2026 Audi Q3 revealed with PHEV upgrade and 120km EV range

Audi has taken the wraps off the all-new 2026 Q3, bringing a sharp new look, a modernised interior, and its most efficient plug-in hybrid system yet. The updated small SUV is expected to arrive in Australia sometime next year, though pricing and exact launch dates remain under wraps.

Here’s what we know so far.

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New plug-in hybrid with more electric range

The big news is the introduction of a new-generation plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant. It combines a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine with an upgraded electric motor and a larger battery, offering a strong boost in performance and range.

2026 Q3 PHEV highlights:

This marks a significant improvement over the previous Q3 PHEV, doubling its battery size while keeping the same compact footprint. While Audi has yet to officially confirm its launch in Australia, the growing interest in electrified SUVs, it would make a valuable addition to the local lineup.

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What else is new?

Beyond the plug-in tech, the Q3 gets a ground-up redesign. It shares underpinnings with the Cupra Terramar but introduces new styling inspired by Audi’s larger SUVs. Matrix LED headlights now feature 25,600 micro-LEDs, enabling smarter road projections such as blind-spot alerts.

Exterior features:

• New LED lighting with selectable daytime running signatures
• Optional OLED tail-lights
• Alloy wheels up to 20 inches
• Larger body dimensions than the outgoing Q3 (exact figures not confirmed)

Inside, Audi has taken cues from its larger Q5 and Q6 models but scaled the features down for the Q3’s price point.

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Interior and tech upgrades:

• Curved display with 11.9-inch digital cluster + 12.8-inch infotainment touchscreen
• Android Automotive OS with app downloads (e.g., YouTube)
• AI voice assistant
• Wireless phone charger (15W, ventilated)
• New gear selector on steering column to free console space
• 30-colour ambient lighting (optional)
• Sustainable cabin materials including recycled fishing nets for floor mats

Boot space remains versatile thanks to sliding, folding and reclining rear seats, ranging from 488L to 575L depending on configuration.

Engine options and safety systems

Five powertrain choices are available in Europe. Alongside the PHEV, there are petrol and diesel options. Some may not make it to Australia.

European engine range:

On the tech front, Audi has improved the Q3’s ride and handling with adaptive suspension. Two-stage dampers adjust rebound and compression separately to fine-tune comfort and sport settings.

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New and upgraded driver-assist features:

• Semi-autonomous highway driving (incl. lane changes at 90km/h+)
• Advanced lane-keeping even without clear markings
• Eye-tracking driver attention camera
• Self-learning automated parking
• Upgraded traffic sign recognition, now includes construction and crossing signs

Australian outlook

The new Q3 is due to go on sale in Europe by September 2025, with a global rollout to follow. Audi Australia has confirmed a local release sometime in 2026, though local specifications, pricing, and PHEV availability are still to be announced.

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With Audi’s electric push building momentum, there’s hope the plug-in variant will arrive here. If it does, its long electric range and compact size could make it a standout option for urban EV-curious buyers not yet ready to go fully electric.