Audi Believes the 2026 Q3 Has a Value of Four Thousand Dollars More Than Your Assessment | Carscoops

      The latest Audi Q3 S Line Quattro can accelerate to 60 mph in an impressive 5.5 seconds, but it does come with a higher price tag compared to its predecessor.

      The starting price for the new Audi Q3 has significantly increased.

      Its 2.0-liter turbo engine now delivers 255 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque.

      U.S. customers can choose from nine different colors for the SUV.

      Months after the launch of the completely redesigned third-generation Q3, Audi has announced that it will be available in U.S. dealerships in the first quarter of 2026, initially in one version.

      This variant, named the S Line Quattro, will have a starting price of $43,700, excluding the $1,295 destination and delivery fee, which is nearly $4,000 more than the base price of the previous model. Although the price increase is substantial, Audi appears confident that buyers will value the enhancements that come with it.

      It is common for new models to increase in price, but such a significant hike is unusual. The 2025 Q3 had a starting price of $39,800 before the same destination and delivery charge, making the new price particularly notable.

      Audi maintains that the 2026 version justifies this increase with updated styling, a refreshed interior, and a more powerful engine, though this justification may have its limits.

      More Power

      The Q3 S Line Quattro is powered by an advanced 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 255 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque, an increase of 27 hp and 22 lb-ft from the previous model. It is equipped with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission that sends power to all wheels via Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system.

      While it’s not a performance-oriented model, it can reach 60 mph in a competitive 5.5 seconds, which is 1.6 seconds faster than its predecessor.

      American customers will have the option to order the 2026 Q3 in one of nine colors, including a new shade called Sage Green. The SUV can also be fitted with wheels ranging from 18 to 20 inches and tire widths from 235 mm to 255 mm.

      All variants will come standard with the S line exterior package, which includes a Phantom Black grille, Selenite Silver front air intake frames, S line bumpers, and a matte black and Selenite Silver rear diffuser.

      How Different Is It Inside?

      The interior of the Q3 is notably different from its predecessor. It boasts all the expected upgrades for a new SUV generation, including a redesigned dashboard featuring a new infotainment screen and digital instrument cluster.

      One of the most significant changes is the removal of traditional steering column stalks, which have been replaced by two new control panels located on either side of the steering wheel.

      The right panel controls the transmission, while the left manages the indicators, windshield functions, and headlight switches. This new layout may take some time for drivers to adjust to, and it remains to be seen whether they will find it intuitive or frustrating.