Audi has officially taken the wraps off the third-generation Q3 globally. The latest iteration of the Q3 gets significant updates over its predecessor in terms of aesthetics as well as functionality. Slated to go on sale internationally around September this year, it is expected to make its debut in India sometime next year.
Third-gen Audi Q3: Redesigned Exterior
The front fascia of the 2026 Audi Q3 has undergone a massive transformation. For starters, the entry-level luxury SUV now comes with a single-frame, all-black, honeycomb grille up front inspired by the new Q5. As seen in the teaser released last week, the new Q3 gets a completely redesigned split LED lighting setup featuring dual projector Matrix LED headlamps and pixelated LED DRLs.
Aerodynamic refinements including an optimised cool-air intake help achieve a drag coefficient of 0.30. The use of black provides the Q3 a sporty vibe. The side profile is highlighted by a distinct horizontal shoulder line connecting the front and rear lights that visually splits the car into two sections. The new Audi Q3 also becomes the first model in Audi’s compact segment to feature acoustic glazing on the front side windows. Alloy wheel options range between 17-inch (standard) and 20-inch units.
At the rear, split tail lamps with an optional OLED setup are linked by an LED light bar. The high-mounted rear bumper incorporates a diffuser, while the tailgate features illuminated Audi logo rings. The rear bumper also houses a black skid plate that hides the exhaust tailpipes giving it a very neat look.
Third-gen Audi Q3: Functional interiors
The cabin of the new Audi Q3 feels functional but sporty with an all-black interior theme. The multi-layered dashboard hosts a 12.8 inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 11.9 inch digital instrument cluster. Moreover, the SUV gets a new three-spoke steering wheel with two column levers. The lever on the right serves as a gear selector, whereas the one on the left gets controls for the light functions and windshield wipers. This has freed up a lot of space on the centre console with multiple cubby holes.
Third-gen Audi Q3: Features galore
The new Q3 packs all bells and whistles including an Android Automotive OS embedded inside the infotainment and instrument cluster. The voice-controlled Audi Assistant now comes with AI which is integrated into the package. Other notable features include a panoramic sunroof, a wireless phone charger, a powered tailgate, 3-zone climate control, and ambient lighting.
Buyers also have the option to upgrade to a 12-speaker SONOS premium sound system. Safety is taken care of by multiple airbags, a 360-degree camera, auto park assist and an advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) suite comprising features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, emergency assist, driver attention monitoring, etc.
Third-gen Audi Q3: Plug-in hybrid power source
Audi is offering a wide range of powertrain options with the new Q3. The entry-level variants will be powered by a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder TFSI turbo petrol engine with mild-hybrid tech and cylinder deactivation that churns out 148 bhp and 250 Nm of peak torque. The second option is a 2.0-litre TFS turbo petrol that pumps out with 261 bhp and 400 Nm of torque. This unit also comes with Audi’s Quattro all-wheel drive system.
The third option is a 2.0-litre diesel TDI engine that kicks out 148 bhp but doesn’t offer the Quattro AWD system. All three engine options come mated to a 7-speed DSG automatic gearbox. The last option is a new plug-in hybrid powertrain featuring the 1.5-litre TFSI petrol mill paired with an electric motor and a 25.7 kWh battery pack. This powertrain returns a peak combined output of 268 bhp and 400 Nm torque while offering an all-electric range of 119 km.