Audi Q1 On The Way: Report

Audi could soon unveil a new entry model in its growing range of 'Q' SUVs, debuting beneath the Q3, the smallest model in the current line-up. 

Insiders at Audi have not been shy in hinting at the potential for a new light crossover, and according to reports out of Europe, the so-called Q1 will debut in 2016. 

According to Germany's Auto Bild, the Q1 will - as long rumoured - sit atop the same platform underpinning the light Audi A1 and Volkswagen Polo models. 

Unlike the lightly modified VW CrossPolo, the new Audi would wear its own unique styling, set apart from the A1 just as the Q3 is from the regular A3 hatch.

But, while Audi is pushing its quattro all-wheel-drive technology across the wider range, the Q1 is expected to go exclusively front-wheel-drive. 

The report adds that the Q1 will come in at 3800mm long, making it around 500mm shorter than the Q3 - and even 150mm shorter than the already tiny A1 hatch. 

Expect the Q1 to share its powertrains with the A1 and Polo, and watch for a performance-focused SQ1 model to eventually headline the range. 

Pictured: Rendering above (source unknown), CrossLane concept below.