This time we test drive an interesting new Audi, the Q2, which follows in the footsteps of its big brother, the Q3.
The Q2’s looks are sure to divide opinion. While Audi’s new models are clearly going in a more angular direction in terms of looks, the Q2 raises the bar to a new level.
The styling is very trendy and different from other models, which might attract younger buyers in particular to the showroom.
The large grille on the front bumper is octagonal, unlike other models. The side lines of the car at the doors are shaped like a double-headed arrow, which gives the car a fine sense of rigidity and makes the side profile look sturdy.
The design of the rear end, especially the lights, is reminiscent of the Volkswagen Polo’s rear lights. The relatively high ground clearance and tyre profile, combined with the 17-inch tyres, make the Q2, built on the same platform as the A3, look tall. In length, the Q2 is just over 10 centimetres shorter than the A3.
A tent for camping?
In addition to its design, the car offers some interesting equipment as standard, at least for the long, dark Finnish winters.
The car comes standard with LED headlights, automatic high beams and wipers, pedestrian detection and cruise control.
As an option, of course, a comprehensive range of safety and comfort equipment is available, just like Audi.
The list includes a virtual instrument cluster, adaptive cruise control and parking assistance.
When parking the car, Parking Assist takes care of turning the steering wheel itself, leaving the driver to operate only the accelerator and brake.
One interesting accessory available from Audi’s online shop is a large tent that attaches to the rear of the car. The same tent fits all current Audi Q-series models and some older models, starting with the 2009 Q5 and Q7 models.
The easy everyday companion
As a car, the Q2 is very comfortable, agile and easy to get around in everyday life. Its relatively small size makes it easy to park in the smallest of spaces. The ground clearance makes it easy to get in and out of the car.
The car’s front doors go all the way to the side skirt and sill, which reduces the build-up of mud and loose dirt on the side skirts, keeping trouserlegs tidier.
Another interesting little detail is that the side pockets in the front doors of the car are designed to accommodate a drinks bottle of up to 1.5 litres.
Compact and stable
As for engine options, I think the most popular engine to choose for the new Q2 models will be the 1.4 TFSI petrol engine. This 150 horsepower engine is available in both auto and manual transmission, but the model is always front-wheel drive.
Fuel consumption is promised to be 5.5 litres either side, depending on the gearbox. Those looking for a four-wheel drive model will have to opt for the two-litre diesel that was also in the test car.
As a driving experience, the Q2 itself brings nothing new and wonderful, but the ride is assured and unsurprising. The two-litre diesel’s 150bhp and 400Nm of torque make the compact car very responsive and acceleration is very good even at higher speeds.
Fierce competition in Europe’s most popular car category
Currently, this most popular car category in Europe, compact SUVs, is growing like mushrooms in the rain and competition is following suit.
Growth is more buoyant in the lower-priced models, but at a starting price of just over €30,000, the Q2 offers a tasty alternative for many car enthusiasts.
Its closest rivals are the BMW X1 and Mercedes GLA. Among the more affordable brands, rivals include the Citroën C4 Cactus, Nissan Juke, Opel Mokka and Peugeot 2008.
Audi’s own Q range will continue to grow over the next couple of years, with the launch of the mid-size Q4 and the large Q8 in the luxury segment. An updated version of the familiar Q5 has also just been launched.
Starting with price, looks and quality, the Q2’s definite strengths are the new Q2. Today’s consumers are willing to pay more for quality and from a Finnish perspective, in this improving economic climate, the Q2 is sure to attract new customers from outside the brand.
Definite pluses:
- Good and agile handling
- Appearance
- Price vs. quality (starting price €30,183)
Minuses:
- Tyre noise at higher speeds
