Audi Q2 vs DS 4 Crossback vs Seat Ateca
Small SUVs are flavour of the month, especially when premium quality is added to the mix. So which is the tastiest – Audi’s new Q2, the DS 4 Crossback or Seat's Ateca?...
Our verdict
With its Q2, Audi has added yet another strong model to its ever-expanding line-up. It’s great fun to drive for an SUV and has one of the best interiors ever seen in the class, while its standard MMI infotainment system is easy to use. Audi’s strong brand image is another benefit to owners because it bolsters residual values. This 1.4-litre petrol engine’s clever cylinder shut-down technology helps to keep fuel bills down, too.
The Q2 has been outclassed by its cheaper opponent here, though. The Ateca recently took on – and beat – the mighty Nissan Qashqai on these pages, and it has seen off the competition to take the win once again. It all comes down to ticking the boxes that matter most to small SUV buyers, namely excellent space and practicality, a largely comfortable ride, generous standard equipment and superb safety kit. Of course, fitted with the same engine as the Q2, it’s also pleasingly quiet and economical, even though the Ateca feels a touch more sluggish than the lighter Q2.
'The Ateca feels a touch more sluggish than the lighter Q2'
The DS 4 Crossback always had its work cut out pitted against two of the strongest competitors in this class, and it fails to make an impact here. Despite being refreshed not long ago, and the fact that this Crossback is a range-topping model, it doesn’t feel as much of a quality product as these two rivals. Add to that an unsettled ride, stodgy handling, poor interior space and practicality and too much wind and road noise being transmitted into the car, and these things make it very hard to recommend.
Read more – Best and worst small SUVs 2016
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1st – Seat Ateca
For Roomiest; lots of kit; smooth engine; strongest residuals
Against So-so interior plastics; Q2 is sharper to drive
Verdict A class-leading small SUV, even if cheaper trim levels are better value for money
Rated 5 out of 5
Read our full Seat Ateca review
Find a great Seat Ateca deal
2nd – Audi Q2
For Best interior; infotainment system; handling
Against Not especially practical; stingy standard kit
Verdict Classy and good to drive, but small and pricey
Rated 4 out of 5
Read our full Audi Q2 review
Find a great Audi Q2 deal
3rd – DS 4 Crossback
For Plenty of standard kit; cheapest finance deals
Against Poorest ride; stodgy handling; tiny rear seats
Verdict Tempting finance deals don’t outweigh flaws
Rated 2 out of 5
Read our full DS 4 review
Find a great DS 4 deal
Also consider:
Specifications: Audi Q2 1.4 TFSI 150 Sport
Engine size 1.4-litre turbo petrol
List price £23,930
Target Price £23,698
Power 148bhp @ 5000rpm
Torque 184lb ft @ 1500rpm
0-60mph 8.1sec
Top speed 132mph
Gov't fuel economy 52.3mpg
True MPG 45.3mpg
CO2 emissions 124g/km
DS 4 Crossback 1.2 Puretech 130
Engine size 1.2-litre turbo petrol
List price £22,295
Target Price £21,079
Power 128bhp @ 5500rpm
Torque 170lb ft @ 1750rpm
0-60mph 10.1sec
Top speed 123mph
Gov't fuel economy 56.5mpg
True MPG 42.6mpg
CO2 emissions 116g/km
Seat Ateca 1.4 EcoTSI 150 Xcellence
Engine size 1.4-litre turbo petrol
List price £23,905
Target Price £23,249
Power 148bhp @ 5000rpm
Torque 184lb ft @ 1500rpm
0-60mph 10.5sec
Top speed 125mph
Gov't fuel economy 52.3mpg
True MPG 42.8mpg
CO2 emissions 123g/km
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