Bish, bash, bosh, another SUV/Crossover launch done and dusted, or was it?
This trendsetting new premium crossover from Audi will put a smile on your face and demands particular attention. Audi’s young designers came up with some concepts for something new, a likeable fresh design that Audi just had to build; it was just too fresh to ignore.
Already owning 6 percent of the fastest growing market and well positioned with cars from their 42 car range. There was an opportunity to build another crossover that just fitted the market in a slightly different spot.
The Audi Q2 has been designed to tempt a new younger or young at heart, customer to the range, owners that may not have ever considered an Audi. The Q2 package features the best of their relentless innovation in a fun and very attractive proposition. Let’s hope the UK prices for the vehicle can be kept sensible in the postbrexittimes, we now live.
The first sight of the Audi Q2 brings the feeling of unboxing a new crisp white shirt. The pleasing detailing, sharply defined edges and chiseled angles throughout the design abound. At the front the robust octagonal grille design, LED headlights, and aggressive air inlets. The sculpted side profile and floating-blade’ colour matched C-pillar and at the LED rear lights and dynamic rear indicators.
The crossover is available in one body style with a choice of four engine variants. The distinctive looks come with the capacity for discerning customers to personalise their vehicles further. Although what Audi have done is offer a range of options of a style that you would be hard pressed to make your vehicle look distasteful. From launch 12 colours, including two new are available. The bright metallic blue or Quantum grey were my favourites and really showed the car off.
On the road the semi-command driving position of Q2 makes you sit lower than other crossovers in a more saloon car like way. Armed with the latest safety systems, all working seamlessly with the virtual cockpit. The instruments in the car combine the 8.3″ flat screen with the overall dashboard binnacle, and to keep your eyes on the road, a very useful head up display.
Connectivity has become for some, as, and more important than the drive. In the Q2 the virtual cockpit is dependent on model, but truly a must have. Loaded with Apple Carplay/Android Auto and the cars own wireless internet connection through Audi Connect. I understand a three-month trial of Audi Connect is available when purchasing the vehicle. Music on itunes, virtual cockpit, phone connected, Google maps, it makes driving a breeze.
After meeting one of the key designers of the interactive virtual cockpit and chatting at length. It is clear this system has stolen a march in connectivity and navigation solutions. In the upcoming years, there can only be more exciting upgrades to the virtual cockpit ahead. For a driver, easy to use and rely upon, other manufacturers may be playing catch up for many years.
It is a known fact with Audi, as you pack the car with the must have extras prices can get pretty steep. However there is special edition Q2 in the pipeline ‘Edition#1’ and the feature list on this vehicle is quite eye watering. Prices are to be confirmed but think around £30-35k.
I got the opportunity to drive models with 4 of the different engines on offer. It would really depend on what your driving needs are to make a choice. A favourite of mine was the 1.0-litre three cylinder, smooth, refined and surprisingly punchy, followed by of course, if AWD is required the proven Quattro AWD 2.0-litre diesel tiptronic.
It wasn’t at all hard to get excited about Q2. The designer spotted a niche slot in the most crowded of car segments and ran with it. Fashion conscious and young at heart will love the styling, the illuminated interior and the ability to change the colour dependent on mood. Interiors on all the models present the cutting edge of whatever tactile materials and fabrics have been invented this year. Everything is put together in a fastidious fashion and always, just feels right; well-designed, with meticulous detail, throughout.
Audi Q2 will be the new envy of the school run and a contender for the best in the premium crossover segment.
The 2017 Audi Q2 Global launch review by
No items found, please search again.