The new Audi Q3 has been revealed, sporting not only a fresh design and updated powertrains but also an interesting replacement for the traditional indicator stalk…
Meet the new Audi Q3. Now in its 3rd generation, the Ingolstadt-based automaker’s latest take on this premium crossover introduces a fresh design and updated powertrains as well as an interesting replacement for the traditional indicator stalk (more on that in a bit).
While it’s set to launch in Germany in October 2025, the new Audi Q3 – which will be manufactured at Audi’s plants in Győr (Hungary) and Ingolstadt (Germany) – is scheduled to arrive in South Africa at some point in the 3rd quarter of 2026.
According to the German automaker, the new Q3 features an “even more emotional design” than that of its predecessor, complete with a wide grille and tapered headlamps (the latter featuring micro-LED technology). Round back, Audi will offer optional digital OLED taillamps, complemented by a continuous light strip and an illuminated badge.
In Europe, the base derivative will be powered by a 110 kW turbocharged 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine with mild-hybrid technology. On the Old Continent, Audi will also offer a 110 kW/360 Nm turbodiesel motor – likewise driving the front axle – that it says is “particularly suitable for driving long distances”.
Not enough oomph? Well, European markets will also receive a turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol unit sending 195 kW and 400 Nm to all 4 wheels. Finally, the plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) version of the new Q3 will generate 200 kW and 400 Nm, with the 25.7 kWh (gross capacity) battery pack offering a “preliminary” all-electric range of “up to 119 km” on the WLTP cycle.
So, what about the overhauled cabin (which also features a panoramic display comprising an 11.9-inch instrument cluster and a 12.8-inch touchscreen) and that unconventional replacement for the traditional indicator stalk? Well, Audi has introduced what it calls a new “steering wheel control unit”, which frees up extra storage space in the centre.
In short, this unit integrates 2 new steering column levers, with the item on the right serving as the gear selector and the version on the left covering controls for the lights and windscreen wipers as well as the indicators. So, rather than nudging a stalk to activate the indicators, the driver toggles the outermost section of the lever instead.
Audi claims the new Q3 boasts a luggage capacity of 488 litres, a figure that grows to 1 386 litres with the rear seats folded down. In addition, the rear bench can slide forwards and backwards, with the angle of its backrest also adjustable.
As a reminder, the outgoing Audi Q3 range in South Africa comprises 8 derivatives (alongside 7 Sportback variants), with pricing for the SUV body shape currently running from R740 100 to R921 250. Year to date at the end of May 2025, Audi SA has registered 178 units of the Q3, along with 265 examples of the Q3 Sportback.
Find an Audi Q3 on Cars.co.za!
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