Audi->ke14 has finally put to bed the rumors of an addition to its Q lineup of SUVs.->ke145 Introduced at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show,->ke228 the 2017 Audi Q2 expands the automaker’s reach into the entry-level category of luxury crossovers.->ke288

Looking more like a high-riding hot hatch, the Q2->ke4350 is a lightweight five door that helps usher in Audi’s new design styling. The front grille wears a new polygon shape while the C-pillar sports a “color blade” that can be customized, much like the first-generation R8.->ke1440 Six available engines, two transmissions, a bevy of safety equipment and driver aids, and Audi’s new glass gauge cluster make the Q2 perhaps the most tech-savvy option in the current crop of crossovers.

The technology extends into the unseen, as well. The Q2 is built from form-hardened steels that increase strength without adding excessive weight. Its size is fairly diminutive at only 13.7 feet long with a wheelbase of 8.5 feet. Its width is also tidy at 5.9 feet. Not only should this make the Q2 an outstanding performer in crash testing, but with a curb weight of only 2,656 pounds, the crossover should be a blast to drive.

Those passing judgment based on horsepower numbers shouldn’t be fooled – Audi says its engine lineup has been “right-sized” to provide the best power to weight optimization. The top performer of the bunch is the 2.0-liter TFSI gasoline mill that cranks out 190 horsepower. For turbodiesel fans, the 2.0-liter TDI is offered in two power levels, with the horsepower peaking at 190, matching the TFSI. Audi has not announced torque figures.

The Q2 is blazing new trails for Audi in the compact->ke140 crossover segment, but with its light weight, tech-filled cabin, wide range of powertrains, and striking looks, it’s easy to foresee Audi’s domination over the competition.

Update 03/01/2016: Audi has officially debuted the 2017 Q2 crossover at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show.

Continue reading to learn more about the 2017 Audi Q2.

2017 Audi Q2

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2017 Audi Q2
  • Engine/Motor: inline-3
  • Horsepower: 116
  • Transmission: six-speed manual
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior

The 2017 Audi Q2 wears some very interesting sheet metal. Up front, the classic Audi grille has been redesigned with a more squared-off look. Larger honeycombs and satin trim further push the look into the upcoming decade. The satin trim extends to the lower fascia. It spans nearly the entire width of the vehicle, helping its 5.9-foot dimension seem wider to the eye.

A moderately sloped windshield meets a roof that slopes rearward toward the C-pillars. The decreasing height of the roof is met with the increasing height of the beltline. Just below the windows is perhaps the most interesting body line on the entire Q2. A single line runs from the headlight and splits into two lines just below the A-pillar. The two lines continue parallel, then merge back together just before the rear door handle. The flat space created by the parallel lines makes for a truly interesting statement piece.

Those not noticing the smaller details will first gravitate toward the C-pillar and its “color blade” design. Audi says it can be customized, though details on the color combinations are missing. The Q2 can be had in 10 body colors, however.

Large LED taillights dominate the rear and the satin chrome accent long the lower bumper. The rear window is somewhat small, and combined with the large C-pillars, will likely lead to a compromised rear view. It’s a good thing a backup camera comes standard. The lower section of the Q2 has a SUV-like trim piece that runs over the wheel arches and along the bottom of the doors. Speaking of wheels, they’re beautiful 19-inch, 20-spoke wheels coated in a silver metallic finish that makes the current trend of blacked out rims seem ridiculous. Other options are very likely, though Audi doesn’t mention anything is its Geneva-based press release.

Interior

The interior of the Q2 is typical modern Audi. The minimalistic dashboard features four, round air vents, the pop-up infotainment screen, and the gauge cluster hood. A satin chrome accent separates the upper and lower dash sections, while playing host to several switches on the center stack. HVAC controls are just below, with three simple knobs, and a row of intuitive buttons.

Further down, the center console has room for two drinks just ahead of the shifter. The Start/Stop button and radio volume button lie parallel near the shifter, with Audi’s MMI controls below. Two toggle switches, along with a Menu and Back button are the only hard keys found. All other inputs are done with the rotary control knob.

The Q2 utilizes Audi’s current fully digital, glass gauge cluster. The 12.3-inch screen is similar to the one seen in the TT and R8. The configurable display offers two main views – one with the speedometer and tachometer in prominent display, or the two gauges off to the sides with the entertainment or maps screens displayed in the center. The screen enhances the view of information, both important and secondary.

The interior pictured here showcases a new color scheme for Audi. The lower dash and door panels are accented with a teal color. The tasteful accent makes the cabin feel less dreary and dark, while adding a look not seen before in modern cockpits. For audiophiles, an optional Bang & Olufsen sound system pumps out 705 watts of power through 14 speakers. At night, the Q2’s interior is illuminated by LED light strips that glow white.

Drivetrain

The 2017 Audi Q2 has no shortage of powertrain options. It offers three gasoline and two diesel choices with two power levels, though Audi will likely determine what markets get which engines.

Starting off, the smallest gasoline mill is the 1.0-liter TSFI three-cylinder. Audi says it will be the best choice for fuel economy within the gasoline lineup. There’s also a 1.4-liter four-cylinder and the 2.0-liter four. Audi says it reworked the combustion process for the 2.0-liter, helping it get better fuel economy while sill making nearly 200 horsepower.

