Audi adds Launch Edition to Q2 line-up

AUDI has revealed Australian pricing and some specification for its Q2 baby SUV that arrives in showrooms in the coming weeks with a special Launch Edition that tops the range for now.

As previously reported, the entry variant – dubbed Q2 Design – will kick off from $41,100 plus on-road costs.

Pricing for the diesel-powered Q2 Sport starts at $47,900, while the Launch Edition costs $49,900.

The Q2 Design is powered by Audi’s 1.4-litre four-cylinder TFSI turbo-petrol engine with cylinder-on-demand technology that shuts down two of the cylinders under light loads. This unit – which also powers the Launch Edition – delivers 110kW of power and 250Nm of torque and has an official combined fuel economy figure of 5.3 litres per 100km.

The Sport employs a 2.0-litre TDI turbo-diesel engine delivering 110kW and 340Nm and sipping 5.0L/100km on the combined cycle.

Both variants use a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission driving the front wheels in Design and Launch Edition, while the Sport features Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system.

These variants form the initial line-up, with a more powerful 140kW/320Nm 2.0 TFSI Quattro version to be offered in the second half of this year. Pricing and spec for this model is yet to be revealed.

On top of the standard equipment offered with the 1.4 TFSI Design, the Launch Edition adds the S line exterior styling package, as well as driver assistance features such as adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, active lane keeping and lane departure warning.

The Launch Edition also gains flourishes first seen on the Q2 Edition #1 that was revealed in Europe last year, including exclusive Quantum Grey paint, black and Manhattan Grey exterior details and 19-inch alloy wheels.

Other standard gear across the range includes autonomous emergency braking, an auto-dimming interior mirror, MMI Navigation, Bluetooth, voice control, parking system plus with a reversing camera, automatic air-conditioning with dual-zone climate control, leather-appointed seats and either 17- or 18-inch wheels.

The 2.0 TDI Sport adds sports seats, an electric tailgate and Audi Side Assist.

All Q2s will be offered with Audi’s virtual cockpit digital instrument display, head-up display, and Audi Connect with Google Earth and Search functionality as well as WiFi hotspot.

Cargo space is 405 litres with all seats in place, increasing to 1050 with the rear seats lowered. The Q2’s slightly larger Q3 sibling can haul 460 litres with all seats in place.

The Q2 will go head to head with the likes of Mini’s forthcoming new-generation Countryman crossover, the Mercedes-Benz GLA, BMW X1 and Infiniti’s just launched Q30/QX30 twins.

Audi Australia managing director Andrew Doyle said the Q2 would establish itself as a unique offering in the burgeoning premium compact SUV segment.

“It will open up the Audi brand to a new range of young and young-at-heart buyers,” he said.

“This new model will exceed customer expectations of how an Audi should look, thanks to its progressive polygonal design language, and what it should offer, thanks to a suite of infotainment and connectivity technologies. We are very pleased to be launching this game-changing vehicle to Australia in such a competitive package.”2017 Audi Q2 pricing*

Design 1.4 TFSI (a)	$41,100
Sport 2.0 TDI Quattro (a)	$47,900
Launch Edition 1.4 TFSI (a)	$49,900

*Excludes on-road costs