- Audi has introduced the redesigned Q3, which will be launched in Europe late this year.
- The redesigned model sports a more expressive design and a minimalist cabin.
- Customers will find gasoline, diesel, and plug-in hybrid powertrains with up to 268 hp.
The Audi Q3 is the brand’s second best-selling vehicle in the United States, so its redesign is big news. However, the stylish new look is just the tip of the iceberg as the third-generation crossover is also more luxurious and efficient.
Starting outside, designers gave the model a more expressive and emotional design. The front end is dominated by a wide Singleframe grille, which is flanked by split lighting units.
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Digital daytime running lights reside up top and have a pixelated design with 23 segments per side. Customers can select between four different light signatures as well as customized approach/departure animations.
Digital Matrix LED headlights are located below and they have a micro-LED module, which promises to significantly improve illumination. Audi also mentioned some new safety features such as a warning light when you signal your intention to switch into a lane that is currently occupied by another vehicle.
Moving further back, we can see curvaceous bodywork and pronounced wheel arches. The latter openings house 17- to 20-inch wheels, which are now 0.8 inches (20 mm) wider than before.
Elsewhere, there’s a gently sloping roof and an upward sweeping beltline. The latter meets a sporty rear pillar, which resides above muscular rear haunches.
The expressive design continues out back with an illuminated Audi logo and available digital OLED taillights. We can also see an illuminated LED light bar and an angular rear window.
Audi didn’t go into many specifics, but confirmed the crossover’s aerodynamic makeover results in a lower drag coefficient of 0.30. The company also noted the model will be offered with an S line design, which has unique bumpers as well as selenite silver accents.
A Streamlined And Techy Interior
The interior has undergone a significant transformation, which eschews buttons and a traditional shifter. The latter has been replaced by a lever on the right side of the redesigned steering wheel.
More notably, the Q3 has supersized displays as drivers sit behind an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.8-inch infotainment system. They’re joined by a revamped center console and a 15w wireless smartphone charger.
Audi didn’t provide many details, but noted the model will be offered with an assortment of light packages that add ‘marker lights’ on the dashboard and center console. Customers can also get illuminated door panels, which feature 300 laser cut holes that are separated into five segments to show a “dynamic lighting progression.”
Other highlights include a 12-speaker Sonos premium audio system and an AI-infused Audi assistant, which appears as an avatar on the infotainment system. Customers can also get newly available acoustic glazing for the front side glass.
In a nod to the green movement, the Q3 incorporates a number of eco-friendly materials. This includes Impressum cloth made from 100% recycled polyester as well as velvet velour floor mats constructed out of Econyl, which is a “completely recycled nylon fiber made from old fishing nets, carpet remnants, and industrial waste.”
Rear passengers haven’t been forgotten as they’ll find a sliding seat with an adjustable backrest. However, if cargo is more important, there’s 17.2 cubic feet (488 liters) of room behind the second-row. If that’s not enough, it can be folded down to provide up to 48.9 cubic feet (1,386 liters) of cargo space.
A Powertrain For Almost Everyone
Under the hood, there are gas, diesel, and plug-in hybrid options. Starting with petrol variants, there’s an entry-level 1.5-liter four-cylinder TSFI that produces 148 hp (110 kW / 150 PS). Customers can also get a 2.0-liter TSFI four-cylinder developing 261 hp (195 kW / 265 PS) and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) of torque.
On the diesel side, there’s the Q3 TDI with 148 hp (110 kW / 150 PS) and 265 lb-ft (360 Nm) of torque. It’s paired to a seven-speed S tronic transmission and front-wheel drive.
The most interesting of the bunch is the Q3 e-hybrid, which features a 25.7 kWh battery pack as well as a combined output of 268 hp (200 kW / 272 PS) and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm). Audi didn’t say much about it, but confirmed the plug-in hybrid will have a WLTP electric-only range of up to 74 miles (119 km). The model also has a 50 kW DC fast charging capability, which can take the battery from 10% to 80% in less than half an hour.
Better Driving Dynamics
Crossovers aren’t typically known for their driving dynamics, but Audi says the redesigned Q3 has a “further developed” suspension that delivers an improved driving experience. Aside from the standard suspension, customers can get a sport-tuned suspension and an adjustable suspension with faster-acting twin-valve dampers.
Other highlights include an available progressive steering system and upgraded driver assistance systems. Notable highlights include a “trained parking” capability, which enables owners to teach the crossover parking maneuvers. Furthermore, if the driver becomes incapacitated, “emergency assistant is now able to take over command of the vehicle.”
Arrives Later This Year In Europe
The 2026 Audi Q3 will be launched in Germany this October and pricing starts at €44,600. The model will be built in both Ingolstadt, Germany and Gyor, Hungary.
