Audi Launches Groundbreaking Third-Generation Q3 with Enhanced Design and Advanced Plug-in Hybrid Technology, ET Auto

With the Audi Q3 interior, we are transferring the digital stage from the full-size class to the compact segment,” said Geoffrey Bouquot

Audi has officially pulled the wraps off the third-generation Q3revealing a sharper, more athletic SUV packed with cutting-edge tech and a broader powertrain lineup.The 2026 Q3 marks a significant design evolution. Up front, the SUV sports a more aggressive single-frame honeycomb grille finished in black, flanked by sleek split LED headlamps with Matrix projector units and pixelated DRLs. Inspired by the new Q5, the refreshed front end lends the Q3 a sportier, more planted stance. Aerodynamic tweaks, including redesigned air intakes, help the SUV achieve a drag coefficient of 0.30.From the side, the Q3 gets a prominent shoulder line that links the front and rear lighting, visually separating the upper and lower halves of the car. Wheel sizes range from 17 to 20 inches. Notably, it’s also the first compact Audi to offer acoustic glazing on the front windows, cutting road noise inside the cabin.

At the rear, split OLED tail-lamps are connected by a sleek LED light bar. The tailgate features illuminated Audi rings for the first time, while the clean rear bumper integrates a black skid plate that discreetly hides the exhaust pipes.

Inside, the new Q3 leans into a sportier, tech-forward cabin with an all-black interior and layered dashboard design. Dominating the dash are:

• A 12.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• A 11.9-inch digital driver display
• A new twin-lever setup behind the steering wheel—one for gear selection, the other for lights and wipers—which frees up space on the center console

“With the Audi Q3 interior, we are transferring the digital stage from the full-size class to the compact segment,” said Geoffrey Bouquot, Member of the Board of Management for Technical Development at AUDI AG.

The SUV is loaded with features that enhance both comfort and connectivity. These include an Android Automotive OS-powered infotainment system with Audi’s AI voice assistant, a panoramic sunroof, wireless phone charging, three-zone climate control, and ambient lighting. Buyers can also opt for a 12-speaker SONOS premium sound system for a more immersive audio experience.

Under the hood, Audi is offering a wide range of powertrains:

• A 1.5L TFSI turbo petrol with mild-hybrid tech (148 bhp / 250 Nm)
• A 2.0L TFSI turbo petrol with Quattro AWD (261 bhp / 400 Nm)
• A 2.0L diesel TDI (148 bhp), without AWD
• A new plug-in hybrid pairing the 1.5L petrol with an electric motor and a 25.7 kWh battery, delivering 268 bhp and 400 Nm, with up to 119 km of pure electric range

  On the safety and assistance front, the Q3 is equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). This includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, emergency braking, and driver attention monitoring. It also features a 360-degree camera and auto park assist, enhancing both convenience and peace of mind behind the wheel.

“With the third generation of the Audi Q3, we are renewing an important model family as part of our product initiative and strengthening our range with a powerful plug-in hybrid and efficient combustion engines. The new model combines efficiency, driving dynamics, and comfort.”, said Gernot Döllner, CEO of AUDI AG.

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