Audi Q3 2026

The third-generation Audi Q3, which was launched internationally last year, is finally making its way to Indian shores with its latest design and updated features. Since the current version of the Q3 is available in India in both its versions: Standard and Sportback (SUV Coupe), we expect the new Q3 to come with body styles.

In our market, the Q3 goes up against the BMW X1, Mercedes-Benz GLA, and the Lexus NX, all entry-level luxury SUVs, and let’s take a look at what the new-generation model has to offer in this detailed overview.

On the outside, the new Q3 features a much sharper, sleeker look than the outgoing version, with significant changes to its design, especially to its face.

Upfront, the main LED headlamps are now placed next to the grille, and the older headlamp position is now occupied by the DRLs. Its housing looks much sleeker than the previous version's headlamp housing; inside, you get multiple lighting elements which can change the pattern, and honestly, they look more like eye brows.

The grille has become slightly smaller, but it looks wider than before, making it look like the Q3 is smiling. It is finished in all-black, including the Audi logo, and the grille also gets diamond-shaped inserts. The headlamps are placed vertically next to the grille; you get air dams below the headlamp housing, and the design is completed by a slim bumper.

In profile, while the silhouette remains more or less the same, the new Q3 does appear to have a taller stance, and that could be because of the upright nose. There is no black or grey cladding or wheel arches, just a body-coloured finish, even on the door handles. However, you do get blacked-out ORVMs, black window lining, and black roof rails for some added contrast.

Audi has redesigned the alloy wheels as well and could offer different designs that you can choose. Now, while the international spec Q3 gets wheel sizes ranging from 17 to 20 inches, the India-spec Q3 is expected to just get the 18-inch alloys.

In the Sportback version, as the name suggests, you get a sportier look at the back thanks to the coupe-like design and a sloping roofline. The rear end now also features an end-to-end connected lightbar placed right below the wraparound LED tail lamps. You also get a shark-fin antenna, a sporty-looking roof-mounted spoiler, and a large bumper.

Inside, the new Q3 gets a completely redesigned dashboard and cabin design, and while many luxury carmakers are heading towards minimalism, the new Q3’s cabin look is nothing short of maximalism.

There is too much happening on the dashboard itself. Firstly, you get a double-D cut steering wheel with a smaller central area and slimmer housing for steering-mounted controls. The AC vents have been moved below the main touchscreen, the centre console is pointed towards the driver, and there is ambient lighting as well under the touchscreen and on the doors.

The cabin theme on offer in India is still under wraps, but we can expect the all-black theme offered globally to be offered in India as well. You also get leatherette and suede seat upholstery, some hints of piano black elements, and some brushed aluminium and carbon fiber inserts for contrast.

In terms of features, you now get the new 11.9-inch digital driver’s display and the 12.8-inch touchscreen in a single connected housing. Other expected features also include a panoramic sunroof, multi-zone climate control, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a wireless phone charger, and connected car features.

Features like powered and ventilated front seats, a powered tailgate, a heads-up display, a 12-speaker Sonos audio system, and multiple drive modes are also expected.

When it comes to passenger safety, you can expect it to offer 7 airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), all-wheel disc brakes, hill hold and descent control, automatic headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, parking assist, front and rear parking sensors, and ISOFIX child seat anchors.

It can also get a 360-degree camera and Level-2 ADAS (advanced driver assistance systems) with features like lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, high beam assist, and autonomous emergency braking.

The current version of the Audi Q3 has also been crash-tested by Euro NCAP, where it has received a commendable 5-star crash test safety rating.

* DCT = Dual-clutch automatic transmission, AWD = All-wheel drive

While the Q3 is offered with multiple powertrain options globally, including turbo-petrol, diesel, and hybrid, the India-spec version will most likely continue with just the turbo-petrol engine, and that too with only an AWD setup on offer.

This is the same unit that powers the current version of the Q3 on sale in India, albeit with a slight bump in power. This engine offers ease of driving as it does not require much of a learning curve if you’re shifting from a smaller car. Its versatility offers a convenient drive when you’re in the city but also lets you have some fun when you want to push it on the highways.

You can choose between different drive modes, which actually alter the throttle response, and the DCT gives smooth and quick shifts, making the drive feel more engaging.

The Audi Q3 already differentiates itself from its rivals by offering a sporty and distinct experience while also being a stepping stone into the luxury segment. The new-generation Q3 takes the same approach but makes it sportier, better equipped, more aggressive, and at the same time it keeps the luxury quotient alive.