Next-gen Audi Q3 spied looking larger and more grown-up

The next-generation Audi Q3 has been spied testing for the first time.

Audi is expected to reveal the third-generation Q3 during 2024, which points to an Australian arrival sometime in 2025.

The prototype spied testing already appears to have its production headlights and tail lights, while its camouflage fails to disguise the Q3’s new lines.

There are some visual similarities with the electric Q4 e-tron, as well as the next-generation Q5 and Q6 e-tron.

The next-generation Q3 appears to be larger than its predecessor, even as Audi gets ready to phase out its entry-level Q2 crossover.

It features split-level lighting up front, with daytime running lights and indicators separated from the main headlights.

Compared with the current model, there’s a smaller front grille and a more distinct separation between it and the front air intakes.

Down back, there’s what appears to be a full-width light bar across the tailgate.

This prototype appears to feature a charging port on the left-hand front fender which points to a plug-in hybrid variant.

It’s common for Audi to hide or disguise the exhaust tips under the bumper in its less sporty models.

It’s expected the next-generation Q3 will move over to the MQB Evo platform which it will share with the Volkswagen Tiguan and Cupra Terramar.

This suggests the next-generation Q3 could share its powertrains with the Tiguan and Terramar.

Cupra has already revealed the Terramar will offer close to 100km of range from its available PHEV powertrain, which would be almost double the range of the outgoing Q3 PHEV offered in Europe.

It’s expected that as Audi moves towards electrification, its Q3 range will offer a wide range of electrified powertrains including mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid options. The Q4 e-tron is Audi’s offering for buyers that want a small, electric SUV.

Australia is yet to receive the current Q3 PHEV, however the larger Q5 recently gained a PHEV option in Australia despite being at the end of its lifecycle. It’s possible, then, we mightn’t have to wait until the new, third-generation model to see a plug-in Q3 here.

Current Audi Q3

The second-generation Q3 was first revealed in 2018 and has been on sale in Australia since 2019.

It’s the brand’s best-seller locally, with 3021 examples sold to the end of August – just ahead of the Q5 at 2935 sales.

It’s the second best-selling vehicle in its segment, behind only the Volvo XC40 (4120 sales) which offers both petrol and electric power.

MORE: Everything Audi Q3