The new Q3 look similar to the Q5, which was updated for the 2025 model year, with a deep front fascia that connects from one side of the grille to the other and slim LED headlights.Emily Atkins/The Globe and Mail
Audi is launching the redesigned, more powerful third generation of its best-selling Q3 small SUV with high hopes it will continue to lead the segment.
The Q3 was introduced in 2011 and entered the North American market for the 2015 model year. Since then, the Q3 has been a dominant player in the luxury compact SUV market. The company has sold more than 2.5 million of them around the globe.
The second generation was introduced in 2019 and has remained substantially unchanged since then, with the exception of a new infotainment system that landed in 2022. The third generation, arriving in 2026, is a big step up for the Q3, with new powertrains, technology and suspension options, along with a design makeover.
In expectation of demand, Audi has revamped production, splitting responsibility between its plants in Gyor, Hungary, and Ingolstadt, Germany. The Hungarian plant has been building the SUV since 2018 and saw its one millionth Q3 roll off the line there this summer. For the next generation Q3, Gyor is building the bodies, which will then be shipped to Ingolstadt for final assembly and painting.
The windows slope smoothly toward the rear, giving the whole SUV a sportier appearance than before.Emily Atkins/The Globe and Mail
The SUV has been a segment leader in Canada. In the first half of 2024, the Q3 saw a 68-per-cent bump in sales, representing an additional 1,500 units over the previous six months. More recently, sales have seen a 6-per-cent decline, which is not uncommon after an updated model is announced, but the Q3 still decisively leads Canadian compact luxury SUV sales.
In 2024, Audi sold 7,390 Q3s in Canada while its main rivals lagged well behind. Mercedes-Benz sold 2,464 GLAs and BMW moved 2,962 X1s.
It’s notable that Audi will be bringing only one version of the new Q3 to the Canadian market. Buyers here will get only the all-wheel-drive model, with a more powerful two-litre gas engine. In Europe and elsewhere, there will be a plug-in hybrid, a sportback, a diesel and three versions of the two-litre engine. Gernot Dollner, Audi AG chief executive officer, said the new versions are part of a strategy to strengthen the company’s product range.
However, Audi Canada’s director of product planning Felix Enciso said the single model offering aligns with the Canadian market, where 95 per cent of Q3 sales are of the comparable outgoing model and Audi’s main rivals, Mercedes-Benz and BMW, also only offer one version.
“The Audi Q3 is No. 1 in its segment and the second best-selling Audi in Canada. The improvements in the newest version build on this success and will ensure that the Q3 remains a benchmark premium SUV,” he said.
Audi Canada will begin taking orders for the 2026 Q3 in the last quarter of 2025. Deliveries will start in early 2026. Details of Canadian trims and pricing are not yet available. however the comparable 2025 Q3 (45 TFSI Quattro) started at $48,050.
Looks
The third generation Q3 shares its looks with its bigger brother, the Q5, which was updated for the 2025 model year. In fact, at first glance it looks just like a scaled down Q5. It has a pronounced, deep front fascia that connects from one side of the grille to the other, and slim LED headlights. The body is sucked in below the beltline and the greenhouse slopes smoothly toward the rear, giving the whole SUV a sportier appearance than before.
Interior
The 11.9-inch Audi virtual cockpit and a 12.8-inch infotainment touch display curve to face the driver.Courtesy of manufacturer
The interior of the Q3 is low-key and quiet in the daytime, but can light up at night, with a variety of customizable lighting effects. The main upgrade for the new generation is the addition of the large displays that have trickled down from the more expensive Audi SUVs. The 11.9-inch Audi virtual cockpit and a 12.8-inch infotainment touch display curve to face the driver.
Audi has also modified the centre console by moving the gear selector to a steering column-mounted stalk. This makes room for dual cupholders and a wireless charging pad, along with extra storage in the space between the seats. The extra room is welcome, but the change to the gearshift leaves the stalk on the left side of the steering wheel cluttered with confusing controls, combining lights, indicators and wipers in one place.
The rear seats on the new Q3.Courtesy of manufacturer
Performance
The single engine option available for Canada is a two-litre turbo that makes 261 horsepower. In the 2025 model year, the maximum engine output was just 228 horsepower and the difference is clear on the road, and it beats the Mercedes-Benz GLA (221) and the BMW X1 (241). The SUV feels nimble and quick, with enough power to make two-lane passing comfortable. In the Dynamic drive mode, using the paddle shifters, it is a fun, peppy ride.
There is also a new adaptive suspension option that will not be available to Canadian buyers.
Technology
Audi describes the new Q3 as “the ideal digital companion for everyday life”. The SUV incorporates the latest digital operating systems – including voice control – along with comprehensive driver assistance features.
Some of this is enabled through the new Matrix LED lighting system, which, among other things, allows lane-keeping guides to be projected onto the road ahead at night. Fortunately, this can be turned off, as it seems to be a redundant feature that may focus the driver’s attention on the road immediately in front, instead of well down the road. This system will be an optional package, and it’s not yet clear whether it will be available in Canada.
Cargo
Cargo capacity in the 2026 Q3 is unchanged, offering a maximum 1,386 litres with the rear seats fully stowed. With the second row in use, there is 488 litres of room, however, those rear seats also slide fore and aft, creating 575 litres of space, without needing to fold them down. The Q3 can tow up to 2,160 kilograms.
Cargo capacity is unchanged with 1,386 litres available with the seats down and 488 litres when they are up.Courtesy of manufacturer
Tech Specs
2026 Audi Q3
- Price: To be announced
- Engine: Two-litre turbo four-cylinder
- Horsepower / torque (lb-ft): 261 / 295
- Transmission / drive: Seven-speed automatic / all-wheel drive
- Fuel Consumption (litres per 100 kilometres): 8.4-7.8 combined highway and city driving
- Alternatives: BMW X1; Mercedes-Benz GLA; Volvo XC40
The writer was a guest of the automaker. Content was not subject to approval.
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