Audi A2 reborn: Groundbreaking 1990s hatchback set to return as Audi’s most affordable EV
More than two decades after it was last sold in Europe, the Audi A2 nameplate is set to return on the boot lid of a new entry-level EV.
According to Autocar, the new Audi A2 e-tron will be launched before the end of 2026. It will slot into the range beneath the Audi Q4 e-tron and act as an indirect replacement for the current A1 hatch and small Q2 SUV, both of which end production later this year.
Already seen testing in Germany, the European launch in 2026 could coincide with an introduction in Australia in 2027.
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Heavily based on the Volkswagen ID.3, which has been on sale in Europe since 2019, the Audi A2 e-tron is expected to share visual cues with the advanced all-aluminium A2 fuel-miser sold between 1999 and 2005.
That means it will feature a one-box, people-mover-style silhouette designed to maximise interior space, while also adopting SUV styling cues to ensure the boxy shape appeals to modern buyers.
Other highlights are expected to include a short bonnet, elevated driving position, split rear tailgate and a large boot.
Inside, the A2 e-tron is tipped to offer people-mover levels of flexibility, with fold-flat seats and a second row that slides rearwards to maximise legroom.
Under the skin will be an upgraded version of the ID.3’s Volkswagen Group MEB architecture. This means the small Audi will use a 400-volt system rather than newer 800-volt electrics, limiting peak DC fast-charging speeds compared with larger premium EVs.
Entry-level versions are expected to use a single electric motor producing around 125kW, while dual-motor variants are tipped to deliver more than 210kW.
Battery sizes are expected to range from 58kWh to 79kWh, with single-motor versions paired with the larger battery claimed to deliver more than 600km of range on the European test cycle.
In Europe, the new Audi A2 e-tron is expected to be priced from around £30,000 ($A58,500), a small premium over where the current Audi Q2 sits in the UK market.
If confirmed for Australia, the Audi A2 e-tron could arrive priced from around $50,000 plus on-road costs.
