New Audi SQ2 Makes Early Debut, Gets S3’s 300 PS Powertrain


After months of testing having been spied on several occasions, the Audi SQ2 is finally ready to bow at next week’s 2018 Paris Auto Show.

The range-topping version of the first-ever Q2 small crossover is powered by the same engine as the Audi S3 models.

The turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline unit makes an identical 300 PS (296 hp / 221 kW) and 400 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque, and is connected to a seven-speed DCT S Tronic transmission, and Quattro AWD.

Naught to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes only 4.8 seconds, or 0.2 seconds slower than the Audi S3 Sportback, and top speed is electronically capped at 250 km/h (155 mph).

Other mechanical work includes the beefier braking system, with 340 mm (13.4 in) front and 310 mm (12.2 in) rear discs, S-badged calipers available in red as an option, and new suspension. The latter brings the body by 20 mm (0.79 in) closer to the ground, makes the ride stiffer and improves the hot crossover’s cornering abilities.

On the outside, the Audi SQ2 has a reworked grille, with ‘S’ badging, a different front bumper with larger air intakes, LED headlamps and 18- or 19-inch wheels. We don’t get to see the rear, but spy shots and sources confirm quad exhaust pipes, updated bumper and LED taillights.

No images of the interior have been released at the time of writing, but Audi says the optional virtual cockpit has an ‘S’ start screen. Other novelties inside include embossed S logos, black-finished headlining, pillars and seat upholstery as standard, decorative inlay on the instrument panel in matte brushed aluminum, stainless steel pedals and footrest, and illuminated door sill trims at the front.

The seats of the Audi SQ2 are trimmed in a leather-fabric combo, with leather-Alcantara offered as an option, with contrast stitching in red and grey. Fine Nappa leather is also available, in black or black with red and a rhombus pattern, red interior rings for the air vents, and flat-bottomed steering wheel with paddle shifters.

Audi’s Pre-Sense Front is standard, as are the adaptive cruise control with Stop&Go and Traffic Jam Assist, Active Lane Assist and others. Thus, the Audi SQ2 can basically drive itself at speeds up to 64 km/h (40 mph), but drivers will still have to pay attention to the road ahead and keep their hands on the steering wheel at all times.

Audi will open the order books for the SQ2 before the end of the year, with the first deliveries expected in early 2019.

Carscoops

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