The Audi Q2 is a subcompact luxury crossover SUV that Audi has developed and produced. Built on the same MQB A1 platform as the Mk7 series Volkswagen Golf, it made its public debut on March 1, 2016, at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show. The car is made at Relizane, Algeria, the FAW-Volkswagen plant in Foshan, China, and the Audi headquarters in Ingolstadt, Germany.
Since November 2016, it has been available in markets across Europe. The Q2 is not offered in the US or Canada, unlike Audi’s other crossovers. China sells a long-wheelbase model known as the Q2L.
Since November 2019, the Q2L e-tron, an all-electric variant, has been produced and sold in China. The Q2L e-tron is powered by a 38 kWh lithium-ion battery made by Contemporary Amperex Technology, a Chinese supplier, and has a range of 265 kilometers (165 miles) and a top speed of 150 kilometers per hour (93 mph). Its electric motor has a maximum output torque of 290 Nm and a maximum output power of 100 kW (134 hp) (214 lbfft). [2]
Due to disappointing sales and plans to switch Audi’s focus to selling larger premium crossovers and SUVs, Volkswagen AG announced in February 2022 that the Q2 will be discontinued when its current generation life cycle ends at the end of the 2023 model year. There is currently no replacement for the Q2 in the works.
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In This Article...
Will Q2 still be available?
At the conclusion of their present lifecycles, the Audi A1 city car and Q2 crossover will be discontinued from the Audi lineup. The company stated in an official statement that it intended to focus more of its efforts on its larger automobiles and electrification rather than on tiny cars.
According to the official statement: “[The current Q2] will continue for some time. We’re talking about a good number of years. However, we can confirm that when the Audi Q2 is phased out in a few years, there won’t be a straight replacement.” Within the Group, Audi is unmistakably establishing itself as a premium brand. As a result, it is expanding upward while restricting its model range below. Here, the methodical electrification plan will also be crucial. Audi will exclusively release new all-electric cars starting in 2026.
What is it?
The general public desires this. The official vehicle of the aspiring young people is a tiny crossover called the Q2, which is produced by Audi, the aspirational young people’s official brand.
Furthermore, it has a peculiar appearanceat least by four-ringed standardswhich serves as evidence. With the exception of the monstrous Q8, this is undoubtedly Audi’s least safe design, and you won’t confuse it with any other vehicles in its Russian doll-like lineup. Particularly following its 2020 redesign, which added additional ur-Quattro-referential false vents and made the grille even sharply angular out of respect for legacy. Hmmm…
Although it is bulkier than an Audi A1 or A3, it is actually not that much higher off the ground, so you are paying more for the look than for a commanding presence over other road users. The Q3 and Q5 approximate what we currently refer to as “SUVs,” while we would argue that the Q2 is too little to properly meet the definition. Consider it to be an A1 and a half Allroad.
To help provide aesthetic razzmatazz, there is a vibrant color scheme, contrasting rear pillars, and optional graphics. Giant wheels are an option (though for the health of your back, avoid them), and the 2020 redesign included front and rear LED lights as standard.
While Audi streamlines its engine lineup, the new 2020-spec Q2 offers just one option: a “35 TFSI” 1.5-liter four-cylinder petrol with 148 horsepower and 184 lb ft. One of the dwindling number of Audis still equipped with a manual transmission as standard is this one.
Although future models with more power should provide quattro AWD and the S Tronic twin-clutch transmission, it is also front-wheel drive. Both of which come as standard equipment on the fast SQ2, which, in essence, crams a VW Golf R powerplant into the dopey Q2, is equipped with. Given that the Audi shares the same mechanical foundation with virtually every small- to medium-sized car produced by the Volkswagen group, this isn’t really asking too much. Read our review of the Audi SQ2.
You get 16-inch alloy wheels, a 7-inch media screen, air conditioning, parking sensors, and a motorized tailgate as standard. because it is so difficult to lift hatches. Most Q2s are blasted out of the showroom with wider wheels (and consequently less donut-y tyres), as well as better trim inside, as you’ll have seen from the ones you see on the roads. Prices start at roughly $23,000, but crazy wants for bigger wheels, striking black trim, and darker glass will quickly push you well above that.
Has the Audi Q2 quattro?
