Audi is all set to launch the new Q3 in India on October 16, 2026. The third-generation model is the German luxury marque’s entry-level SUV for India and its first model for our market as part of its new product offensive. The upcoming Audi Q3 sports a completely new design both inside and out, an updated feature set and a single turbo-petrol powertrain. Here’s a closer look at what to expect from this compact luxury SUV.
1. What does the new Audi Q3 look like?
Now gets split headlamps, Digital Matrix LEDs, an updated grille and more
The third-gen Audi Q3 has ditched the conventional placement for the headlamps. Instead, it has a split arrangement with the new Digital Matrix LED units located in the bumper and slim LED daytime running lamps (DRLs) placed above them. The former houses 25,600 individually controlled pixels, while the latter double up as turn indicators and offer four light signatures. The wide honeycomb grille of the Q3 now gets the brand’s new 2D logo with an integrated radar for the ADAS suite.
Design highlights along the sides include the 18-inch alloy wheels with self-levelling centre caps, silver roof rails and shiny trim stretching between the A-pillar and the roof. The rear of the new Q3 features split LED tail-lamps connected by a sleek light bar, an illuminated Audi logo on the tailgate and a silver skid plate in the bumper. The new Q3 looks bigger than the outgoing model, though its 2,681mm wheelbase is unchanged.
2. How is the interior of the new Audi Q3?
A spacious boot, solid build, curved displays and a new gear selector are some of the highlights
The boot of the new Audi Q3 has a capacity of 488 litres, which can be expanded by folding down the 40:20:40 rear seats. There’s also a space-saver spare under the boot floor. This is a modern-looking interior, with an angled dashboard and centre console, curved digital displays and a hexagonal steering wheel. Meanwhile, placed on the steering column is the new stalk-type gear selector.
Leather upholstery aside, this interior features fabric and wood trim. There are hard plastics lower down in the cabin, but the overall build quality is impressive. The front seats are well-bolstered and will be comfortable even on long drives, but the rear ones are best reserved for two adults. Conveniences at the back include a fold-down armrest with cup holders, two USB-C outlets, seat-back pockets and rear AC vents.
3. What features does the new Audi Q3 offer?
Headline tech includes a 12-speaker Sonos audio system, a panoramic sunroof, a head-up display and 9 airbags
The new Audi Q3 offers a range of conveniences and tech – including a powered tailgate, multi-zone automatic climate control, powered and heated front seats with memory and a 12-speaker Sonos audio system. There’s also a panoramic sunroof, a 12.8-inch touch-infotainment system and an 11.9-inch digital driver’s display.
Rounding off the tech features of the Audi Q3 are 9 airbags, an auto-park function and ADAS (advanced driver assistance systems) with adaptive cruise control and auto-emergency braking. Surprisingly, the new Q3 doesn’t get lane-keep assist, a 360-degree camera or even ventilated seats.
4. What engine and gearbox does the new Audi Q3 get?
The new Q3 will only be offered with a 204hp turbo-petrol engine and quattro all-wheel drive
Under the bonnet of the new Audi Q3 is a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine with direct injection, rated at 204hp and 320Nm. Mated to this TFSI mill is a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox with paddleshifters, while drive is sent to all four wheels via Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system.
There are multiple drive modes as well, including an ‘off-road’ setting. Audi claims a 0-100kph time of 7.1 seconds for the new Q3. However, there will be no diesel, hybrid or fully electric powertrains at launch.
5. What is the expected price of the new Audi Q3?
The new model will likely be pricier than the outgoing Q3
The new Audi Q3 is expected to come at a premium over the outgoing model, which is priced between Rs 43.67 lakh and Rs 53 lakh (ex-showroom). The closest rivals of the Q3 will include the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA.