Third-generation Audi Q3 has been spotted testing on Indian roads once again. The latest sighting comes several months after new-gen Q3 was . The latest spy shots (credited to AutoThrust) show new Audi Q3 white colour being driven on public roads with red temporary registration plates. Interestingly, the SUV is completely undisguised, giving a clear look at its exterior design.
New Audi Q3 Road Testing In India
Audi’s new design language is immediately noticeable at the front, where the SUV gets split lighting elements. Slim LED daytime running lights are positioned high up, while the primary headlamp units are located lower down within large black housings.
A large Singleframe grille dominates the front fascia, while the bumper has prominent black elements on either side. Compared to outgoing Q3, the new model has a noticeably different face and a more upright appearance.
Side profile retains familiar Q3 proportions, although the bodywork has been completely redesigned. The spotted SUV gets black ORVMs, roof rails and multi-spoke alloy wheels. Prominent wheel arches and a rising shoulder line are some of the other visible details.
At the rear, new Q3 gets slim LED tail lamps along with a light bar running across the tailgate. The illuminated Audi logo is also clearly visible on this particular test vehicle. Vertically positioned lighting elements extend downwards from the tail lamps, while the lower bumper gets a large black insert.
The latest sighting also offers a brief glimpse inside the cabin. While details are difficult to make out from the spy shots, the dashboard appears to feature the new digital cockpit layout offered with the global-spec Q3.
New Q3 Gets Completely Redesigned Interior
Globally, third-generation Audi Q3 made its debut in mid-2025. Apart from the new exterior, the SUV received a substantial cabin overhaul. Equipment available internationally includes an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster and 12.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Other features include wireless smartphone charging, ambient lighting, acoustic glazing and a 12-speaker Sonos sound system, depending on specification.
Audi has also moved the gear selector to the steering column, freeing up space on the centre console. Higher variants in international markets are available with features such as surround-view cameras, parking assistance, adaptive suspension and an expanded suite of driver assistance systems.
Multiple Powertrain Options Available Globally
New Audi Q3 is offered with multiple powertrain options internationally. These include a 1.5-litre turbo petrol producing around 150 PS, a 2.0-litre diesel with around 150 PS and more powerful 2.0-litre turbo petrol configurations. Quattro all-wheel drive is available with select versions.
Audi also offers a plug-in hybrid Q3 in overseas markets. It uses a 25.7 kWh battery pack and offers a claimed electric-only driving range of up to 119 km under the applicable test cycle. It remains to be seen which powertrain Audi will select for India. Current Q3 sold here uses a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox and Quattro AWD.
India Launch Expected Soon
Audi India has not yet officially announced launch details for third-generation Q3. However, launch is expected to take place before Diwali 2026. Like outgoing model, new-gen Q3 could be locally assembled at Audi’s Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar facility in Maharashtra.
New Q3 Could Help Audi Regain Ground In India
New Q3 will also arrive at an important time for Audi India. The German luxury carmaker has fallen significantly behind its primary rivals BMW and Mercedes-Benz in terms of sales in the Indian market. While all three brands have been established in India for several years, with stronger volumes and a broader flow of new and updated products.
The third-gen Q3 will compete primarily with BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA. With luxury SUV demand continuing to form a significant part of overall premium car sales, the new Q3 could be an important volume contributor for Audi India.