Audi Q3 launched in India at ₹51.99 lakh, gets 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine and quattro AWD

Audi India has launched the third-generation Q3 in India, with prices starting at ₹51.99 lakh (ex-showroom). The new compact luxury SUV is available in two variants—Nova and Zenith—and is locally assembled at Audi’s facility in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra.

The Q3 returns to India with a more substantial redesign, a technology-focused cabin and the familiar 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system. It will take on the BMW X1, Mercedes-Benz GLA and Mini Countryman in the entry-level luxury SUV segment.

The new Q3 is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine producing 204hp and 320Nm of peak torque. The engine is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and quattro AWD. Audi claims the SUV can accelerate from 0-100 kmph in 7.1 seconds and has a top speed of 229 kmph.

Audi Q3: design and features

The biggest change is visible at the front. The new Q3 gets split LED headlamps, with the daytime running lights positioned above the main lighting units. The SUV also gets a larger single-frame grille, a new two-dimensional Audi logo and redesigned air intakes.

The lighting setup is one of the key design changes, with Audi giving the Q3 a more distinctive look compared with the outgoing model. The SUV gets 18-inch alloy wheels, roof rails and a chrome window line.

At the rear, the Q3 gets split LED tail-lamps linked visually by a light element, along with an illuminated Audi logo. The overall design is sharper and more angular than the previous-generation SUV.

Inside, Audi has made more significant changes. The dashboard gets a digital instrument cluster and a central touchscreen, giving the cabin a more technology-led layout. The gear selector has also been moved to the steering column, freeing up space on the centre console.

The feature list includes a panoramic sunroof, powered and heated front seats, three-zone automatic climate control, wireless smartphone connectivity, wireless charging and a 360-degree camera. The SUV also gets Audi’s digital cockpit, a redesigned steering wheel and ambient lighting.

The higher-spec Zenith variant adds Digital Matrix LED headlights, a head-up display and a Sonos premium sound system.

The new Q3 also offers a number of convenience and driver-assistance features, including cruise control, parking assistance and multiple camera and sensor-based safety systems. The equipment varies between the two variants.

The SUV has grown compared with its predecessor. It measures 4,531mm in length, 1,859mm in width and 1,623mm in height, while the wheelbase stands at 2,681mm. The increase in dimensions also gives Audi more scope to improve cabin and luggage space.

Audi Q3 price and rivals

With prices starting at ₹51.99 lakh, the new Q3 sits in one of the most competitive parts of India’s luxury-car market. Its key rivals include the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA, while the Mini Countryman also competes in the same broad space.