Audi SQ2 updated with sharper styling and new tech

Audi has freshened up its pint-sized Audi SQ2 SUV for 2021 by tweaking its exterior styling while ramping up the amount of on-board technology.

At first glance it's difficult to see what the designers have done to the high-riding BMW X2 M35i rival, but looking closer it's apparent that the single-frame grille now extends lower than before and features a new polygon motif.

Other changes to the front-end design include a pair of new standard LED headlights that can now be upgraded to more sophisticated LED Matrix lamps.

At the rear there's a new set of LED tail-lights that now feature Audi's Dynamic indicators.

Revised aluminium mirror housings, sill inserts, a redesigned rear spoiler, tweaked C-pillar blades and more polygons within the rear bumper reflector housing complete the blink-and-you'll-miss-them upgrades.

A new style pack for the 2021 Audi SQ2 adds back the black mirror caps that were available on the pre-facelift model plus dark C-pillar trim and tailpipe finishers.

Inside, there's more meaningful updates. In comes automatic climate control, a sporty new multifunction steering wheel, sports seats, a standard digital instrument cluster and the option of the car-maker's MMI Navigation Plus that adds on-board WiFi.

Wireless phone charging and a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system are new options available for SQ2 buyers.

Safety has also been boosted as part of the 2021 revisions with Audi adding its latest pre-sense autonomous emergency braking (AEB) system and adaptive cruise that can now self-steer to keep within its lane on the highway.

Under the bonnet, the turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine carries over unchanged, producing the same 221kW and 400Nm as before, which is enough for the all-wheel drive SQ2 to hit 100km/h in just 4.9 seconds and top out at 250km/h.

The 2021 Audi SQ2 is confirmed for Australia and is expected to arrive around mid-year, with pricing pegged at about $70,000.