2021 Audi SQ2 finally arriving in Australia to take on Mercedes-AMG GLA35 and BMW X2 M35i

Audi’s SQ2 will finally arrive in Australian showrooms nearly three years after its first reveal, though the local version will be updated model with a fresh design.

The original SQ2 was first revealed at the 2018 Paris motor show, and was originally planned for a 2019 introduction, but Audi Australia’s Mercedes-AMG GLA35 and BMW X2 M35i competitor will now land locally in mid-2021.

Powered by a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine, the new SQ2 punches out 221kW/400Nm (the same as before), which is sent to all four wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

As a result, the SQ2 will blitz the zero-to-100km/h sprint in just 4.9 seconds, while also returning a fuel consumption figure of 7.7 litres per 100km.

Read More About Audi Q2

Best crossovers arriving in 2021

Sitting 20mm lower than a Q2 thanks to S sport suspension, the SQ2 also scores a unique steering tune for improved driving feel, according to Audi, while other performance enhancements include larger brakes and 18-inch wheels shod in 235/45 rubber.

Differentiating the 2021 SQ2 from its predecessor is lower-positioned Singleframe front grille with unique insert, standard LED headlights (with a Matrix upgrade as an option) and reworked rear bumper with quad exhaust tips.

Inside, the new SQ2 is available with four interior options, starting with a fabric and leather trim, moving up to Nappa leather with rhombus stitching, and topping out with a leather/Dinamica combination.

Being the flagship Q2, the SQ2 is also fitted with sports seats, a multifunction steering wheel and automatic air conditioning, while Audi’s virtual cockpit, multimedia system, connected services, Bang & Olufsen sound system and wireless smartphone charger are also available for tech enthusiasts.

Safety credentials are also high on the SQ2, with autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control and automated parking fitted.

Read More About Audi Q2

New Audi Q2 2021 detailed: Mercedes-Benz GLA and BMW X1 rival gets aggressive facelift

However, full Australian specification – and pricing – will be confirmed closer to the SQ2’s on-sale date next year.

For reference, the current Q2 range kicks off at $41,950 before on-road costs for the 35 TFSI S tronic design and tops out at $52,400 for the 40 TFSI quattro S tronic sport Edition #2.

Expect to the SQ2 closer to its German rivals though, with BMW asking $69,900 for the 225kW/450Nm X2 M35i and the 225kW/400Nm Mercedes-AMG GLA35 commanding an $82,935 pricetag.