New Audi Q3 SUV Previewed Ahead of Shanghai Motor Show

Audi’s latest addition won’t be unveiled until the Shanghai Motor Show on 19 April. However, the Ingolstadt company has released sketches of its Q3 SUV, including a sneak peak of its cabin for the first time.

Think of the Q3 as Audi’s version of the X1, it is essentially a smaller iteration of the Q5 and is built on a shortened version of its platform. Design wise, it’s all very predictable with Audi’s latest corporate front end – a new slightly smaller grille with trapezoidal lower air intakes. The rear is also a scaled down version of the Q5’s rump.

The interior takes inspiration from the latest A6, with its pop-up screen and Audi’s trade mark asymmetrical dash layout. The sketches also depict various wood and aluminium inserts in the fascia which are likely to be only standard on high-spec Q3 models.

Power train will be similarly familiar with Volkswagen’s ubiquitous 2.0-litre TFSI petrol engine tuned to produce either 125kW or 155kW, or a 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine producing 125kW set to power the junior SUV. These will be matched to either a 6-speed manual or DSG gearboxes.

The Q3 will hit showrooms in late 2011. Stay tuned for official images and information closer to the Shanghai Motor Show.