The third-gen Audi Q3 made its global debut this June and media drives are currently underway ahead of the model’s market launch in Europe in October. The good news for buyers in India is that the wait for the new model might not be all that long. Audi is working to bring the new Q3 to India in 2026, possibly within the third quarter.
The carmaker is understood to have prioritised the new Q3 for India, which means it could jump the queue (pun intended) in a long list of new Audis that are India bound. Audi’s launch pipeline also includes the new A5 sedan (that replaces the A4), new-gen Q5 and new-gen A6 combustion engine models, and the Q6 e-tron and A6 e-tron Sportback electrics.
The Q3 was a strong seller for Audi India right since its launch in our market in 2012. However, the model’s discontinuation in 2020 and the delayed arrival of the gen 2 Q3 (it came in August 2022, nearly four years after its global reveal) greatly impacted the carmaker’s sales.
New Audi Q3 engine, gearbox and platform
India-bound Q3 to be powered by 204hp, 2.0-litre petrol engine.
The third-gen Q3 is based on the latest iteration of the Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform, and is offered in Europe with petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid powertrains. India will get the Q3 with a 204hp, 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Quattro will be standard making the Q3 the only entry-luxury SUV to offer a petrol engine, all-wheel-drive combo.
The new-gen Q3 is about 40mm longer than the current model, and it seems like the length extension is focused up front, with the SUV sporting more pronounced overhangs. Styling is new-age Audi with split headlamps, more expressive lines and split tail-lamps, lending the latest Q3 a look that's very different from the current model. As with the current-gen Q3, the new one will also be offered in standard SUV and Sportback (coupe-SUV) body styles.
What community is saying on the Q3 (2022-2026)?
The interior takes a leap forward with a 12.8-inch touchscreen taking pride of place on the dash. 11.9-inch digital dials and a head-up display are also part of the package.
New Audi Q3 price estimate
New Q3 expected to be priced near Rs 50 lakh.
The new Q3 will go up against traditional rivals like the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA. Expect new Audi Q3 price to be around Rs 50 lakh (estimated, ex-showroom).
Dipan Sur
Viraaj Bhatnagar
