Audi A2

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Audi A2





Auto Express:

THE Audi A2 is making a comeback. Auto Express has learned the German firm plans to resurrect its trailblazing small people carrier. And it will take pride of place as one of the most desirable models in an exciting new compact car range.

The new A1 is set to take the supermini market by storm when it goes on sale next year, and Audi has decided to extend its reach with a fresh compact MPV model. It will draw on the much-loved, innovative A2, originally launched in 2000.

Speaking at the unveiling of the latest A8, Audi boss Rupert Stadler told us: “The A1 will be our smallest car. But there is a gap in our product line-up �" between the A3 and the A1 there’s room for an A2.”

Desirable
Stadler would not be drawn on the exact shape and size of the car. However, Auto Express understands that, as with the original A2, it’s likely to serve up a desirable blend of style, practicality and efficiency.

We have produced these illustrations to give you the best idea of how the newcomer will look. Based on the forthcoming A1 five-door, the A2 will offer a much more versatile interior, complete with a sliding rear bench and variable-height boot floor. A raised seating position with lots of room for passengers in the back is also expected.

Add a panoramic glass sunroof, chunky wheelarches and taut proportions, and the model is sure to be a real hit with image-conscious buyers. Quality is set to top the agenda, while the cabin will be borrowed from the A1. As for engines, a wide range of ultra-efficient units is likely. Petrol choices are to include a 1.2-litre supercharged and turbocharged TFSI and a 1.4 turbo TFSI, while there will also be a host of small-capacity diesels.

These will power the front wheels via six-speed manual or twin-clutch DSG auto boxes.The A2 will deliver a fun driving experience, but should also score on refinement. That means a big car feel from a package the size of a Ford Fiesta. Expect a price tag of about £16,000 when sales begin in 2011.

Stadler also confirmed that Audi will not build and sell its own evolution of the Volkswagen Up!, as had been reported. The city car’s chassis and engine will be used for models from fellow VW Group brands Skoda and SEAT �" but the four rings marque will instead focus on producing a vehicle using the compact, fuel-efficient engine concept from VW’s Up! Lite.

This will be introduced on the A1, A2 and A3, and possibly even the A4. The system boosts output with a more powerful, 30kW electric motor and plug-in lithium-ion batteries. The drivetrain also looks set to be fitted in the next-generation VW Golf and Passat.




Read more: http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/news/autoexpressnews/246028/audis_a2_on_comeback_trail.html#ixzz0ZAGcr7N9