New Audi Q3: The third-generation Audi Q3 has entered local production in India, marking an important step ahead of its official launch on October 16, 2026. The new compact luxury SUV is being assembled at the Skoda Auto Volkswagen India facility in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra.
Audi has already started accepting bookings for the SUV, with customers able to reserve it for a token amount of Rs. 1 lakh. The new Q3 brings a completely redesigned exterior, a heavily updated cabin and a technology-focused package compared with the outgoing model.
For India, Audi is expected to offer the SUV with a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox and Quattro all-wheel drive. With local production now underway, the Q3 is preparing to enter the market with a stronger focus on technology, practicality and premium design.
New Audi Q3
| Specification | New Audi Q3 |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0-litre turbo petrol |
| Maximum Power | Around 204 hp |
| Maximum Torque | 320 Nm |
| Transmission | 7-speed dual-clutch automatic |
| Drivetrain | Quattro all-wheel drive |
| Boot Space | 488 litres |
| Boot Space with Seats Folded | 1,386 litres |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | Up to 2,100 kg |
| India Production | Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra |
| Launch Date | October 16, 2026 |
| Booking Amount | Rs. 1 lakh |
Audi Q3 Local Production Begins in India
Audi has started manufacturing the new-generation Q3 at the Skoda Auto Volkswagen India plant in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. Local assembly should allow Audi to bring the new SUV to Indian customers as part of its locally produced model portfolio while maintaining the premium positioning associated with the Q3 nameplate.
Bookings for the new Q3 opened on September 1, 2026, through Audi’s official website, the myAudi Connect application and authorised dealerships. The booking amount has been set at Rs. 1 lakh. With production now underway, Audi is preparing for deliveries after the SUV makes its official market debut on October 16.
New Audi Q3 Gets a Sharper Exterior
The third-generation Q3 adopts a noticeably different design compared with its predecessor. The front section is dominated by a larger Singleframe grille, while the redesigned headlamps are positioned higher on the fascia. Sharper lines across the bonnet and sides give the SUV a more defined appearance, helping it look more substantial without moving away from the compact luxury SUV category.
The lighting technology also receives a major upgrade. The Matrix LED headlamps use micro-LED modules, while each daytime running light features 23 individual segments. At the rear, the Q3 gets a full-width lighting element that visually connects both sides. Higher variants in international markets can also be equipped with digital OLED tail lamps and illuminated Audi rings, adding another distinctive touch.
India-Spec Q3 Powertrain Details
For the Indian market, the Audi Q3 is expected to use a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing around 204 hp and 320 Nm of torque. The engine will be paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, while Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system will send power to all four wheels.
The international Q3 lineup is broader and includes petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid powertrains depending on the market. Audi also offers different suspension configurations overseas, including standard, sport and two-valve damper setups. The exact equipment and mechanical specifications for each Indian variant will become clearer when Audi officially launches the SUV.
Key Highlights of the New Audi Q3
- Local production has started at Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar in Maharashtra.
- The India-spec model is expected to use a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine.
- The engine is rated at around 204 hp and 320 Nm.
- A seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox will work with Quattro AWD.
- The new Q3 gets a redesigned cabin with advanced digital technology.
Cabin Gets a Major Technology Overhaul
The interior of the new Audi Q3 receives a much more comprehensive redesign. One of the most noticeable changes is the relocation of the gear selector from the centre console to the steering column. This frees up space between the front seats and creates additional room for storage. A separate stalk is provided for controlling functions such as lighting and wipers.
Audi has also introduced its latest digital interface inside the cabin, giving the Q3 a more modern and technology-focused character. Acoustic glass for the front windows is designed to reduce external noise and improve cabin comfort. The rear seats can slide forward and backward, while their backrest angle can also be adjusted according to passenger requirements.
More Flexible Interior and Luggage Space
The sliding rear bench is one of the practical highlights of the new Q3. Passengers can move the second row to prioritise either legroom or luggage space depending on the situation. This flexibility can be particularly useful on longer journeys when rear passengers need additional space or when the vehicle is carrying larger amounts of luggage.
The Q3 offers 488 litres of boot space with the rear seats in their standard position. Folding the second row increases luggage capacity to 1,386 litres. The SUV can also tow up to 2,100 kg, depending on the selected variant and configuration. These figures give the new Q3 a useful combination of premium comfort and everyday practicality.
New Q3 Brings More Premium Features
Audi has clearly focused on making the new Q3 feel more sophisticated than the outgoing model. The redesigned dashboard, digital displays and revised controls create a cleaner cabin layout, while the relocated gear selector improves the use of available space. The adjustable rear bench adds another layer of flexibility for families and frequent travellers.
The exterior lighting technology is another major attraction. Matrix LED headlamps and advanced rear lighting give the Q3 a more distinctive identity, while the available OLED technology on international versions takes the lighting design further. However, the exact availability of these features on Indian variants will be confirmed closer to the launch.
What to Expect From the India Launch
The new Audi Q3 will officially launch in India on October 16, 2026. Since production has already begun, the SUV is now moving into the final stage before reaching dealerships. Audi has yet to announce the complete Indian variant lineup and final pricing, so buyers will need to wait for the launch event for those details.
The Q3 will continue to compete in India’s compact luxury SUV segment, where buyers look for a combination of premium design, technology, performance and practicality. Its locally assembled status, turbo-petrol powertrain and Quattro all-wheel-drive system give the new model a familiar Audi formula, while the completely redesigned cabin and exterior bring a fresh identity.
The third-generation Audi Q3 represents a major change for Audi’s compact luxury SUV lineup in India. Local production has already started, bookings are open and the official launch is scheduled for October 16, 2026. The new model brings sharper styling, advanced lighting technology and a substantially redesigned interior.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is based on details available at the time of writing. Some specifications, features and equipment may vary for the India-spec model. Audi may also revise variant details or pricing before or at the official launch. Readers should check the final specifications and prices with Audi India or an authorised Audi dealership before making a purchase decision.
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