Audi Q2

On the inside, Audi has followed a minimalist yet classy theme for the Q2, just how it did with the previous compact offerings like the A1, Q3, and A3. The overall dashboard layout looks very simple, yet not dated or boring. The three-spoke fat bottom steering wheel has been lifted off from the A1, however, the Q2 gets a more premium and advanced full TFT instrument console, which shows a range of data – from MID to navigation.

The Q2 has got the same design theme for the center console as seen on the Q3, with two big round AC vents at the center and popped-up touchscreen infotainment system above it and a host of buttons for dual zone climate control below it. The carbon fiber finish on the dashboard as well as center console lends a sporty touch to the all-black cabin. While the space at the rear is at premium thanks to the low roofline and small wheelbase, it seats four adults with quite an ease.

On the outside, Audi has tried its level best to give the Q2 a rugged and SUV-like stance. However, the compact dimensions, as well as crossover silhouette, do not convince to perceive the Q2 as a compact SUV, instead, it looks like a hatchback on stilts.

The Audi Q2 has got an all-new front grille with tapered edges, unlike the sharp angular ones seen on previous SUVs from Audi. This grille is completely finished in gloss black, which gives the front fascia sinister appeal. The full LED headlamps too have the same tapered-from-edges design as well.

The side profile of the Q2 looks small, courtesy the limited wheelbase and low roofline. However, the sharp haunches above the front as well as rear wheels as well as body cladding at the bottom give the Q2 a rugged stance. Also, the choice of blackened or contrasting colored C-pillars do give a floating roof effect to the Q2, something unseen on previous Audis.

The rear profile of the Q2 sources a lot of inspiration from the new generation compact cars from the Volkswagen family, like the new Polo. The full LED tail lamps have a squared design, with the central portion of the rear boot given a bulging-out effect.

Given its target audience and most of the usage restrained in urban peripheries, its wise of Audi to ditch the more expensive Quattro all-wheel drivetrain for a more cost-effective front-wheel drive system. Nevertheless, the slightly stiff suspension setup and not-so-high ground clearance make the Q2 an energetic crossover to drive with limited body roll.

For the Q2, Audi has deployed its smallest engine in its current lineup – a 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, which produces 116 PS of maximum power and 200 Nm of torque. Also on offer is a more powerful 1.4-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine from the Q3, which generates 150 PS of power and 250 Nm of peak torque output. Both these engines are front wheel driven and miss out on Quattro four-wheel drive, and come mated to Audi’s 7-speed S-Tronic automatic transmission.

The Q2, being an offering from Audi, doesn’t skip out on the basics such as airbags all around, ABS with EBD, traction control, hill hold assist, hill descent control, vehicle stability control, cruise control, front and rear parking sensors with all around camera.

The Audi Q2 might not deserve to be called an SUV, owing to its too compact dimensions and sloping design, which qualifies more to be called a crossover. Nevertheless, this raised-on-stilts vehicle is high on style, with rugged SUV-like design elements giving it a youthful design. And being an Audi, it is high in premium appeal both in and out, and drives so effortlessly.