Audi is the latest brand to move to split-level front lighting, with the next-generation Q3 set to be a recipient.
The upcoming third-generation Audi Q3 has been spied testing in the snow ahead of an expected debut towards the end of 2024.
As seen on the upcoming Q6 e-tron and prototypes of the A6 e-tron, the next-gen Q3 features separate lighting assemblies: one for the daytime running lights and indicators, the other for the headlights.
This design element has been employed by companies like Hyundai and Nissan, and has been making headway in the luxury car market with vehicles like the BMW 7 Series and Rolls-Royce Spectre.
Another increasingly popular motif at the moment is a full-width rear light bar, which the Q3 may feature.
The grille appears wider than the current car, but the Q3 is still recognisably an Audi with a design that fits in with existing models like the Q4 e-tron.
It’s expected to continue to be available in both traditional SUV and Sportback coupe SUV body styles.
The next-generation Q3 will reportedly grow in size slightly, even though the smaller Q2 is getting the axe.
It’s expected to move to the MQB Evo platform underpinning the new Volkswagen Tiguan and upcoming Cupra Terramar.
Petrol and plug-in hybrid powertrains will be available, though buyers seeking pure electric power will need to look at a Q4 e-tron instead.
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.
Given Audi has finally brought the plug-in hybrid Q5 and Q8 to Australia, it’s possible we may finally see a plug-in hybrid Q3 here.
The second-generation Q3 was first revealed in 2018 and has been on sale in Australia since 2019.
It’s the brand’s best-selling model here, with 4254 examples sold between January and November 2023. That put it ahead of the Q5 (3880 sales) and A3 (2948 sales).
It’s neck-and-neck with the BMW X1 in the sales race (4269 sales), though both are a bit behind the Volvo XC40 (5311 sales).
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