By Xolile Hopa

Audi South Africa has launched the third-generation Audi Q3, introducing a fresh design, advanced digital technology and enhanced practicality to the luxury compact SUV segment. Available in both SUV and Sportback body styles, the new Q3 brings features previously reserved for larger Audi models to one of the brand’s best-selling nameplates.

The new Q3 features a more assertive design, highlighted by a wider Singleframe grille, sharper headlights and pronounced wheel arches. Audi has also introduced advanced lighting technology, including optional digital Matrix LED headlights and digital OLED rear lights with selectable light signatures and illuminated Audi rings.

Inside, the cabin combines premium materials with a cleaner, more spacious layout. A curved panoramic display integrates Audi’s 11.9-inch Virtual Cockpit Plus and 12.8-inch MMI touch display, while sustainable materials, including upholstery made from 100% recycled polyester, feature throughout the interior.

Technology is a key highlight of the new Q3, introducing advanced features such as adaptive cruise assist, surround-view cameras, adaptive suspension and Audi’s new Trained Parking system, which can learn and automatically perform up to five parking manoeuvres.

Practicality remains a key focus, with a sliding rear bench that increases luggage capacity from 488 litres to 575 litres. With the rear seats folded, load space expands to 1,386 litres in the SUV and 1,289 litres in the Sportback.

Under the bonnet, the South African range is offered with two 110kW powertrains. The range starts with a 1.4-litre TFSI petrol engine producing 110kW and 250Nm, while a 2.0-litre TDI also delivers 110kW along with 360Nm of torque. Both powertrains are designed to balance performance, refinement and efficiency for everyday driving and are available in Advanced, S line and S line Black trim levels.

Standard equipment includes LED lighting, an electric tailgate, 18-inch alloy wheels, lane departure warning, seven airbags, front and rear parking sensors, automatic climate control, navigation, Audi Connect services, ambient lighting, and leather/artificial leather upholstery.

Trim levels, technology and pricing

Audi South Africa offers the all-new Q3 in three trim levels: Advanced, S line and S line Black, with each adding progressively more luxury, technology and visual appeal.

The Advanced trim includes LED headlights with digital light signatures, a panoramic sunroof, heated front sport seats, three-zone climate control, adaptive cruise control and intelligent park assist. The S line builds on this package with sportier styling elements, 19-inch alloy wheels and a flat-bottom leather sport steering wheel, while the flagship S line Black adds Audi Sport wheels and an extensive Black Optics package for a more striking appearance.

Pricing

Offering two powertrains, two body styles and three trim levels, the new Audi Q3 provides South African buyers with plenty of choice. All models come standard with a 5-year/100,000km Audi Freeway Plan.