First Drive Review: 2026 Audi Q3 Is Held Back by Its Finicky Transmission

There’s just one powertrain, a 255-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission driving all four wheels.

The Q3 starts at $43,700 with basic white paint and three interior color choices. Adding one of the other eight colors will cost $595. The main options are 19- or 20-inch wheels (18-inch ones are standard) and four packages, such as the driver assistance package we chose, as well as a Sonos-branded sound system or a head-up display. With options, the Q3 S line quattro we purchased anonymously at a local dealership came out to $48,320, including the $1,295 destination charge. 

Once we complete 2,000 break-in miles, we’ll put the Q3 through more than 50 tests at the Consumer Reports Auto Test Center, including empirical tests of acceleration, braking, handling, and usability. Consumer Reports members will have access to the full road-test results as soon as they’re available.

What we bought: 2026 Audi Q3 S line quattro
Powertrain: 255-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine; 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission; all-wheel drive 
Base MSRP: $43,700
Options: Glacier White Metallic paint, $595; Driver Assistance Package (active driving assistance, heated steering wheel, park assistance plus, top view camera), $1,250; 19-inch wheel package with all-season tires, $800; Audi Beam Rings, $300; All-weather floormats, $230; Wheel locks, $150 
Destination fee: $1,295
Total cost: $48,320
Final assembly: Gyor, Hungary