The market for small SUV’s has never been this big. Many car manufacturers see the potential of this vehicle class and are putting quite an effort to be as competitive as possible. The German automaker Audi is no exception, as, after all, it is one of the pioneers of the class. With its new model behind the corner, the new 2017 Audi Q1, they are going to stir things up a bit in the segment. The new model will come with a refreshed exterior, an improved MQB platform which will make the new Q1 slightly larger than its predecessor, many new features on the inside and all that at a reasonable price.
Source: topspeed.com
Exterior and The New Platform of 2017 Audi Q1
Although similar to the A1 model, they will not share the same underpinning platform. The new Q1 will make full use of the VW’s new MQB platform, already used on some models, including the A3, the Q3 and the Golf, while the A1 will share the platform with VW Polo. As mentioned previously, the new MQB platform will give the 2017 Q1 a slight boost in terms of size, so the new model will be 4,200 mm long, 1,750 mm wide and 1,570 mm high. Looking at the front, the new Q1 features sharp edges, especially on the grille. LED based headlights are slightly inclined, featuring razor sharp edges and do add to the overall beastly look of the car, although it is the smallest in the Audi’s SUV line. The car is just a bit shorter than the Q3, making it a perfect buy, if you plan on saving some money.
Source: topspeed.com
Engine, Specs and Performance
Not much information is known for now, but we are sure the new Q1’s basic configuration will have a pretty weak 3-cylinder petrol engine, capable of delivering around 100 horses. More powerful variant will include a 1.4-liter TFSI petrol engine, that will be able to output around 140 horsepower, with a peak torque output of 184 pounds-feet. This engine will accelerate the car to 60 from standing in around 8 seconds and be able to reach 120 mph as its top speed. Another, more powerful engine will be a 1.8-liter inline 4-cylinder gasoline engine that will be able to deliver about 180 horsepower, with a maximum torque output of around 207 pounds-feet.
The most powerful option will be a 2.0-liter TFSI unit, rated at 230 horsepower and 273 pounds-feet of torque. Two diesel options will be available as an option. The first will be a 2.0-liter TDI diesel engine, rated at 150 horsepower and 236 pounds-feet of torque, while the second, more powerful option will be a 2.0-liter TDI, capable of outputting 184 horsepower, with a maximum torque output of 280 pounds-feet. The front-wheel drive configuration will be standard in the basic trim level, but all-wheel drive will be available as an option. AWD will be standard in the most expensive trims.
Source: caranddriver.com
2017 Audi Q1 Interior and Features
Audi, as part of the VW Group is maintaining a politics of simplicity and none of their models differ much on the outside, as well as on the inside. We expect to see a layout, as well as design elements very similar to both the A1 and Q3 models. Although smaller than the Q3, the new Q1 will offer quite a bit of space in the cabin, with plenty of leg and head room. Even though there are cars that offer more cargo space, the 350-liter trunk will be quite sufficient for many people.
Source: topspeed.com
Pricing and Release Date
The new 2017 Audi Q1 will start at around $24,000, for the base model, ranging up to $30K+ for the most expensive trim level with loads of additional options, slotting it nicely between the A3 Sportback and the more expensive Q3. We should expect to see the new Q1 on the streets this winter.
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