2025 Audi Q3 vs 2026 Audi Q3: 5 Major Differences
With the introduction of Audi’s third-generation Q3, the small SUV has changed in many key areas. Although it's not a revolutionary reimagining of the luxury vehicle, the brand has improved the 2026 Q3 in many key areas. Below we’ve listed five areas where the biggest changes have been made.
Simplified Trim Structure
For the new Q3, Audi is simplifying the trim structure. Gone are the numerical denominations, such as 40 and 45, that referred to trim, drivetrain, power, etc. For the 2026 model, just a singular trim is available at launch. It comes with standard all-wheel drive and the S-Line exterior appearance package.
More Powerful, Yet Efficient Engine
A 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine remains under the hood of the Audi Q3 for the 2026 model year, but it has been tweaked. Power has been increased and is now listed at 255 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. That’s a bump of 27 hp and 22 lb-ft of torque compared to the 2025 model. On the road, the power increase is apparent, but that has just as much to do with the next big change to the Audi Q3: the transmission.
Dual-Clutch Transmission
Gone is the regular eight-speed automatic transmission. It has been replaced by a seven-speed dual-clutch semi-automatic transmission. The quicker reacting transmission and more potent engine help propel the 2026 Audi Q3 from 0 to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds, which is 1.6 seconds faster than the 2025 model.
Audi has done a great job programming the engine and transmission to limit the jerkiness and stuttering that can usually plague dual-clutch transmissions at low speeds. The downside is there’s a delay in outright acceleration unless in the sportiest of drive modes. On the plus side, the new engine and transmission combination have improved fuel economy figures compared to the 2025 model. Officially, the 2026 Audi Q3 is rated at 22 mpg (10.8 L/100 km) in the city and 29 mpg (8.1 L/100 km) on the highway.
Modern Styling
The 2026 Audi Q3 gets styling updates that resemble other recently introduced new models from the brand, most notably the A5, A6, and Q5. Up front, there are dual running light strips at the edge of the hood line that each contain several LEDs. The headlights are located further down the front fascia, on either side of a large grille. The rear of the vehicle can include OLED rear taillights along with a red illuminated four-ring logo.
Inside, there’s a long, curved single panel that’s angled towards the driver. It contains both the 11.9-inch digital driver information center and the 12.8-inch infotainment screen. Under it and running the length of the dashboard is a tulipwood inlay that Audi claims is the largest single piece of wood ever put in one of the brand’s vehicles.
Less obvious, but arguably the most interesting styling component is the stalks flanking the steering wheel. Instead of the usual circular stalks found in most vehicles, the ones in the Q3 are squarer, and the entire stalk moves as one piece up or down. The left stalk also features multiple features, including wiper controls.
More Technology
Inside, there is plenty of new technology in the 2026 Audi Q3 compared to the 2025 model. The driver information screen and infotainment system now use the brand’s MMI with the latest version of the UX software. The wireless phone charger is cooled and capable of 15W charging speeds. There are more ambient color configurations, and the Q3 can be had with a new SONOS audio system.
Of course, this is all just a brief overview, and there are plenty more differences between the 2025 Audi Q3 and 2026 version. To see how we liked the new 2026 Audi Q3 on our first drive, click here to read all about it.
Become an AutoGuide insider. Get the latest from the automotive world first by subscribing to our newsletter here.
A 20+ year industry veteran, Mike rejoins the AutoGuide team as the Managing Editor. He started his career at a young age working at dealerships, car rentals, and used car advertisers. He then found his true passion, automotive writing. After contributing to multiple websites for several years, he spent the next six years working at the head office of an automotive OEM, before returning back to the field he loves. He is a member of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC), and Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA). He's the recipient of a feature writing of the year award and multiple video of the year awards.
More by Mike Schlee
Comments
Join the conversation
I don't care if it's quicker and marginally more efficient, a dual clutch transmission is the wrong gearbox for a small, non-performance crossover. In fact, I contend DCTs are the wrong gearbox for anything that doesn't prioritize performance first.