Audi claims to be inventing a new segment with its Q2 small premium crossover, the first examples of which will hit UK roads in November.
Described as a new design direction for the brand, the Q2 is likely the most lifestyle-pitched model yet seen from Audi. Amongst its options will be many personalisation choices, including the ability to individually specify the colour of the wide C pillar.
Audi personnel say that interest in the car has been extremely high, and they are expecting it to be a major success.
Initially Q2 models will cost from £22,380, but this will drop to £20,230 before the end of 2016 when the 1.0 TFSI three-cylinder version joins the range to assume the role of entry-level model.
Engines at launch range across the 150hp 1.4 TFSI, with manual and S tronic gearboxes, the 116hp 1.6 TDI, in manual form with an S tronic to follow in late 2016, and the 150hp 2.0 TDI. Initially this will only be on sale with a quattro all-wheel-drive transmission and S tronic gearbox but a front-wheel drive version will join the range in 2017.
The familiar SE, Sport and S line trim levels will be offered, along with an ‘Edition 1’ trim presented as the range-topper and including Quantum grey paint, LED lights, Amaretto brown interior highlights, illuminated inlays, contrasting Manhattan grey lower body parts and other detailing.
Standard equipment on all models will include progressive steering, Audi’s smartphone interface, the pre-sense front with pedestrian recognition radar-based crash-avoidance system, on S-Line models LED lights front and rear, and alloy wheels ranging in size from 16-inch on SE models to 19-inch on the Edition 1.
Audi is also emphasizing the range of technology that is cascading down from its larger cars to the Q2. Technology available includes the virtual cockpit, Audi Phone Box wireless charging, connected services and a head-up display.
Meanwhile driver aids that can specified for the car range across Adaptive cruise control with Stop&Go and Traffic Jam Assist, Audi Active Lane Assist, cross-traffic assist rear and emergency assist and the Side Assist blind-spot aid.
