What's all this about?

Audi's doing a hot version of its smallest crossover/SUV, the Q2, which will take 'SQ2' badging. It's powered by a 2.0-litre TFSI turbocharged petrol engine, lifted from the Audi S3, which delivers 300hp and 400Nm to all four wheels via a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission. Performance is suitably brisk, with 0-62mph coming up in just 4.8 seconds and the top speed limited to 155mph.

What else has changed, mechanically speaking?

The quattro system can fling up to 100 per cent of torque to the rear axle, if needs be, while the firmer S-spec suspension means the SQ2 sits 20mm lower than its brethren. Progressive steering will be standard fit, which has been tuned to provide more assistance the more degrees of steering lock that are employed, while the TFSI is supposed to have a 'sonorous engine note'. The front brake discs are 340mm items and the rears are 310mm, with black, S-branded callipers as standard and the option to have said items painted red.

And visually, what is the SQ2 packing?

It gains a revised Singleframe grille with eight upright double bars, larger air intakes, a front splitter, standard LED head- and taillights with dynamic indicators, aluminium-look door mirrors, neat detailing on the lower edges of the doors, quad exhausts, a rear diffuser, a roof-edge spoiler and 18-inch alloys as standard, with 19s an option. Body colours are Ibis White (standard), with a choice of Vegas Yellow, Ara Blue, Daytona Grey, Floret Silver, Glacier White, Coral Orange, Mythos Black, Quantum Grey and Tango Red as alternatives. Inside, a sportier multifunction steering wheel plus sports seats and detailing marks the SQ2 out, although Virtual Cockpit is only an option - standard analogue dials are grey with white needles and a Driver Information System with colour display is sandwiched between.

Any word on pricing or release date?

The SQ2 will debut at the Paris Motor Show next month, with UK order books opening at the tail end of this year - first deliveries are expected in early 2019. No word on the asking price, but you've got to figure it will be well in excess of the basic £31,175 you'd need for a 2.0 TFSI S line range-topper, right now.