Audi’s compact SUV, the Q3
Finally, shed all its camouflage
Catching eyes with its updated design
The first-generation Audi Q3, inspired by the 2007 Cross Coupe Quattro concept, debuted as a compact SUV in 2011. Sharing its platform with Volkswagen’s Tiguan, this model marked Audi’s entry into the compact SUV segment. The Q3 was redesigned for its second generation in 2017, adopting a design language similar to the Audi Q8, reinforcing the brand’s distinctive family look. A coupe-style Sportback variant also made its debut.
In December 2023, a test vehicle that appeared to be the new Q3 was spotted, though heavily camouflaged. Only partial details, such as the headlights, were visible then. Recently, the Q3 has been seen with minimal camouflage, signaling that its official launch is imminent. The redesigned model, anticipated after a two-year development period, bears a closer resemblance to the Q5 or Q6 e-tron, marking a departure from the styling of the previous Q3 generation.
This model looks completely different from the existing
Follows the latest Audi design trends
The front design of the new Q3 closely mirrors the 2025 Q5 model. The previous generation’s thicker, downward-sloping headlights have been replaced with slimmer, upward-angled units akin to those on the new Q5 and Q6 e-tron. The grille has also been updated; while the 2019 coupe version of the Q3 featured a honeycomb grille, the new model’s grille is wider with fewer honeycomb patterns, reminiscent of the Q5’s design. The gap between the headlights and the air intake has been reduced, further aligning with the Q5’s styling.
At the rear, a roof spoiler that looks like something between the Q8 e-tron and Q6 e-tron can be seen, while the taillights feature the new Q3’s signature style. The existing Audi Q3 is 4,485 mm (176.6 inches) in length, 1,850 mm (72.8 inches) in width, 1,620 mm (63.8 inches) in height, and has a wheelbase of 2,680 mm. The exact specifications of the new Q3 have not been released yet, but spy shots show that it looks slightly longer.
The last three setup engines
Will Volkswagen get the latest PHEV?
The existing Audi Q3 used a 1.5L or 2.0L TSI gasoline engine and a 2.0L TDI diesel motor, producing a maximum output of 186 horsepower and a maximum torque of 30.5 kg.m. The new Q3 could be the last Audi vehicle equipped with an internal combustion engine with gasoline, diesel, and PHEV setups. It is expected to roll off the assembly line in Györ, Hungary, so it is likely to be equipped with a similar powertrain.
If that happens, Q3 will adopt the latest plug-in hybrid powertrain, like other SUVs under the Volkswagen Group, such as the Volkswagen Tiguan and Cupra Terrama. The most likely option would be a 48V engine with a 1.5L gasoline engine and a 7-speed DSG transmission, generating a maximum torque of 25.49 kg.m, or a combination of two all-wheel-drive TSI gasoline engines and a 7-speed DSG transmission, generating a maximum torque of 40.78 kg.m.
Is the interior design similar to Terrama?
If launched, it will compete with the BMW X1
The interior of the upcoming Q3 is anticipated to feature a design similar to the Q6 e-tron or Cupra’s Terrama. Expectations are for a large 12.9-inch touchscreen, potentially up to 15 inches. While the interior has not been officially revealed, these predictions are based on recent Audi’s design language trends.
The new Q3 is projected to launch in late 2024 or early 2025 and is expected to rival luxury family SUVs such as the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA. The BMW X1, a compact SUV introduced in 2022, measures 4,500 mm (177.2 inches) in length, 1,835 mm (72.2 inches) in width, 1,640 mm (64.6 inches) in height, and has a wheelbase of 2,690 mm (105.9 inches). It is powered by a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder gasoline engine that produces 204 horsepower and 30.6 kg.m of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
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