Latest news with #Ingolstadt
Auto Express
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Auto Express
New Audi A3 e-tron proves the brand isn't turning its back on smaller cars
Audi is readying its A3-sized EV for launch next year, borrowing an updated version of the MEB platform that underpins the current Volkswagen ID.3 and Cupra Born. Audi already uses this relatively compact platform for its Q4 e-tron, but this new model is due to be a step lower in terms of size, giving buyers an electric car alternative to the existing ICE-powered A3. Advertisement - Article continues below Speaking with Auto Express, Audi CEO Gernot Döllnerr said: 'We will build an electric [C-segment] car here in Ingolstadt from next year.' Given that time frame, it will be based on technologies already available within the VW group, rather than the new SSP architecture coming in 2027. As a result, we're expecting the new Audi model will likely share any technical upgrades with the reskinned ID.3 that's due around the same time, and feature a combination of a rear-mounted e-motor and battery pack mounted underneath the floor. We don't know if there are any wholesale changes to the current battery technology on the cards, but we expect the new Audi will probably be available with some or all of the 58kWh, 77kWh and 79kWh battery options available in the current ID.3. We can also be fairly certain about what the new electric A3 equivalent will look like, because it'll have to share certain elements with other MEB-platform cars currently on sale. We expect a standard single motor to be available on the rear axle, plus possibly a dual-motor application for a potential high-performance derivative. Skip advert Advertisement - Article continues below But there will be specific considerations, too, including a relatively high floor and high roof, plus the likelihood of a short bonnet and an upright tail. How Audi drapes its current design language over this architecture remains unclear, but it will largely depend on how much freedom the brand has been given to redesign specific hard points including the windscreen base or floor. Advertisement - Article continues below What we do know, however, is that the car is too far through its development to adopt the new design language being evolved by new design chief Massimo Frascella, who was installed only 12 months ago. There might have been time for some small changes, however, as has been rumoured about the forthcoming Audi Q7. Detailed by Auto Express last year, Audi's plan has been to extend its range only slightly downwards, forgoing successors to the A1 supermini and Q2 small crossover, but creating an indirect successor to the recently updated A3 family hatchback. That, in turn, could give the brand a cheaper entry point than the likes of Mercedes and BMW. Audi CEO Döllner, who has also taken on the role of technical development chief, admits that his team has gone through a review of its future product plans in recent years, sharpening its focus on key markets such as China (where it will soon launch a bespoke, locally made version of its new Q6 e-tron) and the United States. Döllner said that some vehicles had been pushed aside by the review, but insisted that the planned entry point – likely to appear in late 2026 or 2027 – has escaped the axe. Advertisement - Article continues below Skip advert Advertisement - Article continues below When asked directly if Audi had cut vehicles from its plans or simply delayed them, Döllner said, 'We did both, really. We stretched the timeframe to give us a little bit more time for these 20 models. I've never seen something like this in my career so far. And we discussed some models that we deprioritised, and put emphasis on other ideas.' Describing the new entry model directly, Döllner said, 'It's A-segment, so typically Volkswagen Golf and A3 size, or a little bit below, perhaps. But this is where we will focus. We won't have a successor for the A1 and Q2 – certainly not a direct successor. But in confirming the model below the Q4, in the C-segment, that will be our entry car.' Our exclusive images showing how the new Audi A3 could look use the company's 2019 AI:ME concept as their base. That car was a little shorter than the A3 overall, but our illustrations show how easily its dimensions could be stretched to deliver a unique, bespoke EV shape, while not stealing too much of the Q4 e-tron's SUV image, being between five and 10 centimetres shorter than that vehicle. Short front and rear overhangs would allow Audi to slot the new model in at the base of its range – although it's conceivable that the brand may opt for an even more conventional shape, including a three-box saloon that would also be distinct from the Q4 and potentially popular in large markets like the United States and China. Advertisement - Article continues below Skip advert Advertisement - Article continues below This new all-electric entry point is likely to mean no combustion-engined successor to the existing A3. The current model was