The Audi Q3 achieved great success soon after its debut in 2011, thanks to its compact dimensions and all-around capabilities. It has now entered its third-generation, scheduled to launch in October this year in Germany and other European markets. Prices in Germany start at €44,600 (including VAT).
The third-gen Q3 is built on the MQB EVO platform that is shared with other members of the VW Group, including the Q6, the Kodiaq Mk2, and the Tiguan Mk3. The oversized grille and those DRLs make the new Q3 appear significantly larger than it actually is, at least from the front-three-quarter angles. The front fascia looks very similar to the Q6. But anyway, the example shown here features the digital Matrix LED headlights and OLED taillights (a €1,240 combo option), which come with light signatures that can be selected via the MMI. Furthermore, users can deactivate individual functions of the digital Matrix LED headlights, such as the lane lights, via the MMI.
Depending on the variant, the wheel sizes in various designs range between 17- and 20-inches. Audi claims that the aerodynamics (0.30 Cd) and overall vehicle acoustics have been significantly improved compared to the predecessor. The new Q3 is claimed to be the first Audi model in the compact segment to offer acoustic glazing for the front side windows.
The new standard suspension is claimed to offer an improved driving experience, but there are options such as the sports suspension and the suspension with two-valve damper control. The last one continuously reacts to the characteristics of the road surface and the current driving situation, while taking into account parameters such as steering, braking, and acceleration. The ideal damping is calculated for each wheel in a fraction of a second and adjusted on the shock absorbers.
Moving on to the juicy bits of the story, the entry-level Q3 comes with a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder TFSI engine, offering 110 kW (150 metric hp) and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft), paired with a 7-speed S tronic transmission driving the front wheels. For those who like diesel, there’s a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder TDI, with 110 kW (150 metric hp) and 360 Nm (265.5 lb-ft), also paired with a 7-speed S tronic transmission driving the front wheels. A 2.0-litre 4-cylinder TFSI is also available with 195 kW (265 metric hp) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft), paired with a 7-speed S tronic transmission and the quattro AWD system. This one can do a 0-100 km/h (62 mph) sprint in 5.7 seconds and a top speed of 240 km/h (149 mph).
And of course, there’s the Q3 e-hybrid option, a plug-in hybrid powertrain that combines a 1.5L 4-cylinder TFSI and an electric motor integrated into the 7-speed S tronic. The motor itself is rated at 85 kW (116 metric hp) and 330 Nm (243 lb-ft). The system figures are 200 kW (272 metric hp) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft). A 25.7 kWh battery pack (19.7 kWh net) is estimated to offer a pure electric range of up to 119 km (74 mi).
2026 Audi Q3’s new steering ergonomics make the UX better or worse?#Audi #Q3 #AudiQ3 #UX #ergonomics pic.twitter.com/MiO50CF6Dt
— Sagar (@autodevot) June 20, 2025
Inside, the dashboard houses a curved panel integrating a 11.9-inch instrument cluster and a 12.8-inch MMI touch display. Other key highlights include a new steering wheel with new steering column levers (integrates turn signals and wiper functions into the left unit), a 15-watt wireless charging pad, USB-C ports, optional SONOS premium sound system, and recycled polyester upholstery. The 488 litre luggage space can be expanded to 1,386 litre with the rear seat bench folded down.
