With a complete design overhaul and plenty of cabin comforts, the new Audi Q3 will take on the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA.
Audi is launching its next-gen Q3 in India tomorrow, and if it gets the pricing right, this could be a compelling offering here. This model was unveiled globally in mid-2025, and will lead a reinvigorated lineup for Audi in India as its renewed market push continues. According to the company, the Q3 should be a good fit for the Indian market thanks to its slick styling, tech-forward features, driving comfort, and overall versatility.
The new Audi Q3 uses the same underlying manufacturing platform as its predecessor, but Audi has given it a complete design overhaul to help it compete against some heavy-hitters. The styling is bolder and more athletic, with split Matrix LED headlights and slim DRLs, an oversized grille with a prominent pattern, body-coloured cladding, illuminated Audi four-ring emblems, LED light bar across the tailgate, silver skidplates, and multiple light animation options.
Measuring 4,531 mm long with a 2,681 mm wheelbase, the new Q3 is bigger overall than the previous iteration. It’s 1,859 mm wide and 1,623 mm tall, riding on 18-inch alloy wheels in India. Interestingly, there’s no long wheelbase version for India, which competitors have pivoted to.
On the inside, buyers will get a new panoramic display angled towards the driver, integrating a 12.8-inch infotainment touchscreen and an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster. The gear selector can be found on the steering column rather than the more common centre console location.
There’s also a panoramic sunroof, multi-zone climate control, a 12-speaker audio system, HUD for the driver, and powered tailgate. There are nine airbags for safety along with ADAS and automatic parking.
As for the engine, Audi has already confirmed that it will offer the Q3 here with its proven 2.0-litre direct-injection turbocharged petrol engine, tuned to deliver 201 bhp and 320 Nm of peak torque. It will have a seven-speed DSG automatic, and Quattro all-wheel drive system. As per international specs, the Q3 has a top speed of 229 kmph and accelerates from zero to 100 kmph in 7.1 seconds. It is not yet known whether Audi will offer a PHEV version here, like it does in other countries.
Prime competitors for the Audi Q3 will be the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA. Manufacturing began in September at the Škoda Auto Volkswagen (SAVWIPL) plant at Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar in anticipation of this launch. Pricing should be quite competitive, coming in at around ₹55 lakhs, since the company won’t have to pass on the additional tax burden of importing vehicles. Bookings have been open since early September, with Audi saying that customer interest has already been encouraging.
