In the automotive world, there are moments that make history – launches that not only present a new model, but also open a new chapter in the story of a brand. Today, June 17, 2025, is one of those moments. Audi has just officially unveiled the new generation of the Q3 2026 SUV, and the Alfa rent a car Cluj office invites you to discover with us the most exciting news of this redefined compact SUV.
Designed for a modern and active lifestyle, the Audi Q3 has become, over the last decade, a benchmark in the compact SUV segment, combining the elegance specific to the German brand with excellent performance and a versatility appreciated by millions of drivers. With over two million units sold worldwide, the Q3 no longer needs introductions. But, just when we thought we knew everything about it, Audi surprises us again – with a completely new generation, bolder, more efficient and better adapted to current requirements.
The third generation Audi Q3 impresses from the first moment: the body lines are more sculpted, the design is clearer and sportier, and the interior – more digitalized than ever. Technology becomes a natural extension of the driving experience, and small details, such as the new sliding buttons instead of the classic signal lever, announce a profound change in philosophy in approaching the interior space.
With efficient engines, including plug-in hybrid options, and refined driving dynamics, the Audi Q3 2026 comes to strengthen the brand's position in an increasingly competitive market. And we, at the Alfa car rental Cluj office, are eager to tell you everything about this model, one that is already announcing itself as one of the most desired SUVs of next year.
Viewed from every angle, the new Audi Q3 2026 expresses strength, elegance and a genuine sporting spirit. It is the kind of SUV that not only stands out, but remains in the memory. Audi designers have created a model that reinterprets the unmistakable style of the Q range in a more mature and expressive manner than ever before.
The body lines are more sculpted, and the proportions have been carefully refined to achieve a more muscular and emotional appearance. The front end dominated by the high-placed “Singleframe” grille and the new narrow headlights contribute to a focused, almost aggressive, but perfectly balanced appearance. The headlights are fully integrated into the car’s aerodynamic concept, contributing to an optimized airflow in the front area. Below the grille, the active air intake and parking sensors complete this picture of top-notch functional and aesthetic technology.
In profile, a horizontal shoulder line that visually connects the headlights with the taillights creates a unique visual effect: the upper part of the body reflects the light, while the lower part remains in shadow. This subtle contrast enhances the dynamism of the silhouette, especially in combination with the aggressively sloping rear D-pillar – an element that emphasizes the sporty character of the car. The pronounced wings, inspired by the legendary quattro system, provide additional robustness and visual strength.
The rear of the new Q3 is equally clearly drawn and harmonious. The taillights, divided into two sections, are visually united by a thin LED strip that runs the entire width of the car. This horizontal line provides a clean, modern look, while the air diffuser integrated into the high bumper adds an additional touch of sportiness.
For those looking for a touch of personality, Audi also offers the S line package, which brings distinctive front and rear spoilers as well as exterior elements in selenite silver. The exterior package can also be chosen in black for a more dramatic look. The color palette is generous: from the classic Arkona White or Mythos Black, to modern tones such as Sage Green, Tambora Gray or Madeira Brown – the latter available exclusively in a matte finish for the new Q3.
The wheels perfectly complement the powerful image of the SUV. Starting with the standard size of 17 inches and ending with the imposing 20-inch variants offered by Audi Sport, the range of designs is tailored to the diversity of customer tastes. The aerodynamically profiled wheels, with sizes between 18 and 19 inches, are not only spectacular, but also contribute to the overall efficiency of the vehicle.
Last but not least, the new Audi Q3 also impresses with its acoustic refinement. It is the first model in the Audi compact segment to offer front side windows with acoustic coating, complemented by additional insulation throughout the passenger compartment. The result? A quieter, more comfortable driving experience – proof that performance doesn’t just come from numbers, but also from attention to detail.
One of the most spectacular developments of the new Audi Q3 2026 is undoubtedly the lighting technology. In a world where every detail counts, Audi has managed to transform the headlights and taillights from simple functional elements into true jewels of technology, design and safety. And for the first time in the compact segment, the Q3 brings an innovation inspired by the upper classes to the road: digital Matrix LED headlights with micro-LEDs.
It almost sounds like science fiction, but it is pure reality: the new headlights incorporate 25,600 micro-LEDs in a module that is just 13 millimeters wide. Each LED is about 40 micrometers in size – half the thickness of a human hair. The result? Incredibly precise lighting, excellent contrast even in difficult weather conditions, and a truly revolutionary driving experience.
