Automakers typically update switchgear in their higher-end models before the new technology is introduced in more affordable cars. The 2026 Q3 sits near the bottom of the lineup, yet it ushers in a new feature that’s sure to spark controversy. The compact luxury crossover no longer has conventional stalks mounted on the steering column. Instead, it adopts a horizontal bar installed behind the wheel.
But that’s not the most interesting part. The windscreen wiper controls are no longer where you’d expect them. They’re now located on the left side of the steering wheel, where Audi has installed a small dial to adjust the wipers’ intensity. The outer edge of the bar features a button that activates a single sweep of the windshield; press it longer, and the washer engages.
The rear wiper is now operated by a separate button, also on the left side, with a long press triggering the washer. The turn signal controls still move up and down, but only the tip of the bar moves. Activating the high beams is done by pressing the outer edge of the bar, while pushing it toward you performs a single high-beam flash.
At this point, you’re probably wondering: Why the change? The wiper controls were relocated to the left side, allowing Audi to free up space on the right side of the steering wheel for the gear selector. This allowed the center console to be decluttered, making room for a pair of cup holders. A sliding cover now conceals dual USB-C ports and a cooled, 15-watt inductive charging pad.
We reckon it’ll take some time to get used to what Audi calls its “new steering wheel control unit.” It doesn’t look intuitive at first, but perhaps owners will get the hang of it quickly. Audi insists this isn’t a change for the sake of change, but then again, what was wrong with the old layout? After all, conventional stalks have been around for decades, and we haven’t heard people complaining.
2026 Audi Q3 gear selector
Photo by: Audi
2026 Audi Q3 center console
Photo by: Audi
Logic suggests that other models will eventually adopt this layout, as it likely wouldn’t be cost-effective to implement the horizontal bar in just one vehicle.
While a novelty for Audi, there have been other cars with a combination stalk that bundled more controls than the usual. From Fiat to Mercedes, it’s been done before, but Audi thinks the time has come to modernize the setup.