Q3 ‘long-awaited’ addition
Audi has announced its third-generation Audi Q3 is due to arrive in New Zealand in April 2026 and says the model sets new benchmarks in design, technology and efficiency.
Greg Leet, Audi New Zealand general manager, notes the arrival of the new Q3 comes at a pivotal moment for the brand.
“The launch of the new Q5 has driven a remarkable surge in sales, surpassing all sales records since the model’s New Zealand debut,” he explains.
“Now, we’re excited to introduce the new Q3, a long-awaited addition to our line-up that customers have been anticipating for over seven years. With its competitive entry price and strong market appeal, we’re confident the Q3 will deliver a similarly strong performance.”
The entry-level model is the front-wheel-drive Q3 SUV, powered by a 1.5-litre TFSI four-cylinder engine delivering 110kW and 250Nm.
It has mild-hybrid technology, a seven-speed S tronic transmission and Audi’s cylinder-on-demand (COD) system, which temporarily deactivates cylinders under low to medium loads to reduce fuel consumption. This model is priced from $74,990, excluding on-road costs (ORC).
Next is the 2.0-litre TFSI engine that produces 195kW and 400Nm of torque, paired with Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system. This variant starts from $96,990 for the SUV and $99,990 for the Sportback.
Completing the range is the new Audi Q3 SUV e-hybrid, which combines a 1.5 TFSI engine with an electric motor for a total system output of 200kW and 400Nm.
A high-voltage battery with a gross capacity of 25.7kWh, nearly double that of the previous generation, enables an electric range of up to 111km in the WLTP test cycle. Pricing is from $88,990.
The exterior has a wide Singleframe grille and tapered headlights integrated into the new model’s aerodynamic design.
The Q3 Sportback variant’s roofline slopes 29mm lower than the standard SUV, delivering a sportier silhouette while retaining key SUV benefits such as easy entry, good visibility and a versatile interior layout.
In a first for Audi’s compact segment, the Q3 features acoustic glazing for the front side windows. Combined with PVB-A film between the glass panes, this enhances cabin quietness and overall driving comfort.
On the inside there are flush door handles and a minimalist centre console to create what Audi describes as an uncluttered look and feel.
The redesigned steering wheel control unit introduces two new column-mounted levers, one for gear selection and one for lighting and wiper functions, and this frees up space in the centre console for additional storage and dual cup holders.
The Q3 SUV offers up to 488l of boot space, expanding to 1,386l with the rear seats folded. The Q3 Sportback and Q3 e-hybrid offer up to 1,289l.
Digital features include a 12.8-inch MMI touch display and an 11.9-inch instrument cluster, while a head-up display supplements key driving information.
The new Audi assistant, a voice-controlled AI avatar, enables control of numerous vehicle functions. It appears on the central MMI display and, when active, also in the head-up display and virtual cockpit.
Sports suspension with two-valve damper control is standard. This advanced system continuously adjusts to road conditions and driving inputs – such as steering, braking and acceleration – calculating optimal damping for each wheel in real time.
Digital Matrix LED headlights with micro-LED modules also come standard across the range. The 195kW SUV and Sportback models also have digital OLED rear lights.
A comprehensive suite of driver assistance features enhance safety and everyday driving convenience, with emergency assist a key innovation. If the driver becomes unresponsive, the system can autonomously steer the vehicle to the shoulder and bring it to a safe stop, issuing visual, audible and haptic warnings.
An interior camera monitors driver alertness and triggers warnings if signs of drowsiness or distraction are detected. If the driver fails to respond, the Q3 initiates emergency protocols, including contacting emergency services.
Trained parking also allows the Q3 to learn and repeat custom parking manoeuvres, ideal for tight spaces. The reverse assist also helps navigate out of confined areas.