introduced in 2020 and has just received a major facelift, so a typical seven-year lifespan would tip it over into the era when Audi will only launch new electric cars. Audi is likely, meanwhile, to develop some bespoke models for the United States, including larger SUVs. Döllner said, 'That's one thinkable option. We have a lot of ideas and what we'll definitely do – and we have it already in our product strategy right now – is take a deeper look at North America. We'll have bigger SUVs in consideration and they will be mainly influenced by American market requirements. That's one reason why we're so optimistic about our prospects in the US; we know there's more potential there.' However, he stopped short of saying that Audi could tap into the VW Group's Scout project, an off-road-focused brand of SUVs and pick-up trucks that will be developed and produced in the United States. 'The VW Group has made a decision to revitalise the Scout brand and I was honoured to be part of that decision a couple of years ago,' Döllner said. 'I was chairman of Scout motors, in fact. This is the decision that has been taken so far – to bring the brand back and have trucks and rugged SUVs, but as Scout.' Did you know you can sell your car with Auto Express? Get the highest bid from our network of over 5,500 dealers and we'll do the rest. Click here to try Auto Express Sell My Car now ... Find a car with the experts New Volvo EM90 2025 review: the ultimate SUV killer New Volvo EM90 2025 review: the ultimate SUV killer Volvo has made an ultra-luxurious van. Intrigued? You should be, but sadly it's for China only Smart Roadster could return as an electric Mazda MX-5 rival Smart Roadster could return as an electric Mazda MX-5 rival The Smart Roadster could be set for a comeback and our exclusive image previews how it could look New Audi Q3 reinvents the indicator stalk, but there's a whole lot more too New Audi Q3 reinvents the indicator stalk, but there's a whole lot more too Audi's not taking any risks with its all-new Q3; watch it sell like crazy
Auto Blog
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
Audi Is About To Change The Look Of Every Car It Makes
Audi Wants To Make 'A Bold Step' Forward A couple of months ago, German automaker Audi launched a new Chinese sub-brand called AUDI, and its creations will look unlike anything the mothership in Ingolstadt builds. But soon, even the cars created for Europe and America will look completely different, according to Audi CEO Gernot Döllner. Speaking with Autocar, the CEO confirmed that the first concept under new design boss Massimo Frascella will be revealed this year, and this 'bold step' will not just be a fantastical idea of what could be; future concepts will only be shown to the world if they have true production intent. Audi Is Looking Forward, Not Back 'We won't show design studies anymore,' said Döllner. 'When we show things, [they] will be substantial. Every concept we show will have a product decision behind it.' The CEO added that the brand 'would look to the future and the strengths of Audi design, for clarity and to bring that to the future, not copying the past.' He went on to praise the work that Frascella has already done in his first year, saying that he and the designer agree on 'a clear vision for Audi design.' It will be interesting to see how Audi maintains its individuality while moving its design forward. Its Singleframe grille outline has defined many a vehicle since the mid-2000s, and LED lighting design has been a big part of the brand's identity. LED and OLED lighting will only get more complex, and Audi has always been at the forefront of the tech, but how it will use its innovations in a novel manner will surely be a challenge. Why Audi Needs A Fresh Approach Source: Kyle Edward/Autoblog Audi's recent designs, including the 2026 Q3 that launched this week, have all been moving in the same direction over the past few years, drawing at least some inspiration from the e-tron GT EV. While the latest A6 sedan also embraces some of those styling tropes, most of its styling remains derivative of past designs under the nameplate. As for SUVs, while these have almost all adopted a split headlight design and a full-width taillight bar that was once very impactful and trendy, the playbook has been overused, and with so many nondescript SUVs of all descriptions adopting similar styling strategies, Audi's look is no longer as unique. Just naming an automaker that doesn't incorporate these elements is difficult. Thus, it's time for a fresh new concept to inform all future cars, regardless of body style. Döllner didn't say what size or sort of car would be used to introduce the conceptual design language, but given their popularity, we suspect a crossover/SUV will debut the new looks. Audi managed to adapt elements of the original R8 supercar to several mainstream models, but we doubt Audi's vision of the future will be grounded in something as niche as a sports coupe of any description. Whatever we see and whenever we see it, any cosmetic changes will take time, and not all of the automaker's range has fully evolved yet, so much of the current design language will survive for a few years to come. The Q7 three-row SUV, for example, still needs to adopt the current look. Audi's previous design boss, Marc Lichte, was in the job since 2014 until last year, so Frascella's perspective will certainly shake things up. Responsible for cars like the modern Defender, the Italian designer knows how to blend old with new in an authentic manner. Here's hoping he can inject just as much appeal with the Audi design concept. About the Author Sebastian Cenizo View Profile
