German luxury car manufacturer Audi could be planning to discontinue the entry-level Q2 premium hatchback from its lineup across all global markets. Launched in 2016, the Q2 received a mid-life cycle facelift in 2020 globally, which also includes the Indian market. Additionally, Audi may also discontinue the A1 premium hatchback from its portfolio which it launched way back in 2010. Audi may go through with this decision in order to realign itself as a premium brand by discontinuing entry-level models.
Reasons behind the discontinuation
Based on recent reports, Audi may not replace the Q2 and A1 after their life cycles end in global markets. The luxury brand intends to limit their range of entry-level vehicles and focus their resources on expanding upwards. With an aim to prioritise models with higher profit margins, Audi will follow along the footsteps of other luxury manufacturers. Therefore, the brand aims to produce larger and more expensive models despite the automotive industry’s global shortage of semiconductor chips.
All automakers today concentrate their efforts towards producing and developing larger vehicles like crossovers and SUVs for heftier profit margins. Due to the current low demands for traditional sedans and hatchbacks, companies like Ford stopped producing traditional-style vehicles for the US. The decision to discontinue the A1 and Q2 will allow Audi to produce and develop new models, which includes EVs. It is likely that the Q2 will reach the end of its life cycle by 2023-2024 along with the A1.
2022 Audi Q2: Detailed Highlights
Audi currently sells the Q2 premium hatchback in India at a price of INR 34.99 lakh (ex-showroom). Offered in 5 variants- Standard, Premium, Premium Plus I, Premium Plus II, and Technology, the Q2 sports 9 colour options. These include Tango Red, Quantum Grey, Nano Grey, Mythos Black, Arabian Blue, Daytona Grey, Floret Silver, and Ibis White. The exterior of the premium hatchback features distinct styling elements like the single-frame front grille and 17-inch alloy wheels.
Additionally, Audi has equipped the India-spec Q2 with a blacked-out B-pillar, LED tailights, LED DRLs, and a panoramic sunroof. Powering the Q2 is a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, TFSI petrol motor that develops 190 PS and 320 Nm. This power is sent to all four wheels via Audi’s signature Quattro AWD system via the 7-speed, dual-clutch, automatic transmission. Therefore, the India-spec Q2 with all its performance can accelerate from 0-100 kph in just 6.5 seconds.
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