The rumour mill around the Audi SQ2 has always been turning, but finally, we get an official photograph and details about the all-new performance SUV from the Ingolstadt-based manufacturer.

Audi has released some information and a photograph of its all-new performance SUV, the SQ2. We'll see the SQ2 being fully revealed at the 2018 Paris Motor Show. Given Audi's love for performance SUVs (SQ5, RS Q3 and SQ7), it was only a matter of time before the same treatment was applied to the baby SUV in the range. After rival manufacturer BMW released an M35i version of its X2, it was inevitable that Audi would follow with a product of its own.

Powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine with 220 kW and 400 Nm, this SQ2 is able to hit 100 kph in 4.8 seconds and run onto a top speed of 250 kph. Performance fanatics will note that this is the same engine found in the S3 hatchback. The Audi SQ2 features quattro all-wheel drive, S sports suspension and a fast-shifting S tronic gearbox.

The Audi SQ2 sits 20mm lower than its Q2 siblings and the steering setup has been tweaked for performance, which Audi claims improves agility in traffic and tight bends. Visually, the SQ2 gains larger wheels, a trademark Audi S performance grille and quad exhausts. Audi is offering a choice of alloy wheels for the new SQ2. Standard are the 18-inch alloys, but you can go up to 19-inch.

We'll have more details on the new Audi SQ2 as its revealed at the 2018Paris Motor Show early next week. Audi says the first deliveries in Europe will start in early 2019. A South African market introduction has been confirmed and the new Audi SQ2 should be arriving in the first quarter of 2019.

Further Reading

Electric Audi e-tronRevealed

Audi Q3 (2018) International Launch Review

5 Cars the Audi Q2 Needs to Beat

Audi E-tron: What it means for SA

Audi Q2 1.4T FSI Sport S tronic(2017) Review

Audi Q2 (2017) Test Drive & Review Video