It can be hard to keep track of the updates to fast Audis, not least when powertrains seemingly switch with the seasons - the SQ5 has been diesel, petrol and mild-hybrid diesel in its seven years on sale. So with the smallest SQ2 due for a mid-life revision, it wouldn't be unreasonable to expect something drastic. More power, perhaps, or significant chassis tweaks, or an overhaul inside.
Alas, it's pretty modest, even by Audi standards. The 300hp SQ2 has "an even fresher look" thanks to new headlights and bumpers, a slightly lower grille and silver surrounds for the "implied" air vents. Suffice it to say the update will surely only be spotted by the keenest of Audiphiles.
Mechanically the SQ2 is unaltered, meaning 300hp from a 2.0-litre turbo, a seven-speed DSG automatic and quattro on-demand all-wheel drive. Or the same package as is found in the T-Roc R, and just 10hp down on the Cupra Formentor's powertrain. Audi claims 0-62mph in 4.9 seconds and a 155mph top speed.
It means the only additional changes of note are on the options list, with adaptive cruise assist, park assist and four new upholstery packages to choose from. The tech illustrations appear to show an adaptive damping option, too, an extra denied to the SQ2 originally but which might make a crucial difference now given the grievances aired about its ride at launch. It'll be one to investigate when the car is confirmed for the UK.
However minor it proves to be, this update will likely put the SQ2 back on the radar of those seeking a compact performance SUV in the mould of the Mercedes-AMG GLA35 or a BMW X2 M35i. In Germany, the new SQ2 has been confirmed as costing from €45,700, or just under £41,000 at today's exchange rate, which sounds about right given the car first cost £37,545 in the UK. Those that can do without the headlight and bumper changes might be interested to know that prices for used SQ2s now start at £25k. Certainly, it doesn't sound like buying secondhand will mean missing out on much...
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