For more than a decade, the Audi Q3 has been a benchmark in the premium compact SUV segment. Now entering its third generation, the new Q3 raises the bar once again with bold design, advanced technology, and a wide range of efficient powertrains – including a plug-in hybrid capable of covering up to 119 kilometres on electric power alone.
From the first glance, the Q3 makes its presence felt. The wide Singleframe grille and sharply tapered headlights give the SUV a confident, dynamic stance. A sweeping shoulder line visually divides the car, adding depth and character, while the Sportback model takes things further with a coupé-inspired roofline that’s 29 mm lower than the SUV, lending it a sleeker, sportier silhouette.
At the rear, optional digital OLED tail lights and an LED light strip create a striking signature. Up front, the Q3 debuts micro-LED technology in its digital Matrix LED headlights – a first in Audi’s compact segment. This breakthrough delivers sharper illumination and adaptive functions linked directly to driver assistance systems, ensuring maximum safety as well as style.
Step inside, and the Q3 feels every inch a premium SUV. A redesigned steering wheel unit frees up extra storage space in the centre console, while integrating new column levers for gear selection, lighting, and wipers. For the first time in this segment, Audi also offers acoustic glazing on the side windows, creating a hushed cabin ambience, even at motorway speeds.
Practicality remains a strong point. The Q3 SUV offers up to 488 litres of luggage space, expanding to 1,386 litres with the seats folded. The Sportback variant provides up to 1,289 litres. The rear bench slides and reclines as standard, while towing capacity reaches 2,100 kilograms.
The Q3 family offers a broad engine line-up, starting with the efficient 1.5-litre TFSI (110 kW) mild hybrid and a 2.0-litre TDI (110 kW) tailored for long-distance driving. The real highlight, however, is the plug-in hybrid e-hybrid models. With a system output of 200 kW and a high-capacity 25.7 kWh battery, they can charge at up to 50 kW DC and deliver an impressive all-electric driving range of up to 119 kilometres (118 km for the Sportback).
On the road, the Q3 benefits from an evolved suspension setup, with sport suspension and adaptive damping available for those who want a sharper feel. Technology also plays a major role in safety and convenience: the adaptive driving assistant plus, driver-monitoring interior camera, trained parking function, and reverse assist all help to reduce stress behind the wheel.
The new Audi Q3 SUV will arrive in September, with the entry-level 1.5 TFSI 110 kW priced from €47,165. The Q3 Sportback follows in November, starting at €48,970.
Christian Gussen, Brand Director at Audi Ireland, summed up the anticipation:
“The third generation of the best-selling Audi Q3, one of Ireland’s most popular compact SUVs, is sure to excite when it arrives at dealerships nationwide in the coming weeks. Available with powerful plug-in hybrid and efficient combustion engines, the Audi Q3 continues to set standards in efficiency, driving dynamics, and comfort. With an offering to suit most Irish lifestyles, it really is the ideal digital companion for everyday life.”
