 but in a 10-inch shorter package. The energetic 200-hp, 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder is mated to a conventional six-speed automatic, and returned 22 mpg overall in our tests. This is a quiet SUV with a firm, comfortable ride and responsive handling. The cabin shows thoughtful attention to detail. Demerits include the tight quarters and controls that take some getting used to.