2026 Audi Q3

The Audi Q3 has long served as an important entry point in Audi’s lineup, available globally for about 15 years. In its roughly 10-year tenure in the U.S. market, it has quietly become one of Audi’s most popular models, easily outselling the A3 sedan in a country that overwhelmingly prefers SUVs. With this all-new third generation, Audi isn’t just refreshing the Q3; it’s finally trying to elevate it. The Audi brand isn’t often associated with value, but that’s exactly what the Q3 delivers in practical yet luxurious transportation.

We’ve spent hundreds of hours driving and evaluating subcompact luxury SUVs, including extensive time with the all-new Audi Q3.

The Audi Q3 enters an all-new generation for 2026.

Pricing for the Audi Q3 is right in line with its two German rivals (when equipped with all-wheel drive): the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA. More affordable options in subcompact luxury SUVs include the Acura ADX and the hybrid-only Lexus UX.

Before buying a Q3, check the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price to know what you should really pay. Audi Q3 resale value has traditionally been about average for the segment, but the best among its European competition. Recouping more money when selling a vehicle can mean a bigger down payment and lower monthly payments on the next one.

The biggest surprise behind the wheel of the new Q3 is how little it feels like an SUV. Rather than leaning into a tall, top-heavy demeanor, it drives more like a slightly raised, sporty hatchback. It feels compact, eager, and well-mannered, which should appeal to buyers who prefer smaller vehicles with a premium edge.

Performance stems from a turbocharged engine paired with Audi’s famous quattro all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. Acceleration is decently brisk, sprinting to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds. The Mercedes-AMG GLA and BMW X1 M35i are quicker than that, but are also more expensive.

Traction is confident, and the car never feels edgy or overwhelmed. For a vehicle that leans heavily into premium refinement and technology, we’re surprised that an adaptive suspension system isn’t on the options list. Adjustable dampers would have gone a long way toward reinforcing the Q3’s upscale and sport-oriented positioning.

The dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT) is mostly smooth and predictable, especially at higher speeds. At low speeds, however, it can feel a bit clunky in stop-and-go traffic. Dynamic mode sharpens shifts but holds revs higher than most people will want day to day, which is why the Balanced drive mode will likely be the default for most owners. Balanced mode is the default, but it can also be configured to Off-Road mode for those keeping their Q3 off the grid in a theoretical mountain cabin.

Steering is light and slightly numb, but not artificially so. It’s easy to place the Q3 around town and on winding roads, even if it doesn’t deliver much feedback. Brake feel is confident and linear, though the pedal can be a touch grabby at very low speeds.

Highway manners are excellent. Straight-line stability is stellar, and wind noise is well suppressed without any obvious source calling attention to itself. Combined with new laminated glass up front and thicker glass in the rear, the Q3 feels impressively isolated for an entry-level luxury SUV.

Powertrain

From the moment you step inside, the Q3 makes a strong case for itself. Door panels, dashboard materials, and trim all feel properly premium, and Audi’s attention to detail is evident throughout. Ambient lighting is standard, and the Q3 features the largest wood inlay ever fitted to an Audi dashboard. Unique bragging rights, at least until their larger SUVs inevitably get updated soon.

The seating surfaces are leather and feel excellent, though this is also where frustration creeps in. There are no ventilated seats available at all, not even as part of an option package. This is an unusual omission in a luxury SUV, since it’s a comfort feature available in several more affordable competitors from non-luxury brands.

Audi’s new “Digital Stage” dominates the cabin, combining an 11.9-inch driver display and a 12.8-inch infotainment screen under a single panel of glass. Functionally, it works well, and Audi’s Android Automotive-based software is beautifully integrated and responsive. Still, all climate controls live within the touchscreen, which won’t appeal to buyers who prefer physical controls. Large bezels also feel slightly dated, but the aforementioned wood inlay doubles as a nice hand rest when interfacing with Apple CarPlay and the like.

Rear-seat comfort is better than expected. Adults fit comfortably with the seats slid all the way back, headroom is generous for most body types, and passengers could reasonably tolerate a few hours back there. Rear-seat amenities are strong for the segment as well, including standard leather upholstery, a third zone of climate control, and high-output USB ports.

Lighting
Lighting is one of the Q3’s standout features. Up front, customizable LED daytime running lights (DRLs) offer a range of selectable designs. Around back, optional OLED taillights extend the selectable light signature to the rear, where it is accompanied by a light bar and light-up Audi rings logo.

Sonos audio
The Sonos sound system is another highlight. With 12 speakers, a subwoofer, and ample power, it sounds excellent in its “Concert” mode. Other sound profiles are less convincing and harder to dial in, but when configured correctly, it’s one of the better audio systems in the segment.

Cargo space
Cargo space is another strong suit of the Q3. With the rear seats pushed fully forward, it delivers class-leading storage of up to 29 cubic feet. This is technically impressive, but practically conditional, as cargo space drops to 25 cubic feet when seats are pushed back to optimize space for occupants. Fold the seats down, and you get nearly 50 cubic feet of space.