2023 Audi Q3 Sport 35 TDI S-A 2.0L Diesel · MJ23 CFA

The 35 TDI variant is officially rated around 42–45 mpg combined, though real-world economy on a mix of motorway and town driving typically falls between 36 and 42 mpg. Annual VED (road tax) for a diesel registered in March 2023 sits in the higher £600+ band for the first five years, so confirm current pricing. Insurance for a 2023 Q3 diesel in this trim is typically group 25–28, putting annual premiums in the £600–£900 region for most drivers.

Estimated annual running costs, assuming 8,000 miles per year, come to roughly £1,650–£2,000 covering fuel, tax, insurance and routine maintenance. Diesel servicing is marginally cheaper than petrol equivalents but still averages £250–£350 per visit at a main dealer. Brake fluid and DSG oil changes add occasional larger bills around £400 every two to three years. Budget extra if you live in a Clean Air Zone city, as daily charges apply for diesel vehicles in some areas.

Begin with a cold-start inspection — listen for any diesel rattle or excessive smoke on start-up, which can indicate injector or turbo wear even on a low-mileage example. The MOT history shows no recorded defects, but the two tests only cover basic safety items; compression and DPF condition are not assessed. Have a garage perform a diesel-specific health check, including a DPF pressure test and injector balance read, before purchase. Inspect the underside for any oil leaks from the sump or turbo piping, and check the intercooler hoses for splits.

Tyres are the most common MOT failure point for the Q3 model overall, so check the four fitted tyres for even wear across the axle — uneven wear suggests alignment or suspension issues. Examine the alloy wheels for kerb damage, which is common on premium SUVs and costly to refurbish. Test all electrical systems including the electric tailgate, keyless entry, and reversing camera, as these are frequent repair items. Finally, verify the timing belt or chain service interval — the 2.0 TDI uses a timing belt that typically needs replacement around every 75,000 miles or five years.