Audi teases new Q2 10 | 02 | 2016
AUDI HAS RELEASED a teaser for its new Q2, the Ingolstadt company's smallest SUV which will make its official debit at next month's Geneva Motor Show.
Cleverly, the image shows Audi's Q7, Q5 and Q3 SUVs arranged in height order, with a 'reserved' place set aside for a new model, understood to be the Q2.
Styled by Audi design boss Marc Lichte, the Q2 was previewed previously as the Crosslane Coupé in 2012. Since then though, the design has moved on significantly.
Built on VW Group's MQB architecture, the Q2 — which naturally is smaller than the Q3 — will be pitched as a premium rival to the mainstream competitors, including the Nissan Juke and Renault Captur.
Sizewise, the Q2 — which, when it goes on sale later this year, is expected to start around £20,000 — will be similar in size to the three-door A3, which is 4237mm long and 1777mm tall, and has a 2601mm wheelbase.
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Expect the Q2 to boast a smaller version of the Q7's front grille and front bumper design, but with similar slimline LED headlight clusters. At the back of the small SUV, there's a resemblance to the A1 with the roofline ending in a boot-mounted lip spoiler. There will also be a chunky rear bumper, and body cladding will feature around the lower edges of the car.
As you would expect of an SUV, the Q2 will deliver raised-up seating positions.
A range of three and four-cylinder versions of VW Group's latest petrol and diesel engines will be fitted to the baby SUV, meaning 1.0, 1.2 and 1.4-litre petrol and 2.0-litre diesel.
And don't rule out a hybrid e-tron version of the Q2 later in its life, utilising the 201bhp hybrid powertrain — combining a 1.4-litre petrol engine with an electric motor — currently fitted in the A3 e-tron.
While the standard cars will be front-wheel drive, Audi will naturally offer its iconic quattro four-wheel drive on the Q2.
Buyers will also get the choice of a standard six-speed manual or, as an option, Audi's DSG transmission.
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Jim McGill