2023 Audi Q3 Is Getting Mid-Cycle Refresh?

It’s been a while since Audi’s small crossover was redesigned. The current generation has been around since 2019 and the 2023 Audi Q3 will represent the fifth model year. Therefore, it’s no wonder that some sources speculated about a facelift. At this point, the officials are still quiet but it wouldn’t be a surprise if we see some styling updates. In any case, the overall design will remain the same and we expect that the current generation will remain in production for a few more years.

You may count on familiar design characteristics, starting from a smooth and refined ride. We also like the generous features list, as well as the elegant cabin. On the other hand, the biggest complaints go to the small cargo area and unrefined transmission.

At this point, we are still waiting to hear something from the officials regarding updates. However, even if they happen, we believe that the new model won’t hit the market before the last quarter of the year.

2023 Audi Q3 Design

As we’ve just mentioned, several sources speculate about a facelift. At this point, the officials are still quiet but we believe that we could predict some of the changes. Of course, the focus would be on the styling and we presume that the 2023 Audi Q3 would come with a new front-end design, while certain revisions would come in other areas as well.

On the other hand, the mechanical aspect would remain unchanged. This model is a little bit different compared to the rest of Audi’s crossovers, as it rather rides on the MQB platform. This architecture is common among VW models like Golf and Atlas, and it is generally reserved for mainstream brands of the VW Group. Therefore, it’s no wonder we are essentially talking about FF layout, with a transversally mounted engine. Still, all-wheel-drive is standard, though instead of Audi’s famous Quattro system, this one comes with a Haldex differential.

Interior

We don’t believe that bigger interior changes could happen, even if the company decides to do a mid-cycle refresh. Simply, the current model already looks very elegant, while the build quality is at Audi’s typical level. The materials are generally high quality, though there are certain areas with low-rent materials. Typically for Audi, there is a long list of tech features, which makes this cabin look even nicer.

The Q3 comes with two rows of seats and a capacity for five. However, as we are talking about a subcompact crossover, it makes sense that taller passengers probably won’t feel too comfortable in the second row. On the other hand, the front seats are massive and supportive, while leather upholstery is part of the standard equipment.

The cargo area offers around 24 cubic feet behind the second row and 48 cubic feet of the total cargo volume, which is a little bit below-average for the segment.

Features

Novelties in this aspect are always possible, especially in the case of a mid-cycle refresh. Still, the number of new things won’t be significant in this case, considering that the current model is already equipped pretty well. It comes standard with goodies like a sunroof, tri-zone climate control,  an 8.8-inch touch screen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, four USB ports, a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster, HD Radio, and a 10-speaker stereo.

The same thing is with optional features. The current model already comes standard with goodies like remote start, proximity keyless entry, a 10.1-inch touch screen, handwriting recognition, gesture controls, wireless device charging, wireless Apple CarPlay, satellite radio, a 15-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, and the 12.3-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit.

2023 Audi Q3 Engines

The 2023 Audi Q3 should continue with two familiar powertrain options. Base models will continue with a 2.0-liter turbo-four that puts out around 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. That is enough for no more than mediocre performance. Fortunately, there is a more powerful version of the engine, with a max output of 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Driving dynamics are notably better in this case, though both engines come with a pretty big turbo lag.

Both engines come in pair with an 8-speed automatic transmission, which feels rough in certain situations. The base engine returns around 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, which is decent for the class.

2023 Audi Q3 Release Date and Price

We expect that the 2023 Audi Q3 will arrive sometime in the last quarter of the year, with a starting price of around 37.000 dollars. Key competitors are models like BMW X1, Volvo XC40 etc.