2026 Audi Q3 TFSI 195kW Review

The Audi Q3 is now into its third generation. It’s a little larger, more luxurious and comes with three distinct powertrain choices. So what’s the pick?

The four rings of Audi are synonymous with power, precision, and cool-looking station wagons. For years, the RS 6 has been the go-to all-rounder in dream garages, with the RS 4 and RS 3 offering similar experiences at a more approachable price point. While these halo RS cars sell the Audi dream, it’s the more pedestrian models doing the grunt work to keep everything afloat, like the humble Q3.  

It is Audi’s second best-selling model internationally, behind the Q5. The world loves SUVs, and small SUVs are generally cheaper (and easier to park), so you can see why Audi has made such a big deal about this new Q3 SUV. 

Revealed last year, this third-generation Q3 is designed to bridge the gap to the larger Q5 in more than one way. It’s about 47mm longer than the last one, and gets a wheelbase increase by around the same measurement. Its styling has also become a lot more like the Q5, moving away from the A3-inspired look of the first two generations. 

Speaking of styling, this new look falls in-line with what Audi is doing on the electric front. The matrix LEDs are sleek and aggressive, flanking the large front grille. Dare I say, it’s a similar style to what we saw from Hyundai with the Santa Fe before they made it look like something out of Minecraft. Around the back, the Q5 inspiration becomes far more obvious with the sleek taillights and slim light bar running across the tailgate.  

Three engines, two body styles 

The updated Q3 range in New Zealand is quite simple. Customers have the choice of three powertrains, and two body styles. 

 At $74,990, the range starts with the Q3 TFSI 110kW. This makes use of a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol four-cylinder engine, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. In this entry-level model, 110kW and 250Nm is sent exclusively to the front wheels.

Next is the Q3 e-hybrid 200kW, which starts at $88,990. As the name suggests, it uses a plug-in hybrid powertrain, pairing the same 1.5-litre engine with an electric motor, and a 25kWh battery. This hybrid power unit produces 200kW and 400Nm. It uses a six-speed dual-clutch transmission and sends power to the front wheels alone.

At the top of the range, and the Q3 that we sampled, is the $96,990 TFSI 195kW. This is the only Q3 to make use of Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system. Beneath the bonnet is a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine pumping out 195kW/400Nm. It also gets a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, and is the fastest of the pack with a 5.7-second 0-100km/h time.  

While these three Q3s are offered as standard in SUV form, buyers can opt for a Sportback if they opt for the range-topping quattro variant. This less-practical body style comes at a $3000 premium.  

A Softer Interior 

The other big change to the Q3 is found inside, where the cabin features a ‘Softwrap’ ethos to encompass the occupants. This means the same soft touch materials on the window sills wrap around the entire dash, which Audi says helps “enhance the sense of spaciousness”. In the real world, this conveys a sense of luxury usually reserved for larger and more expensive SUVs.

The centrepiece of the interior is a curved display featuring an 11.9-inch digital cluster, and a 12.8-inch infotainment display. Audi claims that it’s curved enough for the driver to be able to reach all the important functions from their seat. There’s also a head-up display.

Behind the steering wheel Audi has seemingly reinvented the wheel with the Q3’s function controls. You won’t find any awkward looking stalks back there, instead there’s a large control unit that houses everything neatly. The gear selector is on one side, which frees up space on the centre console, and the wipers/indicators are on the other side. While this unit takes a bit of getting used to, some serious thought has been put into its tactile feeling as it is one of the most satisfying clicks I have come across.

The rest of the interior is impressive, and reflects the almost six-figure price point. Both front seats are comfortable, and there’s a bunch of room in the back. Rear occupants will still have to contend with a transmission tunnel, but the slightly extended wheelbase has added a bit of legroom. The fact the rear bench can slide also adds practicality for when you either need extra passenger room or luggage space.

In the SUV, 488 litres of boot volume is available with the seats up, and this extends to 1386 litres with them folded. The Sportback and hybrid models are slightly down on this, offering 1289 litres.  

A Refined Drive 

As the Q3 has matured on the outside and inside for this new generation, you’d assume this translates to driving dynamics, right? And I’m happy to confirm that it does. Though we are yet to drive either the base model, or the e-hybrid, the Q3 quattro is a decent performer on the road, and at its price point, you’d hope so.

A sub six-second 0-100km/h time is brisk for a compact SUV without an RS badge. The turbocharged engine winds up in typical Audi fashion, and there’s no problem getting all 400Nm to the tarmac. Those looking for more hardcore performance from the Q3 might have to look elsewhere, as Audi has all but ruled out the possibility of the RS Q3 ever returning. That said, the SQ3 will likely make an appearance in this generation. 

This theme continues into the twisties with the Q3 as it is extremely compliant on any New Zealand back road. I didn’t push it right to its limits, but there’s no denying the fun that can be had in this Q3.

As for the ride, Audi offers sports suspension with two-valve damper control as standard. On one hand this allows for the back road fun without worrying about too much body roll, and on the other, it can be a comfortable commuter. I will say that even in its softest mode, the ride can still feel rougher than cheaper SUVs in the Q3’s segment, but then again, these cheaper options aren’t anywhere near as athletic.

This all comes at the cost of fuel economy, as the Q3 is surprisingly thirsty for its size. Audi claims a combined economy of 9L/100km in the quattro model, and while this is achievable, it can climb higher. I saw north of 10L/100km during back road driving, with it settling back around 9.3L/100km. Obviously, opting for the e-hybrid model with its combined figure of 1.8L/100km would be easier on the wallet, but then you’re missing out on the quattro sure-footedness.  

As a whole, this new Q3 feels like a fresh choice, especially up against the ageing Mercedes-Benz GLA. I do like what Audi New Zealand has done with the local range, offering buyers plenty of choice based on what their priorities are. If you’re looking for all-out value, you go for the entry level model (or buy something that isn’t from Germany), if you’re after fuel economy, go for the e-hybrid, and if you want the best Q3 money can buy, the quattro has your name on it.  

Audi Q3 TFSI 195kW

$96,990  /  9.0L/100km  /  203g/km
0-100 km/h 5.7s
Engine  1984cc / IL4 / T / DI
Max power  195kW@3000rpm
Max torque  400Nm@1400rpm
Drivetrain  7-speed twin clutch / AWD
Front suspension  Mac strut / sway bar
Rear suspension  Multilink / sway bar
Turning circle  11.8m
Front brakes  Ventilated discs (340mm)
Rear brakes  Ventilated discs (310mm)
Stability systems  ABS, ESP
Safety  AEB, ACC, BSM, LDW, RCTA, ALK, AHB
Tyre size  f/r-255/40R20
Wheelbase  2681mm
L/W/H  4531 / 2087 / 1601mm
Track f-1588mm  r-1581mm
Fuel capacity  60L
Luggage capacity  488L
Tow rating  750kg (2100kg braked)
Service intervals  12 months / 15,000km
Warranty  5yrs / 150,000km
ANCAP rating  ★★★★★ (2025)
Weight (claimed)  1810kg