Audi A2 125kW 52kWh 170PS Technik 5dr Auto

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Audi A2 e-tron Review – A New Chapter for Audi’s Small Electric Car

Ten Second Review

Audi is bringing back the spirit of its much-loved A2, but this time with a fully electric twist. The new Audi A2 e-tron combines distinctive retro-inspired styling with modern electric vehicle technology, impressive driving range and the premium feel expected from the four-ring badge.

It might take inspiration from the past, but this is a small electric Audi designed firmly for the future.

Background

Audi has taken an interesting approach with the arrival of the A2 e-tron. Rather than creating another conventional electric hatchback, the manufacturer has looked back to one of its most distinctive models, the original Audi A2, first introduced in 1999.

The original A2 was ahead of its time. Its lightweight aluminium construction, aerodynamic design and unconventional styling made it stand out, although it never achieved the commercial success Audi had hoped for. Production lasted just five years, but the car has since developed something of a cult following.

The new A2 e-tron takes those familiar design ideas and gives them a modern electric makeover.

Underneath, however, things are very different. Audi has made use of existing Volkswagen Group technology, sharing much of its electric vehicle engineering with the Volkswagen ID.3 Neo. This helps keep development costs under control while giving customers access to proven electric technology.

Inside, the car also benefits from equipment and design features found in other modern Audi models.

The result is a compact premium electric car that looks distinctive, offers modern technology and aims to appeal to drivers looking for something a little different.

Engines and Technical Specifications

The Audi A2 e-tron offers a choice of four electric powertrain combinations, all using permanent magnet synchronous motors and the Volkswagen Group’s rear-wheel-drive MEB platform.

For most drivers, the main decision will come down to battery size, driving range and performance.

The entry-level model features a 52kWh LFP battery paired with a 170PS electric motor. It produces 350Nm of torque, accelerates from 0-62mph in 8.8 seconds and offers a claimed driving range of up to 261 miles.

Moving up the range is a 61kWh battery with a 190PS motor. Performance is slightly improved, while the biggest advantage is the increased driving range of up to 310 miles.

For customers who regularly cover longer distances, Audi also offers an 84kWh battery using nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) technology. Paired with a 231PS motor, this version delivers up to 397 miles of range.

At the top of the range, the 84kWh battery can be combined with the more powerful AP550 motor, producing 326PS and 345Nm of torque. This performance-focused version accelerates from 0-62mph in just 5.7 seconds, with a claimed range of up to 386 miles.

Other driving features include:

• Three levels of regenerative braking.
• An automatic regenerative braking setting.
• A choice of comfort or sports suspension.
• Optional adaptive dampers.
• Rear-wheel drive for improved manoeuvrability.

The combination of electric performance, rear-wheel drive and aerodynamic styling should make the A2 e-tron particularly well suited to both urban driving and longer motorway journeys.

Design and Build

The new A2 e-tron is clearly inspired by its predecessor, although the modern interpretation is considerably larger and more sophisticated.

Its distinctive teardrop profile, curved roofline, split rear screen and Kammback-style rear end all pay tribute to the original A2.

At approximately 4.3 metres long, it is a larger car than the original, reflecting the dimensions of the electric platform underneath.

Aerodynamics have been a major part of the design process. Audi quotes a drag coefficient of just 0.24Cd, helping improve efficiency and maximise driving range.

Features contributing to the aerodynamic design include:

• A smooth underbody.
• Aerodynamic alloy wheel designs.
• Small fins around the wheel arches.
• An active aerodynamic duct in the front bumper.
• Carefully shaped rear bodywork and C-pillars.

The exterior is certainly distinctive, but the interior takes a more familiar Audi approach.

The dashboard features a stepped design with recycled Softwrap upholstery, creating a modern and premium environment.

Technology is a major feature, with an 11.9-inch driver’s display and a curved 12.8-inch central touchscreen. The system can also support Microsoft Teams calls and emails, while an optional augmented reality head-up display provides additional driving information.

