Audi Gives 2026 Q3 New Styling, Generous Power, Updated Tech

Audi has released pricing and full details for the 2026 Q3, the latest generation of the brand's smallest SUV in the lineup. It arrives in the first quarter of 2026 with a starting MSRP of $43,700, plus $1,295 for destination.

The new Q3 adopts the latest Audi family design cues, aligning more closely with recent models like the A5, A6, Q5, and Q6 e-tron. The exterior introduces new sheet metal, standard full LED headlights, and optional digital OLED taillights. The headlights include customizable daytime running light signatures, while the rear gets a full-width light bar and illuminated Audi rings. Acoustic dual-pane glass is now standard on the front windows to help reduce noise at higher speeds.

Inside, the Q3 moves to the Digital Stage MMI layout found in Audi’s more expensive models. It features a 12.8-inch central touchscreen and 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster, both running new user interface software. A redesigned steering column now handles transmission and lighting/wiper controls, freeing up the center console for additional storage, including a new wireless phone charger and cupholders. The infotainment system runs Android Automotive OS with app support directly in the vehicle, and an available SONOS sound system adds 12 speakers at up to 420 watts.

Passenger and cargo flexibility were also updated. The second-row seats slide and recline, and maximum cargo space grows to nearly 50 cubic feet with the seats folded. With the seats up, capacity is up to 29 cubic feet. The Q3 can tow up to 1,500 pounds and comes prewired for a hitch.

Under the hood, Audi has made noticeable improvements. The updated 2.0L turbo four-cylinder now produces 255 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque, up 27 hp and 22 lb-ft from the outgoing model. It’s paired with a new 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and standard quattro all-wheel drive. Audi estimates a 0–60 mph time of 5.5 seconds, a 1.6-second improvement from the previous model. Suspension and steering tuning have also been revised for better response and everyday comfort.

The new Q3 comes standard with a long list of driver assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, front autonomous braking, traffic sign recognition, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic assist. An optional Driver Assistance Package adds adaptive cruise assist, a top-view camera system, heated steering wheel, park assist, and a feature that allows the Q3 to learn and repeat parking maneuvers automatically.

The 2026 Audi Q3 will be offered in a single U.S. configuration at launch:

• 2026 Q3 S line quattro
• 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder
• 7-speed dual-clutch transmission
• quattro all-wheel drive
• MSRP: $43,700
• Destination: $1,295

Deliveries begin in early 2026.

This article was co-written using AI and was then heavily edited and optimized by our editorial team.

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