Audi has announced the 2026 Q3 for North America and it comes with literally everything. Now in its third generation, the Q3 continues Audi’s evolutionary design language and doesn’t stray too far from its predecessor. That means it features the same familiar theme that includes a singleframe grille and plenty of LED exterior lighting. These include front daytime running lights with 23 segments on each side that can create three distinct light signatures, and split tailights with sequential LED turn signals. Additionally, the Q3 features an LED light strip, an illuminated Audi logo, and optional OLED taillights via the Technology package. And for the first time, it includes standard dual-pane acoustic glass on the front side windows to keep the cabin quiet.
Every 2026 Q3 adopts the S-line theme. This means it features an S-style radiator grille finished in Phantom Black and fully painted S-line bumpers. It also includes Selenite Silver front air intake frames and underbody protection, along with a matte black rear diffuser accented with Selenite Silver. As a result, the Q3 appears youthful and sporty, while still maintaining its connection to its larger siblings. Its silhouette and muscular body even evoke the larger Q6 e-tron and Q5, which isn’t a bad thing. The design is functional, too. Audi added controllable cool-air intakes to improve air flow around the lower front fascia. Meanwhile, the Audi badge houses sensors for the driver assistance features, keeping the design clean.
As for wheel sizes, the 2026 Q3 offers up to 20-inch options with 18 inches coming standard. The available 19 and 20-inch wheels also come with wider rubber at 245/45/R19 and 255/40/R20, respectively. The standard 18-inch wheels have 235/55R18 tires. All wheel sizes feature new designs and come standard with all-terrain tires. Furthermore, the larger options feature a bi-color finish.
2026 Audi Q3: A Tech-Packed Cabin
Step inside the 2026 Audi Q3 and you’ll find tech from its larger siblings. That includes an 11.9-inch digital gauge cluster and a 12.8-inch touchscreen, the latter of which uses Audi’s latest MMI interface. Based on Android Automotive OS, it now features an app store where owners can download third party apps like YouTube. Audi Assistant, the onboard virtual assistant can operate numerous vehicle functions. Additionally it now includes an avatar that shows up on the main touchscreen and the head-up display if equipped.
Moreover, the digital gauge cluster can display maps, a feature that returns to the Q3 after being absent in the previous generation. A steering wheel with two new control stalks designed to maximize interior space also debuts on the Q3. The right side works as the gear selector, while the left controls wipers and exterior lighting. For added convenience, the 2026 Q3 features four USB-C ports and a cooled 15W wireless charger. It also features dynamic ambient lighting and an optional head-up display. Looking to pump up your tunes? An optional 12-speaker SONOS premium audio system with 432 watts has a virtual surround sound feature to immerse the cabin. It also includes four preconfigured sound profiles: neutral, concert, lounge, and podcast.
In terms o practicality, the Q3’s rear seats now slide forward and back. Meanwhile, cargo space maxes outs at up to 29 cubic feet with the rear seats up, or around 50 cubic feet with them folded. Finally, max towing capacity checks in at up to 1,500 lbs.
More Performance, More Convenience
Audi kept the familiar 2.0-liter turbo-four on the 2026 Q3. This time, it makes 255 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque, or 27 hp and 22 lb-ft more than the outgoing model. A seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and Quattro AWD are standard. Thanks to the additional power, the Q3 can sprint to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds, 1.6 seconds quicker than before.
Complementing the additional power is a refined steel suspension tuned to balance comfort and agility. It’s paired with retuned steering that has better feedback and reduced friction to help improve the Q3’s maneuverability. In addition, Audi Drive Select now has a balance mode replacing auto, indicating that it strikes the ideal middle ground between ride comfort and handling. An Off-Road Plus mode is also available and can be pre-selected on the main touchscreen.
On the driver assistance front, every 2026 Q3 comes standard with a full suite of active safety tech. Optional packages add extra functions including an adaptive cruise control system with an assist function, a surround view camera, and Park Assist Plus. You can also add Trained Parking, which allows the driver to “teach” the vehicle how to park at specific spots. Once taught, the Q3 can park or unpark itself on the same spot exactly the way you want it without driver intervention.
2026 Audi Q3: A Compelling Package
On sale in early 2026, the Audi Q3 starts at $44,995. A fairly reasonable price considering its enhanced performance and generous standard equipment. The options list is short and sweet, too. Just four packages, three alloy wheel types, and nine exterior colors. With everything checked off, plus an extra-cost exterior color, you’re looking at just under $52,000, which is right in line with the rest of the segment.
Source: Audi
