2026 Audi Q3 shows off curves and pixelated headlights

Next-generation Audi Q3 almost completely revealed in Europe, shows off its new design

Update 9/8: We’ve just got new spy shots of barely disguised prototypes of the new Audi Q3, giving us a whole new look at the car. In addition to these new photos, we’ve also gathered all the latest details about the compact SUV.

The all-new third-generation 2026 Audi Q3 must feel alive and kicking when driven around town with little disguise. That’s good news for us, as we get a clear look at the production body. The changes are immediately apparent as the redesigned crossover gets a curvier front end and a rounded mesh grille. The latter is flanked by split lighting units and a prominent central air intake.

MORE: 2026 Audi Q3 to feature split headlights and hybrid powertrain

In terms of lighting, the new Q3 has slim headlights with individual pixel-like sections that echo the larger Q6 e-tron. Not only do these headlights offer a customizable daytime running signature, they also come with advanced lighting features – though, obviously, which lighting features you get will vary depending on the trim.

Looking further back, we can see an evolved body that features a combination of soft curves and sharp lines. More notably, the compact SUV appears to have grown in size as we can see a larger third quarter glass. Other key highlights include a sleeker roof, a sportier D-pillar, and more pronounced wheel arches. It also features a unique rear end with a pronounced bumper and highly stylized taillights.

Photos Baldauf

While the prototypes seen so far are standard five-door SUVs, a sportier Sportback variant (with a more aggressive, more raked roofline that sacrifices some cargo space for style) is expected to join the new Q3 lineup soon. However, it remains to be seen whether Audi will bring this model to the U.S., given that the current-generation model never made the trip across the Atlantic.

Spy photographers haven’t snapped photos of the interior yet, but this crossover could follow in the footsteps of new models like the A5 and Q6 e-tron. If that’s the case, the cabin could feature an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster that feeds into a 14.5-inch infotainment system. They could even come with an optional 10.9-inch front passenger display.

Engine Options

While engine options have yet to be confirmed, the Q3 will likely share powertrains with its MQB-based siblings, the European Volkswagen Tiguan and the new Seat Terramar. That means there will be 1.5- and 2.0-liter gasoline engines, a 2.0-liter diesel, and two plug-in hybrid models to choose from, with up to 268 horsepower and an electric range of more than 70 miles (113 kilometers). North American buyers will face more limited choices, however, limited to gasoline engines in front- and all-wheel-drive configurations.

In addition to the standard model, a high-performance SQ3 and, possibly the final version, a raucous 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder RS ​​Q3 with around 400 horsepower are expected to join the range.

Pricing and Release Schedule

Audi is expected to unveil the new Q3 in the coming months, with it likely to go on sale in North America early next year as a 2026 model. While pricing details are hard to come by just yet, considering the current model starts at $37,400 and the latest BMW X1 costs $40,950, it’s reasonable to expect the new Q3 to cost around $40,000.

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