The Audi Crosslane concept may or may not be an indication of a Q2 production model specifically, but it does hint at Audi’s design language for its future crossovers. The Audi Crosslane concept also make us wonder just how much longer the word ‘niche’ will be listed in English language. After all, it’s a crossover, a coupe, a convertible, a 2+2 seater and a hybrid.
Built around an innovative Multi-material Space Frame made from aluminum, carbon and glass fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP and GFRP), the Audi Crosslane offers a rigid, yet lightweight structure. The total weight of the Crosslane is a reasonable 1 390 kg. The Crosslane rides on a 2 560 mm wheelbase and measures 4 210 mm long, 1 880 mm wide and 1 510 mm tall.
The concept’s plug-in hybrid powertrain combines a 95 kW / 200 Nm 1.5-litre 3-cylinder TFSI petrol engine, with two electric motors, to deliver total power output of 130 kW. At the same time, the hybrid powertrain returns an impressive average fuel consumption figure of just 1.1 L/100km and 26 g/km of CO2. Running only under electric power, the Crosslane has an estimated range of 86 km. In performance terms, the Crosslane will reach 100 km/h from zero in 8.6 seconds (9.8 seconds in electric mode) and has a top speed of 182 km/h.
The concept’s interior is finished in tan and black leather, with machined aluminum employed for most of the controls. The dashboard is very clearly turned towards the driver and digital displays are used for the driver’s instruments, within the air conditioning controls, as well as for a powermeter that visualizes the drive system’s operating statuses. There is also a movable boot space, which can push forward to allow easy access from inside the cabin, or move backwards to open up space for two rear seats. When the concept car’s removable top is stowed, it also serves as a cover for this cargo area.
If, or when, the Audi Q2 appears, the chances are pretty good that we’ll see some of the weight-saving and advanced powertain components employed. The same goes for some of the styling elements too. A three-door Audi Q2 would slot into the range between A3 hatchback and Q3 compact SUV.
