Audi Q2 Review

Performance4.5/5

The four engines on offer with the Audi Q2 should be enough to answer the needs of most people looking for a car in this class. There are two petrols and two diesels (114 bhp or 148 bhp versions for both). The larger, 1.4 litre petrol version is a sophisticated engine which can shut down two of its four cylinders when all are not needed, and, what's more, do it in such a way that it is barely noticeable. It has plenty of punch, able to get from 0-62 mph in 8.5 seconds, and, although its smaller petrol sibling is fine around town, this larger version will do a better job for long distance travelling. The diesel engines are the most economical, claiming 68.9 mpg and emissions of 109g/km for the small model and 58.9 mpg, 125g/km for the largest, 2.0 litre engine (this figure is for the 4 wheel drive version).

Handling5/5

The Audi Q2 does a pretty decent job at keeping its occupants comfortable on long journeys, with very little in the way of noise from wind, road or engines. The smaller alloys make for a less firm ride; and the three suspension options available will help you find your own comfort levels; particularly the adaptive suspension, available on the Sport and S-Line trims, which allows you to switch between comfort or firm settings. The Q2 has good grip, little body lean on corners and the driver will find a good range of adjustment with the driving seat and steering wheel. Not only is this a great motorway or country lane car – it is also a breeze to drive around town, negotiating city streets with aplomb.

Exterior5/5

The Audi Q2’s styling has a satisfyingly chunky appeal, with the large, blunt nose dominated by a substantial grill; distinctive, protruding, square rear lights; an elegantly sloping roofline, sharp side creases and C-pillar inserts which can be customised to suit your taste.  The alloy wheels also come in a number of different designs; this is a car that you can really make your own, both outside and in.

Interior4.5/5

At first, the interior of the Q2 seems to be finished to a very high quality, and indeed much of it is. There are some harsh, scratchy plastic surfaces but they are mostly tucked out of sight and balanced out by plenty of soft touch material in the cockpit. The dash is logically laid out, with easily operated switches and buttons; and swivelling round air vents which add a touch of class. The driver's seat is supportive, and its slightly raised position gives great forward visibility; although looking over the shoulder does not do so well, due to thick rear pillars.

Equipment4/5

The entry level SE trim is not exactly overloaded with kit and it's all a bit basic for a car in this class. 16 inch alloys come as standard, along with electrically adjustable and heated side mirrors, halogen headlamps, leather trimmed multi-function steering wheel; manual air conditioning, Bluetooth interface and Audi Smartphone Interface. The next level up, Sport, trim adds larger, 17 inch alloys, cruise control system, light and rain sensors, contrast bumpers and c-pillar blades in Ice silver or metallic; this trim will also get you the MMI Navigation package with three months' subscription to Audi Connect. Top of the range S Line takes you even higher from the ground with 18 inch alloys, Dynamic Suspension, LED interior lighting pack, LED headlights, and some impressive styling details. The mid-range Sport option adds enough extra kit to make it worth opting for over the SE.

Safety4/5

The Audi Q2 was awarded five stars in its 2016 NCAP rating, and it does feel like a pretty safe place to be. It is sturdily built from high strength steels and houses a full set of airbags to protect all occupants. There is a wide range of sophisticated safety technology to cover all needs although, it must be said, a lot of this is only available as an optional extra - which comes at a cost of course. Standard equipment includes ISOFIX child seat mounts, the Audi pre-sense safety kit, traction and stability control and anti-lock brakes.

Buying & Owning4.5/5

Audi claim economical running costs for the Q2, with fuel consumption as low as 62.8 mpg for the smaller (1.6 TDI) diesel model and, for the larger (1.4 TFSI) petrol engine 54.3 mpg. The smaller diesel, in particular, claims modest CO2 emissions; but across the whole range all the figures are reassuringly modest. The Q2 also does well when it comes to selling on, maintaining good residual values after three years of ownership. It compares very well with other SUV models on offer and although the initial outlay may be more than for rivals such as the SEAT Ateca or Nissan Qashqai it is very likely going to be a more popular second-hand buy.

Reviewed by cars2buy