TimesLIVE
4 days ago
- Automotive
- TimesLIVE
Everything you need to know about the new Audi Q3
Audi has unveiled its latest Q3 SUV. One of the marque's best-selling vehicles (more than two million have found homes since it entered production in 2011), the new third-generation model adopts a more assertive exterior design that's sure to attract a new legion of fans. Up at the business end, standout features include an extra wide Singleframe radiator grille flanked by sleekly tapered headlamps that can, for the first time in Q3 history, be specced with Audi's advanced digital Matrix LED lighting technology. There's also a more defined shoulder line, steeply sloping D-pillars and blistered front/rear wheel arches Audi said are a throwback to the original quattro that kicked up such a fuss in the 1980s. Depending on the model, customers can pick from a range of new wheel designs ranging from 17" to 20'. At the rear, Ingolstadt's design team has fitted the new Q3 with two-part taillamps and a continuous LED light strip that spans the entire width of the vehicle. You will also spy a full set of illuminated Audi rings and a large diffuser integrated into the raised bumper. There's more evolution to be found inside the cabin, where an updated dashboard design supports Audi's curved panoramic display incorporating a 11.9" instrument cluster and 12.8" MMI touchscreen infotainment system. The latter runs a newly developed Android Automotive operating system that offers third-party apps such as YouTube and Spotify to be downloaded from the Audi Application Store. You can also look forward to Audi's latest AI-enriched voice assistant, optional head-up display, two flavours of customisable mood lighting (ambient light package plus or pro) and the option of a Sonos sound system. Elsewhere, Audi has relocated the gear lever up to the steering column to free space on the centre console between the front seats. In its place you will find two large cup holders and a cooled inductive charging tray with 15 watts of charging power. The feature is complemented by two USB-C ports up front and an additional pair in the rear. A total of nine interior packages are available, with many making use of sustainable materials such as fast-growing wood, 100% recycled polyester and something called Econyl, a nylon fibre made from old fishing nets, carpet remnants and industrial waste. On the practical side of things, the new Q3 packs a 488l boot expandable to 575l with the rear seat bench slid all the way forward and placed in an upright position. Fold it flat and you'll avail 1,386 l, more than enough for carrying bulkier items such as boxes or a bicycle. From launch Audi is offering the new Q3 with a choice of four powertrains, starting with a 110kW 1.5l four-cylinder 48V mild-hybrid petrol engine. It's paired to a seven-speed S tronic transmission and features cylinder on demand technology that temporarily shuts down the second and third cylinders at low and medium loads to save fuel. Next in line is a spicy 2.0l four-cylinder petrol engine churning out 195kW and 400Nm of torque. This is sent to all four paws via a quattro all-wheel drive system and seven-speed S tronic gearbox. There's also a 110kW/360Nm 2.0l four-cylinder turbodiesel and an e-hybrid offering up to 119km of electric driving range thanks to a newly developed 25.7kWh battery pack. It also sports a combined output of 200kW and 400Nm of torque. 50kW DC fast charging enables the battery to be recharged from 10% to 80% in less than 30 minutes. Other innovations bundled into the new Q3 include an updated chassis with the option of a newly fettled steel sprung sports suspension. Suspension with two-valve damper control is also available and is said to offer an 'optimally balanced driving experience' by continuously adjusting to the demands of the road surface and driving situation. The list of driver assistance systems spliced into the new third-generation Q3 is plentiful, with parking system plus with distance display, cruise control (including speed limiter), lane departure warning with emergency assist, traffic sign recognition, attention and fatigue warning with driver monitoring and active front assist with evasion and turning assist, front cross traffic assist and front emergency brake assist all fitted as standard. The new Audi Q3 will go on sale in Europe in October. Local availability is to be confirmed.
