Audi will introduce a new Q3 before the end of the year, with more space and more technology.

It will feature a digital cabin, incorporating the Audi Virtual Cockpit and a large 10.1-inch MMI touch display.

A wide variety of driver aids, offering support when parking, in town and on long journeys are fitted.

Initially, Sport or S line specification will be available with a choice of three petrol and one diesel engine.

The entry-level engine is a 1.5-litre TFSI petrol with 150PS. It uses the cylinder on demand efficiency system, which temporarily switches off two cylinders at low load.

A more powerful 2.0-litre TFSI unit will be available with 190PS or 230PS. Both use a seven-speed automatic gearbox and use quattro permanent all-wheel drive.

There will also be a 2.0-litre 150PS diesel. A 190PS version is expected following the initial launch.

Audi is positioning the new model in the upper compact SUV segment, set to rival the Volvo XC60 and BMW X3.

It is longer and wider than its predecessor, but five millimetres lower. Audi says there is more knee room, headroom and elbowroom for passengers.

The luggage compartment is accessed via an electrically powered tailgate, with a capacity ranging from 530 to 675 litres depending on the position of the rear seats and backrests.

Connected services provide high-resolution satellite images of Google Earth, traffic information online, point-of-interest search as well as information on parking spaces and filling stations, which appear directly on the navigation map.

Many Audi connect functions are brought together in the myAudi app. It connects the driver’s smartphone to the new Q3, allowing, for instance, navigation routes to be imported seamlessly via myAudi Navigation.

The app also supports music streaming and transfers the smartphone calendar onto the MMI. Furthermore, the user can remotely lock and unlock their car, consult the current vehicle status and pinpoint where their Audi Q3 is parked using the myAudi app on their smartphone.

Blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning and pre-sense autonomous emergency braking is included as standard. Optionally, drivers can choose adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist and active lane assist.

The new Audi Q3 will become available to order in the UK in the autumn ahead of first deliveries in late 2018. Pricing and full UK specification will be confirmed nearer to the introduction date.