The small and compact Audi Q2 gets a facelift
It seems that Audi is targeting every vehicle segment this year. Everywhere you look, you are bound to see a new model launching and in the midst of this momentum, Audi has managed to squeeze their all-new Q2 in as well. To many, the previous Q2 was not exactly the most likable compact SUV, so a shot at redemption may be on top of the German automakers list.
So, what all has changed? Well, most recognizably is the front bumper, which features an integrated angular diffuser insert with large pentagons on both sides. The octagonal Singleframe will appear slightly lower than before, making the overall front section appear much wider. LED headlights will come standard across the Q2, with Matrix LED headlights being available upon request. At the rear, Audi will be offering LED technology on the Advanced and S line models will come standard too.
The colour pallet for the revised Q2 has also been updated and features five new colours. It ranges from Apple green, Manhattan grey, Navarra blue, Arrow grey, and Turbo blue. The blades on the C-pillar will be painted in either exterior colour or, depending on the trim, will come in silver, grey or black.
The standard Q2 will ride on 16-inch wheels, with the C-pillar blades coming in body’s colour. The mid-level Advanced trim line will get 17-inch wheels, with the C-pillar blades coming in Manhattan grey, and the bumper getting a contrasting colour. It will also feature LED rear lights, sport seats and an index fabric upholstery. The top of the range, S-Line, is of course the centre of attention, as it gets 18-inch wheels. C-pillar blades in Platinum grey, a bumper that comes in a full paint finish, LED rear lights, sports seats, an index fabric upholstery as well as a sports suspension.
The all-new Q2 has been launched with just one engine offering. The 1.4 TFSI engine (named the Q2 35 TFSI) will produce 110kW of power and 250 Nm of torque. Audi has claimed that it can sprint from 0 to 100km/h in 8.8 seconds. It will come fitted with Audi’s very reputable 8-speed tiptronic gearbox.
Inside, the Q2’s cabin has received some changes, most noticeable to the gear lever and air vents. The standard seats in the Q2 will come available with fabric upholstery. The sport seats on the other hand can get optionally upgraded to a leather/artificial leather upholstery, and as part of the S line interior package, will get finished off in black colour with rock grey stitching. An analog instrument with a colour display will come standard too. The Q2 will receive Audi’s state-of-the-art virtual cockpit with a 12.3-inch diagonal too. It will include Audi’s smartphone interface and MMI navigation plus. Also available as an option will be a Bang & Olufsen Premium Sound System which uses 14 loudspeakers that have an output of 705 watts.
The all-new Audi Q2 will go on sale in South Africa from the 1st of July this year.
Pricing
Audi Q2 35 TFSI S tronic R545 500
Audi Q2 35 TFSI Advanced S tronic R567 500
Audi Q2 35 TFSI S line S tronic R581 500
Also worth a look: the Audi Rs3 and the Out with the Old, In with the New: Audi A5 Replaces A4 in So.
FAQ
Q: What does the Audi Q2 cost in South Africa?
The facelifted Audi Q2 starts from around R485,000 for the base model with the 1.4 TFSI engine, while the top-spec S-Line variant will set you back approximately R565,000 depending on optional extras.
Q: Is the Audi Q2 worth buying?
The Q2 is worth considering if you want a premium compact SUV with distinctive styling, but it faces stiff competition from rivals like the BMW X1 and Mercedes GLA that offer more space and better value for money.
Q: What engine does the new Audi Q2 have?
The facelifted Q2 launches with only one engine option, the 1.4 TFSI petrol unit that produces 110kW and offers decent performance for city driving and highway cruising.
Q: How fuel efficient is the Audi Q2?
The 1.4 TFSI engine in the Q2 delivers a claimed fuel consumption of around 5.8 litres per 100km on the combined cycle, making it reasonably economical for a premium compact SUV.
Q: What are the main competitors to the Audi Q2 in South Africa?
The Q2's main rivals include the BMW X1, Mercedes-Benz GLA, Volvo XC40, and MINI Countryman, all of which compete in the premium compact SUV segment with similar pricing and features.
Should You Buy It?
The best compact premium SUV under R600,000 in South Africa is still the BMW X1, but the facelifted Audi Q2 makes a compelling case if you prioritise distinctive styling over practicality. At R485,000 for the entry model, it's reasonably priced for an Audi, and the updated front end does give it more road presence than before. However, the Q2's cramped rear seats and limited boot space mean it's really best suited to couples or small families who value the four rings over outright practicality. If you can stretch to R565,000 for the S-Line with its 18-inch wheels and sports suspension, you'll get a genuinely fun-to-drive compact SUV that stands out from the German premium pack. Our verdict: maybe, but only if you don't need maximum space and genuinely love the quirky design.
