Audi is promising to deliver a bold yet familiarly premium take on the compact SUV class with the launch of the new Q2.

Now available to order in the UK, the Q2 features a host of customisation options designed to make every model stand out from the crowd. It also incorporates a suite of innovations with a focus on connectivity and infotainment. Prices start from £22,380 OTR, with more engines and an even lower pricing point to follow shortly, including an entry-level, three-cylinder 1.0 TFSI and a 2.0 TDI with 190PS, the latter introducing the option of Quattro all-wheel drive. From next month, Audi is also introducing an entirely new and individual specification to the line-up – the Q2 Edition #1.

The Q2 is available in three specification levels: SE, Sport and S line. Both SE and Sport models are equipped with contrasting lower bumpers, side skirts and wheel arch trims in matching Manhattan grey, while the signature S line full body colour finish further enhances its distinctive visual appeal. The full body colour paint finish can also be separately selected as a no-cost option on Sport models, if preferred. Vibrant colour choices include the newly available Coral orange as well as Vegas yellow and Ara blue.

The C-pillar also comes in four colours, depending on specification. As standard, a Manhattan grey metallic paint finish is appointed to SE (optional on Sport), Ice silver on Sport (optional on S line) and matt Titanium grey to S line. Alternatively, Ibis white C-pillar blades can also be opted for on all three specifications.

Entry-level SE versions benefit from a raft of standard features. Among them is the Audi smartphone interface, which supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto displayed via the MMI screen once a phone is plugged in via USB. A Bluetooth interface is also standard, as is the MMI radio plus with MMI controller and heated, electrically adjustable exterior mirrors. Inlays can be chosen in white or orange as standard and in matt brushed aluminium or illuminated design (part of the LED Interior Pack Advanced) as an option. Progressive steering is also standard in the Audi Q2. Its steering rack is designed so that the steering ratio becomes increasingly direct when turning. This affords the new Q2 precise and agile steering with little effort in downtown traffic and on winding country roads. The electro-mechanically driven and thus highly efficient steering adapts its assistance to speed and works together with the optional Audi active lane assist and park assist.

Sport models gain 17-inch alloy wheels (up from 16 inches on SE), Audi drive select with five operational modes, cruise control, light and rain sensors and sport seats upholstered in cloth.

Stand-out features on S line models include the hallmark front, side and rear styling enhancements, 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlamps with LED rear lights and dynamic sweeping rear indicators, LED interior lighting and front sport seats upholstered in cloth/leather upholstery with S embossing on the backrests.

A multi-function perforated leather steering wheel is also standard, featuring grey contrasting stitching and S line badging. Inlays are finished in brushed aluminium.

Initially available to order with a 150PS 1.4 TFSI or 1.6 TDI engine producing 115PS, buyers can opt to equip both with either a six-speed manual or seven-speed S tronic transmission (1.6 TDI S tronic available from September). The 1.4 TFSI uses Cylinder on Demand technology to reduce fuel consumption by deactivating the second and third cylinders during partial loads and when coasting. As a result, up to 54.3mpg combined is achievable, corresponding to emissions as low as 119g/km. Acceleration to 62mph takes only 8.5 seconds, with a top speed of 131mph.

The 1.6 TDI is even more efficient, returning up to 64.2mpg on a combined cycle in conjunction with 114g/km of CO2. Maximum torque of 250Nm between 1,500–3,200rpm contributes to a 0-62mph sprint time of 10.3 seconds and a 122mph top speed.

A three-cylinder 1.0 TFSI with 115PS and a four-cylinder 2.0 TDI with 150PS will become available later in the year. As an alternative to the six-speed manual transmission, Audi will also offer the S tronic dual clutch transmission with seven speeds for all engines bar the 1.0 TFSI (standard for the 2.0 TDI).

From mid-2017 a 2.0 TFSI petrol engine allied exclusively to Quattro all-wheel-drive and S tronic transmission will be introduced, and at that point it will also be possible to combine the 150PS TDI and TFSI engines with Quattro drive.