SQ2 promises big things for the compact SUV class

Crowned ‘the ultimate urban SUV’ when it first made its appearance here in 2017, the Audi Q2 has gone on to become something of an urban cult vehicle with its balance of luxury and perfect dimensions for the everyday. Now the performance version of the Audi Q2 compact SUV – the SQ2 – is heading Down Under sporting the coveted ’S’ badge and all that goes with it.

Set to arrive in May this year, the first-ever SQ2 to come to Australia will be priced from $64,400.00* and takes the day-to-day practicality of a compact, premium SUV and adds sportscar performance and handling to create an even more compelling proposition.

With this level of performance in an SUV of this size, the SQ2 effectively creates its own class – something Audi has done on numerous occasions with other models over the years.

With a 2.0-litre TFSI developing 221kW of power and 400Nm of torque, the SQ2 is a serious performance proposition, dispatching the sprint from 0 to 100km/h in under five seconds (4.9 seconds to be precise). And, with its lightening fast seven-speed S tronic transmission, S sport suspension, progressive steering ensure and of course quattro all-wheel drive, the SQ2 is a true driver’s vehicle. Yet with its compact SUV configuration, it also offers the practicality of seating fro up to five adults and ample room for luggage.

The styling g of the original Audi Q2 is evident in this all-new SQ2 model, but the design reflects its performance orientation, with a more aggressive front end and more purposeful presence overall. From the distinctive black Singleframe treatment up front and the standard Matrix LED headlights with dynamic indicators and high-beam assist, the look is sharper than before, although the polygonal design which won the original Q2 design accolades worldwide has been retained and further developed in this S model. Customers will also be able to select from nine exterior colours.

Large 19-inch alloy wheels are standard on this new model while subtle S cues abound, like the distinctive red brake callipers and of course the quad exhausts.

Even to the uninitiated though, the very presence of the SQ2 more than hints that this is a special model, but in keeping with the Audi S philosophy that subtlety and substance are always preferable to overt styling. Those S badges may be subtle and understated but they speak volumes about just what the SQ2 can do.

Inside too the SQ2 impresses with its clean, contemporary design that is both aesthetically pleasing as well as accentuating the feeling of space. Available in two interior treatments, the SQ2 features sport front seats upholstered in fine Nappa leather with the familiar diamond patterned stitching, S embossing and contrasting seat colours. The driver grips an S sport, flat-bottomed leather multi-function steering wheel, while design touches like the light graphics inlay, again mark the SQ2 as something special.

Technology plays an important part not only in the SQ2’s driveline and handling but in the impressive levels of equipment and infotainment found onboard. The standard Audi virtual cockpit features an S-specific display with the rev counter set in the centre, while the MMI navigation plus puts everything from navigation to communication and a wealth of other infotainment options literally at the driver’s fingertips. Standard inclusions like the superb 750W Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system give a perfect indication of the level of finish and sophistication customers can expect from this new model.

With all of the attributes that made the original Audi Q2 such a success and the scintillating performance and appointment of an S model, the SQ2 promises big things for the ‘compact premium SUV’ sector when it arrives here in May.

(*Manufacturer List Pricing [MLP] – excludes dealer delivery and government statutory charges)