In the highly anticipated reveal of its third-generation Q3 family, Audi has once again demonstrated its mastery of form and function with the stunning new Q3 Sportback. Building on the success of its predecessor, the second generation of the Q3 Sportback masterfully combines the commanding presence and practicality of an SUV with the elegant, flowing aesthetics of a coupé. It’s a vehicle designed for those who demand versatility without compromising on a dynamic, emotional design.
A Silhouette That Commands Attention
The defining feature of the new Audi Q3 Sportback is its dramatic roofline. Sloping downward from the A-pillar, it sits 29 millimeters (1.1 in) lower than its SUV counterpart, giving the Sportback a significantly faster and sportier silhouette. This design choice is more than just cosmetic; the reduced body volume at the rear accentuates the vehicle’s powerful haunches, making the pronounced quattro blisters appear even wider and more muscular.
The front end is characterized by a wide Singleframe grille and sleek headlights fully integrated into the car’s aerodynamic concept. The Sportback comes standard with 18-inch wheels, with options available up to a maximum of 20 inches to further enhance its athletic stance.
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A Cabin of Digital Sophistication
Stepping inside the Q3 Sportback reveals an interior that has been completely transformed, bringing technology from Audi’s full-size class into the compact segment for the first time.
- The Digital Stage: The cockpit is dominated by a curved panoramic display, which houses an 11.9-inch instrument cluster and a 12.8-inch MMI touch display, creating a truly driver-focused environment.
- Uncluttered Console: An innovative new steering wheel control unit features two stalks—one for gear selection and one for lights/wipers—which frees up the center console for more storage, including a cooled 15-watt inductive charging tray.
- Acoustic Comfort: For the first time in this segment at Audi, optional acoustic glazing is available for the front side windows, significantly reducing interior noise and improving comfort, particularly at high speeds.
- Immersive Sound: An optional SONOS premium sound system features 12 high-performance speakers that create an intense listening experience with virtually generated surround sound.
Practicality in a Sleek Package
The Q3 Sportback proves that stunning design doesn’t have to come at the expense of everyday usability.
- Flexible Cargo Space: The trunk provides a generous 488 liters (17.2 cu ft) of volume
- Maximized Storage: With the rear seat bench folded down, the storage space expands to an impressive 1,289 liters (45.5 cu ft).
- Adjustable Seating: As standard, the rear seat bench can be moved lengthwise, and its backrest angle can be adjusted to balance passenger comfort and cargo needs.
- Towing Power: The Q3 Sportback is also a capable tower, with a capacity of up to 2,100 kilograms (approx. 4,630 lb).
A Dynamic Range of Powertrains
The Audi Q3 Sportback is available with a comprehensive lineup of efficient and powerful engines, including a state-of-the-art plug-in hybrid.
- TFSI Engines: The range includes a 1.5 TFSI with 110 kW (150 PS) and mild-hybrid technology, along with two powerful 2.0 TFSI quattro models delivering 150 kW (204 PS) and 195 kW (265 PS).
- TDI Engine: A 2.0 TDI diesel with 110 kW (150 PS) is available for drivers focused on long-distance efficiency.
- The Advanced e-hybrid: The highlight of the range is the Q3 Sportback e-hybrid, which is more powerful and efficient than ever before. It combines a 1.5 TFSI engine with an electric motor for a total system output of 200 kW (272 PS). A new 25.7 kWh high-voltage battery enables a purely electric range of up to 118 kilometers. The new model also supports up to 50 kW DC charging, allowing the battery to be charged from 10% to 80% in less than half an hour.
Revolution in Light and Safety
The Q3 Sportback brings flagship-level technology to the forefront of its class. The optional digital Matrix LED headlights use a new micro-LED module with 25,600 individual LEDs to provide incredibly precise illumination and project information from assistance systems directly onto the road. At the rear, optional digital OLED lights with a continuous LED strip offer customizable light signatures.
This technology is paired with a suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including the adaptive driving assistant plus, which supports longitudinal and lateral guidance and now features an assisted lane change function.
Superior Driving Dynamics and Assistance
Audi has significantly improved the Q3 Sportback’s driving dynamics. The standard suspension has been further developed, and optional choices include a sports suspension and an adaptive suspension with two-valve damper control. This advanced system continuously adjusts the damping for each wheel, offering a more noticeable spread between comfort and sporty driving.
The compact SUV is packed with an extensive range of standard driver assistance systems, including parking system plus, lane departure warning, and traffic sign recognition. Highlights of the advanced systems include:
Adaptive Driving Assistant Plus: This system supports acceleration, braking, and lane guidance up to 210 km/h and now includes an assisted lane change function.
Trained Parking and Reverse Assist: Customers can teach the Q3 individual parking maneuvers, which the car can then perform autonomously. The new reverse assist can independently back the car out of tight spots for a distance of around 50 meters.
Availability and Pricing
The new Audi Q3 Sportback is set to launch in November. Pricing for the German market has been announced:
- Audi Q3 Sportback TFSI 110 kW: Priced at €46,450.
- Audi Q3 Sportback e-hybrid 200 kW: Costs €51,150.
