Audi has showcased the third-generation Q3 in India ahead of its market launch later this year. The new SUV brings a significant generational update to Audi's entry-level luxury SUV, with a larger footprint, redesigned exterior, a heavily revised cabin and an updated feature list.
The new Q3 will continue to compete with the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA, with prices expected to be around Rs 60 lakh, ex-showroom.
New Q3 gets Sharper Styling
The third-generation Q3 measures 4,531mm long, 1,859mm wide and 1,623mm tall, with a 2,681mm wheelbase. It is larger than its predecessor across all key dimensions.
Audi has given the SUV a more angular design, with split LED headlamps positioned above a wide grille. The front bumper features a large honeycomb-patterned air intake and a silver-finished lower element.
The side profile gets body-coloured cladding, dual-tone alloy wheels and roof rails. A thick L-shaped chrome element runs along the window line, while black trim connecting the rear windows creates a floating-roof effect.
At the rear, split LED tail-lamps are connected by a full-width light strip that incorporates an illuminated Audi logo. A prominent roof spoiler and sculpted bumper complete the design.
Audi Q3 Interior Features and Cabin Tech
The biggest change inside is the Q3's new dashboard layout. The cabin features a 12.8-inch touchscreen paired with an 11.9-inch digital driver's display. The dashboard is finished in black, with beige seats on the India-showcase car.
A new four-spoke steering wheel uses a squircle-shaped design, while physical buttons on the centre console provide access to key functions. The centre tunnel houses a wireless charging pad, engine start/stop button, media controls, electronic parking brake and cupholders.
Audi has also changed the gear selector arrangement. Instead of a conventional centre-console mounted selector, the drive selector is positioned on a stalk behind the steering wheel. The change allows for additional storage and frees up space on the centre console, although the new arrangement may require some familiarisation.
Equipment includes a Sonos sound system, panoramic sunroof, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual-zone climate control, paddle shifters, configurable ambient lighting and a 360-degree camera. Boot capacity stands at 488 litres.
2.0-Litre Turbo-Petrol Expected for India
The India-spec Q3 is expected to retain the 2.0-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine used by the outgoing model. It produces 204hp and 320Nm and is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.
Power is expected to be sent to all four wheels through Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system, which is likely to remain standard on the India-spec model.
Audi claims a 0-100kph time of 7.1 seconds, while top speed is rated at 229kph.
With its larger dimensions, more modern cabin and substantially revised design, the third-generation Q3 represents a major upgrade for Audi's entry-level SUV. Its expected positioning around Rs 60 lakh will place it directly against the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA when it arrives in India later this year.