Audi Q2 – new compact crossover revealed in Geneva

Audi has revealed its smallest SUV yet at the Geneva Motor Show. Further back there’s an R8-style blade on the C-pillar, and the taillights premiere a new design with Audi’s latest swooping indicators. The interior also boasts a 405-litre cargo area, expandable to 1050 litres with the rear seats folded.

Customers can choose between three petrols – 1L TFSI, 1.4L TSI and 2.0L TFSI – while diesel drivers can have a 1.6L TDI or 2.0L TDI with power outputs ranging between 114- and 187bhp.

Diesels kick off with a 1.6-litre TDI with 114bhp, joined by a 2.0-litre in two states of tune: 148bhp and 187bhp.

A six-speed manual gearbox will be standard, but the S tronic dual-clutch auto will also be available across all versions.

The compact SUV will come with optional Audi virtual cockpit and the head-up display.

For a company that exploded into modern consciousness through its Quattro all-wheel-drive technology, delivering a crossover with just two-wheel drive could be a big leap for Audi.

Inside the Q2 is typically Audi but also have a little bit extra to make it stand out.

Features include WiFi hotspot and a SIM card with a flat-rate data plan, along with Apple and Android smartphone connectivity which includes calendar syncing. Other systems in the line-up: adaptive cruise control with Stop & Go function, traffic jam assist, the lane-departure warning system Audi side assist, the lane-keeping assistant Audi active lane assist, traffic sign recognition and parking and cross-traffic assist rear. The system, which uses a 12.3-inch high-definition graphics screen to replace the traditional speedometer and tachometer, can also bring the navigation or the entertainment to the driver’s attention at will. A three-way split folding rear seat is optional, as is a powered tailgate. Sports suspension that lowers ride height by 10mm is available, while variable-ratio steering comes as standard. The compact SUV is an urban-type vehicle for everyday driving and recreation, uniting a progressive design with a high level of functionality.

Order books for the Q2 open in July 2016 at prices yet to be announced – first deliveries will be in the autumn. The V6 power unit accelerates the S4 Avant from a standstill to 100 km per hour in 4.9 seconds, and on to a governed top speed of 250 km per hour quattro drive and Audi drive select are standard features.