Audi has announced pricing and full technical specifications for its range-topping compact performance SUV, the SQ2. Available to order in the UK now, SQ2 prices start from £36,800 with first deliveries expected later this month.

Powered by the same 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine as the Volkswagen Golf R, the SQ2 produces 296bhp and 400Nm of torque. Thanks to Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox, it boasts a 0-62mph time of 4.8 seconds and an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph.

• New Audi SQ2 review

In addition to the new engine, the SQ2 gets lowered suspension and upgraded 340mm (front) and 310mm (rear) brakes. The quattro system can direct the car's torque straight to the rear axle using the car's wheel-selective torque control, which Audi says "smoothes out the handling with tiny braking interventions at the inner wheels under reduced load.”

Visually, the SQ2 looks strikingly similar to the standard Audi Q2 S line version but there are a number of differences if you look closely enough. The new grille gets a unique eight-bar formation, while a new front splitter and air inlets give a sportier look. All cars get LED lights front and rear, alongside a roof spoiler and quad exhausts. There are 10 exterior paint colours to choose from on the SQ2, as well as a range of 18 and 19-inch alloy wheels.