The Citizen
4 days ago
- Automotive
- The Citizen
More striking and aggressive new Audi Q3 officially revealed
If approved for South Africa, expect sales to start in early 2026. Third generation Q3 derives heavily from the Q5, A5 and A6 aesthetically. Image: Audi Teased in a one-off image just over a week ago, Audi, towards the end of Monday evening (16 June), officially debuted the long awaited second generation Q3 as the moniker's first completely new model since the current debuted in 2018. Defined by the 'Four Rings' are 'more dynamic' and 'more muscular' than the original, the noticeably more compact looking new Q3 derives heavily from the A5 and A6 on the styling front, while incorporating a similar philosophy inside. The latest model to move to the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC), a heavily revised version of the Volkswagen Group's already overhauled MQB Evo, the Q3 retains the option of both petrol and diesel engines, but for the first time, with electrification in the form of mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid assistance. Styled to also resemble its step-up sibling, the Q5, the Q3's dimensions surprisingly didn't receive any mentioning, though Audi does confirm boot space of between 4-litres and 1 386-litres and a tow rating of 2 100 kg. Mounted on no less than 17 alloy wheel designs ranging from 17-inches to a first-time 20-inch, the Q3's exterior sports Ingolstadt's latest Singleframe grille, thin upper LED headlights, expansive air inlets positioned directly underneath, an active air inlet as part of the lower airdam, and an optional illuminated four rings logo. At the rear, the light cluster adopts a similar split design, with the upper section – resembling the previous generation Q5 and even the original Hyundai Kona – being separated by a thin strip of the bootlid from the full-width light bar connecting the predominately the indicator cluster. Along with a mesh pattern on the bumper, an imitation diffuser has been integrated below and illumination made available as option for the four rings logo. In another model first, the Q3 comes fitted, albeit as an option, with Audi's latest digital Matrix LED headlights consisting of 25 600 micro-LEDs in each module capable of projecting warning signs onto the road at speed above 70 km/h when detected. As before, the S line appearance package can be had as option, joined by a choice of 11 colours; black, Arkona White, Glacier White Metallic, Arrow Grey Metallic, Mythos Black Metallic, Navarra Blue Metallic and Progressive Red Metallic. New options are Madeira Brown Matte and Sage Green, while Daytona Grey makes a first-time appearance solely on S line models only. The final option, Tambora Grey, is reserved solely for Advanced trim grade variants. Inside, the completely redesigned interior has been slightly refined from the Q5 as it omits the option of the third display on the passenger's side. Highlighted by an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.8-inch MMI infotainment display seemingly unique to it, the Q3's biggest innovation, aldus Audi, is the complete removal of the retraditional steering column-mounted stalks for two individual levers. Whereas one serves as the gear selector that moves from the centre console, the second comes equipped with buttons for the lights, indicators and windscreen wipers. Elsewhere, the pair of wireless smartphone chargers feature cooling vents and most of the interior material options made from recycled cloth, so-called Econyl originating from finishing nets, resistant wood and polyester depending on the selected option. A new steering wheel and optional Head-Up Display, last-cut fabric for the ambient lighting and a cost-optional 12-speaker, 420-watt Sonos sound system rounds the interior off. In terms of safety and driver assistance, either standard or optional systems comprise Park Assist, an interior camera monitoring system, City Traffic Assist, around-view camera system, Traffic Sign Recognition, Adaptive Cruise Control, Driver Attention Alert, Evasive Steering Assist, front and rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning and Emergency Brake Assist. Underneath, the Q3's move to the PPC platform has seen the introduction of a new adaptive damper system as option to the standard steel or sport setup, improved steering and removal of the Auto mode within the Drive Select system for the newly named Balanced. Completing the mechanical revisions, the Q3's engine options spans four options, all but one modelled around its 2.0 TFSI and 2.0 TDI engines. As before, the range kicks-off with the 1.5 TSI Evo that features 48-volt mild-hybrid assistance and produces 110kW/250Nm. Next up, the electrically assisted 2.0 TFSI develops 195kW/400Nm and comes standard with quattro four-wheel-drive unlike the front-wheel-drive only 1.5 TFSI. The sole diesel option meanwhile produces 110kW/360Nm and as with the former TFSI, sends its amount of twist to the front axle only. Regardless of the engine though, the only available transmission is the seven-speed S tronic. Completing the range, the Q5 e-Hybrid combines the 2.0 TFSI with a 19.7-kWh battery pack powering an 85kW/330Nm electric motor. Combined, the setup develops 200kW/400Nm, enough for a 119 km all-electric range. The claimed time from 10-80% is 30 minutes using a DC charger up to 50 kW. On-sale in Europe from October with pricing in Germany from €44 600 for the entry-level 2.0 TFSI, the Q3 will again be assembled at the Győr Plant in Hungary and while unconfirmed for South Africa at present, should arrive in early 2026 if given approval. ALSO READ: All-new generation Audi Q3 showing itself this year
Motor 1
4 days ago
- Automotive
- Motor 1
The New Audi Q3 Gets Split Lights and a Column Shifter
Audi's product renewal is in full swing. After launching the next-generation A5 and Q5, as well as the electric A6 and Q6 E-Tron models in recent times, Ingolstadt is now sprucing up a smaller vehicle. The aging Q3 finally transitions to its third iteration, bringing substantial updates inside and out. The BMW X1 rival may be just another compact luxury crossover, but there are some surprises we weren't expecting. Starting on the outside, Audi is giving the new Q3 split headlights and taillights, even though its bigger brother has skipped this trendy design choice. Only the upper daytime running lights are immediately visible, as the main matrix LED headlights 'hide' behind heavily tinted glass surrounded by glossy black trim. A single headlight contains a whopping 25,600 micro-LEDs, each roughly half the thickness of a human hair. That sounds expensive to replace. 2026 Audi Q3 rear Photo by: Audi At the back, Audi has also separated the taillights with a lower LED light bar, combined with an upper OLED setup. Owners can modify the look of the rear lights by choosing from one of six available graphics, achieved by changing how the taillight's 36 different segments are displayed. The rear lights resemble those of the new A6 and can flank an illuminated badge. Audi has pledged to move away from fake exhausts , and we're glad the new Q3 skips the faux tips. While the Q5 has a visible dual-exhaust setup, even on the base model, its smaller sibling adopts a cleaner rear bumper by hiding the exhaust tip underneath. Perhaps Audi is saving the more aggressive setup for the S and RS versions. Either way, this S Line model features a clear diffuser without any cutouts. The profile might make you think we've mixed up the images and accidentally included press shots of the Q5 instead. The resemblance is uncanny, even though Audi claims the wheel arches have design traits derived from the original Quattro. The higher trims come with 20-inch wheels, whereas the base model features a 17-inch set. Tire width has increased from 215 to 235 millimeters, while the drag coefficient has been lowered from 0.32 to 0.30. 