Testing of the 2016 Audi Q3 continues in the third quarter of 2014, as the Germans are slowly removing the camouflage from their BMW X1->ke2474 competitor. Last time our paparazzi spotted it in June 2014, the crossover->ke288 was camouflaged to the teeth. Three months later, the Q3's body has more room to breathe, although the swirly wrap still covers the essential parts. Specifically, Audi is not yet willing to unveil the exterior modifications it prepared for the facelifted Q3.

Fortunately enough, some of the updates are visible, and we notice, once again, that the Q3 is getting a brand-new front grille. The unit has been slightly reshaped, but the important novelty is that it has received horizontal slats instead of the vertical bars seen on the current model. With this new grille, Audi->ke14 makes the Q3 appear wide and sportier; a wise touch. Larger air intakes in the bumper and revised headlamps complete the new front fascia, while the rear end boasts a set of refreshed taillights with new graphics and a more pronounced bumper. The Germans have meddled with the side skirts as well, but nothing too drastic.

We expect Audi to keep the current engine lineup, but work on the internals for improved output and reduced CO2 emissions. The U.S.-spec, 2.0-liter, TFSI engine is likely to generate more than the 200 horsepower it comes with nowadays.

Click past the jump to read more about the facelift Audi Q3.

Spy Shots

Why it matters

Unlike other models Audi is updating these days, the Q3 is indeed worthy of the word "facelift." The new front grille and bumper change the Q3's appearance rather dramatically, and although it's far from being as aggressive as the beefed-up SQ3, the facelifted Q3 will make a bigger impact on its future customers.