2025 Audi Q3 spied looking like a small Q6 E-Tron with ICE power
The premium sibling of the VW Tiguan will come to rival the BMW X1 and Mercedes GLA
{{Comments}} Comments
2 hours ago
Audi is working on an all-new third-generation Q3 and our spy photographers have captured a camouflaged prototype wearing a production body and looking ready for its debut. The premium compact SUV will still be available with combustion engines under the bonnet, with the highlight of the range being the hybrid powertrain of the prototype pictured.
At first glance, the Q3 looks like a smaller version of the Q6 E-Tron, thanks to its powerful split headlights, slimmer grille, and wide lower bumper intake. The same applies to the side profile which has a similar greenhouse and harmonious bumpers that appear to be devoid of any plastic cladding.
The tail looks sportier than before, with larger Y-shaped taillights that may deviate from the full-width LED trend. It remains to be seen whether Audi will offer a Sportback coupe-SUV model, as is the case with the previous model. The exhaust pipes are hidden from view, with a charging port on the front fenders revealing that this is the plug-in hybrid version. The interior is also covered, hiding its updated design and technological features.
More: The 2025 Audi SQ5 gets a much-needed flare
The 2025 Audi Q3 will share MQB Evo underpinnings with the 2024 VW Tiguan and the hybrid-only 2024 Cupra Terramar. The Volkswagen Tiguan will be 4,551 mm (179.2 inches) long, while the Cupra Terramar will be closer to 4,500 mm (177 inches). This means the next-generation Audi Q3 is likely to grow in size compared to its 4,485 mm (176.6 in) predecessor, although the 2,680 mm (105.5 in) wheelbase is expected to remain identical.
VW has already confirmed that the Tiguan’s powertrain range will include petrol, mild-hybrid petrol, diesel and hybrid, although we can’t be sure which ones will make it to the Audi Q3. The plug-in hybrid model – which should be taken for granted – will combine the 1.5 TSI Evo2 engine with an electric motor, producing up to 268 PS (200 kW / 272 hp) in the Tiguan. Both VW and the Cupra promise an electric-only range of up to 100 km (62 miles) thanks to an 18.5 kWh lithium-ion battery, so we think Audi will follow the same recipe.
The third generation Audi Q3 is expected to debut sometime in 2024, six years after its predecessor. Production will take place in Győr, Hungary, alongside the closely related Cupra Terramar. Competitors in the premium compact SUV segment include the BMW X1, Mercedes GLA, Alfa Romeo Tonale and Volvo XC40.
