The Audi Q3 will jump to its second generation this year. Our digital artist Shoeb Kalania has created a rendering of the 2018 Audi Q3 to preview the design.
As the case is with today's all-new Audis, the next-gen Q3 will feature an evolutionary design. Our rendering shows the SUV having a more attractive nose with an octagonal Singleframe dominating the fascia. The L-shaped headlights make a reference to the Audi A4, while the air vents on the lower corners are compact now. The tail light graphics have the same as well, spy shots have revealed.
Moving to its second generation, the Audi Q3 will grow to distance itself from the Audi Q2. The outgoing model is 4,388 mm long, 1,831 mm wide and 1,608 mm high, and it has a 2,603 mm wheelbase. Reports say that the length and width are set to increase by 60 mm and 30 mm respectively. A 50 mm longer wheelbase will provide for improved cabin space.
Speaking of the cabin, a host of interior changes are on the way. The 2018 Audi Q3 will have an entirely redesigned interior with features such as Audi Virtual Cockpit fully digital instrument cluster, 9.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, wireless smartphone charging and more.
The all-new Audi Q3’s engine range will begin with a 1.5-litre turbo available in 128 bhp and 148 bhp versions. The options will include a 248 bhp 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder engine as well. Unlike BMW, Audi does not want to offer a three-cylinder unit. The only diesel engine planned is a 2.0-litre unit with an SCR filter and AdBlue injection to comply with the stringent European emission norms, and it will come in three states of tune: 148 bhp, 187 bhp and 237 bhp.
At a later stage, Audi will roll out a 200 bhp plug-in hybrid powertrain that combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor. The electrified variant will offer a zero-emission range of up to 50 km. The next-gen Audi RS Q3 will sport a 2.5-litre turbocharged five-cylinder petrol engine tuned to produce around 395 bhp. For the first time, Audi will sell an SQ3 as well, with the same engine detuned to 335 bhp.
Also Read: Audi Q1 plans reportedly cancelled
The next-gen Audi Q3 will debut this month and hit the first markets later this year. It will go on sale in India likely in 2019.
