Audi Q1 compact SUV starts testing ahead of Geneva debut - Report

22/07/2015 - 18:12 Audi Q1, Audi, Spy pictures Anjan Ravi

Will share its engines with the A1 hatchback.

Audi has started road tests of its all-new Q1 compact SUV, which was previously announced for 2016. According to latest reports, the VW-owned luxury car maker is readying the Q1 for a premiere at the Geneva Motor Show in March next year.

Audi Q1 Crossover teaser — Official sketch of the Q1 released by Audi added for reference.

The Q1 will be based on the VW MQB architecture, with design highlights trickling down from larger Q models, such as the redesigned Q3, and the all-new Q7. It is expected with Audi's six-point Singleframe grille, sharply cut headlight clusters, minimal overhangs, but with a raised ride height.

Inside, the dashboard is expected to have a minimalist approach, though the cabin will be made of fine materials. Audi could do away with the central MMI screen, instead transferring important functions like satellite navigation, vehicle settings and the multimedia functions to a Virtual Cockpit integrated with the instrument cluster.

2015 Audi TT dashboard India launch — According to reports, the Q1 will get a minimalist, but high-tech dashboard like the new TT.

Under the hood, the engine line-up of the Q1 is expected to mirror the A1, which comes powered by a 1.0-liter petrol engine, a 1.4-liter TFSI petrol and a 1.6-liter TDI diesel. Reports suggest that these engines will be paired to a 6-speed manual or a 10-speed DSG transmission with the drive going mainly to the front wheels. Quattro AWD models are also planned, but the Q1 will be natively front wheel drive.

Also read: 2015 Audi A6 (facelift) to launch in India on August 12

Audi India's head, Mr. Joe King, stated in a media interview that the Q1 will be an "interesting" product for the brand in India. The product could create its own niche below the A3 Sedan, which is currently Audi India's entry-level offering.

2015 Audi Q3 (facelift) - Image Gallery (Unrelated)