Can the New Chery QQ3 Bring Back the Small Car Craze in the EV Era?

On the evening of February 6, the 2026 Chery QQ Joy Night event officially opened, and the new QQ3 started blind pre orders. Within 20 minutes, orders reached 10,579 units, drawing strong market attention. Known as a small car that carries the youth memories of people born in the 1980s and 1990s, the new QQ3 continues the “happy gene” of the QQ line while adding AI and electrification.

From classic mini car to electric model

In 2003, the Chery QQ entered the market as “the first car for young people.” With its compact design and affordable price, it became a popular urban car. Over more than a decade, cumulative sales reached 1.54 million units. It lowered the barrier to car ownership and built a user culture around style and fun. Activities like casual drives, car stickers, and listening to MP3s in the car became shared memories for a generation.

Today, the QQ brand keeps its cheerful identity but updates the concept with smart technology. The new QQ3 is positioned as a strong competitor in the A0 class pure electric segment. It follows the crossover style of the concept car, with a closed front grille, two tone side mirrors, semi hidden door handles, and crossover style wheel arches that add a sporty feel.

Classic elements are retained, including oval smoked headlights, a Q logo on the C pillar, and CHERY lettering on the doors. The mix of retro and technology defines its look. The car also includes an electric front trunk with 80 L capacity.

Size

• Length: 4,195 mm
• Width: 1,811 mm
• Height: 1,573 mm
• Wheelbase: 2,700 mm

Interior and smart features

The interior uses a two tone design. The earlier concept version featured a 15.6 inch central screen with computing power of 128 TOPS. Other features include AI voice interaction, a 256 color ambient lighting system, and air cooled wireless phone charging, aiming to balance technology and comfort.

The new QQ3 includes multiple AI systems such as the Lingxi smart cockpit and the Falcon 500 driver assistance system. Falcon 500 supports city NOA navigation on autopilot, full scenario parking, and city memory navigation.

Powertrain

The vehicle uses a 90 kW high efficiency motor and a lithium iron phosphate battery from Gotion High Tech. It adopts a rear motor rear wheel drive layout and a rear multi link independent suspension to balance handling and ride comfort.

Positioning

The new QQ3 represents not only a product update but also a modern interpretation of the small “people’s car.” By combining classic design cues with new technology, it aims to offer young users both emotional appeal and practical daily mobility.