AUDI'S Q3 may be the smallest of the company's SUV line-up, but it still packs a mighty punch and is the ideal all-rounder for anyone looking for comfort, style, performance and realistic costings along the way.

There are plenty of models to choose from and whilst the 1.4-litre 150ps petrol derivative may not be the most economical of the bunch, it is certainly worth a look.

The Q3 looks splendid from any angle thanks to its sporty sculpted lines, roof rails, twin tail pipes, tinted windows with chrome trim, body-coloured door handles and mirrors, 18-inch alloys and sweeping light clusters.

Step inside the car and you are greeted with a spacious, driver-focused cockpit packed with Audi technology and creature comforts galore.

Techno treats include an easy-to-use sat nav system, dual zone air conditioning, an excellent audio system with CD player which is compatible with all modern media devices, cruise control, LED interior lighting and plenty more besides.

The driver is treated to a high-seated driving position which results in excellent all-round visibility which is a plus factor for a car that will regularly be used on the school run.

In addition the car is very practical with ample storage space. The boot boasts a powered tailgate and can accommodate 460 litres of luggage which can be increased to 1,365 litres with the 60:40 split-folding rear seats flat. Elsewhere there are deep door pockets, a handy central bin, good-sized cup holders and a useful glove-box.

So the Q3 is certainly an ideal family car, but it also has another side to its character and it is well worth exploring.

For the Q3 boasts all the driving dynamics and handling capabilities associated with the Audi name and the 1.4-litre petrol-powered engine is no slouch. The car can sprint to 62mph from a standing start in 8.9 seconds and redlines at 126mph. According to official figures it can deliver combined fuel efficiency of 47.9mpg with carbon emissions of 138g/km.

The automatic gearbox is both smooth and responsive and the drive select feature means you can choose from four different driving modes - comfort, auto, dynamic and efficiency - which alter the car's handling, economy and fun factor.

In busy congested town centres the car weaves its way through the traffic with ease and that great all-round visibility is a real plus factor.

Then out on the faster lanes and motorways the Q3 easily keeps pace with fast-moving traffic and when being driven with a lighter right boot, the car switches into fuel-saving two-cylinder mode.

The road-holding is excellent and the steering beautifully precise as the Q3's efficient suspension system somehow irons out the many creases and potholes along the way.

Audi has packed a comprehensive range of safety specifications into the car to help prevent accidents and protect occupants and pedestrians alike.

Like most premium car manufacturers, Audi prices to tend increase quite swiftly when options are added, but the initial asking price for the test car was £26,275 which is very respectable. Options resulted in a £6,760 price hike, but it is still fairly competitive for such an impressive vehicle.