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Audi Q3 (2026) review – Another best-seller?

September 29, 2025

Micro LED

25,600, that’s how many micro LEDs are in the headlights of the new Q3 – provided you pay a little extra. It’s the first time Audi has used this complex technology in a model outside the absolute best. What do they do? The lights can project patterns onto the asphalt, such as a snowflake in freezing temperatures or illuminate a lane extra. It’s one of the state-of-the-art things that sets the Q3 apart.

Digital stage

Inside, you’ll also encounter a lot of tech. For instance, you get a wide front of screens in front of you, which Audi calls the “digital stage. The infotainment system runs on Google software (Android Auto), making the system responsive and intuitive. Switching between apps and menus is fluid, but the lack of physical buttons remains a drawback. Simple functions such as climate control sometimes require you to take your eyes off the road.

Little luggage space

The traditional selector switch in the center console is gone and replaced by a compact lever behind the steering wheel. This provides additional storage space in the center console. Even the indicators are controlled with a similar lever next to the steering wheel. The rear seat can be shifted and the backrest is adjustable, allowing you to choose between more luggage or legroom. This is nice, because the luggage space remains limited at 375 liters, due to the battery taking up space. For families who regularly need to carry a lot of luggage, this is a concern.

Plug-in hybrid with serious range

In the Netherlands, Audi delivers the Q3 as a standard plug-in hybrid. Under the hood is a 1.5 TFSI with 130 kW (177 hp), combined with an electric motor of 85 kW (115 hp). Together good for a solid 200 kW (272 hp) and 400 Nm. More than enough for smooth acceleration and quick overtaking.

Also nice: a full battery will get you up to 119 kilometers according to the WLTP standard. In practice, you should count on about 90 to 110 kilometers. More than enough for most trips and refueling becomes an afterthought. Charging can be done at home or at a public pole with 11 kW AC, but on the road it can also be quick-charged with 50 kW DC.

Adaptive chassis

On the road, the Q3 feels as you would expect from an Audi: solid and mature. Acoustic glass and good insulation keep the interior nice and quiet, even on the bad Scottish roads on which we got to put the Q3 through its paces for the first time. Our test car has the optional adaptive suspension, which provides both plenty of comfort and dynamics depending on the driving mode selected. Don’t expect a sports SUV, but do expect a car tight enough on the road and steering to provide plenty of confidence. The electric motor provides instant power and the gasoline engine shifts gears almost imperceptibly. A pleasant balance.

Designs and prices

Audi delivers the Q3 in three flavors:

Optional packages include the Tech Pro package, which includes adaptive suspension and power seats. Our advice: those who love driving opt for the adaptive suspension, those who seek comfort above all are better off spending the money on other options, or keeping it in their pockets.

Conclusion

The new Audi Q3 does exactly what you expect of it – and a little more. It looks more mature, feels high-tech, and with the plug-in hybrid powertrain, you can cover almost all your daily miles electrically. It is a comfortable and refined SUV that is also right up to date in terms of technology.

Its only weakness? The luggage space is not generous. But that is true of almost all plug-in hybrids in this segment. The starting price is hefty. It is and remains an Audi. But in return, it is a compact SUV that has matured in all important respects and raised the bar again. In the video below, we tell you more about the new Q3.