2026 Audi Q3 interior Photo by: Audi The interior is a typical new-generation Audi affair, but without an optional passenger screen. That's probably for the better, since the base Q5 has a weird-looking dashboard when the extra display isn't specified. The driver gets a fully digital 11.9-inch instrument cluster, along with a 12.8-inch touchscreen running Android Automotive rather than a proprietary operating system. If you're like us, you probably won't be fond of the touch buttons on the steering wheel or the thick bezels of the dual-screen setup. There is one notable upgrade not found in any other compact Audi: the Q3 is the first in its class to feature acoustic glazing for the front-side windows, offering a quieter ride. Whether the material quality meets expectations remains to be seen, but the company has acknowledged that its interiors have declined and vows to improve the quality of future products. Audi is relocating the gear selector from the center console to behind the steering wheel. The small lever is mounted on the right side, freeing up space between the front seats for two large cupholders, a cooled inductive charging tray, and dual USB ports. To make this possible, engineers designed a multi-purpose left stalk that incorporates controls for the windshield wipers, lighting functions, and turn signals. Left lever for the turn signals, windscreen wipers, and lights Photo by: Audi Right lever for the gear selector Photo by: Audi Let's talk practicality. With the rear bench in its normal position, the 2026 Audi Q3 offers 488 liters (17.2 cubic feet) of cargo space. Slide the rear seats all the way forward and upright, and the volume jumps to 575 liters (20.3 cubic feet). Fold the bench flat and you unlock 1,386 liters (48.9 cubic feet). Need more? The upscale crossover can tow up to 2,100 kilograms (4,630 pounds). As for engines, the base Q3 comes with a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine that can shut off two of its four cylinders to reduce fuel consumption when full power isn't needed. This mild-hybrid unit produces 148 hp and 184 lb-ft (250 Nm) of torque, sent to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Next up is a larger 2.0-liter gasoline engine producing 261 hp and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm), paired with Quattro all-wheel drive. On the diesel side, Audi offers the familiar 2.0 TDI rated at 148 hp and 266 lb-ft (360 Nm), in a front-wheel-drive configuration. Both engines use the same seven-speed S Tronic gearbox. There is no diesel and AWD combo at launch. 2026 Audi Q3 68 Source: Audi Perhaps the most interesting option is the plug-in hybrid, though it's FWD only. It combines a 1.5-liter gas engine with an electric motor, resulting in a total system output of 268 hp and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm). The battery pack has a net capacity of 19.7 kWh, enabling an electric range of 75 miles (120 kilometers) in the WLTP cycle. When depleted, DC charging at up to 50 kW replenishes the battery from 10% to 80% in under 30 minutes. Unlike the gas and diesel models, the hybrid uses a six-speed automatic instead. Audi will launch the new Q3 in Europe this September, with German pricing starting at €44,600 for the 1.5-liter gas model. The plug-in hybrid starts at €49,300. US-bound versions could arrive by the end of the year or early 2026. With the not-for-America Q2 being phased out after a single generation, the Q3 will become Audi's entry-level SUV. An SQ3 should follow, and ideally, a new RS Q3, though it's unlikely to retain the beloved inline-five engine. A swoopy Q3 Sportback is also expected soon to take on the BMW X2. A fully electric Q3 is not currently in the pipeline, but Audi plans to introduce a more affordable EV in the A3 segment as early as next year. Whether it will be a hatchback or a crossover remains to be seen, but we know it'll be built in Ingolstadt and priced below the Q4 E-Tron. The Latest From Audi: The New Base Audi E-Tron GT Is Still Plenty Powerful The New Audi A6 Plug-In Hybrid Has a Decent Electric Range Get the best news, reviews, columns, and more delivered straight to your inbox, daily. back Sign up For more information, read our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use . Source: Audi Share this Story Facebook X LinkedIn Flipboard Reddit WhatsApp E-Mail Got a tip for us? Email: tips@ Join the conversation ( )
