Audi Q2 Car Review: Exterior, Performance & More!

The Audi Q2 is the German car maker’s latest addition to its Q range of SUVs. It’s a subcompact SUV, which sits below and between the Q3 and Q5 in the firm’s product lineup. With its smaller dimensions, lower price tag, and ease of parking, the Q2 is undoubtedly more city-centric than its bigger siblings. But does that mean it compromises on all things off-road? Read on to find out what we think about this cheeky little car.

What’s new about Audi Q2?

The Q2 has added a few exterior highlights to its front and rear ends. There’s also a new sport trim level, along with greater standard equipment across the range, including Audi’s Virtual Cockpit digital instrumentation, wireless charging for phones, and Apple CarPlay functionality. 

Inside, there’s a redesigned center console, with a climate control dial now situated on the left side, instead of the right as in other Audis. Also, the Q2 will be the first Audi to use an all-digital instrument cluster, in this case, a 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit display. It’s currently available only on the S model but will be standard on all Q2s starting later this year.

Audi Q2 cabin and exterior design

Visually, the Q2’s design is similar to the larger Q3 SUV, but with smaller dimensions, a longer wheelbase, and noticeably different rear-end styling. 

While the Q3 boasts two separate roof rails and a take on Audi’s signature “brushed-metal” look on its tailgate, the Q2 features a single roof rail and a more conventional finish on its rear end. 

The interior’s design is also an evolution of what we’ve seen before in other Audis, with a control layout that’s easy to navigate, a central infotainment screen, lots of soft-touch materials, and a standard digital instrument cluster.

Drivetrain, performance, and steering

The Q2 is available with two engines. The first is a 1.5-liter TFSI turbocharged gasoline engine producing 150 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque. The second is a 2.0-liter TFSI turbocharged gasoline engine developing 184 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque. 

The 1.5-liter engine is mated to a 7-speed S-Tronic automatic transmission, while the 2.0-liter engine works with an 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. The Q2’s smaller engines don’t produce the same kind of power as those in larger SUVs, but they still provide decent acceleration, especially with the 1.5-liter unit. 

Steering is light and responsive, while handling is decent, but the car’s smaller wheels, low ground clearance, and softer suspension make it less suitable for rough terrain than larger SUVs.

Interior and comfort

The Q2’s interior is a bit of a mixed bag. On one hand, it’s a nicely laid-out cabin with plentiful soft-touch materials, a high-quality feel, great visibility, and plenty of storage spaces and cubby holes. 

On the other hand, the rear bench seat is rather narrow and uncomfortable for adults, and the cargo space is more limited than in larger SUVs. Front passengers can expect a comfortable ride, ample head and legroom, and an acceptable amount of storage space for small items like a jacket or a laptop computer. 

Rear passengers, though, will find the Q2’s back seat to be tight, with limited legroom and inadequate headroom.

Pros:

• Affordable price tag. Compared to larger SUVs, the Q2 is more affordable. 
• City-friendly dimensions. The car’s smaller dimensions make it easy to park, maneuver, park, and find a garage space. 
• Plenty of standard features. The Q2 comes with plenty of standard features, including a 7.0-inch central infotainment screen, keyless entry, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. 
• Good fuel economy. The Q2 engines are efficient, which translates into good fuel economy.

Cons:

• Limited rear passenger space. The Q2’s rear seat is narrow and uncomfortable for adults. 
• Smaller cargo space. The Q2’s cargo space is smaller than in larger SUVs. It also lacks features such as fold-down/tumble rear seats and a locking trunk. 
• Unsuitable for rough terrain. The Q2’s smaller wheels, softer suspension, and lower ground clearance make it less suitable for off-road use than larger SUVs.

Conclusion

The Audi Q2 is a well-designed subcompact SUV, with a great driving experience, good fuel economy, and plenty of standard features. Unfortunately, it’s less suitable for rough terrain than larger SUVs, it doesn’t offer fold-down/tumble rear seats, and its rear seat space is limited. Still, if you’re looking for a well-designed subcompact SUV that’s easy to drive, has good fuel economy, and has plenty of standard features, the Audi Q2 is an excellent choice.