2018 Audi Q3 (Next-Gen) To Sit On VW’s MQB Platform

Lighter and more upmarket Audi Q3 on the development, will be ready by next year.

The existing Audi Q3 is the most outdated model in the brand’s entire SUV line-up. Therefore, to keep up with the hot competition in the segment posed by the new BMW X1, the upcoming Mercedes-Benz GLA, and Volkswagen Tiguan, the company is working on a comprehensive overhaul of the compact SUV, both inside and out.

Like many other key models in the Volkswagen Group, the next-generation Audi Q3 will embrace the modular MQB platform that is used on cars of every segment and caliber, from tiny Audi TT to bombastic Skoda Kodiaq SUV. This means that the new Q3 will benefit from the MQB’s light weight and modular construction, along with more space and diverse engine options, including a plug-in-hybrid technology.

2018 Audi Q3: The new car may gain in size, cabin space, and ride height. 

Although the exterior presence of the new Q3 will be the same as before, the new car is likely to gain in size, boosting the cabin space and ride height. The styling is expected on the lines of the current-generation Audi Q7, with similar front grille and LED headlamp design. On the inside, the completely revamped interiors will mimic that of the larger Q5, with a horizontal design to visually increase the width of the cabin. But, that not all! The fancy Audi Virtual Cockpit will replace the conventional instrumentation display in the new Q3.

Also Read: Audi Q8 Concept: This Is How Future SUVs Are Going To Be!

For the international market, the new Audi Q3 is expected to get a plug-in hybrid technology that uses a 1.4-litre TFSI petrol and an electric motor. An all-electric Q3 cannot be ruled out either, sharing the powertrain from the Volkswagen e-Golf. The performance-edition RS Q3 is likely to boast a 5-cylinder turbo-petrol unit that generate up to 394 bhp of power.

As far as the Indian-spec Q3 is concerned, the 2.0-litre TDI diesel will continue to power most of the variants. The 1.4-litre TSI petrol-turbo unit from the upcoming VW Tiguan is also quite a possibility for the Indian market. The 7-speed automatic gearbox and the Quattro all-wheel-drive system will be offered as well.

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H/T Auto Express UK