Audi has just unveiled the third-generation Audi Q3, set to be available for sale this month.
So, what’s new? For one, it now comes in plug-in hybrid form, offering up to 74 miles of electric-only driving, which is great for those short commutes or quiet city cruising. If you prefer sticking with the classics, petrol and diesel engines are still very much part of the lineup.
The Audi Q3 is a popular model in the brand’s lineup, offering a compact SUV package that suits a wide range of everyday needs.
With a bold new facelift, the Audi Q3 is set to be more popular than ever. While it still rides on the same platform as its predecessor, it now embraces Audi’s latest design language, bringing it visually in line with the rest of the lineup, especially the electric models. This update also makes room for a new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant.
The updated Q3 looks more muscular and refined, with a noticeably stronger road presence. At the front, a wider and more aggressive grille is flanked by redesigned headlights and Audi’s distinctive teardrop-style daytime running lights. At the rear, a slim light bar connects the new taillights, giving the back end a cleaner and more contemporary finish.
Inside, the new Q3 features an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster paired with a 12.8-inch central touchscreen, now subtly angled toward the driver for easier access. Most physical controls have been eliminated in favor of a cleaner, more minimalist dashboard, with key functions now integrated into the infotainment system.
While some manufacturers are beginning to reintroduce physical buttons in response to customer feedback around safety and ease of use, Audi continues to embrace a touchscreen-focused interface in the Q3.
A redesigned steering wheel and a new control layout free up valuable space in the centre console, creating a cleaner and more open cabin feel. All models now come standard with noise-deadening acoustic glass, enhancing cabin quietness for a more refined and composed driving experience.
With the Q3 now offered exclusively with an automatic transmission, the gear shifter has been relocated to the steering column. This change further frees up space in the centre console. The control stalks have also been completely redesigned. They’re shorter and require less movement than traditional stalks, contributing to a more modern and streamlined interface.
Suspension options have also been upgraded, with adaptive damping available on selected variants to enhance ride comfort and handling.
Boot space comes in at 488 litres, slightly down from the previous model’s 530 litres. With the rear seats moved forward, capacity increases to 575 litres. While it’s still competitive for a compact SUV, buyers prioritising maximum cargo room may want to consider one of Audi’s larger offerings.
The entry-level engine offered is a 1.5-litre, 150 PS four-cylinder petrol unit with mild-hybrid technology, paired with a seven-speed S tronic automatic gearbox as standard. However, later in the year, we can expect a more powerful petrol version delivering 204 PS.
A 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine is also available with 150 PS. Above that sits the 2.0-litre all-wheel-drive TFSI quattro petrol engine, producing 265 PS.
Surprisingly, Audi is still offering a diesel option, which may appeal to drivers who cover longer distances, especially as diesel-powered vehicles are becoming less common in new lineups.
However, the truly intriguing engine option for the new Q3 is the e-hybrid model. It features a 19.7 kWh battery, enabling an all-electric driving range of up to 74 miles. It also supports 50 kW fast charging, allowing a 10–80% top-up in just 30 minutes. This plug-in hybrid setup delivers 272 PS and 400 Nm of torque.
The new e-hybrid Q3 replaces the outgoing TFSI e plug-in hybrid and more than doubles the electric-only driving range, now offering up to 74 miles. This makes it an attractive choice for company car drivers, especially due to lower Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) tax rates. However, we won’t see this version arrive until later in the year.
Performance enthusiasts will notice that the RS Q3 is currently not part of the new lineup. Previously, it offered 400 PS and could accelerate from 0–62 mph in just 4.5 seconds. Audi hasn’t confirmed whether it will return, and for now, there’s no indication of a replacement.
Three trim levels are available: Sport, S line, and Edition 1.
- Sport trim includes 18-inch alloy wheels, soundproof side windows, heated front seats, and cloth upholstery.
- S line adds 19-inch alloy wheels, a sportier design with tinted rear windows, and leather upholstery.
- Edition 1 sits at the top of the range, featuring 20-inch alloy wheels, a sport suspension, heated steering wheel, and progressive steering.
Prices start at £38,300 for the entry-level Sport model with the 150 PS petrol engine. The e-hybrid model, available from August, will start at £45,800.
