Next-gen Audi Q3 breaks cover with fresh design — Catch details inside

Audi’s product refresh continues with the reveal of the third-generation Q3, bringing substantial changes to the compact luxury crossover inside and out. Serving as Audi’s new entry-level SUV following the discontinuation of the Q2, the 2026 Q3 boasts new styling, updated tech, and a broad powertrain lineup.

Striking exterior with split lighting

The new Q3 features an all-new design with split headlights and taillights, a departure from the new Q5. The upper daytime running lights are visible, while the primary matrix LED units—each containing 25,600 micro-LEDs—are hidden beneath tinted glass. At the rear, a lower LED bar and upper OLEDs offer six customizable lighting signatures, flanking the Audi logo.

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Faux exhausts are officially gone. The Q3 features a clean rear bumper, with the mufflers neatly tucked underneath. The S Line model includes a sporty diffuser, hinting at more aggressive variants like the future SQ3 and RS Q3, however, there is no official confirmation for the latter. 

Interior upgrades and new features

Inside, the Q3 adopts Audi’s new digital layout, headlined by a 12.8-inch infotainment touchscreen powered by Android Automotive, and an 11.9-inch digital cluster. The center console is now gear-free; a steering column-mounted gear selector frees space for cupholders, dual USB ports, and a cooled wireless charger. Audi also introduces acoustic front glazing for a quieter ride—unique in its class.

Multiple powertrain options

The entry-level Q3 features a 1.5-litre turbo mild-hybrid with 150PS, while a 2.0-litre turbo engine with 265PS and Quattro AWD offers more punch. Diesel fans can opt for a 150PS 2.0 TDI but will have to do away with Quattro all-wheel-drive

The most intriguing choice is a plug-in hybrid pairing a 1.5-litre engine with an electric motor for 270PS and 120 km of electric range via a 19.7 kWh battery. It supports 50 kW DC charging, hitting 80% in under 30 minutes.

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Launch and future variants

Set to launch in Europe this September, pricing starts at €44,600, with the hybrid from €49,300. The Audi Q3 is one of the best-selling Audi models in the Indian market and will surely be launched here. However, there is no confirmation about its launch timeline. Audi is likely to launch the new Q5 first, replacing the ageing current model, which is likely to be followed by the launch of the new Q3.

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