First of its kind, the new Audi Q7 is a small SUV that combines genuinely compact dimensions with a properly posh badge. It is the latest addition to the brand’s Q family of SUVs and crossovers in India. After the massive Q7, the right sized Q5 and compact Q3, the new Q2 sits a class apart from its brothers. Despite the small stature, the Audi Q2 has some surprisingly powerful engines and an interior worthy of the famous four-ringed badge. It is sure to give some tough competition to its rivals like BMW X2, Ford Puma or Volkswagen T-Roc.
Designed to appeal to younger customers, this compact SUV is ready to win the hearts of a buyer with its chiselled features. The Q2 is 4.2 meters long, with a strong shoulder line, gently bulging wheel arches and fast roof-line. The wide rectangular nose with its multiple trapezoidal details, the sharp cuts and ridges catching the light, the T-shaped pattern in the headlights and tails lights also work well. Although the Q2 is neither an SUV nor a hatch, it is comfortable in its own skin and not awkward looking; a malady suffered by a good many crossovers.
On the inside, the Q2 has as much space as an average mid-sized family SUV, but the packaging is still good. Both front seats are comfortable, the driving position is a little elevated, but the lack of powered seats and no-touchscreen main infotainment system stands as a drawback. Surprisingly, the passenger seats are comfortable, and there is not much lack of leg-space. Other noteworthy features may include big sun-roof, wireless charging tray, ten speaker 180W sound system, USB ports in the back, leather wrapped flat-bottom steering, and a decent 405-litre boot space.
Eager, planted and reassuring- these three adjectives may often be antonyms of one another but seamlessly blend together to sit like a crown when the Q2 is set into motion. The 2.0 litre TSFI petrol engine produces 184bhp of power and has peak torque of 320Nm. Ably helped by a power-to-weight ratio, the Q2 pulls fast and clean. With multiple driving modes available, the Q2 does offer something unique with each and yet retains its chirpy drive flavour. Audi claims it can hit 100kmph in 6.5 seconds and it is easy to see, and feel-that it is a claim with some weight. Unlike some other rivals, the Audi Q2 is available with four-wheel drive, albeit only on the most potent petrol and diesel engines. And the most potent of them is 296bhp, 2.0 litre, four-cylinder turbo that’s fitted to the range topping SQ2. The Q2 also comes with a dual-clutch gearbox, which is quick on the draw during regular driving, and allows you to snap through the gears smartly.
The Audi Q2 is an attractive proposition for its stand-apart looks, practical dimensions, superb drive dynamics and the fact that it is coming from a brand that many aspire to own. For those looking to break into the luxury SUV segment, the Q2 makes a solid case. Audi is bringing in the Q2 via the CBU route and this means it is to be priced somewhere between INR 35 Lakh and INR 40 Lakh.
