Efficiency & Charging

9.5/10

Performance & Driving Dynamics

8/10

Interior & Technology

8/10

Practicality & Usability

7.5/10

Value & Running Costs

7/10

Overall

8/10

Overview

The Audi A2 e-tron revives a classic name, marking its place as the entry point into Audi's electric lineup. It stands as a premium option among compact hatchbacks, directly competing with the Volkswagen ID.3 Neo and Cupra Born. Built on a finely-tuned version of Volkswagen Group's MEB+ platform, this hatchback excels in both city and long-distance driving with three battery options to fit a wide range of needs. With a compact size of 4.32 metres and a notably long 2.77-meter wheelbase, it offers interior space that echoes the original A2. Crafted in Ingolstadt, it is the most aerodynamically efficient in Audi's compact segment with a drag coefficient of just 0.24. It suits buyers wanting a compact, efficient premium EV at a very reasonable starting price of £32,200. Those wanting a sportier drive or a cabin with more physical buttons should look at rivals like the Skoda Elroq, or even the Mercedes GLA.

Design

The Audi A2 e-tron's design prioritizes aerodynamic efficiency, boasting an impressive drag coefficient for an upright hatchback of 0.24. In comparison, Audi's A6 e-tron has a Cd of 0.21, whereas the Mercedes-Benz GLA Electric has a Cd of 0.26. At the front, an enclosed Singleframe grille, available in either body colour or contrasting trim, showcases a new aluminium Audi badge. It is flanked by ultra-thin, customisable LED daytime running lights that use Audi's Matrix technology on the Edition 1 trim. The lower bumper includes an active air intake that adjusts to cool the battery. Smooth sides feature shark-fin door handles that streamline airflow, while the roofline gently curves towards a sharp rear spoiler, enhancing aerodynamics. Exterior options range from the basic body style to the sporty S line, which adds bold front air intakes, high-gloss black skirts, and a rear diffuser. Wheel options vary from aerodynamically designed 18-inch rims to sporty 20-inch six-spoke Audi Sport alloys on the Edition 1.

Interior

Inside, the focus is on digital integration, sustainability, and maximizing space. The dashboard is dominated by the Audi MMI Panoramic Display, featuring a dual-screen setup for the 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster and 12.8-inch central infotainment display. There are no physical climate controls as the buttons are mostly concentrated on the steering wheel. Premium materials are used throughout, with a soft, fabric-covered dash, recycled microfiber and sustainable cloth upholstery. Standard tech features include a 7-speaker sound system, dual cooled wireless phone charging pads, and Audi's MMI navigation plus. The optional Technology Pack adds a 14-speaker Sonos audio system, and an AR head-up display. An expansive panoramic glass roof is also optional and it removes the need for blinds by being electrochromic.

Performance & Powertrains

Audi offers the A2 e-tron with three battery options and four RWD or AWD configurations. The base model comes with a 52kWh LFP battery and a 125kW motor, accelerating from 0 to 62 mph in 8.8 seconds with a range of up to 261 miles. The mid-level version features a 62kWh LFP battery and a 140kW motor, achieving 0-62 mph in 7.9 seconds and a range of up to 317 miles. The long-range variant includes an 84kWh NMC battery with a 170kW motor, reaching 62 mph in 7.0 seconds and offering a maximum range of up to 397 miles. A performance model pairs the 84kWh battery with a 240kW motor and 545 Nm of torque, sprinting from 0 to 62 mph in 5.7 seconds with up to a 387-mile range. Charging speeds vary from 100 to 183 kW, allowing for a 10 to 80% charge in 24 to 29 minutes. Audi's numbers suggest an impressive efficiency rating of 4.8 mi/kWh, however, when Auto Express drove the prototype, they averaged 5.0 mi/kWh, though this was a prototype. The driving experience benefits from a low centre of gravity, rear-wheel-drive agility, and optional adaptive dampers. All models above Technik include standard vehicle-to-load charging, plus a 230V plug.

Practicality

The A2 e-tron's design optimises space, rear passengers enjoy ample knee and foot space thanks to the flat floor. Storage solutions include an optional modular FIDLOCK system along the central tunnel, allowing cup holders, storage pods, and phone mounts to attach magnetically. The boot offers 396 litres of space with the seats up, and an optional, adjustable double floor conceals charging cables. Folding the rear seats expands storage to 1,336 litres. In comparison, The Cupra Born has a boot capacity of 385 litres with all seats in place, and the Volkswagen ID.3 Neo has a very similar 383-litre boot.

Buying

Pricing for the Audi A2 e-tron starts at £32,200 for the base Technik trim with the 52kWh battery, rising to £36,500 for the 61kWh Sport variant, and £46,500 for the 84kWh S line edition. Standard features on Technik models include LED headlights, the dual-screen MMI Panoramic Display, dual wireless phone charging, and keyless entry. The Sport trim adds 19-inch alloy wheels, sports seating, and ambient lighting, while the S line enhances the look with revised bumpers, privacy glass, and firmer suspension. For the best balance of technology, performance, and range, EV Hub recommends the RWD 84kWh battery on the S Line trim, offering the full 397-mile range at a competitive price of £44,050 with extra features like Privacy glass, front Sports seats, and 19" Audi Sport wheels.