The Audi A2 E-Tron has made its world premiere as an all-new entry point into Audi’s expanding electric vehicle lineup, reviving a familiar nameplate with a modern EV design, three battery options, and up to 401 miles of range.
While the BMW i1 remains at the rumor stage, Audi is moving ahead with the return of the A2. The new model bears little resemblance to the unusual hatchback/minivan combination sold in the 2000s, replacing its predecessor’s ultra-thrifty diesel engines and aluminum body with a dedicated electric vehicle architecture.
A Modern Design With Familiar A2 References
The Audi A2 E-Tron has a distinctive profile that sets it apart from other Audi models currently on the road. Viewed from the side, however, its body shape retains similarities to the original A2.
The design also incorporates winglet-styled door handles integrated into the beltline, a feature recently seen on the new BMW X5. The setup creates a cleaner appearance and is intended to improve airflow for greater efficiency.
Although the split headlights bring a sense of familiarity, the rear design is particularly distinctive. Wide taillights give the vehicle a broader appearance, while the rear spoiler recalls the first-generation A2, though it may affect rearward visibility.
Compact Dimensions, More Interior Space
Short overhangs indicate the A2 E-Tron is based on a dedicated electric vehicle platform. Small glass panels ahead of the A-pillars also serve as another reference to its predecessor.
An optional panoramic glass roof measures around 1.6 square meters and brings additional light into the cabin. The base model rides on 18-inch wheels, while higher-spec versions can be fitted with alloys up to 20 inches and 235-mm tires.
For maximum range, Audi recommends the 19-inch wheels, which are the most aerodynamically optimized option.
Inside, all versions feature a 12.8-inch curved touchscreen for the infotainment system alongside an 11.9-inch digital driver’s display. Physical buttons on the center console are limited, while the cabin also includes thick screen bezels and air vents with a relatively inexpensive appearance.
MEB+ Platform Improves Passenger and Cargo Space
The Audi A2 E-Tron uses the MEB+ platform shared with the Volkswagen ID.3 Neo. Its completely flat floor frees up additional legroom for rear passengers, helping create a more spacious interior than expected from a vehicle of its size.
Audi stretched the wheelbase to 2.77 meters, or 109 inches, and gave the compact EV 396 liters of cargo capacity, equivalent to nearly 14 cubic feet. Folding the rear seats increases total cargo volume to 1,336 liters, or 47.2 cubic feet.
Audi A2 E-Tron Offers Three Battery Choices
The Audi A2 E-Tron will be available with three battery options: 52 kWh, 61 kWh, and 84 kWh. Depending on the battery selected, range varies from 423 to 646 kilometers, or 263 to 401 miles.
The largest battery provides both the longest range and the highest charging capability at 183 kW. At maximum DC charging power, the battery can be replenished from 10% to 80% in 29 minutes.
Like many current electric vehicles, the A2 E-Tron also supports bidirectional charging.
Four Power Outputs, Including a 326-HP Range Topper
Customers will be able to choose from four power outputs: 170 hp, 190 hp, 231 hp, and 326 hp. The most powerful version reaches 62 mph, or 100 km/h, in 5.7 seconds and has a top speed of 124 mph, or 200 km/h.
Following its world premiere, the Audi A2 E-Tron will go on sale in Europe this fall. Prices in Germany will start at €38,200 for the base model and rise to €51,200 for the range-topping version with the largest battery pack and the most power.
BMW i1 Reportedly Still Years Away
BMW, meanwhile, is expected to take longer to enter this segment with the first-ever BMW i1. The alleged “NB0” is reportedly scheduled to enter production in March 2028, with customer deliveries expected to begin by the summer of that year.
The BMW i1 is expected to be a compact hatchback in the 1 Series segment featuring rear-wheel drive, cylindrical batteries, and the latest infotainment technology introduced with the first Neue Klasse models.
For now, however, Audi has moved first with the revived A2 nameplate, transforming it into a compact electric vehicle with multiple battery and powertrain options ahead of its European launch this fall.