Although there has been speculation about a smaller Q1, it appears Audi’s current view is that it is not worth the effort given the declining margins on smaller models. The Q2 sits in the lineup below the Q3 and Q5 models. In light of the fact that the Q2 and Q3 both share a platform similar to that of the A3 hatchback, the Q2 is actually rather near to the Q3 in size for the foreseeable future.
Interestingly, even while the success of the Audi SUV lineup has been partially attributed to its reputation for quattro four-wheel drive, buyers of the Q2 are only marginally interested in this function. The majority of the lineup only has front-wheel drive, and the only Q2 versions with a quattro powertrain are the most potent.
Is buying an Audi Q2 in India worthwhile?
- Five trims of the Audi Q2 are offered, with prices ranging from Rs 34.99 lakh to Rs 48.89 lakh (ex-showroom).
- The Q2 is the current Audi model that is most easily accessible in India.
- The Audi Q2 is powered by a 2.0-liter petrol turbocharged engine that produces 190 horsepower and 320 Nm.
The absence of the Audi A3, Q3, and A4 left the manufacturer in India with a significant gap in the entry-level luxury market. The introduction of the Q2, which is the most approachable model in the range of Audi India, resolves that issue. And yes, I am aware that it is rather pricey, ranging from Rs 34.99 lakh to Rs 48.89 lakh (ex-showroom), but let’s go through all the customary review-y details first.
With sharp edges and squared-off components consistent with the brand’s SUVs we’ve seen over the years, the styling is definitely Audi. Up front, there is a sizable grille that is bordered by angular LED headlights with DRLs. Along with thick C pillars, the roofline almost slants down like an SUV coupe, and the doors have distinctively chiseled bodywork. With sleek looking LED tail lamps, the rear looks more like a jacked-up hatchback than a crossover. For this Technology trim, which we were testing, and the second-from-top Premium Plus II trim, the exterior is given a sharper makeover with optional black alloy wheels and blacked-out elements like the grille, bumper inserts, and ORVM housings. The Audi Q2 is a compact SUV with dimensions of 4.3 meters long, 1.8 meters wide, and roughly 1.6 meters high. While it may lack the road presence some customers seek in SUVs, at least in our opinion, the Audi Q2 appears pretty handsome and well-proportioned.
The Audi Q2 is surprisingly small for its price, at only 4.3 meters long, 1.8 meters wide, and roughly 1.6 meters tall. Photo by Nishant Jhamb
The Q2’s dashboard is significantly more straightforward in look than the cutting edge dual-screen, button-free dashboards we’ve seen in previous Audis. The layout’s circular air vents give it a sporty, Audi TT-like appearance. The infotainment unit’s display does not accept touch inputs; instead, it can only be controlled using the rotary dial hidden below the gear selector. Large, comfy seats, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and in this top-tier grade, Audi’s all-digital virtual cockpit, certainly one of the best digital systems we’ve seen, are all provided for the driver. Audi chose to go all-black, and the materials they used and overall fit and finish quality are extremely impressive.
absolute best The flat-bottomed steering wheel, leather-leatherette upholstery, and illuminated inlays are standard on the Audi Q2’s technology trim. Audi’s all-digital Virtual Cockpit is undoubtedly among the best in the industry, and the car’s overall quality and fit and finish are excellent. Photo by Nishant Jhamb
Additionally, the Q2’s interior features hip-looking illuminated accents that add to the cabin’s atmosphere and complement the crossover’s overall youthful, sporty image. While the majority of the features you’d expect from a luxury car in this class are included, including wireless charging, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, a large sunroof, two-zone climate control, a reverse parking camera, front and rear parking sensors, to name a few, it does seem like a surprising omission, especially given the asking price, that the front seats are not powered. For an average-sized adult, there is just about enough headroom and knee room in the back seats, but larger people won’t be too happy with the arrangement. The boot’s 355 liter capacity is also not particularly large.