But the light technology in the new Q3 doesn’t stop at performance – it communicates, warns and guides. The system is now much more closely linked to the driver assistance functions. The lane lighting and the cornering lights thus become direct visual partners for the driver, providing essential information right on the road. A particularly useful example: if the driver intends to change lanes on the motorway and there is another vehicle in the blind spot, the lane light visually signals this danger.
Another impressive feature is the projection of an ice crystal onto the road, which is automatically activated at speeds above 70 km/h in the event of possible icy conditions. It is a subtle but effective way in which the car becomes an active partner in safety.
In construction areas, where the markings are unclear and space is limited, the digital headlights automatically adjust the type of lighting: they temporarily forgo the lane light to emphasize the cornering lights, so that the driver can easily maintain the correct direction. In addition, through the MMI system, the driver can customize the light functions, choosing from several digital signatures for the daytime running lights, as well as for the “welcome” and “goodbye” scenarios when getting in or out of the car.
The rear of the new Q3 is equally expressive. The optional digital OLED taillights are divided into six panels, each consisting of several segments that can display different light signatures. A special detail is the illuminated rings at the rear, which come to life with the activation of the low beam – a visual signature that will not go unnoticed on the night roads.
With all this arsenal of cutting-edge technology, the Audi Q3 2026 not only illuminates the road, but also redefines the way we perceive safety and the interaction between car and driver. At Alfa rent a car Cluj Napoca Avram Iancu Airport, we are fascinated by the way this model combines innovation with responsibility, and we are convinced that the lights of the new Q3 will do more than chase away the darkness - they will guide the future of intelligent mobility.
When you step into the new Audi Q3 2026, the feeling is clear: you are not in a simple compact SUV, but in a refined space, thought out down to the smallest detail for comfort, technology and functionality. With a completely new approach compared to the previous generation, the interior impresses with its clear, clean design and the harmonious integration of cutting-edge technologies.
The cockpit is built around the driver and dominated by a so-called digital stage: a panoramic panel that combines an 11.9-inch diagonal screen for the instrument cluster and a generous 12.8-inch diagonal touchscreen for the MMI infotainment system. The curved lines of the console create an elegant and ergonomic layout, in which everything is at hand, but without cluttering the space. And because details make all the difference, Audi also offers a head-up display (HUD) that projects essential information directly into the driver's field of vision.
The new steering wheel integrates two multifunction levers, and the gear selector has been moved to the steering column, which frees up valuable space in the center console. Here we find two cup holders, a 15W wireless charging tray for smartphones, discreetly covered by a sliding cover, as well as two USB-C ports for the front passengers and two more for the rear passengers.
The interior ambience is rounded off by the ambient lighting packages, which turn every journey into a pleasant visual experience, especially at night. Subtle light lines in the dashboard, center console and door panels clearly highlight the architecture of the cabin. And for added refinement, Audi offers a spectacular option: illuminated textile panels in the front doors, made by laser cutting and backlit dynamically, a real show of light and texture.
The sound is also on another level. With the help of the SONOS premium audio system, equipped with 12 speakers and a total power of 420 W, passengers can enjoy high-quality sound, regardless of the musical genre. Functions such as automatic volume adjustment, bass enhancement and the revitalization of compressed audio files can be added at any time via Functions on Demand, a flexible system that allows further customization of the car.
The infotainment system runs on Android Automotive OS, providing access to popular apps such as YouTube, directly via the Audi store, without the need to connect a phone. The Audi voice assistant, based on artificial intelligence, can also control multiple vehicle functions and is represented by a digital avatar on the center display.
The interior is also sustainable. The materials used reflect a clear commitment to the environment: the textiles are made from 100% recycled polyester, including industrial waste and old fishing nets, and the wooden ornaments come from renewable sources. It is a combination of luxury, ecological responsibility and real functionality.
The new Audi Q3 does not forget about the practical side either. With a 488-liter trunk in the standard configuration, which can reach 575 liters by moving the rear seat and up to 1,386 liters with the backrests folded, the Alfa rent a car airport Cluj agency ensures that this SUV offers enough space for luggage, shopping or sports equipment. And if you have a trailer or caravan to tow, the Q3 2026 comes to your aid with a towing capacity of up to 2,100 kg. All these details translate into a complete experience: elegant, intuitive, technological and extremely practical, whether it is a weekend in the mountains or a long road through the country.
