Coming Soon: Audi Q3

What is it?

The new Q3 is Audi’s latest crossover to take on rivals such as the Mercedes-Benz GLA, BMW X1 and Range Rover Evoque. Further up the line the RS Q3 brings high performance and competes against the likes of the Mercedes-AMG GLA45.

Audi’s next-generation Q3, which is built on Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform, has been spotted testing around the Nürburgring in camouflage cladding with performance gear and alongside an RS3, suggesting we’ll continue to see the full line-up from basic entry-grade to high-performance models.

What will it look like?

Completely revised inside and out, the Q3 receives a new front fascia that closer resembles the latest Audi line-up. It features restyled LED headlights which taper in sharply at the top and a new larger grille that’s either slated or honeycomb-pattern filled. The lower front bumper is also different and fog lamps appear to be eliminated on the RSQ3.

At the rear is a roof top spoiler for S and RS models while all variants have new LED taillights and a slightly different tailgate. Elsewhere some of the wheel arches and bodywork has been pushed out while side skirts and quad-tip exhaust outlets are likely for performance models .

What’s new?

Inside features the latest technology, including Audi’s virtual cockpit instrument display cluster and bigger infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Audi has been making some big leaps in terms of internet connectivity and intuitive controls for functions, so we might see a substantial change in the interior cabin design and layout.

Built on the latest MQB platform, revised suspension geometry and adaptive dampers should give a more compliant ride while remaining dynamic across the range and harnessing a revised engine line-up.

Engines will likely vary from a new 1.5-litre petrol turbocharged engine instead of the old 1.4-litre, up to 2.0-litre petrol and diesel motors as well as the range topping 2.5-litre turbo five-pot RS model.

The top shelf performance SUV will also likely have a stiffer suspension setup and bespoke interior with bolstered sports seats and Alcantara trim options.

What’s on the wish list?

Spotted testing in the wild is something that looks like a cross between an S Q3 and RS Q3 with larger cross-drilled carbon ceramic disc brakes, bigger callipers and quad-tip exhaust. We hope the RS model doesn’t lose the brilliant-sounding five-cylinder turbocharged engine found in the current RS3 and TT RS which is good for almost 300kW of power and 500Nm through Audi’s newest quattro all-wheel drive.

All models could also bring some cool features and technology trickled down from the latest Audi A6 that would be class-leading.

When is it coming?

It’s due to debut this year and the Paris motor show in October is heating up as the main event. Given the number of new models slated to be unveiled from most manufacturers in France it could be the biggest show of the year.