There is plenty of practical storage, including a central compartment large enough for a bag and wireless charging facilities for two smartphones.

Rear passenger space is generous for a car in this class, with good headroom and legroom.

Boot capacity stands at 396 litres, increasing to 1,336 litres with the rear seats folded down.

Other useful features include optional vehicle-to-load technology, allowing the car’s battery to supply electricity to external equipment.

Market and Model Range

Prices for the Audi A2 e-tron start from £32,200, with a potential £1,500 reduction through the government grant, bringing the starting figure to approximately £30,700.

For comparison, Audi’s conventional A3 hatchback starts from £28,650, while the Volkswagen ID.3 Neo, which shares much of its electric technology, starts from £31,580 after the grant deduction.

Customers looking for a higher specification model should budget around £35,000 or more, depending on their chosen equipment.

Wheel choice can also influence efficiency and driving range. Audi offers wheel sizes from 18 to 20 inches, with the 19-inch aerodynamic wheel option identified as the most efficient configuration.

There is also a range of optional technology and comfort upgrades.

The adaptive cruise assist plus system combines adaptive cruise control with lane guidance and can assist with motorway lane changes when the indicator is activated. It also offers automatic braking at traffic lights and can resume driving when the lights change.

Audio options include an upgraded Audi sound system with eight speakers and a premium Sonos system featuring 14 speakers and 660 watts of amplifier power.

Other highlights include:

• Digital Key access through a smartphone.
• Vehicle-to-load charging with up to 3.6kW output.
• Advanced driver assistance technology.
• Optional premium audio equipment.
• Wireless smartphone charging.

Running Costs and Electric Charging

Efficiency is one of the key attractions of the A2 e-tron.

Audi claims the 61kWh version can achieve up to 5.13 miles per kWh, making it an appealing option for drivers looking to keep their electric motoring costs under control.

Charging performance varies depending on the battery selected.

The larger 84kWh NMC battery supports DC rapid charging at up to 183kW. The 61kWh battery offers up to 105kW, while the entry-level 52kWh battery supports charging speeds of up to 100kW.

A 10-80% charge takes approximately:

• 24 minutes for the 52kWh battery.
• 26 minutes for the 61kWh battery.
• 29 minutes for the 84kWh versions.

The two smaller LFP batteries also have an advantage when it comes to everyday charging, as their chemistry is suitable for regular charging to 100%.

For home charging, a 7.4kW wallbox will take approximately 9 hours and 15 minutes to charge the 58kWh usable battery, increasing to around 12 hours and 15 minutes for the larger 79kWh usable battery.

Audi’s e-tron route planner also helps make longer journeys easier by identifying charging stops, considering traffic and road conditions, and preparing the battery ahead of arrival at compatible rapid chargers.

For business users, electric vehicle Benefit-in-Kind taxation remains another important consideration. The rates outlined for the relevant tax years are 4% until April 2027, rising to 5% for 2027/28 and 7% for 2028/29.

The high-voltage battery is covered by a warranty guaranteeing at least 70% of its usable capacity for eight years or 100,000 miles.

Our Verdict

The Audi A2 e-tron is an interesting addition to the growing electric car market.

It takes inspiration from a model that was well ahead of its time and combines that distinctive styling with modern electric vehicle technology, a practical interior and a choice of battery and motor combinations.

It may not be quite as revolutionary as the original A2, and sharing its underlying engineering with other Volkswagen Group models means it isn’t entirely unique beneath the surface.

However, for drivers looking for a premium small electric car with distinctive styling, modern technology and a potentially impressive driving range, the A2 e-tron has plenty to offer.

With up to 397 miles of claimed range, a practical boot and a well-equipped cabin, it could prove to be an appealing option for both personal and business drivers.

Thinking about making the switch to electric?

At Car Lease 4 U, we help drivers and businesses across Northern Ireland find competitive personal and business car leasing deals.

Whether you’re considering your first electric car or looking to upgrade your existing vehicle, we’ll help you understand your options and find a deal that suits your needs.

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