New Audi Q3: smallest Audi SUV is not fully electric but it is extremely powerful

Tighter in the paint

In terms of looks, the new Q3 has clearly taken a step forward. It looks more muscular, with broader shoulders and a lower, wider nose. The distinctive Singleframe grille has remained, but more tightly framed. The headlights are sharper-cut and the rear is characterized by a continuous light bar and – if you tick it on the option list – oled taillights with adjustable light signatures.

The Netherlands gets only the PHEV

While other markets get a choice of gasoline and diesel engines with mild-hybrid technology, Audi is taking a different tack in the Netherlands. Here, only the Q3 e-hybrid enters the price list. The powertrain consists of a 1.5-liter TFSI gasoline engine coupled to an 85 kW (116 hp) electric motor. Together good for a hefty 200 kW (272 hp) and 400 Nm. Audi is not yet revealing a 0-100 time, but we are betting on around 7 seconds.

Driving range Audi Q3 plug-in hybrid

The battery – with a hefty 25.7 kWh (19.7 net) capacity – allows up to 120 kilometers of electric driving. That’s considerably more than the previous Q3 PHEV (50 kilometers) and enough for most Dutch commuting miles without fuel. Charging can be done at the pole with 11 kW AC or – which is rare in PHEVs – also with 50 kW fast charging. With this, the battery is largely filled again in half an hour. We already know the PHEV powertrain from the brothers of the new Audi Q3: the Cupra Terramar and Volkswagen Tiguan.

Digital interior, more space

Inside, it’s right up to date. The dashboard is dominated by a curved display: an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster on the left, a 12.8-inch MMI touchscreen on the right. The gearshift has been moved to a lever behind the steering wheel. The center console now has room for cup holders, an induction charger and additional storage compartments.

Control runs through Android Automotive – with apps like YouTube available – and a voice assistant with AI. Also new is the optional SONOS sound system and ambient lighting with thirty colors. The finish is as you would expect from Audi: sleek and solid. The rear seat is standard sliding and angle adjustable. Luggage space varies between 488 and 1,386 liters, depending on the arrangement.

Assistance from all sides

The new Q3 features an extensive arsenal of driver assistance systems. As standard, you get things like traffic sign recognition, lane keeping assist and emergency braking assistance. Optional packages include adaptive cruise control, traffic jam assistance and even a system that can learn parking maneuvers on its own. A new addition is the interior camera that keeps an eye on the driver. At signs of fatigue or inactivity, the car eventually intervenes on its own, stopping it and calling emergency services if necessary.

When and what does it cost?

The new Audi Q3 will be at Dutch dealers from October 2025. Ordering will be possible from the summer. In Germany, the price for the Q3 e-hybrid starts at 49,300 euros. The Dutch price is not yet known, but given the range and standard equipment, it probably won’t be far off.

Also read: Review – Audi A3 TFSI e (2025) – Plug-in hybrid that you rarely need to fill up with fuel.