Although the Audi Q2’s seatback is a little upright, the rear seat room is ample. The best position to be in is the driver’s seat. Photo by Nishant Jhamb
It’s obvious that you shouldn’t choose this vehicle if you want to be driven about. The Q2’s driver’s seat is unquestionably the best place to be, and not only because it is roomier and more comfortable. It is the best place to be because of the driving experience that Audi’s new crossover offers. A 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with 320Nm of maximum torque and 190bhp of maximum power powers the Q2. It is a well-known unit that also serves on the VW Tiguan AllSpace and the Skoda Superb, but when combined with the Q2’s small size, all-wheel drive, and 1.5-tonne curb weight, it appears much more interesting on paper. Results from the real world are just as thrilling as the Q2’s actual driving pleasure. It accelerates quickly, reaching 100 kph in 6.5 seconds, and it performs admirably in winding sections as well. I know it sounds crazy to say this about a crossover, but the Audi Q2 is really that amazing. It almost feels like driving a hot hatch from behind the wheel. In classic Audi form, the steering lacks feel but is precisely weighted, and if you push it hard enough, it will start to understeer. However, these shortcomings barely detract from the overall driving experience, which has the power to put a grin on your face.
The Audi Q2 appears less like a crossover and more like a hacked-up hatchback from this perspective. Photo by Nishant Jhamb
At idle, the Q2’s engine feels incredibly smooth. While it seems strong enough lower down, this four-cylinder turbo truly finds its stride around about 2,000 rpm. There is no noticeable turbo lag. The 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox is responsive and provides little cause for complaint. The transmission can sometimes become stuck and irritate you by not downshifting quickly enough, perhaps when you’re braking before heading into a corner. However, you can always take control with the paddle shifters available to you. Additionally, you have a variety of driving settings that affect the reaction of the engine, gearbox, and steering, including efficiency, comfort, auto, dynamic, and individual. The Q2 exhibits excellent calmness at higher speeds. The ride is hard at low speeds with sharp-edged bumps leaking in, but it dramatically improves as speeds increase.
Only a rotary dial (inset) with an integrated touchpad can be used to access the infotainment setup’s display, which does not enable touch inputs. Both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are compatible with it. Photo by Nishant Jhamb
Audi is not aiming the Q2 at those looking for a good deal. Entry-level or not, luxury vehicles are rarely considered to be good value for the money. There is no denying that the Audi Q2 is pretty costly for what it offers. Particularly expensive is this Technology trim, which costs Rs 48.89 lakh (ex-showroom). Yes, it may seem difficult to market the Audi Q2, but it all depends on who and how many people you’re attempting to reach. Small, pricey luxury vehicles have been available on the market for years, such as BMW’s Mini lineup, and I’m confident that the Audi Q2 will do the same, albeit not in as many (in terms of luxury vehicle parameters) units. Even sister companies VW and Skoda, whose T-Roc and Karoq vehicles are widely seen as being too pricey for their niche, each attracted 1,000 purchasers despite competing with competitor manufacturers. It is obvious that there is a market willing to ignore the price versus size issue in favor of elements like brand value, build quality, performance, and driving experienceareas where the Audi Q2 excels.
The Audi Q2 accelerates quickly and can reach a top speed of 228 kmph in just 6.5 seconds. Photo by Nishant Jhamb
Verdict
The base variant’s price starts at about Rs 35 lakh (ex-showroom). The top-of-the-line Audi Q2 we drove had an asking price of Rs 48.89 lakh (ex-showroom), which is a lot for a vehicle of this size. The Audi Q2 is also exceedingly difficult to sell because entry-level crossovers like the BMW X1 and Volvo XC40 are half a size bigger and less expensive, and even the similarly sized Mini Countryman has a far lower asking price. Due to being the only one with all-wheel drive available, it has a modest advantage over competitors. If you’re looking for a small, luxurious vehicle that is both thrilling to drive and has good looks and a high-quality interior, the Audi Q2 is a vehicle to take into consideration.
All Audi Q2 grades come standard with LED headlights and LED taillights. Photo by Nishant Jhamb
Do Audi Q2 cars retain their value?
When new, we calculated that Audi Q2 cars depreciate by an average of 32 percent in the first three years. 92 percent of us are confident in our estimate.
Months:
When purchasing a new or used Audi Q2, estimate the value loss with our depreciation calculator. We can calculate the car’s future value using our depreciation models by providing some information, such as the purchase price, the age and usage of the vehicle, and the length of your ownership.
Our calculations are based on the predicted depreciation for the first three years. We do market research on the automotive industry to find out how much each car depreciates on average over the first three years after purchase.
We can predict the car’s future value using the first three years’ depreciation curve, and we can make a comprehensive table that details each month of ownership, the subsequent depreciation, and the car’s new value.
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