Audi Q2 Review

Read Caroline’s Audi Q2 review for everything you need to know about Audi’s compact SUV in Ireland.

The Audi Q2 is the entry into Audi’s Q range of SUVs. Launched for the very first time in 2016, the Audi Q2 ticks the box for desirability among the raft of compact crossovers that have hit the market over the last few years.

But the Audi Q2 faces competition from the Mercedes-Benz GLA and the BMW X1 in the premium compact SUV space. So in 2021, the Q2 received a facelift to keep it fresh and competitive in its segment.

What’s new for the Audi Q2?

The Q2 combines typical Audi design cues in a smart and compact package. This car still looks so good, with a tough, boxy design that has only been slightly updated in terms of some of the trim elements and bumper design front and rear. The octagonal Singleframe grille is slightly lower than before, making the front section appear wider. The Q2 still looks modern and of course unmistakably Audi.

There are also five new colours for this model update, including Apple green, Manhattan grey, Navarra blue, Arrow gray, and Turbo blue.

Priced from €34,740, there are two trim levels available for the 2022 Audi Q2 – SE and S Line.

Even SE line models look smart with 17″ alloys and a C-pillar blade finished in metallic Manhattan grey, contrasting with the body work. LED headlights come as standard, as does a rear spoiler.

Inside the Q2

Inside is a reminder why Audi is one of the best in the business for car interiors. Though the Q2 is now one of the ‘older’ models in the Audi range, it is still a cabin you will want to stay in. The layout is clear and logical, with a superb driving position and beautiful finish to the controls and switches. The hard plastics in the door panels seem a bit mean for a premium vehicle, but that’s the only part we can find fault with. The steering wheel feels great in the hands.

Multimedia is housed in an upright screen, familiar from previous generation Audis. While it’s not their latest digital set-up, it still fits well in the cabin of the Q2 and is compatible with smartphones and has a 7″ colour display. The virtual cockpit is available as an option for a full digital display for the driver.

The Audi Q2 is a compact vehicle. There is seating for five but two will be most comfortable in the rear and the footwells are quite small. The luggage compartment holds 405 litres, which is a good size for this class of vehicle.

S Line models command a more serious list price for the Q2, priced from €39,905. There are sportier 18″ alloy wheels, sports bumpers and the C-pillar blade comes in Selenite silver.

Inside there are front sports seats, sports steering wheel, leather/fabric seat trim, LED interior lighting, and aluminium interior elements plus a black headliner for a sportier ambience. S Line models also add Audi Drive Select and a sports suspension.

Driving the Audi A2

Audi offers a choice of petrol and diesel models for the Q2, ranging in capacity and power. But it’s the 1.0-litre ’30 TFSI’ petrol Q2 with a 6-speed manual gearbox that is the subject of this review. It forms a nice competitive entry into the range, though more powerful petrol models with 150 hp and an automatic gearbox are available (the ’35 TFSI’).

There’s also the 30 TDI diesel with 116 hp.

The Audi Q2 has been designed as a sporty compact SUV. Progressive steering comes as standard, which becomes more and more direct the further the driver turns the steering wheel.

The Q2 is simply glorious to drive, even in 1.0-litre, 6-speed manual versions. The 110 hp engine provides zippy petrol performance and matches the car’s character very well. Over a week of driving my average fuel consumption was 6.0 litres per 100 km, which is on point for this type of vehicle.

The steering is well-weighted and this car is agile and fun to drive. It’s also very refined and comfortable on the standard SE suspension, whether on long motorway journeys or in town.

Did you like it?

In a market where nearly every new car has some ‘electrified’ element, the updated Q2 seems almost old-fashioned now with it 1.0-litre petrol engine and 6-speed manual gearbox!

But it was a sheer delight to drive, a reminder how at least in small cars and SUVs, this is a combination that still works.

The Q2 is a premium vehicle so it is expensive. But it is highly desirable for its design and badge among crossovers.

And the car is good so it feels worth it. It’s also polished behind the wheel. The Q2 does not have a latest generation Audi interior but there was hardly much wrong with the last. The quality and functionality still make it an excellent buy.

The SE model may be ‘entry level’ but don’t let that put you off. It’s well equipped, looks smart, and is comfortable on the road. The 1.0-litre petrol engine also works well here, providing adequate performance and economy.

A lovely car.

Caroline Kidd

Model tested: Audi Q2 SE 30 TFSI
Price: €34,740
Engine: 1.0-litre turbo petrol 
Power: 110 hp
Torque:  200 Nm
0-100km/h:  11.2 seconds
Top speed:  225 km/h
CO2 emissions: 131 – 146 g/km
Motor tax: €210 per year