The new Audi Q3 2026 confidently steps into an era of intelligent and electrified mobility, while maintaining the sporty spirit and technical refinement that define the Audi brand. For those who want to rent a versatile, high-performance SUV adapted to modern consumption and comfort requirements, the available engines are proof of a carefully calibrated range, from efficient options for the city, to dynamic variants for more daring adventures.
The range debuts with a 1.5-liter gasoline engine, equipped with mild-hybrid technology, which develops 150 horsepower. It is an excellent choice for those looking for a balance between performance and low consumption, coupled to a 7-speed S tronic automatic transmission. A remarkable detail that the team at Alfa car rental Cluj airport wants to emphasize is the Cylinder on Demand (COD) system, which temporarily stops cylinders two and three under light load conditions, thus reducing fuel consumption without compromising the driving experience.
For those who prefer the economy and autonomy specific to diesel, Audi proposes a diesel version with 150 HP, but with a generous torque of 360 Nm. This engine promises vigorous revs and excellent long-distance behavior, being ideal for highways or demanding mountain routes.
Athletes of the heart will be attracted by the 2.0-liter gasoline version, with four cylinders, which develops no less than 265 horsepower and 400 Nm. This variant transforms the Q3 into a truly dynamic SUV, capable of providing fast acceleration and precise road holding, even in more challenging conditions. It is the perfect choice for those who want a compact SUV, but with almost sporty valences.
The top of the range is the plug-in hybrid version, which combines a petrol engine with an electric motor, generating a combined 272 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque. This is not only the most powerful variant, but also the most versatile in terms of daily use. Powered by a battery with a net capacity of 19.7 kWh, the hybrid version offers an electric range of up to 119 kilometers in WLTP mode – enough for most urban and suburban trips without consuming any fuel. And charging the battery from 10% to 80% takes less than 30 minutes at a 50 kW station, making this model practical and easy to use in mixed mode.
Regardless of the version chosen, all engines are accompanied by a 7-speed automatic transmission, which ensures smooth and efficient changes, contributing to the comfort and pleasure of driving. Quattro all-wheel drive is available for the higher versions, guaranteeing optimal grip and balanced behavior in all conditions.
For drivers who purchase this SUV, this range of engines means freedom of choice – whether it is urban efficiency, increased autonomy, pure performance or sustainable mobility. The new Audi Q3 2026 manages to combine all these attributes in a modern, versatile and fully adapted package to the demands of the present.
In the world of compact SUVs, comfort is more than a detail – it is a promise. And the new Audi Q3 2026 delivers on that promise, thanks to a completely new generation of suspensions and shock absorbers that transform every journey into a smooth, pleasant and refined experience. For Alfa rent a car Cluj customers, this means that whether they are embarking on a mountain getaway or a simple stroll through the city, the Audi Q3 offers the same feeling of balance and comfort.
The standard suspension has been significantly improved compared to the previous generation. In addition, customers can opt for the sports suspension – for more dynamic behavior – or for the sophisticated system with two-valve shock absorbers and electronic stiffness control. The latter is the real star, being designed to instantly adapt the car’s response to the road surface and driving style.
Each wheel is individually adjusted in fractions of a second, meaning that whether you’re driving on freshly paved roads or bumpy country roads, the Q3 maintains a smooth ride, while the interior remains calm and well-insulated. It’s as if the SUV knows exactly how to react before the driver even notices.
Another advantage of this system is the separate control of the compression and rebound stages, so vibrations caused by bumps are effectively absorbed without being felt in the cabin. The result? A floating sensation, even when the road becomes less friendly.
Agility is also enhanced by the optional progressive steering system. Without being aggressive, it provides precise feedback to steering wheel movements, reducing effort in tight corners and parking, while maintaining stability at high speeds. In combination with the electronically controlled damper suspension, the Audi Q3 adapts perfectly to the driver's needs: comfort when you need to relax, sportiness when you want to feel the dynamism of the road.
A new and subtle element is the introduction of the Balanced mode within the Audi Drive Select system – replacing the old Auto. It offers the ideal balance between dynamism and refinement, becoming the default setting every time you start. For versions with quattro all-wheel drive, you can also choose from the MMI Offroad plus mode, which adjusts the suspension and steering for optimal grip on rough terrain.
