Welcome to the review of the latest flagship model in the Weber Q Range, the Q320 replacing the very good Q300 at the top of the Weber tree. To beat the Q300 was going to take some serious tweaking of what is a fantastic product, but first let us give you some background on the Q Series and where it is coming from. The Q's are aimed at the sector of the market which dotes on style, functionality, value for money, and above all performance - on all of these points any of the Q series deliver. Good looking, practical, fantastically solid construction, and above all, capable of stunning results with a little effort.
The Q range starts at the smaller end of the scale with the Q100, nicknamed the "Baby Q", but don't be fooled by the name as the Baby Q is a seriously capable little BBQ - perfect for the smaller family and occasional entertaining. Moving on comes the Q120, Q200, Q220, Q300, each iteration growing in size and features until we end up with the Q320, the model which we are reviewing here.
Given the popularity of the Q300 it shouldn't come as a big surprise that the Q320 shares a lot of the key features, a super powerful 21,700 BTU burner, enamel/porcelain covered cast iron griddle plates, folding work tables at either end, a permanently attached cart, thermometer and tools hooks. Both also share a 5 year limited warranty, and both offer instant start ignition, the Q320 being electronic
So what does the Q320 offer for the extra bucks? Well for starters the cooking area is significantly larger at 462sq inches (over 393sq inches on the Q300 - the additional space made up of a warming rack mentioned below), and increase of almost 20%, meaning for entertaining, a LOT more space for cooking and keeping food warm. The most salient addition is the new warming rack, there to keep food warm when cooked - this alone is worth the small premium over the Q300, and I am sure will be a must have addition.
Construction is very solid - the word portable could be misconstrued here, the quality materials and associated weight means the likelihood of packing the Q320 into the car and eating away from home are unlikely, however the materials used are top notch cast aluminum and resin for the grill and cart respectively - durability shouldn't be an issue, and the 5 year guarantee should further ease any fears - it is a Weber after all!
So, how does it perform? In true Weber style, food is succulent, grill and sear marks are good, and from the steaks and burgers we tried over last weekend, a lovely smoky flavor. Cleaning is easy with the porcelain covered grills, and for a modest additional cost there is an optional cover which is highly recommended.
So what is the verdict? I think undoubtedly the best Weber Q barbeque yet, smart, functional, some nice premium tweaks like the warmer and instant lighting. So for everything from dinner for two through to serious entertaining the Weber Q320 is a resounding success.
| Price : $199.00
