Rumors of the hot Audi SQ2 have been circulating for a number of months now and while we had a rough idea of what to expect, its reveal ahead of the Paris Motor Show has confirmed that it will offer a full 292 horsepower and 295 lb ft of torque from its turbocharged 2.0-liter TFSI engine, the same as the one you get in the S3 sedan.
Quattro all-wheel-drive and a dual-clutch DSG transmission are standard fitment, both contributing to the very rapid 0-62mph time of 4.8-seconds. Top speed is still limited to the usual 155mph though.
The standard Q2, like most small crossovers, is more of a slightly raised hatchback than true off-roading SUV and the SQ2 with its 0.8-inch lower and stiffer suspension setup and either 18 or 19-inch wheels is clearly intended for on-road entertainment.
Additional exterior performance cues come in the way of a redesigned grille, quad rear tailpipes, a sporty body kit and brake calipers that can be finished in red instead of the standard black. The SQ2 receives some additional equipment over the lesser Q2 models too and it comes fitted with LED head and taillights, sporty leather-covered seats and can be optioned with Audi’s virtual cockpit display and the latest driver assistance systems.
US fans of fast Audis have the full complement of S and RS sedans to choose from but when it comes to crossovers, the sole option currently is the larger SQ5 model.
There is no news yet about whether this pint-sized rocket will be making it to the states but with the imminent arrival of the similarly quick and powerful BMW X2 M35i, it may well force Audi’s hand. With the possibility of an RS variant on the horizon too, we sure hope it does.
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