Audi has begun testing a new entry-level model that is set to indirectly replace the A1 and Q2 when they are retired next year.
The new EV will be the smallest car that Audi offers and is set to be positioned as a rival to the BMW iX1 and upcoming second-gen Mercedes-Benz GLA EV.
Spotted by Autocar spy photographers for the first time, the EV looks like a smaller version of the Q4 E-tron but shows clear visual influence from the A2 of 1999-2005.
Because the new EV won’t serve as a direct replacement for any existing model, it could be assigned a new name – and a resurrection of the long-dormant A2 badge is one possibility.
Speaking previously to Autocar, Audi CEO Gernot Döllner wouldn’t confirm any future naming plans but said it was “thinkable” that the brand could redeploy historic names.
While technical details remain under wraps, the new EV is expected to sit on the Volkswagen Group’s MEB platform, which underpins a raft of EVs such as the Volkswagen ID 3, Q4 E-tron, Ford Capri and Cupra Tavascan.
Given its size and positioning – straddling the boundary between hatchback and crossover – it is likely to have similar dimensions to Skoda’s Elroq.
That car is offered with battery packs of 58kWh to 79kWh and, in its most efficient form, can travel up to 360 miles on a single charge. The sporty vRS version puts out 335bhp.
Unlike the Elroq, the new Audi will be a premium offering in the segment. Döllner previously said: “There are not many brands in the world [that can], but I think Audi can have a true premium offer in the A-segment.”
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Fascinating to see Audi drawing inspiration from the classic A2 for their new entry-level EV! The compact electric market is getting incredibly competitive with BMW and Mercedes also pushing forward. It's exciting how automotive design cycles back to previous generations. Speaking of engaging patterns and strategic positioning, I've been enjoying Block Blast lately – it's amazing how both puzzle games and car design require that perfect balance of form and function. Can't wait to see how this new Audi shapes up against the competition!
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"bubble-like A2"The A2 was anything but "bubble-like". It was precise, Bauhaus-like engineered to function and geometrically very disciplined. I always loved it as an "engineer's car".
You want "bubble-like" from that era? Go and find a K12 Micra.