Having converted a while ago from a sedan driver to anything taller with multipurpose design in its DNA, I waited for the Q2 with great anticipation.
by RUBIN VAN NIEKERK
Being slightly smaller than BMW’s X1 does broaden its target audience substantially. Cute as a button, the funky Q2 ticks all my boxes and refuse to blend in with anything. No premium German challenger for a start or anything really other than the nippier Mini Countryman.
Somehow the Mercedes-Benz GLA does not quite match evenly in terms of pricing and output. Many people won’t mind the Q2’s compact Lone Ranger status. In fact it adds some sex appeal, being practical, purposeful and pretty, works well in this solid baby SUV. A boot that swallows 405 litres is more than adequate and loading bigger items is easy when you drop the rear seats. A well proven 1,4-litre engine handles this sexy package with ease and offers clever technology that can shut cylinders off to conserve fuel. Built on the familiar and respectable MQB platform, it feels solid whatever surfaces you may cross. Noise insulation is excellent and part of the reason that I feel the Q2 is a bit of a little Lone Ranger, as similar sized competitors are quite tiny and noisy by comparison. Only Mini competes well in that department. Ground clearance of 150mm is hardly adequate for any challenging off-roading, but you will be able to traverse some more challenging dirt roads.
Typically Audi, no squeaks and rattles will materialise for at least 10 years. The downside to this lovely little car is pricing. I guess you may also look at Volvo’s V40 Cross Country that has been facelifted last year.
