cars news 10: 2017 Audi Q2 First Look Review

Audi took the wraps off the 2017 Q2 small crossover at the Geneva auto show, revealing the first model in its most recent crossover offensive. Smaller than the Q3, the 2017 Q2 is compact, rugged, and features an exterior design that lets it stand out while still being recognizable as an Audi. The Q2 rides on the Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform, which is shared with various vehicles including the Audi A3 and Volkswagen Golf.

Key exterior features of the 2017 Audi Q2 include a low roof that merges with the C-pillar, which can be optioned with offset color blades. Up front, the single-frame grille features an octagonal design, angled headlight clusters, and cube-shaped lower air intakes. At the back, the Q2 has cubed LED taillights and a black lower diffuser with two exhaust pipes clustered together on one side. In addition to two trim lines, an S Line exterior package can also be selected to further make the Q2’s appearance sportier and more distinctive.

Audi has packed the 2017 Q2 with plenty of technology, including a standard forward automatic emergency braking feature. Additional active safety features include adaptive cruise control with stop and go function, lane departure warning, traffic jam assist, lane keeping assist, blind spot warning, lane departure warning, traffic sign recognition, and parking and rear cross-traffic alert.

Audi’s MMI infotainment system can also be had with a wi-fi hotspot and media streaming from your smartphone to the car’s multimedia interface. The Virtual Cockpit system with a 12.3-inch TFT display replacing traditional gauge clusters is also available and offers two modes: one that’s focused on driving information and another that emphasizes navigation and multimedia data. A head-up display and a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium audio system with 705 watts are also available as options.

Inside, the Q2 features a low seating position like in a sedan and convenience features like a three-way split-folding second-row bench seat. There is also an extensive level of customizability in the Q2, including vibrant interior colors and upholsteries and an LED lighting package to illuminate the cabin in a choice of 10 different colors.

European-spec Q2s will receive a selection of diesel and gas powertrains that have anywhere from 116 hp in the 1.0-liter TFSI engine to 190 hp in the new 2.0-liter turbo-four. A six-speed manual will be offered in Europe, but in the U.S. it’s likely we’ll get the new seven-speed dual-clutch automatic as the only transmission choice. Front-wheel drive is standard, while Audi’s Quattro all-wheel drive system is optional. Audi’s Drive Select system is also available and enables the driver to choose between four modes: auto, comfort, dynamic, and efficiency. Should you need to go off-road, the Q2 has 7.9 inches of ground clearance.

The 2017 Audi Q2 will go on sale in Europe later this year, followed by the rest of the world including the U.S.