Audi is presenting the SQ2 for the first time (read our Audi Nomenclature article for context), the new top model of the Q2 family stands out in the compact SUV segment.
Powering the SQ2 is a high-tech, high-output 2.0 TFSI four-cylinder. It weighs just 150kg and features Audi’s Valvelift System that reduces flushing losses in the combustion chamber and ensures optimal flow of exhaust gas to the turbocharger, particularly in the low rpm range. It puts out 300 hp and a constant 400 Nm of torque between 2,000 and 5,200 rpm, enough to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h.
A seven-speed S tronic transfers the power of the 2.0 TFSI. The driver can operate the lightning-fast dual-clutch transmission in the automatic modes D or S, or shift themselves.
As with every Audi S model, quattro all-wheel drive is standard in the SQ2. Its central element is a hydraulically actuated multi-plate clutch. It distributes torque continuously between the axles. If the front wheels lose grip, the multi-plate clutch can transfer up to 100 percent of the force to the rear within just a few milliseconds.
The S sport suspension in the Audi SQ2 harmonizes optimally with the dynamic powertrain. With a sportier setup than the system on which it is based, it lowers the body by 20 millimetres. The power boost of the standard progressive steering has an S-specific characteristic. Its rack is specially geared so that the steering ratio becomes more direct the further the wheel is turned. This reduces the steering angle needed and produces a sporty driving feel. Agility is improved when manoeuvring, in urban traffic and in tight bends.
Audi has further honed the exterior design for the S model. The front end alone indicates the special position occupied by the vehicle. Eight upright double bars divide the large, octagonal Singleframe grille. A front splitter joins the outermost edges of the two dominating air inlets to underscore the full width of the brawny SQ2 front end. The standard LED headlights and LED rear lights with dynamic turn signals radiate a characteristic, arrow-shaped light signature.
Striking details also set accents on the flanks and at the rear. The trim strips in the lower region of the doors are strongly contoured; the exterior mirror housings sport a shining, aluminium-look finish. A long roof edge spoiler provides for sufficient downforce; the diffuser insert houses four exhaust tailpipes. The exterior colour palette includes the standard ibis white and the optional colours ara blue, daytona grey, floret silver, glacier white, mythos black, quantum gray and tango red.
Standard equipment includes sport seats, a front centre armrest, automatic air conditioning, a sport multifunction steering wheel – optionally with paddles for the S tronic – and the driver information system with colour display.
The interior design takes up the progressive, taut lines of the exterior and uses colours and materials to set sporty accents. The headlining, pillars and seat upholstery come standard in black. The decorative inlay on the instrument panel is matt brushed aluminium. The pedal caps and the footrest are made of stainless steel; the illuminated door sill trims up front sport S logos. The instrument dials are gray and the needles white. The MMI monitor and the display in the instrument cluster or Audi virtual cockpit show S-specific start screens when the ignition is switched on.
The seats of the Audi SQ2 come standard in a combination of leather and fabric. A leather/ Alcantara mix or fine Nappa leather are optionally available. Accent stripes, contrasting stitching in red and gray, plus embossed S logos round out the range. In addition to black, the fine Nappa leather upholstery is available in two colours (black with red) and with a rhombus pattern. There are two options for the decorative inlay: a red anodized paint finish and the illuminated version “Format light graphics” (with the ten-colour ambient lighting package). Other options include air vents with red interior rings and the flat-bottomed steering wheel with shift paddles.
The optional Audi virtual cockpit replaces the driver information system. The driver controls the fully digital instrument cluster via buttons on the steering wheel. The 12.3-inch display offers three different views, including a screen that places the tachometer front and centre. The most important information is also visible in a head-up display, another option.
