Audi A1 vs. Q2: which is better?
The Audi A1 vs. Q2 battle pits a premium supermini against a popular crossover to see the best of the German brand
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When it comes to the Audi A1 vs. Q2, you might be wondering what business these two models have playing as rivals.
One’s a crossover SUV and the other a hatchback, are they even in the same league?
As two of Audi’s most popular models, the Q2 and A1 actually tick many of the same boxes – they’re even based on the same platform.
They’re comfortable, on-trend and have impressive interiors, but which one suits your needs?
Take a look at our A1 vs. Q2 review below to find your match.
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A1 vs. Q2
Our guide will answer:
Is the A1 or A2 better to drive?
Does the A1 or Q2 have better tech?
Which Audi model has the better styling?
Is the A1 or Q2 more reliable?
What are the A1 and Q2’s dimensions?
Audi A1 vs. Q2: styling
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Okay, so hear us out. Yes, the Audi Q2 is a small SUV and the A1 is a hatchback, but they actually look pretty similar. It’s clear they’re from the same family tree.
They’re not that much different in size, though the Q2 obviously sits higher, and they have very similar grilles and front ends.
The A1 does have a younger feel to it, which is probably because SUVs are typically a family car and hatchbacks not quite as practical. It also feels chunkier at the front, where the Q2 is a little more streamlined.
Either way, both cars are handsome in classic Audi fashion. They’re timeless as well, so you won’t feel outdated in a few years’ time.
Audi A1 vs. Q2: what are they like to drive?
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Driving is where you’ll really start to feel the difference between the Q2 and A1. You get extra ride height in the Q2 and better visibility, and the A1 feels low and sneaks around in comparison.
For the Q2, you can choose from the 1.0-litre 30 TFSI and 35 TFSI. You used to be able to get a diesel or the more powerful 40 TFSI, but these have been dropped by Audi (but can be found on the used market).
There’s a similar range of engines with the A1. There’s the 1.0-litre 25 TFSI, 30 TFSI, and 35 TFSI, but no diesel picks.
The 35 TFSI feels best on the Q2 as it helps the extra weight along, while the mid-range 30 TFSI works just fine for the A1.
Audi A1 vs. Q2: interior and technology
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Inside an Audi is never a bad place to be. The brand excels in interiors, and you’ll get some impressive tech.
The Q2 gets a pair of screens – one seven-inch screen for infotainment and one 12.3-inch screen for the Virtual Cockpit. The displays are crisp and easy to use, and the infotainment includes smartphone mirroring.
It’s a similar set-up in the A1. There’s an 8.8-inch infotainment screen in the latest models, with the option to upgrade to a 10.1-inch screen past the Technik trim. There’s also a Virtual Cockpit screen behind the wheel.
Everything feels high-quality, but the A1 definitely has a flashier look about it where the Q2 stays strictly functional.
Audi A1 vs. Q2: boot space and practicality
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Boot space between the two Audis differs a fair bit. The Q2 has a 405-litre space that expands to 1,050 litres with the seats down, while the A1 fits 335 litres and can extend to 1,090 litres.
You might think the SUV is more practical, but since it’s still pretty compact, there’s not much it can do that the A1 can’t when it comes to space. They’re both comfortable to sit in.
It’s worth noting that the higher riding SUV can be a better option if you need to lift children in and out of the car. It’ll save you your back, but the boot is dwarfed by slightly bigger SUVs like the Skoda Karoq with its 580-litre space.
Audi A1 vs. Q2: safety and reliability
Another non-negotiable for a family car or daily driver is safety.
Luckily, both the A1 and Q2 grabbed a full five-star Euro NCAP safety test. The Q2’s rating has now expired, but it’s still a good indicator of how the car performs in a crash.
There’s plenty of standard safety kit in both cars. Think rear parking sensors, lane departure warning, cruise control and Audi pre-sense.
Audis in general are well rated for reliability, but they can be expensive to maintain. Parts are high quality so can be pricey to purchase, but that does tend to mean they’ll last longer.
Audi A1 vs. Q2: dimensions
Audi A1
Length: 4,029mm
Width: 1,740mm
Height: 1,409mm
Boot space: 335 litres (1,050 litres with the rear seats folded)
Audi Q2
Length: 4,208mm
Width: 1,794mm
Height: 1,508mm
Boot space: 405 litres (1,090 litres with the rear seats folded)
Verdict: Audi A1 vs. Audi Q2: which should you buy?
Have we successfully convinced you that this SUV and hatchback pairing are equal rivals? When it comes to the Audi A1 vs. Q2, you’ll need to decide whether you want the higher ride or a sleeker feel.
Both cars are impressive, but the interior of the A1 might tip you over the edge with its extra character. Although, that depends if you’ll appreciate the extra boot space and ease of access that the Q2 gives.
Take a look at our range of used Audi Q2 and A1 cars to compare them in even more detail.