2026 Audi Q3 Redefines Windshield Wiper and Turn Signal Controls

      Audi

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      There are moments when you glance at something and simply question, “Why?” The Audi Q3 serves as a prime illustration of this with its newly designed steering column stalk.

      On Monday, the global debut of the 2026 Audi Q3 showcased the small crossover's design alignment with the rest of the automaker's offerings. Currently, there are no U.S. specifications available, but it’s evident that Audi has overcomplicated the Q3’s steering column controls.

      In a time where simplicity is prioritized and most controls are integrated into a touchscreen, it's somewhat commendable that Audi has maintained physical controls for the windshield wipers, turn signals, and gear selector. However, what has been introduced may be categorized as “just because we could.”

      This control center, referred to as “the switch module,” features a single piece of plastic that descends over the steering column, with “stalks” extending from either side.

      These stalks are stationary. The right stalk features a separate piece of plastic that can be toggled up for reverse, pushed down for drive, and pressed in to put the Q3 in park. Audi indicates that the nub physically moves and provides haptic feedback so the driver knows a gear has been selected.

      The left stalk-like plastic piece incorporates the lighting functions and windshield wiper controls. Engaging the plastic nub activates the windshield wipers, while a double press dispenses washer fluid. There’s a small silver plastic nub inset from the main lever on the left for rear window functions. Toggling these controls engages the turn signals, and pushing the nub back activates the high beams and automatic high beam control.

      Audi explained that the new controls were developed to create “more storage space on the center console.” However, very few vehicles are known to have turn signals, windshield wiper controls, or headlight controls located on the center console. The shifter does back up Audi’s claim, as the center console includes two cup holders, a storage compartment, and a wireless smartphone charger capable of cooling with up to 15 watts of power, along with two USB-C ports that can be concealed by a cover.

      These physical controls are complemented by an 11.9-inch digital gauge cluster and a 12.8-inch touchscreen, both running on Android Automotive OS, and combined under a single curved piece of glass with glossy black borders. Audi also mentioned that the Q3 will come with a head-up display.

      The interior appears to offer a more upscale atmosphere than the current Q3. The front doors can feature fabric that has been laser-cut 300 times, allowing ambient lighting to shine through at night. The enhanced sound system will include a 12-speaker SONOS unit.

      Audi has scaled down design elements from the new Q5 and the electric Q6 E-Tron for the Q3’s redesign, providing the small SUV with a sense of continuity. The pronounced fenders impart a more dynamic stance compared to the current Q3. The rear lighting design is more youthful and striking than that of its larger counterparts, thanks to a full-width LED light bar extending across the rear, distinct from the taillights. The Q3 presented at the debut, likely an S-Line model, features a rear bumper design that incorporates a diffuser, although the exhaust outlets remain hidden as the automaker fluctuates on visible exhaust tips.

      In Europe, the new Q3 will offer a variety of powertrains, including a hybrid option. Audi has yet to specify details for the U.S. version of the Q3, but it’s anticipated that a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 will be the only engine available. The current Q3 produces 228 horsepower from its turbo-4 engine, with all-wheel drive being standard.

      Pricing information will be released closer to the market launch in 2026. Considering the additional technology and a complex control system, it is unlikely that the 2026 Q3 will be priced lower than the current model, which starts at $41,095, inclusive of a $1,295 destination charge.

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