Audi’s Digital Matrix Micro LED Headlights in Action
I recently tested the new 2026 Audi Q3 and was impressed by its refined finish, especially for an entry-level crossover from a luxury German manufacturer. One of the most notable features involved the new Digital Matrix LED headlights. Usually, press tests take place during the day, so I wouldn’t have been able to experience this technology. But this time, Audi organized a night drive to demonstrate how they work – and I can confirm they are truly exceptional.
A Revolutionary Lighting Technology
Like previous versions, this new system illuminates the road ahead, distributes light where it’s most needed, and avoids dazzling oncoming or preceding vehicles. The novelty lies in the Light Guidance technology, using micro LEDs to project various images or graphics onto the road to enhance your safety.
25,000 Micro LEDs Per Projector
Each headlight has two projectors, one for high beams and one for low beams. Each contains 25,000 micro LEDs – and to give you an idea of their size, Stephan Berlitz, head of exterior lighting development at Audi, specified that each micro LED is half the thickness of a human hair.
Advanced Safety Features
These headlights not only provide completely glare-free high beams, but they also play an active role when driving in the dark or in wet weather. One of their new tricks is to guide you on country roads that might be unfamiliar to you. When approaching a curve, the camera-based system reads the road markings well in advance.