The Audi Q3 III Sportback 1.5 TFSI e-hybrid, introduced in August 2025, represents a significant step in Audi’s commitment to plug-in hybrid technology within its popular compact SUV range. This variant, designated internally as FJ, combines a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined system output of 272 horsepower. Positioned as a mid-to-high range offering within the Q3 Sportback lineup, it caters to buyers seeking a balance of performance, efficiency, and the benefits of electric driving. The Q3 Sportback itself is a coupe-SUV derivative of the standard Q3, emphasizing a more sporty and dynamic aesthetic.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | Q3 |
| Generation | Q3 III Sportback (FJ) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 TFSI (272 Hp) e-hybrid S tronic |
| Start of production | August, 2025 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Coupe, SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 1.7-6.7 l/100 km |
| Combined fuel consumption (US mpg) | 138.4 – 35.1 |
| Combined fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 166.2 – 42.2 |
| Combined fuel consumption (km/l) | 58.8 – 14.9 |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 40-50 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 215 km/h (133.59 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6e |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.7 kg/Hp, 149 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 219.2 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 25.7 kWh |
| Net (usable) battery capacity | 19.7 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 400 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Under the rear seats |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 104-118 km (64.62 – 73.32 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 14-15.1 kWh/100 km |
| Average Energy consumption (kWh/100 mi) | 22.53 – 24.3 |
| MPGe | 150 – 139 |
| km/kWh | 7.1 – 6.6 |
| mi/kWh | 4.4 – 4.1 |
| Max speed (electric) | 140 km/h (86.99 mph) |
| Electric motor power | 116 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 330 Nm (243.4 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Between the combustion engine and the transmission |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 272 Hp |
| System torque | 400 Nm (295.02 lb.-ft.) |
| Power | 177 Hp @ 5500-6000 rpm |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-4000 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1498 cm3 (91.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74.5 mm (2.93 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.9 mm (3.38 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 14.9 l (15.74 US qt | 13.11 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1825 kg (4023.44 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2405 kg (5302.12 lbs.) |
| Max load | 580 kg (1278.68 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 375 l (13.24 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1196 l (42.24 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1700 kg (3747.86 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Length | 4531 mm (178.39 in.) |
| Width | 1859 mm (73.19 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2087 mm (82.17 in.) |
| Height | 1559 mm (61.38 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2681 mm (105.55 in.) |
| Front track | 1588 mm (62.52 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1581 mm (62.24 in.) |
| Front overhang | 940 mm (37.01 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 910 mm (35.83 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.35 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 17° |
| Departure angle | 25° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric motor drive the front wheels of the car with the ability to work in full electric or mixed mode. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission S tronic |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/55 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Q3 Sportback 1.5 TFSI e-hybrid lies the VW Group’s EA211 family 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, identified by engine code DNV, produces 177 horsepower and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque. It features direct fuel injection and a Miller cycle combustion process for improved efficiency. The engine is paired with a 116 hp electric motor integrated between the engine and the seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission. The electric motor draws power from a 19.7 kWh (usable) lithium-ion battery pack located under the rear seats. The combined system output of 272 hp and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) allows for brisk acceleration. The S tronic transmission is crucial for seamless transitions between electric, hybrid, and gasoline power modes.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 TFSI e-hybrid offers a refined driving experience. In electric-only mode, the vehicle provides near-silent operation and instant torque, making it ideal for urban commuting. The all-electric range of 104-118 km (64.62 – 73.32 miles) is sufficient for many daily commutes. When the battery is depleted or additional power is needed, the gasoline engine seamlessly kicks in. The S tronic transmission provides quick and smooth gear changes. While not as overtly sporty as some higher-powered Q3 variants, the e-hybrid delivers ample performance for most driving situations, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 6.5 seconds. The weight of the battery pack does add some mass, slightly impacting handling compared to the standard Q3, but the low center of gravity helps to mitigate this.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Q3 Sportback 1.5 TFSI e-hybrid typically comes well-equipped as standard. Features include Audi’s Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, automatic climate control, and a suite of driver-assistance systems such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Interior upholstery is typically a combination of cloth and leatherette, with optional upgrades to full leather available. Exterior features include LED headlights, alloy wheels (typically 18-inch), and a sporty body kit. Optional extras include a panoramic sunroof, premium sound system, and adaptive cruise control.
Chassis & Braking
The Q3 Sportback 1.5 TFSI e-hybrid utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both axles to reduce body roll. The braking system consists of ventilated front discs and solid rear discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic stability control are standard features. The suspension tuning is generally geared towards comfort, but it still provides adequate handling for spirited driving.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Q3 Sportback 1.5 TFSI e-hybrid has been generally well-received by automotive critics. It is praised for its fuel efficiency, smooth ride, and refined interior. Compared to the standard Q3 45 TFSI (2.0-liter gasoline engine), the e-hybrid offers significantly better fuel economy and the ability to drive in electric-only mode. However, the 2.0-liter engine provides more outright performance. Compared to the Q3 40 TDI (diesel), the e-hybrid offers lower emissions but may not match the diesel’s long-distance fuel economy. The e-hybrid is positioned as a premium offering, and its price reflects that.
Legacy
The Audi Q3 Sportback 1.5 TFSI e-hybrid represents a key step in Audi’s electrification strategy. The EA211 engine coupled with the electric motor and S tronic transmission has proven to be a reliable powertrain in other VW Group vehicles. Long-term reliability is expected to be good, although the complexity of the hybrid system may require specialized maintenance. On the used car market, these models are likely to hold their value well due to their fuel efficiency and environmental benefits. As battery technology continues to improve, the Q3 Sportback e-hybrid will likely become an increasingly attractive option for buyers seeking a practical and eco-friendly compact SUV.
