The third-generation Audi Q3 has arrived, and it’s bringing more than just a nip and tuck, taking aim at the very best SUVs on sale. This all-new model builds on years of success by doubling down on technology, refinement, and everyday usability.
Now packed with features once reserved for top-end Audis, including digital Matrix LED headlights, a full AI voice assistant and long driving range plug-in hybrid tech – this premium family SUV looks ready to shake up the small premium SUV market.
What’s new?
The new Q3 is now a properly high-tech family car, borrowing trickle-down goodies from the flagship Q7 and A6 ranges. For you, that means more comfort, improved safety, and smarter ways to drive every day. The Q3’s sharper design isn’t just for show: active aerodynamics and clever lighting tech help it slice through the air more efficiently, improving fuel economy and cabin quietness.
Those optional digital Matrix LED headlights aren’t just there to look good in the showroom either – they actively shape the beam on dark country lanes, highlighting hazards while avoiding dazzling other drivers.
Inside, the car’s interface has had a major overhaul. The dual-screen setup and AI-powered voice assistant mean you can control most features without taking your hands off the wheel. Useful for parents, commuters, and anyone sick of fiddly touchscreen menus.
What’s it like inside?
Think Audi A6 vibes in a more compact package. The new Q3 ushers in a clean, driver-focused layout with plenty of space and smart storage. The new stalk-based gear selector frees up the centre console, giving you more room for essentials – a big win for families or anyone using the Q3 as their daily runabout.
Audi’s new ambient lighting package, standard on S Line and above, gives the cabin a genuinely plush feel at night. Meanwhile, acoustic glazing on the front side windows should mean less road noise, making long trips noticeably more relaxing.
In terms of boot space, the Q3 is quite flexible. With 488 litres (seats up), it’s behind the BMW X1 (540 litres) but outright flexibility is good thanks to its sliding and reclining rear bench. Slide that bench forward, luggage space increases to 575 litres, and with the seats folded, there’s up to 1,386 litres. That compares with 1,435 litres max, but only 435 litres with seats up with the Mercedes-Benz GLA and 452 litres for the Volvo XC40. If you’re planning to tow, it offers a braked towing capacity of up to 2,100kg.
New Audi Q3 engines and transmissions
Whether you’re after petrol, diesel or plug-in hybrid, the new Q3 offers a version to suit. All come with an automatic transmission as standard and mild-hybrid tech at the minimum to save fuel and smooth out stop-start traffic.
The 150hp TFSI petrol is the entry-level model, and is joined by the new 204hp Quattro, which adds power and four-wheel drive for those in rural areas or with a caravan in tow. Top dog for petrol heads is the 265hp Quattro, which delivers near-hot-hatch pace in sensible shoes.
If you’re a motorway driver, the 150hp TDI diesel will be the go-to model, offering strong mid-range performance and excellent fuel steady-speed economy. But the smart money might be on the new Q3 e-Hybrid, which now offers up to 74 miles of electric-only driving range. That’s far enough to cover most people’s commuting without resorting to petrol.
Charging the hybrid is fast and simple, too. A 50kW DC charger will get you from 10-to-80% in less than 30 minutes – ideal for quick top-ups at motorway services.
What this means for you
In short, the new Audi Q3 isn’t just a mild refresh, it’s a serious update that puts tech and comfort first. The new plug-in hybrid model could be a sweet spot for company car drivers looking to cut tax bills or for households wanting the best of both worlds – usable electric miles for weekday errands, petrol backup for longer trips.
And if you’re not fussed about all the digital toys, the entry-level versions still come well-specced with LED headlights, wireless phone charging, adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree parking camera as standard. That’s the sort of kit that makes daily driving feel easier, and you don’t need to spend a fortune to get it.
Audi hasn’t reinvented the wheel, but it’s definitely honed the Q3’s appeal. With prices starting at £38,300, it still isn’t cheap, but it does look like it’ll be the premium SUV for those who want compact SUV practicality with a bit more tech and PHEV driving range.
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