Rumors regarding a new Audi RS Q3 have been circulating for some time, but a recent sighting by our spies in Spain caught what could be the first-ever SQ3. Based on the photos, the supposed SQ3 looks promising.

Although the prototype was driven completely uncamouflaged and might serve as an early development mule, key design elements at the rear make its identity difficult to hide. Across its three previous generations, the Q3 nameplate has never featured an official SQ3 variant, making this development a notable turn for the brand.

The clearest indicator that this is more than a standard crossover sits right at the back bumper. Four distinct exhaust tailpipes protrude from the rear, serving as a signature visual hallmark reserved for Audi S models.

Beyond the quad-exhaust setup, the performance crossover is expected to be easily distinguishable within the Q3 lineup by wearing the familiar S-Line exterior and interior styling packages.

Under the hood, the rumored SQ3 may likely house a 2.0L TFSI turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine. It is a familiar powerplant used in other Volkswagen Group offerings like the Cupra Formentor. Output for the SQ3 is speculated to match or even exceed the Formentor’s 333 PS figure, positioning it logically beneath the discontinued RS Q3, which pushed out 400 PS.

If these early road tests are any indication of Ingolstadt's future product roadmap, the Audi SQ3 could make its official debut and arrive in showrooms during Q2 2027.