The Audi Q2 has not even hit the 24-hour mark since its debut when car fanatics already started critising it. Some reckon that it started life as an Audi Q3 getting pushed through a wood cutting machine, only to emerge looking like a crossover version of the Volkswagen Polo.
Whether a rebadged Polo, shrunken Q3 or steroid induced A1 – the newly debuted Audi Q2 is the brand’s ‘baby-crossover’ making it quite the important model, especially in the blooming South African crossover market.
According to Audi, the Q2 is aimed at young urbanites while it also hopes to attract new buyers to the brand.
Some familiar elements remain on the Q2, however, Audi designers also experimented with some new design recipes. A prime example is the contrasting colours used to coat the c-pillars, a striking feature considering it is usually reserved to accesorize cars aiming to make a fashion statement.
A new rendition of the single frame grille was also experimented with, counteracting the compact dimensions of the crossover. Complimenting the already sleek roofline, it also boasts a subtle roof spoiler. Hitting the new-found compact crossover theme home is black plastic cladding found hugging both the underside of the body and wheel arches.
The Q2 will come standard in front-wheel drive, but according to Audi, a Quattro four-wheel-drive version will also be made available. Sending power to the wheels is an option between a TFSI and TDI engine paired with a standard six-speed manual gearbox. An S-Tronic dual-clutch gearbox will also be available at an extra cost.
Pricing might throw a spanner in the works as an entry-level Q2 might start just short of the R500 000 mark.