After we have tested the Audi Q2 in one of its most desirable engine/equipment combinations (the 35 TFSI S line of 150 hp with the Edition One package) we put to the test what will probably be the best-selling variant: the 30 TFSI Advance , equipped with the three-cylinder 1.0 l, turbo, and 110 hp.
Given the sportier-looking S line variant that Diogo put to the test, the Q2 Advance I tested takes on a more discreet look, forgoing 19" wheels and several black elements, bringing 17" wheels and elements in black. satin gray.
The truth is that despite five years on the market, the Q2 does not seem out of step with the competition, making use of the robust and muscular look to continue to stand out in a segment full of proposals.
Inside it has changed (very) little
If on the outside the Audi Q2 still manages to disguise the years well, inside there are elements that make it more evident, such as the infotainment system from a generation ago — Audi could have taken advantage of the restyling to update it and put it in line with the other models in the range.
That said, infotainment is simple and easy to use thanks to the hotkeys and rotary control in the center console. However, this system fails for presenting a somewhat old-fashioned graphics, being in evidence when we look at the Virtual Cockpit (digital instrument panel) with which our unit was equipped.
Quality is high inside the Q2, with materials that are both pleasing to the touch and to the eye.
Where Q2 does not show the weight of the years is in the field of quality, where it continues to establish itself as a reference in the segment. From the feel of the controls to the overall robustness, everything in the Q2 feels “built to last”.
As for the space, despite being based on the much praised MQB A0 platform, the Q2 does not stand out for its habitability. Is there space for four adults? Yes there is. And is the 405 liters of luggage capacity enough? Yes, they are. But in this field, in its segment, Q2 is average.
hello "old" acquaintance
The engine/box set that fitted this Audi Q2 30 TFSI Advance was, as I quickly realized, exactly identical to the one I found on the A3 Sportback 30 TFSI S line I tested a few months ago.
As I said at the time, if there is something that this engine does well it is “disguising” the fact that it has only 110 hp and 200 Nm, allowing the Q2 (as well as the A3) to perform more than acceptable for a model in this segment.
Always in the mood for revs and well supported by a manual six-speed gearbox whose handling is pleasant and the correct scaling, this 1.0 TFSI “marries” well with a compact SUV like the Q2, which will have a mostly urban use.
In this environment, consumption averages did not go beyond 7 l/100 km (without any economic concerns) and when I took the Q2 outside the urban network, it was easy to get consumption between 5.5 and 6 l/100 km.
German with French comfort
Equipped with higher profile tires (215/55 R17), this Audi Q2 Advance reminds us that not all models need huge wheels and low-profile tyres.
In this way, the Q2 Advance ends up offering greater levels of comfort to its occupants, something it does with distinction (the smooth stepping doesn't even seem German).
When the curves arrive, the direct and precise steering and the good control of the bodywork's movements instill confidence and reveal that the objective of the Q2 is to “deal with” these situations more with efficiency and safety in “mind” than with fun .
Is it the right car for you?
Sturdy, economical and comfortable, the renovated Audi Q2 has in the 30 TFSI a good ally for daily tasks and an argument to remain competitive in a segment in constant turmoil.
Against itself, it has an infotainment system requiring replacement and an equipment allocation typical of premium proposals — something scarce… —, sending most equipment to the list of options.
Whether it remains an option to consider? Yes, especially for those who value the quality of assembly and brand image. However, not being the most affordable proposal in the segment, it forces us to visit the extensive list of options that quickly put the price at unreasonable levels. There are other (non-premium) proposals in the segment, with more competitive prices and more standard features.