Audi Q2 2021: arrives in May priced from $42,900

The updated Audi Q2 will arrive in Australia within weeks with a sharp new look inside and out and a lineup of punchy engines to match.

Audi has offered up a full list of details on its refreshed Q2 small SUV that will go on sale in Australia this May with a starting price of $42,900, before on-road costs.

The Q2 is offered in three grades, with entry-level the Q2 35 TFSI, a Quattro-equipped mid-tier Q2 40 TFSI and for those who really want some firepower Audi has the SQ2.

Audi Q2 2021 driving rear — The facelifted Audi Q2 will arrive in Australia in May with the staring price of $42,900 before on-roads

On sale in Australia since 2016, the most recent update to the Q2 adds a far more aggressive design that is led by the sharper LED headlights that sit above large air intakes, although some are exclusively added for looks.

A mild diffuser has been fitted at the rear, while the buyers who opt for the Q2 40 TFSI and those with the S line exterior package receive an even larger and deeper grille. All variants of the Q2 receive 18-inch alloy wheels as standard.

Audi is offering a choice of three turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engines in their line up that are mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, that start with the front-driven and all-new 1.5-litre in the Q2 35 TFSI.

Audi Q2 2021 side — Even the base 1.5-litre turbo petrol puts out 110kW of power and 250Nm of torque

The new engine replaces the old 1.4-litre and while it has the same outputs at 110kW of power and 250Nm of torque it has slightly better fuel economy at 5.2L/100km helped by the ability to deactivate two cylinders when not needed.

Stepping up to the Q2 40 TFSI adds a larger 2.0-litre unit which punches out 140kW/320Nm which is enough to get to 100km/h in 6.5 seconds which is thanks, in part, to the Quattro all-wheel-drive system.

But if you really want a pocket rocket on stilts then the upgrade to the SQ2 may be worth a look, with 221kW/400Nm on tap from a 2.0-litre engine this small SUV will get to 100km/h in just 4.9 seconds.

Audi SQ2 2021-2 — If you want more speed the the 221kW Audi SQ2 might be worth a look

Despite being one of the most affordable vehicles in the range, the inside of the Q2 is still very much an Audi with the entry-level Q2 35 TFSI fitted as standard with leather-appointed seats and steering wheel, dual-zone climate control and a wireless charger.

That compliments the 8.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay with wired Android Auto that sits adjacent to the 12.3-inch digital driver’s display.

Stepping up to the mid-tier 40 TFSI swaps in front sport seats and adds a slew of upgrades including a power tailgate and aluminium accents throughout the interior.

Audi Q2 2021 interior — The Q2 features an 8.3-inch touchscreen as standard

Buyers will also have the option to add on a styling and premium package but the price of each has not yet been released.

Audi has added a good amount of safety features to the Q2 as standard, including AEB with pedestrian detection, six airbags, cruise control, a rear camera and a full suite of parking sensors around the car.