This is the all-new, third-generation Audi Q3 crossover-SUV and it has some big shoes to fill - its two predecessors have, since the model first appeared in 2011, sold more than two million units across the globe in the interim.
Can we talk about the exterior?
Yes, with the simplest summation being 'the new Audi Q3 looks like a scaled-down version of the current Audi Q5'. Honestly, there's not a huge amount of difference in them, with the new Q3 using the fancy LED head- and taillight clusters with the configurable daytime running light patterns that have been seen on bigger Audis (the Q5 included). And the Audi logo illuminates.
On another design note, the Q3 will run on alloy wheels sizes between 17 to 20 inches in diameter, with a couple of aerodynamically optimised design options thrown in there for good measure.
How about within?
Again, there's a degree of homogeneity inside the Audi Q3 because its widescreen interface - known as the Digital Stage - is shared with all of the Audi Q6 e-tron, Audi A5, Audi A6 and Audi A6 e-tron... and of course the Q5 too.
It's a little smaller in the Q3, reflecting the car's position in the market, with its 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster sitting alongside a 12.8-inch central touchscreen.
Space has been freed up in the centre console because the gearshift of the Q3 has been moved up to the steering column and, talking of practicality, Audi says its latest, smallest SUV (as there will be no replacement for the Audi Q2) has a boot which measure 488 litres with all seats in use, rising to 1,386 litres with the second row folded away.
Have you got any engine details?
Yes, although it's not yet clear which of these will come to Ireland. Basically, there are two 150hp internal-combustion versions kicking things off, one of these being a mild-hybrid-assisted, 1.5-litre, four-cylinder petrol unit known as the TFSI and the other a 2.0-litre TDI turbodiesel.
Both will be equipped with front-wheel drive and a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic gearboxes as standard.
Above those will be both 204hp and 265hp TFSI options, equipped with Audi's quattro all-wheel drive. It's unlikely either will make it here, though, so perhaps the most interesting model is the e-Hybrid plug-in hybrid (PHEV) announced from launch.
Generating system maximums of 272hp and 400Nm, and fitted with a 19.7kWh (usable energy) battery pack, the Q3 e-Hybrid will not only be quick but is capable of up to 120km of electric driving alone on a fully charged battery. And owners will be able to replenish it at a 50kW DC peak, meaning a 10-80 per cent charge could take less than 20 minutes at such a rate.
How much is the new Audi Q3 in Ireland?
Irish prices for the new Audi Q3 start at €47,165 for the 150hp Q3 TFSI model. The order books are open with first deliveries expected before the start of 2026.