India bound Audi Q2: What to expect

The Audi Q2 SUV was unveiled at the 2016 Geneva motor show. With an India-launch on the cards, here’s what you need to know about what could very well become the country's most affordable premium vehicle:

Audi’s smallest SUV

At 4,191mm long, 1,508mm tall and 2,009mm wide, the Q2 is the smallest SUV in Audi’s line-up. The SUV is also fairly light at just over 1,205kg.

All-new design language

The Q2 is based on the A3 that uses the MQB platform. However, its design language is the beginning of a far more edgy next-generation design for Audi as compared to that of SUVs like the Q3 and Q5. The front of the Q2 sports a new single-frame grille with polygonal details – a feature that will be adopted for all Q cars – and headlights that are slightly more squared off than those of recent Audis. There’s also an R8-style blade on the C-pillar that can be had in different colours and changed by customers. The rear looks more hatch-back like, while the tail-lights show a new design as well.

Long-wheelbase version under consideration for India (Audi Q2 L) 

For the Indian market, Audi is evaluating the long-wheel-base version of the Q2 that is being developed for China. The Q2 isn't expected in India until the middle of next year and the wait could be longer still if the carmaker decides to bring the long-wheelbase version here. However, aside from increased legroom, another benefit of bringing the China-based model here is lower costs as parts imported from VW China are about 15 percent cheaper than those brought in from Europe. This lower cost, along with the reduction in subsequent duties and taxes, would make for a healthy price benefit.

Range of engine and gearbox options

Internationally, the Q2 is powered by three TFSI and three TDI engines ranging from 1.0 to 2.0-litre capacities. However, for India, Audi is expected to offer the Q2 with the option of 1.4-litre TFSI petrol engine and 2.0-litre TDI diesel unit. Additionally, local assembly of the 2.0 TDI engine from next year could yet again dramatically bring down costs. Gearbox options include both, manual and Audi’s dual clutch automatic boxes, and the carmaker is likely to offer the same to Indian customers as well.

To target first-time luxury car buyers

Audi says the Q2 is aimed at young urban drivers and hopes it will draw new customers to the brand with its fresh design. Not expected to be priced far lower than the Q3 as it features a lot of Audi tech, the Q2 is likely to be priced from Rs 25-30 lakh. In the absence of the A3 hatch, the Q2 could form Audi’s entry point into the brand and thus compete with the Mercedes A-class and the BMW 1-series.

More on the Audi Q2

Audi Q2 image gallery