Express & Star

Small SUV arrives right on Q for Audi

Small and perfectly formed, almost, the smallest in the Q range of Audi still carries all the hallmark of quality.

Published
The small but sporty new S model in the Q range from Audi is firmly in the executive class

It sits just below the recently revamped Q3, offers space, practicality, economical engines and, generally, high quality finish which puts it firmly in the executive class.

The latest addition is the sporty new S model with output of 300ps hist 62mph in 4.8 seconds.

It’s compact, but big on practicality and four adults can be seated in real comfort, with good headroom and stowage space is surprisingly good.

With 355 litres expanding to 1,000 litres available with the rear seats folded, there is enough space to transport a bike. There are various other pockets, holders and storage bins. It also accommodated, half a dozen suitcases and various camping paraphernalia on a recent away day.

It looks good, all sharp creases and angles, smart alloy wheels, attractive light clusters and the eye-catching sweeping LED indicators while the signature Audi four rings are prominent on the grille and boot.

The new S model

Inside it features the premium quality and finish you would expect from Audi.

The four rings are prominent in the shape of the chrome air vents while the central touch screen in the middle of the dash is operated from the MMI central console, which controls infotainment functions, app connectivity for Apple and Android and, where fitted for £700, the superb Bang and Olufsen sound system.

The dark trim is offset by quality chrome insets and inlays and gives the interior a real executive feel. The binnacle on this particular model offers a number of different setups through the brilliant, but optional digital virtual cockpit, which the driver can customise to his or her liking and can even have the sat nav map displayed in the background.

There are a number of petrol and diesel options, with the two-litre unit here offering pace, refinement and economy.

This model also featured Audi’s tried and tested quattro all wheel drive as well as a seven-speed dual clutch automatic transmission.

The near range-topping S-Line is a luxurious motor, equipped with many high tech gizmos.

Standard kit on the base model is not that comprehensive, but this model is well equipped, but also had a number of optional extras which bumped the price up by nearly £8,000.

On the road, the car is a delight, composed and agile with the progressive steering offering great driver feedback with a firm but comfortable ride.

The sweet revving diesel offers plenty of pace, with the 150ps powering it to 60mph in 8.1 seconds, with the sequential gearchange barely noticeable. Switch to the optional paddles for a more involving drive.

It is equally at home on sweeping country lanes, long motorway stretches or runs to the school gates. Drivers have the options to switch to Audi drive select.

Via a button on the centre console, the driver selects one of three modes - ‘comfort’, ‘auto’ or ‘dynamic’.

FAST FACTS

Audi Q2 2.0 TDi quattro S Line S tronic

Price: £31,045

Mechanical: 150ps, 1,968cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving four wheels via 7-speed automatic gearbox

Max speed: 131mph

0-62mph: 8.1 seconds

Combined mpg: 57.6

Insurance group: 18

CO2 emissions: 131g/km

BiK rating: 27%

Warranty: 3yrs/unlimited miles