Downsizing from 7-seater (Kia Sorento) now that the kids have their own cars, I wanted a small, comfy SUV that would normally carry one or two occupants, but 4 at a stretch. Yes my knees and back are shot, so climbing down into a car is not fun.
After considering Subaru XV and Toyota CHR, I was surprised that a 2-yr old Audi Q2 was the same price as those.
Test drives were telling - this car has real speed and the most buttery smooth gearbox imaginable. The XV was just gutless and the CHR has a diabolical back seat - it is a cave.
The car is basically a base model with LED lights, bigger nicer alloys and tinted windows added. It has leather all round, a lovely-in-the-hand steering wheel and the Audi infotainment system with the rotary dial. The dials and controls all feel nice to touch and work well.
The 7inch screen is not a touch screen, and that takes a little getting used to, but fine within a week or so. Built in Nav is good, but Apple CarPlay Nav also works well.
My major gripes are that a car that retails for $40k+ does not have proximity key entry or push button start as standard (first world problems I know but my Kia had this!).
The other gripe is storage - the rear boot holds suitcases alright but my standard size golf clubs do not fit without folding down the back seats. Now I never take more than 1 passenger with me to golf, so I can cope, but it is small.
The legroom in the back seat is limited if sitting behind a tall front seat occupant although head room is fine, and The seats are comfy.
The ride is firm, and you do tend to crash over potholes and bigger speed bumps.
I really like the look of my ‘little truck’, and the cut-away slice on the sides is an attention grabber.
The fuel economy is great, and I am getting close to 800km a tank with a lot of peak hour city driving included. It does need 95ron though.
The car is small and easy to drive and park. The drivers view is good.
I like the feel of the luxury cabin, and in the end the drive is fun. Putting your foot down sparks the turbo 1.4L engine into action in a very pleasing way.