Audi has pulled the wraps off the next-gen Q3 SUV, showing off a new design with an updated powertrain selection.
The Q3 is scheduled to go on sale in Europe this October, after which it will likely make its South African debut sometime in 2026.
New look
Now in its third generation, the Q3 features a new design reminiscent of the brand’s other cars, like the A5 and Q5.
This includes a wider Singleframe grille and slim headlights comprised of several micro LEDs.
A similar pattern can be found at the back with two taillamp bars positioned on either side of the Four Rings logo, which is underscored by an additional horizontal light bar running across the boot door.
It also has a pair of large air inlets on either side of the front grille, which curve towards the lower bumper.
The alloy wheels range in size from 17 to 20 inches, depending on the model, and customers can optionally install Matrix LED headlights, OLED taillights, and an illuminated badge.
The interior has seen a similar overhaul, as the dashboard is dominated by a large curved display comprised of a 12.8-inch digital instrument cluster and an 11.9-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
It also features a textured leather multifunction steering wheel, a wireless charging pad, and ambient lighting strips integrated into the lower dashboard and centre console.
One unique selling point of the Q3 is that it has ditched the traditional gear selector and indicator stalk in favour of a new “steering wheel control unit.”
This system adds two new levers to the steering column, one of which selects the gears.
According to the manufacturer, it made this switch to free up space in the centre console by removing the old gearstick.
The other new level is used to control the lights, windscreen wipers, and indicators, the latter of which is now done via toggle switches on the level rather than nudging a stalk up or down.
On a more practical note, the SUV has a 488-litre boot, which expands to 1,386 litres when the rear seats are folded.
Engines
In Europe, the Audi will be sold with one of four powertrains, starting with a 1.5-litre mild hybrid turbo-petrol (TFSI) plant good for 110kW and 250Nm, which connects to the front wheels.
Alternatively, there’s a more powerful TFSI option that takes the form of a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine.
This version of the Q3 features the brand’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system, and generates a total of 195kW and 400Nm.
If you’re more interested in a diesel model, the good news is the 2.0-litre TDI block is making a return.
This particular model puts out 110kW and 360Nm and is only available in front-wheel-drive.
At the top of the range is the new Q3 e-Hybrid, which combines the 2.0-litre TFSI mill with an electric motor and a 19.7kWh battery.
The result is a plug-in hybrid with an electric range of 119km and a rather generous power reading of 200kW and 400Nm.
Unfortunately, it’s currently unknown which of these engines will be made available in South Africa.
Still, this information will presumably be made available closer to the car’s expected launch window next year, along with other important details like the model selection and pricing.
Audi Q3
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