On the turbodiesel side, the entry engine is a 1.6-liter TDI. The familiar 2.0-liter TDI makes its appearance here, as well, being offered in two levels of tune. The base tune offers 150 horsepower, while the peppier version kicks out 190 horses. We’ll update you when Audi releases torque figures.

Audi has developed a new dual clutch transmission for the 2.0-liter TSFI and 2.0-liter TDI. The transmission is said to have a new type of oil supply and a reduction in friction, but most details are still unknown. The other two transmission options include a six-speed manual gearbox and the familiar seven-speed, S tronic dual-clutch gearbox.

The Q2 also offers the optional drive select handling system. It lets the driver choose between four modes for varying conditions. They include auto, comfort, dynamic, and efficiency. Each mode changes the powertrain’s calibration, including shift patterns, steering feel, and adaptive damper settings – when equipped. Audi says the Q2 is equipped for light off-road duties as well, with 7.9 inches of ground clearance and an ESC off-road mode.

TSFI Gasoline

1.0-liter

three-cylinder gas

116 horsepower

1.4-liter

four-cylinder gas

150 horsepower

2.0-liter

four-cylinder gas

190 horsepower

TDI Diesel

1.6-liter

four-cylinder diesel

116 horsepower

2.0-liter

four-cylinder diesel

150 horsepower

2.0-liter

four-cylinder diesel

190 horsepower


Safety

The Q2 comes loaded to the gills with active and passive safety systems. Audi’s pre sense front system recognizes potential hazards or pedestrians in the road and warns the driver. If necessary, the system will automatically brake, and if needed, bring the Q2 to a full stop from low speeds. Optionally, Stop & Go cruise control with traffic jam assist can be had, perfect for heavy traffic situations. Traffic jam assist works by using the front camera and parking sensors to take over steering duties in slow-moving traffic at speeds below 41 mph.

Audi’s side assist monitors lane changes by radar, while active lane assist uses a video camera helps the driver maintain his lane. The camera also recognizes traffic signs, displaying the speed limit, no passing zone warnings, and other informational signs on the digital gauge cluster.

There’s also rear cross traffic assist and a parking assist function that automatically maneuvers into parallel and perpendicular parking spaces. Of course, a full array of passive safety systems is found inside, including airbags and seatbelts.

Prices

The Q2 will become Audi’s most affordable crossover, which means it will be priced below the Q3, which currently retails from €29,600 (about $33,225) in Germany. Unfortunately, Audi has made no mention of the Q2 coming Stateside anytime soon. Audi will announce official pricing closer to the Q2’s on-sale date in the fall of 2016.

Competition

2017 BMW X2

BMW->ke178 is also planning a new compact crossover that's also likely to arrive sometime in 2016. Dubbed X2, it will sit on the UKL1 platform used by the new 2014 Mini Cooper and 2016 BMW X1, meaning it will be available with either front- or all-wheel-drive. Power will come from a wide range of drivetrains, including a 1.5-liter three-cylinder and various gasoline and diesel 2.0-liter four-bangers. BMW is probably also considering an M version of the X2, but given both the X1 and X3 have yet to receive the package, it might take a while until we see an X2 M in dealerships.

You can read our speculative review of the X2 here.

Conclusion

The 2017 Audi Q2 will undoubtedly make waves in the compact luxury crossover segment. Its forward-thinking design, digital dash, light weight, and comprehensive array of powertrains and safety systems should impress buyers. It’s a shame Audi isn’t likely to bring the Q2 Stateside, as its segment is gaining steam. Perhaps that will change as demand grows.

And though Audi has made no mention of it, we’d love to see an RS Q2 version in the future. Just imagine having 250 to 300 horsepower in this 2,600-pound, AWD crossover. That’s the same stuff hot hatches are made from. Heck, the current Ford Focus ST tips the scales at 3,200 pounds!

All that aside, the Q2 will undoubtedly be a big hit for Audi, especially in Europe.

Exclusive rendering

Updated History

Updated 02/28/2016: Audi dropped yet another quick teaser video of the new Q2, press play above to check it out. We tried to freeze frame around 20 seconds in, but not much more than a blurry red mini SUV so far.

Updated 02/22/2016: Audi dropped a new teaser video for its upcoming Q2 compact crossover with just a few days before the official debut at the 2016 Geneva Auto Show. Hit "play" to make an idea on how the Q2 will look like.

Updated 02/16/2016: Audi dropped a first teaser video for the upcoming Q2 set to be unveiled at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show. As expected, the video reveals pretty much nothing about the car, but we can expect to see it out pretty soon, so stay tuned!

Updated 12/17/2015: Our spy photographers caught the upcoming Audi Q2 out for a new testing session, but this time during some cold weather testing in Northern Sweden. The model is expected to be unveiled sometime in 2016 and it will be followed by a more powerful SQ2.

Spy Shots

December 17, 2015 - Audi Q2 Caught Testing In Winter Conditions

September 24, 2015 - First testing session

Rendering