2019 Audi SQ2 revealed

Audi's baby crossover has been blessed with a more powerful 296bhp 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine and some suspension trickery.  

Audi’s baby crossover Q2 now has a slightly warm version that'll move quicker than the rest of the line-up. Billed as the SQ2, this performance-oriented version of the entry-level Q vehicle has been revealed ahead of its world debut at the 2018 Paris Motor Show.

First things first, let’s talk about the performance of the new SQ2. Under that stubby bonnet, the go-faster version of the Q2 packs a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine that’s lifted directly from its cousin, the Volkswagen Golf R. Power output stands at 296bhp as a result, and it comes mated to seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The drive is sent to all fours wheels – as and when required, otherwise it's front-biased – by the quattro all-wheel drive system. Audi claims a 0-100km/h time of 4.8 seconds, while top speed is limited to 250km/h.

Apart from more firepower, the SQ2 gets bigger brakes, while the ride height has been lowered by 20mm over the standard model. Visually, there are a couple of updates as well. There’s a new grille with eight upright double-bars and customers will be able to opt between 18- and 19-inch wheels. Again, it’s a typical ‘S’ model from Audi – understated and classy, and not brash or brawny.

Inside, sports seats will come fitted as standard, while it’ll have all the creature comfort as well as feature and equipment seen in the standard model. Audi Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster will be optional.  

The Audi SQ2 will go on sale in the UK by the end of this year. Don’t expect it to come to our shores anytime soon though as the regular Q2 is still due in India.