Audi A2 e-tron returns as an electric car with up to 646 km of range

More than two decades after disappearing from the market,
the Audi A2 is back. And it returns with a formula fully adapted to current
times: the new Audi A2 e-tron is 100% electric, maintains the focus on
efficiency that defined the original model and promises up to 646 kilometres of
range.

The A2 name first appeared in 1999 on a car that was quite
unconventional for its time. The original model stood out for its extensive use
of aluminium, low weight, carefully developed aerodynamics and a particularly
spacious cabin considering its exterior dimensions.

Despite being technologically advanced, high production
costs and pricing ultimately limited its commercial success. Between 1999 and
2005, just under 177,000 units were sold. Now, Audi is bringing back the A2
name for a model that once again places efficiency at the centre of attention.

An A2 inspired by the past, but designed for the present

The new Audi A2 e-tron does not aim to be a simple
reproduction of the original model. The inspiration is clear, particularly in
the MPV-like silhouette, the sloping roofline and the rear design, but the
proportions are quite different.

At 4.32 metres long and with a wheelbase of 2.77 metres, the
new A2 is considerably larger than its predecessor. Even so, it still positions
itself as a compact car, being around three centimetres shorter than an Audi A3.

The generous wheelbase makes it possible to make better use
of the available cabin space, particularly in the rear seats. The luggage
compartment offers 396 litres of capacity, increasing to 1,336 litres with the
rear seats folded down.

Aerodynamics are once again one of the main strengths of the
Audi A2 e-tron. The drag coefficient is just 0.24, thanks to solutions such as
optimisation of the roofline, the lower section of the body and the front and
rear aerodynamic elements.

Up to 646 km of range and four power levels

The Audi A2 e-tron range will consist of three batteries,
with capacities of 52 kWh, 61 kWh and 84 kWh, combined with four power levels.

The available versions offer 170 hp, 190 hp, 231 hp or
326 hp, all using, at least initially, a single electric motor installed on the
rear axle. The new A2 e-tron is therefore always rear-wheel drive.

Depending on the chosen configuration, range varies between
423 and 646 kilometres on the WLTP cycle. The version with the longest range
combines the 84 kWh battery with the 231 hp powertrain.

Audi also announces minimum energy consumption of just
12.8 kWh/100 km for the most efficient configuration, equipped with the 190 hp
powertrain and a specific efficiency package. According to the brand, these
figures make the A2 e-tron the most efficient production Audi ever.

For fast charging, the largest battery supports power of up
to 183 kW. The announced charging times from 10 to 80% range from 24 minutes
with the 52 kWh battery, 26 minutes with the 61 kWh unit and 29 minutes with
the 84 kWh option.

In terms of performance, the entry-level version accelerates
from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.8 seconds, while the most powerful variant, with 326 hp,
completes the same exercise in 5.7 seconds.

Technology and space remain priorities

The interior follows a more modern approach, but without
completely abandoning physical controls. The Audi Virtual Cockpit uses an
11.9-inch display, while the infotainment system is shown on a 12.8-inch
touchscreen angled towards the driver.

Available equipment also includes an augmented-reality
head-up display, wireless charging for two smartphones and a panoramic roof
measuring around 1.6 m².

One of the more unusual solutions is called Fidlock. It is a
modular system that uses magnets and mechanical locking to allow accessories
such as cup holders, pouches or straps to be quickly fitted and removed at
various points inside the cabin.

There is also a strong focus on driver assistance systems.
As standard, the Audi A2 e-tron includes adaptive cruise control, a reversing
camera, parking assistance, side assist, rear cross-traffic alert and front
emergency braking with vehicle and pedestrian detection.

Sustainability was also taken into account during
development. According to the information provided, more than 300 components
use recycled materials, including aluminium, steel and different types of
plastic.

When will the new Audi A2 e-tron arrive?

In Germany, orders for the new Audi A2 e-tron open on
September 10, 2026, with the first deliveries scheduled for December.

The price starts at €38,200 in the German market for the
170 hp version equipped with the 52 kWh battery. Official prices for Portugal
have not yet been announced.

More than 20 years later, the Audi A2 returns with a very
different proposal, but with a philosophy that is curiously similar to that of
the original model: making good use of the available space, reducing
consumption and seeking unconventional technical solutions.

This time, it swaps the aluminium and low weight of the past
for electric propulsion, ranges that can exceed 600 kilometres and a strong
technological component. It remains to be seen whether this second life of the
A2 will be able to turn the originality that has always characterised the model
into commercial success.

Sources: Razão Automóvel Notícias ao Minuto ACP