Panorica

2025 Audi Q3 Gets Smarter Inside and Out

Interior layout changes focus on screens, space, and real upgrades

The 2025 Audi Q3 doesn’t chase gimmicks. It gets updates that matter. Audi moves controls closer to the driver and adds more screens. Two of them, to be exact: an 11.9-inch virtual cockpit and a 12.8-inch MMI touch display now sit under a single curved glass panel angled toward the driver. It’s cleaner, quicker to read, and reduces eye movement during highway driving. Voice commands work without shouting, and over-the-air updates are part of the system now. HVAC vents tuck low into the dash. There’s less clutter, and everything important is within reach.

Column shifter kills the gear lever and frees up storage

Audi moves the gear selector to the steering column. The right stalk now handles shifting; the left still controls wipers and lights. That clears out the center console. What’s left? Two real cupholders, a cooled wireless charging pad with a 15W output, and a covered storage bin under an adjustable armrest. You also get front and rear USB-C ports—up to 45W charging for laptops and fast devices. It’s smarter packaging and more usable space in the exact spot drivers reach first.

Lighting system gets smarter and more functional

The ambient lighting now runs through the dash, console, and doors. But it’s more than trim. Audi uses 300 laser-cut diamonds in the door panel that light up during lock and unlock events. You get 30 color options and full profile control through the touchscreen or voice. The lighting shifts depending on drive mode—calm blues for Efficiency, aggressive red for Dynamic. It’s not just for looks. It improves cabin orientation and visibility in low light without adding glare.

Sonos takes over audio duties and delivers real sound upgrades

The Sonos Premium Sound System replaces Bang & Olufsen in the Audi Q3 interior lineup. It uses 12 speakers, a center channel, and a trunk-mounted subwoofer. Power comes from a 580W Class-D amp. Audio profiles include Neutral, Lounge, Dynamic, and Podcast. Sonos applies digital tuning and reflection mapping for better seat-to-seat consistency. Want more control? You can add upgrades like bass boost and dynamic volume via Audi’s “Function on Demand” system—pay once and activate instantly through the infotainment.

Sustainability features shift from concept to production

Audi brings its circular material strategy to the Q3 in a way that scales. Seat upholstery options include Dinamica microfiber made from recycled plastic bottles. The floor mats are Econyl—regenerated nylon from marine and industrial waste. Even the interior trim uses fast-growing woods and bio-based finishes. By simplifying the composition of each material, Audi makes end-of-life recycling easier. No mix, no glue. Just one material per part where possible. This cuts waste and fits Audi’s stated goal of reducing CO₂ lifecycle emissions by 40% by 2030.

Two engine options, both with quattro and 7-speed dual-clutch

U.S. buyers get a familiar setup: the 2.0-liter turbo-four, with two output levels. Both come with quattro all-wheel drive and a 7-speed S tronic transmission.

Drive Select modes adjust throttle, steering, and shift behavior. EPA numbers aren’t official yet, but Audi targets 25 mpg city / 30 mpg highway for the base trim. Both trims get standard forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and rear cross-traffic assist. Optional features include adaptive cruise with stop-and-go, a 360-degree camera, and self-parking assist.

2025 Audi Q3 trims and pricing (U.S.)

Trim Power 0–60 MPH Drivetrain Est. MPG (City/Highway) Starting Price (USD)
Q3 40 TFSI quattro 184 hp 8.4 sec AWD 25 / 30
$39,800
Q3 45 TFSI quattro 228 hp 7.1 sec AWD 24 / 29
$42,600
Premium Plus Package — — — — +
$3,300
Black Optic Package — — — — +
$1,200

Premium Plus adds the Sonos system, adaptive cruise, and full ambient lighting. Black Optic swaps chrome for gloss black trim, black roof rails, and dark 19-inch wheels.

What changed vs. last year?

Audi didn’t redesign the Q3 from scratch. Instead, it targeted key weaknesses:

Bottom line: Smart updates, no fluff

The 2025 Audi Q3 makes incremental changes that improve everyday usability. It’s not trying to reinvent compact SUVs. It’s focused on what actually helps drivers:

It still drives like an Audi, with the same turbocharged powertrains and quattro AWD. But now it’s smarter inside, better equipped, and ready for buyers who want luxury tech without overspending.