Audi India has launched the third-generation Q3 at Rs 51.99 lakh (ex-showroom). The compact luxury SUV is assembled in India, uses a single 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine with all-wheel drive, and takes on the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA. The launch took place on October 16.
Price and Variants
The Q3 is sold in two variants, Nova and Zenith. The reports we reviewed give Rs 51.99 lakh as the starting price and do not break down the price of each variant, so confirm the Zenith price with an Audi dealer. Bookings were open before the launch against a Rs 1 lakh token amount, through Audi's website, app and dealerships.
Engine and Performance
There is one powertrain. A 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol makes 204PS (about 201hp) and 320Nm. It is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic and quattro all-wheel drive. Audi claims 0 to 100kmph in 7.1 seconds and a top speed of 229kmph. One report says Audi has ruled out a diesel Q3 for India.
Design and Size
The new Q3 gets a larger Singleframe grille, split headlamps with the daytime running lights above the main units, 18-inch alloy wheels and a full-width rear light bar with an illuminated four-ring logo. It measures 4,531mm in length, 1,859mm in width, 1,623mm in height and has a 2,681mm wheelbase, which is about 40mm longer than the previous model. Audi has kept the standard wheelbase for India. The boot holds 488 litres, growing to 1,386 litres with the rear seats folded, according to one report.
Features and Safety
Both variants share a 12.8-inch infotainment screen, an 11.9-inch digital driver display, a panoramic sunroof, three-zone climate control, powered front seats and wireless smartphone connectivity. The gear selector now sits on the steering column.
The two variants differ as follows, according to one report:
Other reports list nine airbags, ADAS and automatic parking assist for the Q3, but do not state which variant gets them. Check the equipment sheet for the variant you plan to buy.
Local Assembly
The Q3 is built on the Volkswagen Group's MQB evo platform at the Škoda Auto Volkswagen India plant in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra. Local assembly began in September.
What Audi Plans Next
One report says Audi plans to take its showroom count from 28 to about 40 by the end of 2027 and above 50 by 2030, and that the A5 sedan and the flagship Q9 SUV are expected next. These are reported plans and Audi has not confirmed dates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price of the new Audi Q3 in India? It starts at Rs 51.99 lakh (ex-showroom).
What engine does the Audi Q3 use? A 2.0-litre turbo-petrol with 204PS and 320Nm, a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox and quattro all-wheel drive.
Is there a diesel Audi Q3? No. One report says Audi has ruled out a diesel version for India.
Where is the Q3 made? It is assembled at the Škoda Auto Volkswagen India plant in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra.
Should You Look at It?
At Rs 51.99 lakh, the Q3 offers standard all-wheel drive and a locally built package, but its rivals, the BMW X1 and Mercedes GLA, are also strong choices in this price band. Test-drive all three and compare the final on-road price. Full specifications are on Audi India's website.
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