New Audi Q3 Sportback aims to show coupe-SUVs are just as popular as ever

We’ve just seen the covers come off the new Audi Q3 SUV and soon it’ll be time for the sleeker Q3 Sportback version - as these spy shots show once again.

As with the first Q3 Sportback, we know the new car will utilise the same design, technology and powertrains as its SUV cousin, so we already have a good idea what to expect when Audi reveals the second-generation model later this year. 

In terms of design the Q3 Sportback will share the same face as the SUV so despite the camouflage of this test car, we know the coupe-SUV will get the same split headlight arrangement with optional matrix beams, a single-frame grille and a smaller lower grille that helps give the Q3 a mini-Q5 appearance. 

The side profile really highlights the change to the Q3’s roofline, which more aggressively slopes towards the back to create a coupe-like shape. As is the case with the current Q3, Audi has done this at the same time as slimming the windows to give the car a sleeker silhouette than the more upright SUV. While the standard Q3 quite obviously shares the same body as the new Cupra Terramar in relation to the rear pillar, this is completely different with the Sportback, which has a distinct look from its Spanish cousin. 

Given the Sportback’s more ‘premium’ bodystyle, the Q3’s selection of wheel sizes from 17 to 20-inches may be limited to the larger rims. The same mix of Sport and S Line trim levels are expected to be taken from the regular Q3. 

Inside, meanwhile, the updated cabin will feature a brand-new dashboard and digital interface. Inspiration will come from the new Q5 for a design that will mirror the Q3 SUV’s, meaning we’ll get an 11.9-inch display for the driver and a 12.8-inch touchscreen in the centre of the dash featuring a new infotainment system. We’ll also find touch-sensitive buttons on the steering wheel and a new gearshift column behind it - moving from the centre console. 

While the roofline will be low, boot space should still be pretty impressive. The new Q3 in SUV form offers 575 litres with the rear seats up and we expect something in between that figure and the outgoing Sportback’s 530-litre capacity. 

Then there’s the list of powertrains. The Sportback should come with the same list of engines as the SUV so we should see 1.5-litre petrol mild-hybrid with 148bhp, a non-hybrid 1.5-litre petrol, a 2.0-litre diesel with 148bhp and then a pair of 2.0-litre, all-wheel drive quattro petrols - one with 263bhp and another with 200bhp. Expect a plug-in hybrid to be available too, with a 25.7kWh battery affording more than the 74.4-mile electric range of the less-aerodynamic Q3.

When the new Q3 Sportback arrives in the UK later this year, we expect it’ll be priced from around £40,000, rising to beyond £50,000 when fitted with one of its plug-in hybrid powertrains.

If you’re looking for a well-built, lavishly-equipped SUV, the current Q3 Sportback remains a solid shout. You can find great deals on the current Audi Q3 Sportback through out Find A Car service with prices starting from £37,140.

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