Since 2008, rumors have been circulating about a compact crossover from Audi, rumored to be called the Q1. Reports had it being built on the A1 platform, but production dates always seemed to be far off in the future.
Rumors of a compact crossover from Audi are again heating up, and this time Australia’s Carsales has a surprising amount of information on the oft-rumored soft-roader.
First, it will come to market with a Q2 nameplate, not a Q1 badge. It will blend architecture from both the A1 and the MQB platform that the Volkswagen group will soon use to underpin just about everything, including the next Audi A3.
Engines will be shared with the A1, which means that the turbocharged 1.2-liter four-cylinder will serve as the base engine, at least in Europe. Buyers on that side of the pond will likely get to choose a diesel engine option, too.
Base Q2 models will be front-wheel-drive, but all-wheel-drive (via an electronic rear differential) will be available on higher trim models. Even equipped with all-wheel-drive, the Q2 will only be capable of light off-roading.
Outside, the Q2 will look more like the A1 than the A3, and will sport a new LED headlight design previously reserved for larger (and more expensive) models. Like rival brand MINI, expect Audi to offer a high degree of personalization on Q2 models, including contrasting paint on roof and mirrors.
Inside, expect room for four, not five, and a somewhat restricted luggage space thanks to a plunging roofline. Like the outside, interior panels are said to be customizable for a unique and personalized ownership experience.
While a Q2 concept is said to be under development, a production version would take between two and three years to bring to market. If the Q2 concept appears in early 2013, that pushes the introduction of Audi’s compact crossover out to 2015 or 2016.
Color us skeptical, but we’ve heard this story before.