By Otsile Kadiege

Audi’s long-standing Q3 SUV has finally been replaced by an all-new model, ushering in a bold new exterior design, a functional cabin with updated technology, a wide range of hybridised powertrains, an upgraded suspension setup, and a host of advanced safety features.

Bold Exterior Design and Styling

The new Q3 borrows its modern and muscular design cues from stablemates like the Q5 and A6. Exterior highlights include a wide Singleframe grille positioned high up, aggressive animated LED daytime running lights separated from the digital Matrix LED headlights, new wheel designs in sizes ranging from 17 to 20 inches, and steeply sloping D-pillars.

At the rear, the Q3 features two-part taillights with optional digital OLED lighting, a rear spoiler integrated into the tailgate, and a diffuser built into the raised rear bumper.

New Q3 Exterior Colours

Eleven colours are available for the new Audi Q3 range, including the Arkona White solid paint finish. Metallic options include Glacier White, Mythos Black, Arrow Grey, Tambora Grey, Progressive Red, and Navarra Blue. These are joined by new shades like Sage Green and Madeira Brown, the latter offered exclusively as a matte finish for the Q3. Daytona Grey metallic is exclusive to the S line, while Tambora Grey is only available for the Advanced line.

Functional Interior with Advanced Technology

Inside, the new Q3 SUV boasts a significantly improved design and functionality compared to its predecessor. Standout features include a multifunction flat-top and bottom steering wheel, a panoramic display comprising an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.8-inch MMI touch display, and an Android Automotive operating system that supports third-party apps like YouTube via the Audi app store.

Additional highlights include:

1) Ambient lighting packages (Ambient Light Package Plus/Pro)

2) Optional 12-speaker SONOS premium sound system

3) Nine interior styling packages

4) Four USB-C ports

5) 15-watt wireless smartphone charger

6) 488 litres of luggage capacity

Comprehensive Driver Assistance Systems

The new Q3 is equipped with a wide range of driver assistance technologies. Standard features include:

1) Parking system plus with distance display

2) Cruise control with speed limiter and preparation for adaptive cruise control

3) Lane departure warning with emergency assist

4) Traffic sign recognition

5) Attention and fatigue warning with driver monitoring

6) Active front assist with evasion assist, turning assist, front cross-traffic assist, and emergency braking

Petrol, Diesel, and Hybrid Powertrains

The entry-level Q3 SUV TFSI 110 kW is powered by a 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine with mild-hybrid technology, delivering 110 kW via a seven-speed S tronic transmission. This engine features a Cylinder-on-Demand (CoD) system that temporarily shuts down the second and third cylinders under low to medium loads.

The most powerful combustion variant is the Q3 SUV TFSI quattro 195 kW, equipped with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 195 kW and 400 Nm, sent to all four wheels through a seven-speed S tronic transmission.

Diesel enthusiasts are catered for with the Q3 SUV TDI 110 kW, which delivers 110 kW and 360 Nm of torque to the front wheels, also via a seven-speed S tronic.

A plug-in hybrid variant, the Q3 SUV e-hybrid 200 kW, offers a combined system output of 200 kW and 400 Nm of torque. It features a high-voltage battery with a gross capacity of 25.7 kWh (19.7 kWh usable), allowing for a claimed electric range of 119 km (WLTP cycle). The e-hybrid supports DC fast charging up to 50 kW, enabling a 10% to 80% charge in under 30 minutes.

Enhanced Driving Dynamics

The new Audi Q3 offers improved driving dynamics thanks to updated suspension and steering systems. Buyers can choose between standard steel-spring suspension, sport suspension, or adaptive suspension with two-valve damper control that adjusts continuously for optimal ride comfort and agility. Progressive steering enhances manoeuvrability and road feedback, while reduced steering friction improves overall feel.

Audi’s updated Drive Select system now includes a new “Balanced” mode for optimal comfort and performance, as well as a dedicated “Offroad Plus” mode for quattro variants.

Availability

The third-generation Audi Q3 will launch in Germany and other European markets in October 2025. Audi South Africa has yet to confirm local availability.