Audi Q2 caused quite a stir when it was first released in 2017, with its distinctive polygonal design style standing out from a lot of more conservative SUVs in its segment. Sales proved that the design was popular.
Fast forward to 2021 and Audi has just released an updated version with contemporary new design, refined engine selection and improved value.
Audi Q2 Model range
The new Audi Q2 comes in two models:
- Q2 35 TFSI 1.5L Front wheel drive 110kW priced from $42,900 MLP* and
- Q2 45 TFSI 2.0L quattro S line 140kW priced from $49,900 MLP*
*Manufacturer List Pricing [MLP] – excludes dealer delivery and government statutory charge and options.
Audi Q2 Exterior Style
Audi tells us that Australian consumers are amongst the most discerning worldwide when it comes to style and design, so the update is focussed on enhancing an already excellent design.
The Polygon theme carries through the front grill, shoulder line and now extending to the rear. Low on the front there are integrated angular diffuser inserts with large pentagons on both sides.
The S Line theme has pentagonal air inlets as well. Carrying the refreshed familial theme through, the single frame grill sits slightly lower, enhancing a more prominent bonnet and giving a wider appearance.
As standard there are LED headlights with LED DRLs, auto high beam and LED tail lights
18 inch alloy wheels are now standard across the range but unfortunately no full size spare wheel.
The Q2 range is available in up to 11 exterior colours and two interior colour combinations, depending on the model.
Audi Q2 Interior Style
All Audi’s seem to have a blend of style, comfort and functionality that is hard to match. The Q2 is no exception.
The leather faced seats are comfortable, manually adjusted and even though they don’t have additional lumbar support they feel good to sit in.
As most readers know I am larger than the average bear, yet I still managed to find a very relaxing driving position and the thick steering wheel feels just right in the hands.
All the test vehicles we drove had the Audi virtual cockpit option.
I really like the simplicity of the round A/C vents, old school. Audi have changed the transmission lever, it’s still good and works well, I just liked the old lever a little more.
Controls of the 8.3 inch MMI screen come from the dial on the centre tunnel. Its relatively easy to use but sometimes it takes a while to dial through the menus, especially in Apple Car Play. In isolation it works, but when compared to the latest generation touch screen system in the Q5 it feels a little fussy. But it’s all price sensitive.
The screen itself has that stuck on tablet look, some people love it, and some are ambivalent. You get used to it and it adds to the charm.
Rear seats are tight, as are most vehicles in this class, and to be hones this car will mainly be for two occupants only. Given that there is generous boot room and with flat folding seats an abundance of practicality.
Audi Q2 Model Walk
For convenience, both Q2 models now include heated exterior mirrors and convenience key, as well as MMI navigation plus with MMI touch (including its 8.3-inch colour display).
The 35 TFSI continues to offer:
- LED headlights,
- contrasting bumpers and C-pillar,
- leather-appointed seats and steering wheel,
- dual-zone climate control,
- digital driver information display as well as
- Audi smartphone interface and phone box light wireless charging
In addition, the 40 TFSI quattro S line adds:
- a new Audi Sport 18-inch alloy wheel,
- Audi drive select,
- electric tailgate,
- sport front seats,
- auto-dimming interior mirror and
- Aluminium interior accents.
A style package is available for $2,690 or $3,490 for the 40 TFSI and 35 TFSI models respectively, including:
- exclusive 19-inch Audi Sport alloy wheels,
- Matrix LED headlights with front/rear dynamic indicators,
- Audi virtual cockpit,
- Extended black exterior styling package and (for the 35 TFSI only) full body paint finish.
As an alternative, the premium package is available from $2,950 for the 40 TFSI and $3,050 for the 35 TFSI and includes:
- adaptive cruise control with Stop&Go,
- active lane assist,
- park assist,
- hill hold assist,
- heated/folding/dimming exterior mirrors,
- privacy glass,
- 180W Audi sound system,
- front heated seats,
- auto-dimming interior mirror and
- Audi virtual cockpit.
While providing set packages is a good idea, there seems to be a bit of a crossover in the packages with Audi virtual cockpit in both, but if I was buying one I would want the Matrix LED headlights as they are awesome, as well as heated front seats etc. That proves a dilemma.
Audi Q2 Engines
Both models have a 7 Sp S tronic transmission.
The first if the two engines is the new 1.5L 110kW TFSI with an innovative cylinder on demand function that shuts down two of its four cylinders imperceptibly at low throttle load and engine speeds, resuming full power seamlessly as required.
Outputs are power of 110kW @ 5,000 rpm and torque of 250Nm @ 1,500 – 3,500 rpm driving the front wheels through. It’s this wide torque spread that allows the engine to feel like it’s much larger and the COD to improve the economy. Quite clever actually.
It will go from 0-100kmh in 8.6 second and tops out at 218kmh. Economy is an ADR figure of 5.2L/100K. This engine has adequate performance for most drivers and situations. It’s zippy and responsive.
The second engine is the 2.0L TFSI that has outputs of power of 221kW @ 5,300 – 6,500rpm and torque of 400Nm between 2,000 – 5,200 rpm. It will go from 0-100kmh in 6.5 seconds and tops out at 250kmh. Economy is an ADR figure of 7.0L/100K
This engine has always been a gem and the relatively high torque low in the revs with a wide flat spread makes this a breeze to drive both spritely and economically depending on driver’s choice.
Audi Q2 Safety Features
The Q2 has been awarded a five-star Euro NCAP and ANCAP safety rating,
Features include:
- Audi pre-sense city (AEB) with
- pedestrian and cyclist detection,
- side assist, Blind Spot warning
- cruise control,
- parking system plus with sensors and
- Rear camera, as well as tyre pressure indicators and six airbags are standard on both models.
Unfortunately a lot of expected safety features such as Adaptive cruise control with Stop & Go function and emergency assist, active lane assist, Hold assist come as part of the Premium package option.
Audi Q2 Buyers Benefits:
All Audi vehicles are covered by a manufacturer 3 year unlimited kilometre warranty with up tp two additional years available as an option as well as 3 years roadside assistance.
A comprehensive five-year Audi service plan package is also available for both models, priced at $2,280.
Audi Q2 Quick Thoughts
Right from the first launch in 2017 I have been a fan of the Q2. It is distinctive and stylish in a segment that can oscillate from bland to trying too hard.
It’s a perfect size for inner city urban SUV as well as weekend getaway for a couple.
The latest updates add subtle style enhancements and better value to an already excellent vehicle.
The 35 TFSI is a great vehicle, but my pick would definitely be the 40 TFSI Quattro. Given a choice I would always avail myself of the safety and handling benefits of AWD and the engine is just more responsive!
A more detailed review is coming in a few weeks when we have the vehicles for a full road test.
Previous Audi Q2 Articles
- Audi Q2 40 TFSI Quattro #2 Radio Review
- Audi Australia announces the Q2 Edition #2
- AUDI Q2 2.0 TDI Quattro S Tronic Overview
- 2017 Audi Q2 2.0L TDi Quattro Review
- Audi Q2 14 TFSI and 20 TDI quattro S tronic OzRoamer launch review
- Audi Q2 14 TFSI and 20 TDI quattro S tronic launch review
- All New Audi Q2 SUV Preview
