Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: Audi India has started local assembly of the all-new Q3 at the Škoda Auto Volkswagen India (SAVWIPL) plant in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra, ahead of the SUV’s launch in India on October 16, 2026. The third-generation Q3 will arrive with updated styling, a redesigned cabin and new technology features.

The start of production marks an important step towards the arrival of the new-generation luxury SUV in India. Audi has confirmed that the India-spec model will be powered by a 2.0-litre petrol engine and equipped with the company’s quattro all-wheel-drive system.

Audi Q3 production starts in Maharashtra

The new Q3 is being assembled at the SAVWIPL manufacturing facility in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. Local production allows Audi to manufacture the SUV for the Indian market at the group’s existing facility rather than relying entirely on completely built-up imports.

Piyush Arora, Managing Director and CEO of Škoda Auto Volkswagen India, said the start of production demonstrates the capabilities of the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar plant and supports the group’s brands in India.

Audi Brand Director Balbir Singh Dhillon said the Q3 has been an important entry point to the Audi brand and described the new generation as a step towards expanding its customer base in India.

October 16 launch confirmed

Audi India has confirmed October 16, 2026, as the launch date for the new Q3. Bookings for the SUV are already open through the Audi India website, myAudi Connect application and authorised Audi dealerships.

The company has not yet announced the India-spec Q3’s official price or complete variant-wise equipment list. These details are expected to be disclosed closer to or at the launch.

The new Q3 will continue to occupy the compact luxury SUV segment, where it competes with models such as the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA.

2.0-litre petrol engine with quattro AWD

Audi has confirmed a 2.0-litre petrol engine for the Indian market. The SUV will also get Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system.

Detailed India-specific power and torque figures have not been included in Audi’s latest production announcement. Automotive reports, however, have indicated an expected output of around 204 hp and 320 Nm, with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. These figures should be treated as expected until Audi confirms the final specifications.

The new Q3 will therefore continue with a petrol-powered, all-wheel-drive configuration for the Indian market.

New design and updated cabin

The third-generation Q3 receives a substantial visual update compared with the outgoing model.

The SUV gets a redesigned front end with a new single-frame grille and revised lighting elements. Digital Matrix LED headlights and updated rear lighting are among the technology and design changes highlighted for the new generation.

Inside, Audi has redesigned the dashboard and introduced a digital-focused cabin layout. The new Q3 features a large central touchscreen along with a digital instrument display.

One notable change is the relocation of the gear selector to the steering column. This frees up space on the centre console and changes the layout of the front cabin.

Features expected on the new Q3

Audi has said the new Q3 will feature a range of segment-first technologies. The company has not yet disclosed the complete India-specific equipment list.

Reports on the new model have highlighted features such as digital Matrix LED lighting, OLED rear lights, illuminated Audi rings and powered front seats with memory functions. The SUV is also expected to offer a technology-rich cabin with a dual-screen display setup.

Other reported equipment includes a panoramic sunroof, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual-zone climate control, a 360-degree camera and a premium Sonos sound system. The final India-spec feature list will be confirmed by Audi.

Pricing details awaited

Audi has not announced the starting price of the new Q3 in India.

The outgoing Q3 is currently positioned below the upcoming model, while automotive industry reports have estimated that the third-generation SUV could be priced in the region of Rs 55 lakh to Rs 60 lakh, ex-showroom. This remains an estimate and is not an official Audi price announcement.

The official pricing, variants and detailed specifications are expected to be revealed when Audi launches the SUV on October 16.

Local assembly ahead of festive-season launch

With production now underway and bookings already open, Audi is preparing the new Q3 for its Indian market debut during the festive period.

The new generation combines a revised exterior, redesigned interior, updated technology and a 2.0-litre petrol-quattro powertrain. The launch will provide the final details on pricing, variants and equipment available to Indian buyers.

Conclusion

Audi India has begun local assembly of the third-generation Q3 at its Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar facility ahead of the October 16 launch. The SUV will get a 2.0-litre petrol engine, quattro all-wheel drive and a redesigned cabin, while pricing and complete specifications are still awaited.