Audi adds new quattro models to local line-up

FIVE new all-paw Audi quattro editions are on the way complementing MY26 versions of the A3, Q7 and Q8 line-ups.

They are the A3 TFSI 150(kW) S line quattro in Sportback and Sedan, Q7 TDI 170(kW) S Line quattro and Q7 TFSI 185(kW) S line quattro and the RS Q8 TFSI quattro (full pricing details tabled below).

They form part of what Audi Australia describes as a “continued launch offensive” to “round out product renaissance in 2025, offering customers more choice and value in key segments”.

“These new inclusions across the A3, Q7 and RS Q8 model ranges are about providing the greatest choice possible for our customers,” said Audi Australia product manager Esther Choi.

“The inclusion of a quattro variant to the A3 range perfectly bridges the gap between A3 and S3 models, while the enduring popularity of the Q7 will only be further enhanced with the inclusion of these S line models with exceptional value and refined styling.

“The introduction of a second model to the RS Q8 ranks is recognition that even in this rarified air, our customers have very specific needs and requirements.”

Taking a closer look at the new additions in ascending size order we find the A3 TFSI 150 quattro S line Sportback and Sedan joining the brand’s most popular premium compact car that was revamped earlier this year across A3, S3, and RS 3 models.

That revamp brought a sportier look inside and out, new design elements, and added value for customers with the addition of S line to the A3, partly inspired by S model styling and features.

Audi says the latest iteration of these models receive revised exterior design with a redesigned Singleframe grille, new corporate identity, and a refreshed interior with the newly added quattro variants building on the A3’s comprehensive specification upgrades.

The newly added quattro variants of the A3 bring customers the following additions on top of the entry 110kW front-wheel drive model; all-wheel drive, a 2.0l TFSI engine with 150kW power and 320Nm of torque (+40kW and +70Nm); and a 0-100km/h time of 6.3 seconds that is 1.8 seconds faster than the existing model.

Additional differentiating equipment from the entry model includes 18-inch alloy wheels in a five-twin-spoke design in graphite grey, exterior auto-dimming, heated and folding mirrors, Audi Drive select, S line interior package inclusive of S embossed leather appointed upholstery, electric front passenger seat, colour ambient lighting and auto dimming interior rear-view mirror.

The new A3 quattros further benefit from the MY26 model upgrade with a 360-degree surround view camera, updated park assist plus which now assumes control of accelerating, braking, and changing gear when activated in the MMI, as well as updated traffic sign recognition and intersection assistant functionality.

The new Audi A3 TFSI quattro 150kW in both Sportback and Sedan is due to arrive at dealerships towards the end of 2025.

Moving to the new Q7 quattro variants which Audi is adding to the recently updated broader Q7 line-up we find the S line editions in diesel Q7 TDI quattro 170kW (previously referred to as the 45 TDI) and petrol Q7 TFSI quattro 185kW (previously called 45 TFSI).

Standard Q7 kit includes configurable adaptive air suspension, premium seven-seat versatility and exceptional child seat accommodation with five top-tether anchor points.

The quattro newcomers add a sporty S line exterior for the first time, providing significant visual impact along with “over $9000 of customer value included”, says Audi representing a $3600 premium over their non-S line edition counterparts.

Standard features include metallic paint or pearl effect paint (including S line specific colours of Chilli Red or Daytona Grey), 21-inch Audi Sport alloy wheels in a five-twin-spoke module design in satin grey with black inserts, black exterior styling elements and an S line exterior.

They also score black adorns the Singleframe grille, front and rear bumper trims, window strips, mirror caps, roof rails, and the Audi rings on the front and rear.

The S line edition also includes interior enhancements, including S line door entry sills with aluminium inlays front and rear, and illuminated S logos in the front sills, as well as interior headlining in black cloth.

Both new SUVs are due to arrive shortly in Audi dealerships.

And last but not least is the Audi RS Q8 that will sit alongside the range-topping RS Q8 performance, the new variant introducing a second premium choice between two Audi Sport-developed RS SUVs with two distinct performance outputs and equipment.

Powered by a V8 engine coupled with quattro drive the newcomer is said to deliver outstanding performance thanks to outputs of 441kW and 800Nm that facilitate acceleration from 0-100km/h in a scant 3.8 seconds equating to just 0.2 seconds behind its performance sibling which has 471kW and 850Nm of torque.

The V8 soundtrack is bolstered with a standard RS sport exhaust on both variants.

According to Audi Australia information the RS Q8 is fitted with high-performance steel discs measuring 420mm in front, clamped by 10 piston calipers in red, whereas the performance variant comes standard with carbon ceramic brakes for ultimate stopping power.

Rear brake discs on the RS Q8 measure 370mm with matching red painted callipers, capped by a unique wheel design; a six-Y twin spoke design available in four different finishes.

External additions when compared to its predecessor include HD Matrix LED headlights with Audi laser light and OLED rear taillights.

Supplementary Audi quattro model pricing*:

*Pricing excludes on-road costs.