All of these technologies have one goal: to transform the Audi Q3 into a pleasant and predictable companion, regardless of the road or conditions.
In a world where roads can become unpredictable, safety is no longer a luxury, but a necessity. The new Audi Q3 2026 comes equipped with an advanced suite of assistance systems that transform driving into an experience that is not only easier, but also considerably safer, excellent news for potential customers who want a modern SUV, ready for any urban or extra-urban challenge.
Even from the standard equipment, the team at Alfa rent a car Cluj Napoca informs you that the new Q3 offers you essential technologies: parking system with distance display, cruise control with speed limiter, lane departure warning with emergency assistance, traffic sign recognition, driver fatigue monitoring and front automatic braking system with pedestrian, cyclist and cross traffic detection. These functions work together to prevent collisions, reduce fatigue at the wheel and maintain a high level of alertness, even at the busiest intersections.
For added comfort and refinement, Audi offers adaptive Driving Assistant plus – an intelligent system that combines lateral and longitudinal guidance and adds the lane change assist function. On the motorway, at speeds above 90 km/h, the Q3 can help you change lanes safely, analyzing the traffic behind you using radars and displaying visual arrows in the instrument panel or head-up display. A simple touch of the turn signal triggers the movement, and the car fine-tunes the steering to perform the maneuver for you.
A unique and extremely useful feature is the Emergency Assistant, which can take over control of the car if the driver no longer responds. If sensors detect a lack of reaction, the Q3 automatically pulls over to the right and stops safely, activating the hazard warning lights and alerting the emergency services. At the same time, the interior camera constantly monitors the driver's condition for signs of drowsiness or distraction, providing audible and visual warnings when necessary.
For those who do not like tight parking spaces, Trained Parking is a truly revolutionary function. The Audi Q3 can "learn" up to five personalized parking maneuvers, each up to 50 meters long. After being trained once, the SUV will be able to perform the maneuvers completely autonomously - you just supervise. In addition, the Reverse Assistant can memorize the recent trajectory and reproduce it in reverse, ideal for exiting narrow alleys or hard-to-reach areas.
In urban environments, the parking assist systems, wide-angle cameras and the 360° display make difficult maneuvers simple and intuitive. The driver can select different viewing angles directly on the MMI screen, which helps him avoid obstacles and position the car precisely.
Last but not least, the traffic sign recognition system has been expanded: in addition to speed limits, it also recognizes priority signs, pedestrian crossings, construction zones or hazards such as animal crossings. This way, the driver is always informed and prepared.
With a completely revised design, state-of-the-art technologies and an interior configured for comfort and digitalization, the new Audi Q3 2026 is ready to make its appearance on the market. The good news is that we won’t have to wait too long: the official launch is scheduled for October of this year, and orders can be placed as early as the summer – both in Romania and in other European markets.
Audi has also announced the starting prices for the most important versions. The base model, equipped with the 1.5-liter TFSI engine and 150 horsepower, will have a launch price in Romania of approximately 44,000 euros. For those who want a more sustainable driving experience and generous autonomy in electric mode, the plug-in hybrid version – the Audi Q3 e-hybrid with 272 HP – will start at 49,000 euros.
It is important to note that the new generation Q3 will be produced in two strategic locations for Audi: in Germany, the homeland of precision technologies, and in Hungary, a traditional industrial center for the brand in Ingolstadt. This dual origin promises not only superior manufacturing quality, but also efficient delivery times for European customers.
With each generation, Audi manages to raise the standards, and the new Q3 2026 is no exception. Combining intelligent technology with a clean and functional design, this compact SUV is transformed into a true ally of modern mobility. Every detail in the cabin seems designed to offer not only comfort, but also a fluent digital experience, from customizable ambient lighting to panoramic screens and the SONOS audio system that turns every road into a private concert.
Under the hood, the balanced engine ranges, from the efficient 1.5 TFSI mild-hybrid to the high-performance plug-in hybrid, offer both power and sustainability, without compromising driving pleasure. At the same time, advanced assistance systems and new adaptive suspensions transform any journey into a smooth, safe and stress-free one, whether you are in urban traffic or on winding mountain roads.
In short, the Audi Q3 2026 is a redefinition of the balance between style, technology and practicality, an SUV ready to meet the expectations of demanding customers, but also to pleasantly surprise anyone who gets behind the wheel.
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