The Future Drives In: Audi Unveils a Game-Changing Q3, Steering Towards South Africa in 2026
Ingolstadt, Germany – July 8, 2025 – Prepare to redefine your perception of the premium compact SUV. Audi has lifted the veil on the third generation of its highly anticipated Q3, a vehicle that doesn’t just evolve, it revolutionizes. With a design that speaks volumes, powertrains that promise exhilaration, and an interior innovation set to spark conversations, the new Q3 is poised to make a significant impact. And for our eager South African enthusiasts, mark your calendars: this beauty is scheduled to arrive on our shores in the third quarter of 2026.
tep inside, and the revolution truly unfolds. The cabin of the new Q3 has been meticulously overhauled, boasting a panoramic display that integrates an 11.9-inch instrument cluster and a generous 12.8-inch touchscreen. But the real talking point, and a testament to Audi’s commitment to innovation, is the complete re-imagination of the traditional indicator stalk. Gone are the days of the familiar flick; in its place is a groundbreaking “steering wheel control unit.” This ingenious system consolidates key functions into two new steering column levers. The right lever elegantly handles gear selection, while the left integrates controls for lights, windscreen wipers, and yes, even the indicators – activated by a simple toggle of its outermost section. This not only streamlines the driving experience but also cleverly frees up valuable storage space in the centre console.
Performance Tailored: From Efficiency to Electrification
Underneath its captivating exterior, the new Q3 offers a diverse range of powertrains tailored for various driving demands. European markets will first experience the efficiency of a 110 kW turbocharged 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine with mild-hybrid technology, along with a robust 110 kW/360 Nm turbodiesel motor ideal for long-distance cruising, both driving the front axle. For those craving more potency, a turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol unit delivers a thrilling 195 kW and 400 Nm to all four wheels. And pushing the boundaries of sustainable mobility, the plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) version combines 200 kW and 400 Nm of power with a 25.7 kWh battery pack, offering a preliminary all-electric range of up to 119 km on the WLTP cycle.
Beyond its technological prowess, the new Q3 remains inherently practical. It boasts a generous luggage capacity of 488 litres, expanding to a cavernous 1,386 litres with the rear seats folded flat. Furthermore, the rear bench can slide forwards and backwards, and its backrest angle is adjustable, ensuring maximum comfort and versatility for all occupants.
Manufactured with precision at Audi’s renowned plants in Győr, Hungary, and Ingolstadt, Germany, the new Audi Q3 represents a bold leap forward for the brand. As it prepares for its global debut in Germany in October 2025, the anticipation for its arrival in South Africa in Q3 2026 continues to build. With its captivating design, intuitive technology, and efficient performance, the new Audi Q3 isn’t just another SUV; it’s a statement of intent, promising a driving experience that is as innovative as it is exhilarating. Get ready, South Africa, the future of driving is coming.
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