All-new third generation Audi Q3 unveiled

The new Audi Q3 is the first Audi model in the compact segment to offer acoustic glazing for the front side windows.

Audi has taken the wraps off the new third-gen Q3. The popular SUV has sold over 2 million units globally since its 2011 launch.

The new Q3 is based on the same MQB platform that underpins the Audi A3 and the VW Golf. It comes with digital Matrix LED headlights that use the micro-LED module for the first time in the Audi Q3. There is a large hexagonal single-frame front grille that houses the 2D Audi logo. The sensors for the ADAS are installed behind the four rings. Aerodynamic refinements—including an optimised cool-air intake—help achieve a drag coefficient of 0.30. On the side, a horizontal shoulder line between the front and rear lights visually divides the car into two parts, creating a very special lighting effect. The new Audi Q3 is the first Audi model in the compact segment to offer acoustic glazing for the front side windows. At the rear, there are split tail lamps that come with optional OLEDs connected by a light bar. A diffuser is integrated into the high-mounted rear bumper. It also gets illuminated Audi logo rings on the tailgate.

The new Q3 comes with new alloy wheel options ranging from 17-inch to 20-inch. Eleven colours are available: Arkona white solid paint finish, Glacier white, Mythos black, Arrow grey, Tambora grey, Progressive red, and Navarra blue are available as metallic paint finishes. Also available are new colours; Sage green and Madeira brown.

Inside, the new Q3 gets an 11.9-inch instrument cluster and a 12.8-inch MMI infotainment screen. There is a new steering wheel which gets two column levers. The lever on the right serves as a gear selector, the one on the left as a control element for the light functions and windshield wipers. There is no gear selector on the centre console. The new Q3 also gets the option of a 420W SONOS premium sound system with 12 speakers. The voice-controlled Audi Assistant now comes with AI that is integrated directly into the car. The Q3 gets standard boot space of 488 litres that goes up to 1,386 litres with the rear bench folded down.

Engine options include a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder TFSI engine with mild hybrid tech putting out 147 BHP, a 2.0-litre TFSI with 261 BHP and 400 Nm torque and quattro and a 2.0 TDI diesel good for 147 BHP.

The new Q3 also gets a plug-in hybrid variant. It features an electric motor with 114 BHP and 330 Nm torque and a 25.7 kWh battery pack. Total power output stands at 268 BHP and 400 Nm torque. It has an all-electric range of 119 km.

The new Q3 comes with a revamped suspension with optional adaptive dampers and progressive steering. Safety features include parking system plus with distance display, cruise control (including speed limiter) with preparation for adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning with emergency assist, traffic sign recognition, attention and fatigue warning with driver monitoring, and active front assist with evasion and turning assist, front cross traffic assist, and front emergency brake assist.

The new Audi Q3 will launch in Germany and other European markets in October later this year. Prices in Germany will start at 44,600 euros (Rs. 44.41 lakh)  for the entry-level model while the plug-in hybrid will start at 49,300 euros (Rs. 49.01 lakh).