Audi has announced prices for the Q2 - the smallest of the Q range - which will be available from August with the base model priced at £20,230.
Dynamic styling
Head of Audi Design, Marc Lichte stated the new model is the result of a “bold new styling direction intended to appeal to a younger audience.” I’m young(ish) and I have to say, I’m not too sure on the looks. At first glance it looked pretty good and sharp but after a longer look I think the front headlights sweep back a little too far, plus I don’t like the profile of the car and I think the front grille is a little too big. But that is of course my personal opinion and I’m probably in the minority.
One thing that cannot be disputed however is the Q2’s dynamic styling which makes uses of a sweeping lines and edges. Another standout design feature on the new model are the C-pillars that come with an offset colour blades – Manhattan grey, Ice silver and Titanium are included depending on which trim is purchased. Completing the exterior design is a low sweeping roof with spoiler, 16” alloy wheels and a rear diffusor.
Which engines can be chosen?
Just two engines will be available to begin with, the 1.4 litre TFSI Cylinder-on-Demand petrol and the 1.6 litre TDI diesel which produce 148bhp and 113bhp respectively. Both engines come with a choice of a six-speed manual or a seven-speed S Tronic automatic. Two further engines will be available later in the year in the form of a 113bhp three-cylinder 1.0 TFSI and a 148bhp 2.0 TDI. A 2.0 litre TFSI will be added mid-2017 to add further grunt and will be mated to a S-Tronic automatic gearbox and Quattro all-wheel drive.
What about specification?
Three trims will be offered in the new model – SE, Sport and S Line. The SE may be the base model but that’s not to say you’ll be left wanting as there is a good level of kit as standard. Priced from £20,230, the SE includes Audi smartphone integration, Bluetooth, heated and electric mirrors, as well as a MMI screen placed on the instrument panel.
£1,550 more will get the Sport trim which adds 17” alloys, Audi drive select, cruise control, light and rain sensors, plus sport seats lined in cloth. Red or yellow trim can also be chosen for the interior and there is also of a choice of either Manhattan grey or body-coloured bumpers.
The virtual cockpit is avaible on the Q2 but it's an optional extra
The S Line sits at the top of the range with prices starting at £26,180 and includes 18” alloy wheels, S Line styling for the exterior, LED headlamps, LED rear lights with sweeping indicators, LED ambient lighting, brushed aluminium inlays, sports seats lined with cloth/leather and a perforated leather multi-function steering wheel.
The Q2 borrows technology from larger Audi models such as pedestrian recognition, adaptive cruise control with Stop & Go, traffic jam assist, lane-keeping assist, traffic sign recognition and rear cross-traffic assist. Audi’s virtual cockpit is also available as an option as well as a power electric tailgate.
What will be its competition?
Rivalling the Q2 will be the Mercedes GLA and the Mini Countryman, two cars that are certainly not short in the quality department. The Q2 undercuts the GLA by almost £5,000 but it is more expensive than the Countryman which comes with slightly less equipment, so the Q2 appears to have the upper hand. The SUV market is densely populated though so the chances are you can find something just as good but cheaper – the SEAT Ateca springs to mind, plus I think it’s better looking.
