THE Q3 may be the smallest member of this particular branch of the Audi family - but it punches well above its weight.

Yes, the Q5 and Q7 luxury SUVs are bigger, but inside the deceptively roomy Q3 there is seating for five adults plus an accommodating load bay offering up to 1,365 litres of capacity thanks to split/folding rear seats.

It is also easier to park and manoeuvre than its larger siblings as well as being cheaper to run.

It will come as no surprise then that the Q3 is aimed at those who want a luxury SUV but in a compact size.

The model I drove came with Audi's legendary quattro all-wheel drive so was as sure-footed as a mountain goat - a useful trait during some decidedly inclement weather conditions.

The exterior is sleek and, with the addition of a £525 Samoa Orange paint job, pretty unmissable within a radius of ten miles.

The interior is airy and comfortable with the model I drove sporting Black Fine Nappa Leather upholstery - a £795 optional extra.

To get everything you want with Audi does tend to add to the cost - but to be fair the £31,000 price-tag on the S tronic Q3 ensures a buyer gets most of the goodies expected for that chunk of cash.

The S line model is fitted with natty 18-inch alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, dual-zone climate control, a decent audio system, Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity and an iPod connection as well as light and rain sensors.

The model also benefits from exterior and interior styling enhancements, xenon headlamps with LED daytime running lamps and LED rear tail lights.

However if heated front seats, cruise control or Audi's parking system plus with park assist are required more will have to be shelled out, while Audi's Technology package will result in a £1,495 hole in your pocket.

So be clear what you want if you decide to buy the Q3 and budget accordingly.

The cabin makes good use of high-quality materials while top class switchgear and MMI interface maintain the impression of no expense spared. The MMI system displays entertainment and information options on a centrally mounted 6.5-inch colour screen and is simplicity itself to use.

The ride is smooth helped by an efficient suspension with the quattro system ensuring plenty of grip in corners where body lean is also well controlled. The Q3 is equally at home on the motorway or taking on a country lane helped by steering that is well weighted and informative.

You get a good view of the motoring world from the cockpit of this Audi and it's easy for the driver to get comfortable thanks to a wide range of seat and steering wheel adjustments.

The two-litre diesel engine is both powerful and refined with the seven-speed automatic transmission providing seamless gear changes.

The Q3 benefits from safety systems adopted from executive and luxury class Audi models designed to help prevent collisions and to make it easier for drivers to stay in lane and change lanes while drawing attention to important traffic signs.

There are six airbags, including curtain bags that extend into the rear of the cabin, as well as electronic stability control and ISOFIX fittings for the front passenger and two outer rear seats.

Audi expect the Q3 to be the answer for many families wanting SUV style without the big-car hassle.