What is it?
Audi has an exceptionally broad range of SUVs, more than almost any other manufacturer. At the top end of the spectrum, there’s the Q7 and Q8, but if you’re looking for something a bit smaller and more affordable, there is the Q2.
Though a little older than some of its rivals, Audi has more recently refreshed the model in order to keep it competitive.
What’s new?
Given that the Q2 was one of Audi’s best-sellers for a number of years, it’s understandable that the firm hasn’t messed too much with the formula. The design remains largely the same, but there’s a reprofiled front end with sharp new LED headlights, while the grille is positioned slightly lower too.
There’s a greater range of technology available too, including enhanced connected services and new driver assistance systems.
What’s under the bonnet?
Audi has trimmed down the range of engines available on the Q2, with only petrol models available now.
The range starts with a 108bhp 1.0-litre (badged 30 TFSI) paired to a six-speed manual gearbox, which can take the Q2 from 0-60mph in 11 seconds and can return up to 48.7mpg
Audi also offers a 148bhp 1.5-litre (35 TFSI) that can be had with a manual gearbox or seven-speed S tronic automatic gearbox. It’s quite a lot quicker – 0-60 mph takes 8.4 seconds – but only slightly behind in terms of fuel economy, returning around a claimed 46 mpg.
What’s it like to drive?
The Q2 offers a good driving experience by compact SUV standards, feeling closer to a hatchback than a large SUV. It’s very easy to drive around town with good visibility and pleasant controls making it a doddle to manoeuvre.
There’s the SQ2 if you want something a bit sportier, but even the standard Q2 is fairly good to pilot down a back road, while superb refinement makes it great for longer trips too. The ride is fairly firm on the largest alloy wheels, however.
How does it look?
Audi successfully managed to carry over the styling from its larger SUVs into the more compact Q2, and it’s immediately recognisable as an Audi. With a polygon-inspired design, the front end looks purposeful and angular, and standard features like alloy wheels and LED headlights look the part as well.
You might want to step up to the sportier S line and Black Edition models if you want something more eye-catching, especially the latter version.
What’s it like inside?
The interior of the Q2 is possibly the best thing about this SUV. It might not have the most modern cabin compared to newer Audis, but the cabin quality is hard to fault. It feels like a properly premium product behind the wheel.
Despite being Audi’s smallest SUV, there’s still a decent amount of room. It’s worth noting that it’s shorter than an Audi A3 hatchback, but two adults will still be able to sit comfortably in the rear seats. The boot is a decent size at 405 litres too.
What’s the spec like?
There are three versions of the Q2 available, with the range starting with the Sport. Standard features include 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, an electric boot and a 12.3-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit.
The S line brings sports suspension, bigger 18-inch alloy wheels and a more aggressive bodykit. At the top of the range, the Black Edition comes with big 19-inch black alloy wheels, along with a full gloss black package and a flat-bottomed sports steering wheel.
Verdict
If you’re looking for a premium compact SUV, you shouldn’t go any further than the Audi Q2. With an outstanding interior, refined driving manners and a high-end design, this is a car that feels every bit like a shrunken version of the brand’s larger SUVs.
Though it might be starting to get on in terms of age, the Q2 is still a clear winner for those wanting something premium on a smaller scale.
At Swansway Motor Group we offer the full range of new and used Audi cars, browse our current Q2’s in stock below.