Audi is preparing to take on the Nissan Juke with a compact crossover christened Q1, and a report coming out of England gives us a good idea of what to expect when it is introduced next year.
Riding on Volkswagen’s modular MQB platform, the Q1 will allegedly share the bulk of its three- and four-cylinder engines with the second-generation A1 sub-compact hatchback that is set to debut at about the same time. Entry-level variants will be front-wheel drive, while more expensive models will tackle adverse weather conditions with aplomb thanks to Audi’s famed quattro all-wheel drive system.
A performance-focused model called SQ1 will join the lineup shortly after the regular Q1 is introduced. British magazine Auto Express speculates the SQ1 will be powered by a 2.0-liter TFSI four-cylinder engine that will send approximately 220 horsepower to all four wheels via a quick-shifting dual-clutch transmission and a performance-tuned quattro system.
A teaser image published by Audi late last year revealed the Q1 will boast a muscular look inspired by the Crosslane Coupé concept that was presented at the 2012 edition of the Paris Motor Show. Although the concept’s sharp headlights, wide haunches and short overhangs are expected to carry over to the production model, the Q1 will lose the Crosslane Coupé’s removable roof panel and gain a more practical four-door body style.
Look for official details about the Audi Q1 to emerge in the weeks leading up to its official debut at a major auto show next year. The crossover will go on sale across Europe in early 2016, but whether it will be sold on our side of the pond is up in the air.
