Audi SQ2 road test review finds a compact SUV athletic weapon

Fitting perfectly with the current driving fashion is Audi’s SQ2 that looks like an SUV but has hot hatch abilities

Without doubt, SUVs are the new black in Australia’s automotive sector.

Passenger cars have seemingly become the fashion equivalent of a pair of Crocs – with socks.

So it makes sense that we’re beginning to see sporting niches arrive within the fastest growing segments. Audi launched its sporty version of the Q2 late last year having been on sale in Europe for a couple of years.

Aussies love athletic derivatives of prestige cars and it seems we’re happy to pay for the privilege. The SQ2 costs more than $75,000 once on-roads are settled, which makes it a reasonable investment for a compact SUV.

The Audi SQ2 is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine good for 221kW/400Nm.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

KEL: Audi does a wonderful job of small cars. I really like the A1 hatch as a runabout and the Q3 SUV, but this Q2 shape is even better.

GRANT: While the Q2 has been in showrooms for some time, it’s the first time we have seen the SQ2 version. It’s fast, with a 0-100km/h sprint time of less than five seconds.

KEL: That’s quick. I’m intrigued how so many people want this kind of car, especially with the lowering of speed limits and police focus on speeding.

GRANT: Keen drivers don’t just want to go quick in a straight line, they appreciate the abilities of impressive cornering and great handling characteristics. Audi says the SQ2 offers “pace and poise”.

KEL: Sporty finishes are noticeable with the big wheels and red brake callipers, are there many rivals for this kind of performance?

GRANT: BMW has the X2 M35i with an identical sprint time but priced closer to $80k. Another competitor will be the incoming, Cupra’s Ateca VZx (a Spanish brand part of the Volkswagen Group), which has the same engine but will be priced less than the SQ2.

Inside the Audi SQ2 is sporty, but not as modern as some of the other Audi offerings currently in showrooms.

THE LIVING SPACE

KEL: Nice leather seats, stainless steel pedals and the slick digital screen for the driver, it’s a good-looking cabin.

GRANT: The interior design is distinctly Audi, although having been in newer releases shows how quickly the brand has moved forward. Other offerings like the big Q8 have a three-screen design which pushes all of the aircon controls to digital.

KEL: I don’t mind having the dials and buttons, I often find that faster than going through screens even if it doesn’t look as modern.

GRANT: The Nappa trim is available in a combination of black and red, yet while the steering wheel is ‘S’ inspired it’s not a sporty flat-bottom number.

KEL: Accessing those cupholders can be awkward when they’re positioned in front of the shifter.

GRANT: The Bang and Olufsen sound system is a cracker and the driver can configure the instruments depending on preference – whether that be a gauges or satnav map focus. The infotainment system is controlled by a rotary dial, with no touchscreen functionality (handwriting and touch to move maps can be done on the dial).

Audi’s SQ2 will achieve the 0-100km/h sprint in less than five seconds.

THE COMMUTE

KEL: When the lights went green there wasn’t much competition. I really like cars which respond quickly, especially in traffic, and the SQ2 does a great job in this realm.

GRANT: Various drive modes control that acceleration response and “dynamic” offers immediate consequences to right ankle extensions.

KEL: The ride feels firm, although I’d expect that from a sports model.

GRANT: Sitting 20mm lower than a standard Q2 with sports suspension, it also has a quad exhaust and although it has a nice growl it doesn’t sound overtly athletic.

KEL: I don’t like anything which attracts too much attention.

GRANT: Audi does that well traditionally. Wolves in sheep’s clothing.

KEL: Adaptive cruise control does a good job of looking after all the braking and accelerating in traffic.

GRANT: There is no official crash rating from Australia’s safety authority, as the Q2 testing was undertaken way back in 2016.

Boot space is small in the Audi SQ2, but the rear seats fold 60-40.

THE SHOPPING

KEL: Our weekly grocery visit saw the boot at capacity.

GRANT: This is a compact SUV but the space of about 350L is small, even with no space wheel under the floor (there is only a repair kit).

KEL: Having the power tailgate is great, and it was easy to park.

GRANT: For those who have trouble steering into spaces the SQ2 has park assist for parallel or perpendicular positions. Absent is rear cross traffic assist which warns of oncoming vehicles when reversing.

Quad exhausts are a pointer to the extra firepower under the Audi SQ2 bonnet.

THE SUNDAY RUN

KEL: When leaving town the confidence came to the fore.

GRANT: It’s beautifully balanced, and with a dropped ride height it’s not far off a hot hatch.

KEL: Getting in and out remains easier than a hatch.

GRANT: That’s one of the key priorities for many people when buying an SUV – especially for older folk.

Kel and Grant Edwards.

THE FAMILY

KEL: Rear seat space is reasonable and our two boys had no problems with head and legroom. Two USB-C ports were useful in the back to avoid power struggles.

GRANT: Taller adults may find the space confined but fine for two people as long as those in the front don’t slide too far rearward.

KEL: Being premium and European, how are the running costs?

GRANT: Audi this year bolstered its warranty to five years which is in line with the industry benchmark and matches Mercedes. Service plans are available for five years which breaks down to an average cost of about $500 annually. Fuel consumption using premium unleaded was less than eight litres for every 100km.

Drive-away pricing for the Audi SQ2 is currently about $76,200.

THE VERDICT

KEL: Having driven other Q2 models, I did like the ‘S’ version more for its sporting prowess and features. Although I probably wouldn’t drive it to its capacity so spending the extra money would be a stretch for my needs.

GRANT: Feisty and fun, the SQ2 will certainly find a market willing to invest. Those with no need for masses of load area will appreciate the ease of driving and its ability to turn from Hyde to Jekyll at the press of a button.

Originally published as Audi SQ2 road test review finds a compact SUV athletic weapon