- More Aggressive and Distinctive Exterior
- High-Tech, Stalk-Free Cabin
- Enhanced Comfort and Spaciousness
- Engine Options: Gasoline, Diesel, and Plug-in Hybrid
- Improved Dynamics and Driver Assistance
- Launch Timing and Pricing
Audi has unveiled the third generation of its compact SUV, the Q3, set to arrive in European markets by late 2025. The new model features a more expressive and dynamic exterior design, a modern interior packed with advanced technology, and a bold move to eliminate traditional control stalks in favor of buttons and digital interfaces.
More Aggressive and Distinctive Exterior
The 2026 Q3 sports a dominant front fascia with a wide Singleframe grille flanked by segmented headlights that reflect Audi’s contemporary design language. The daytime running lights feature a pixelated design composed of 23 individual elements per side, with four selectable light signatures and custom animations for approach and departure.
Audi employs Digital Matrix LED headlights with Micro-LED units to enhance illumination and safety features such as lane-change warnings when vehicles are detected in adjacent lanes.
The bold design continues along the sides with sculpted lines and wider wheel arches accommodating 17- to 20-inch wheels, 20 mm wider than the previous generation. The rear showcases an illuminated Audi badge, OLED digital taillights with a continuous LED light bar, and a sharply angled rear window.
High-Tech, Stalk-Free Cabin
The most striking innovation in the new Q3 is the removal of traditional control stalks, replaced by a system of buttons and digital screens. The gear selector has been relocated to the right side of the steering wheel. The driver faces an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster alongside a large 12.8-inch infotainment touchscreen, complemented by a 15-watt wireless charging pad.
The interior offers premium features including a 12-speaker Sonos sound system, an AI-powered virtual assistant represented by an avatar on the infotainment screen, dynamic ambient lighting, and laser-cut air vents that create advanced lighting effects.
Audi also emphasizes sustainability by using eco-friendly materials such as recycled polyester fabrics and floor mats made from recycled nylon sourced from old fishing nets and industrial waste.
Enhanced Comfort and Spaciousness
The cabin accommodates five passengers with sliding rear seats that allow backrest adjustment, providing flexibility and comfort. The cargo space measures 488 liters, expandable to 1,386 liters with the rear seats folded, making the Q3 practical for daily use and travel.
Engine Options: Gasoline, Diesel, and Plug-in Hybrid
The new Q3 offers a range of powertrains:
1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine producing 148 hp.
2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine delivering 261 hp and 400 Nm of torque.
2.0-liter diesel engine with 148 hp and 360 Nm torque.
Plug-in hybrid variant with a 25.7 kWh battery, total output of 268 hp, an electric range up to 119 km, and fast charging capability up to 50 kW.
Improved Dynamics and Driver Assistance
Audi has upgraded the suspension for a smoother and more stable ride, offering sport and adjustable dampers with twin-valve technology. Available features include progressive steering and advanced driver aids such as a parking assistant that learns parking maneuvers and an emergency assistant that can take control if the driver becomes incapacitated.
Launch Timing and Pricing
Sales of the 2026 Audi Q3 will begin in Germany in October, with prices starting at $49,060 USD. Production will take place at Audi’s plants in Ingolstadt, Germany, and Győr, Hungary.
The 2026 Audi Q3 represents a sophisticated evolution combining bold styling, cutting-edge technology, and enhanced comfort, highlighted by the innovative removal of traditional control stalks. These updates position the Q3 as a strong contender in the compact luxury SUV segment, appealing to customers seeking luxury, performance, and efficiency in one package.
