Audi A3 e-tron (upcoming)

The Audi A3 e-tron is the commonly used working name for an upcoming compact all-electric Audi model that has been spotted repeatedly in prototype testing. While the final production name has not yet been confirmed, the A3 e-tron designation is widely used by media and enthusiasts due to its size, positioning, and historic name association.

This future model is expected to play a key role in Audi’s entry-level EV lineup, sitting below the A4/A6-sized electric models and targeting the premium compact segment in Europe and other global markets.

At this stage, Audi has not officially revealed the car, so much of what we know is based on prototype sightings, platform strategy, and Audi’s publicly stated roadmap.

Naming: Audi A3 e-tron or something else?

The name Audi A3 e-tron is not confirmed.

What we know:

• Audi has historically used “e-tron” branding for electric models
• The vehicle’s size and proportions closely match today’s Audi A3
• Test vehicles have been described internally and externally as A3-sized EVs

What we don’t know:

• Whether Audi will reuse the A3 name for a fully electric model
• If Audi will adopt a new EV-specific name, similar to the China-only E5
• Whether “e-tron” will remain part of the model name long term

Audi has already started simplifying its naming strategy, so a final name could differ significantly from current assumptions.

Positioning and segment

Based on current information, the upcoming A3-sized EV is expected to be:

• Audi’s smallest fully electric model at launch
• Positioned below the A4/A6 e-tron family
• A direct successor in spirit to the A3, but electric-only
• Competing with premium compact EVs such as electric hatchbacks and crossovers

It is likely to be offered primarily as a Sportback-style hatchback, aligning with Audi’s strengths in compact premium design.

Platform: likely MEB+ based

One of the strongest indicators from prototypes and supplier information is that the upcoming compact Audi EV will be based on the MEB+ platform from the Volkswagen Group.

What this suggests:

• 800-volt–capable electronics (depending on final spec)
• Improved efficiency compared to first-generation MEB cars
• More compact battery packaging
• Faster charging and better thermal management

MEB+ is intended as an evolution, not a revolution, meaning Audi can bring a compact EV to market faster while focusing investment on future SSP-based models later in the decade.

Design: clear A2 inspiration

One of the most interesting aspects of the prototypes is their design direction, which appears to reference the original Audi A2.

Observed and expected design elements:

• Short overhangs and upright proportions
• A more functional, efficient shape rather than aggressive sportiness
• Smooth surfaces and reduced visual complexity
• Emphasis on aerodynamics and interior space efficiency

This would mark a deliberate shift away from oversized wheels and aggressive lines, aligning with EV efficiency goals and urban usability.

If confirmed, this A2-inspired approach would be a unique design statement in Audi’s modern lineup.

Body styles

What we expect:

• A five-door Sportback / hatchback as the core body style

What remains unclear:

• Whether Audi will offer a Sedan or Avant variant
• If a crossover-style version could follow later

Given market trends and production efficiency, Audi is likely to start with one highly optimized body style.

Interior and technology

Audi has not shown the interior, but expectations are informed by recent launches.

Likely interior characteristics:

• Fully digital cockpit with next-generation MMI
• Fewer physical buttons, more touch and voice control
• New software architecture shared with upcoming Audi EVs
• Over-the-air updates as standard

What we don’t yet know:

• Screen sizes and layout
• Whether Audi will use Android Automotive OS
• Level of interior material quality compared to larger models

Given Audi’s premium positioning, the interior is expected to be clearly above mainstream MEB-based models, even if more restrained than A6 e-tron.

Drivetrain and performance

At this point, no confirmed technical specifications exist.

What is likely:

• Single-motor front-wheel drive as the base version
• Possible dual-motor quattro variant later
• Battery sizes optimized for compact packaging rather than maximum range

Expected priorities:

• High efficiency
• Real-world urban and motorway usability
• Competitive charging speeds for the segment

This model is unlikely to chase extreme power figures, focusing instead on balance, efficiency, and accessibility.

Production and timing

What we know:

• Prototypes are already undergoing real-world testing
• Audi has confirmed work on a new compact EV generation

What we don’t know:

• Final production location
• Official reveal date
• Market launch timing

Based on current development pace, a world premiere around 2026 with market launch shortly after is a realistic expectation.

What we know vs what we don’t know

What we know

• Compact Audi EV is in advanced prototype testing
• Likely based on MEB+
• A3-sized footprint
• Design appears A2-inspired
• Intended as Audi’s entry-level EV

What we don’t know

• Final model name
• Exact battery sizes and range
• Interior layout and software details
• Full drivetrain lineup
• Pricing and market availability

Why the upcoming A3-sized EV matters

This model is critical for Audi because it:

• Lowers the entry point to Audi EV ownership
• Brings electric mobility to a high-volume segment
• Signals a shift toward efficiency-driven design
• Bridges the gap until next-generation SSP models arrive

If Audi executes this car well, it could become one of the most important electric Audis of the decade, even without headline-grabbing specs.

As soon as Audi releases official information or the first camo-free prototype appears, this article can be expanded with confirmed specifications, interior details, and final naming. If you want, I can also:

• Prepare a speculation vs confirmation tracker
• Write a future comparison with ID.3 / Cupra Born
• Create a timeline article from A2 → A3 e-tron → SSP compact EVs