Audi Q3 Prepared for Paris Debut

The 2010 Paris Motor Show that will open its doors to the press next week will witness the introduction of the brand new Audi A3, a mini-SUV that will challenge Nissan Qashqai or Peugeot 3008. Although it's only a week until we'll see the model alive, Audi keeps all details secret, so the only confirmed fact is that the model will be produced in Spain at SEAT's plant in Martorell, with the initial production figures estimated at 80,000 cars per year.

Production will commence in the first months of 2011, with sales likely to begin soon after that. However, it's still unclear whether Audi will present the Q3 at the Paris show in concept form but, if this will indeed happen, expect to see an almost production-ready prototype.

There are many rumors regarding the engines to be fitted on the future Q3 model, but voices familiar with the matter are claiming that the final output could go in between 140 and 200 horsepower.

Getting back to the Spanish production facility, Audi will invest up to 300 million Euros to prepare the assembly lines for the future model.

"We are counting on this Spanish site’s efficiency, the excellent quality of the Production department, and its highly trained staff. We will use the Group’s synergies to sharpen our competitive edge and help protect around 1,200 jobs. The decision furthermore safeguards workplaces at other Audi locations," Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the Board of Management at Audi AG, stated.

autoevolution will be attending the 2010 Paris Auto Show, so stay tuned for some real up close and personal shots of the vehicles, as well as for first-hand details of the motorized contraptions presented at the event.