Audi’s contemporary styling and upscale appeal combine at an attainable price point in the Q3. This luxury subcompact SUV is the starting point of the automaker’s extensive crossover lineup. The current second-generation Audi Q3 went on sale for 2019, packing a turbocharged engine and standard Quattro AWD. Other entry-level small luxury SUVs include the BMW X1, Alfa Romeo Tonale, and Lexus UX.
What’s New
For 2025, a new Black Optic Plus package is offered on Q3 45 TFSI models. It brings a blacked-out exterior styling theme with dark 19-inch wheels and black finishing for the exterior trim, badging, roof rails, and mirror caps. Inside, red stitching accents the seats, and carbon-look trim and metal pedal caps bring a sporty aesthetic.
What We Think
As a starting point to Audi’s SUV lineup, the Q3 in some capacities backs up its four-ringed badge. However, in other ways it leaves drivers wishing they could’ve gone for a Q5 or other higher-end Audi crossover—or a different small luxury SUV entirely.
Certain Audi hallmarks distinguish the Q3. The exterior design is understated yet tastefully detailed. Inside, impressive digital displays accompany a similarly contemporary design aesthetic. The back seats are rather roomy given the SUV’s exterior dimensions.
Shoppers will likely be compelled by the Q3’s looks and packaging rather than its driving dynamics. Although the SUV’s small size helps enable agile handling, the bouncy ride limits its luxurious feel. Furthermore, even the upgraded turbocharged engine option is underpowered and not quick. In the cabin, good looks and big screens can only distract from the cheap-feeling materials for so long.
The Q3 is unmistakably an Audi, although more by looks than feel. It’s the best choice for someone who wants the most affordable Audi SUV—but for someone who wants the best small luxury SUV for their money, the Q3 isn’t necessarily it[LK1] .
Performance and MPGs
Audi offers two powertrains in the 2025 Q3, both of which are centered around a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard Quattro AWD.
The base powertrain specification is called 40 TFSI, which produces just 184 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy should remain 22/29 mpg city/highway.
Upgrading to the 45 TFSI powertrain takes engine output to 228 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. In MotorTrend testing, a Q3 45 TFSI hit 60 mph in 7.8 seconds. Fuel economy should come in at 21/28 mpg.
Safety Ratings and Features
In 2024 IIHS evaluations, the Q3 earned the top Good score in various test procedures. However, in IIHS’ newer and more rigorous updated tests, the Q3 earned the second-best Acceptable score in side crash protection and the second-lowest Marginal score in the moderate front overlap test. The 2024 Q3 earned the highest five-star overall rating from NHTSA.
Unlike[LK2] some higher-end Audi models where adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist are extra cost, the Q3 includes them as standard. Other driver assist and active safety features include front and rear automatic emergency braking, side cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic high-beams.
Cargo Space and Interior Room
Considering its subcompact size, the Q3 provides quite a lot of back-seat passenger space. However, that legroom seems to come at the expense of overall cargo capacity.
Choosing the Technology package adds a 12.3-inch digital gauge display and a Sonos premium audio system. Wireless connectivity is brought to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration is added. Built-in navigation is also part of the Technology package, but only for a six-month trial before it becomes a paid subscription.
Q3 Premium vs. Premium Plus: What’s the Difference?
Audi offers the Q3 in two trim levels, both of which can be equipped with the 40 TFSI or 45 TFSI powertrain.
The standard Q3 Premium trim includes 18-inch wheels, LED headlights and taillights with animated turn signals, a power-operated tailgate, panoramic sunroof, three-zone automatic climate control, and heated front seats. It starts at $38,695.
Choosing the Q3 Premium Plus trim brings an auto-dimming frameless rearview mirror, upgraded interior ambient lighting, a 360-degree camera, driver’s seat memory, a wireless charging pad, and hands-free release for the power tailgate. Pricing begins at $41,495.
Audi Q3 or Q5?
At $43,895, a range-topping Q3 45 TFSI Premium Plus comes close to the entry-level Q5 40 TFSI Premium at $46,695. Which Audi SUV should you get? The Q5 is Audi’s compact SUV, offering more interior space, a larger touchscreen, and higher-quality materials than the subcompact Q3. With the 40 TFSI engine, the Q5 is slightly less powerful than the Q3 45 TFSI, but Audi claims this Q5 is quicker and gets comparable fuel economy to that Q3. If you’re looking at a high-end Audi Q3 model, consider an entry-level Q5, as well.
