By Ian Strachan.
Audi’s compact SUV – the Q2 – has been around for a few years. But Audi has kept it competitive with a series of updates and is still an attractive, well-priced and practical option in the compact SUV market.
Despite being the smaller of the excellent Audi SUV range, it still looks as purposeful as its bigger brothers. In its latest iteration it is also very comfortable and well-equipped.
In the 1.5 litre 35 TFSI spec which I tested it also has more than adequate power, with the 150PS engine linked to a smooth seven-speed automatic transmission. Expect to get more than 46 miles to the gallon in mixed driving.
Its pedigree is unmistakable. This is undoubtedly an Audi, with the distinctive deep Audi grille and pleasing lines. Inside it’s classy and comfortable, with plenty of creature comforts. Seats are very comfortable and the dashboard layout is intuitive.
The design of the latest Q2 takes some cues from other Audi vehicles, but its design is more muscular and geometric, with a broad-shouldered ready-for-anything stance. There’s also plenty of room for rear seat passengers, without compromising luggage capacity in the rear. You get an impressive 405 litres which can be increased to 1050 litres by folding the rear seats.
Despite being a fairly tall vehicle for its footprint, the Q2 handles better than many of its competitors. It is stable and predictable, with firm but comfortable suspension and flat cornering. Its manners are impeccable and it’s a great motorway cruiser. Steering is light but precise.
The Q2 has a top speed – where allowed – of 135 mph, and a 0-60 mph time of around 8.5 seconds.
Specification on the 35 TSFI that I tested is good, and includes air conditioning, cruise control with speed limiter, all-round electric windows and mirrors, stability control, nice 18-inch alloy wheels, roof spoiler, all-round parking sensors with rear camera, powered tailgate, automatic stop/start, satellite navigation and a good DAB radio with MP3 connections and Smartphone interface.
It’s an Audi, and Audi motoring doesn’t come cheap. The Q2 that I tested will cost you £39,095 on the road, plus £575 for the Arrow Grey pearl paint finish. But that’s still a bit less than some of its less well equipped competitors and you get the benefit of a high specification, a vehicle that won’t depreciate quickly, and a versatile and more than competent performer that looks good on your drive. The Q2 will continue to do well.
