A2 is the world’s first high-volume production car with a bodyshell built entirely from aluminium. Overall length is 3.82m (12ft 6in), but A2 is not short of interior space. It’s a four-seater with an innovative split-level floor with the rear foot-wells lower than those in the front.

This liberates more interior space and gives rear seat passengers more comfort. Sales haven’t been as good as Audi hoped and as a result it’s unlikely that there will be an A2 MKII.

LINE-UP

All cars have power steering, ABS, electric door mirrors and remote central locking. SE adds climate control (otherwise optional), alloy wheels and a leather steering wheel. Sport has electric seats, different body trim and alloys. Revisions in 2002 included a larger fuel tank, uprated audio and spacesaver spare.

DRIVING

Designed as transport and not a driving experience, ride is a bit choppy – not the refined wafting expected of an Audi. Cabin is impressively quiet, though. Steering is light and offers little feedback, while the gearchange can be imprecise.

COMFORT

Everything’s there, but the styling inside doesn’t reflect the adventurous exterior. The high driving position gives good vision, but screen pillars restrict visibility. Rear visibility isn’t that good either and the oddly-shaped split rear screen has no rear wash wipe. Despite its compact dimensions, the A2’s clever design gives loads of passenger space. High roof and long-travel seats means tall drivers can get comfortable; rear space is tight but the lower footwells help leg and headroom. ENGINES

The largest engine in the A2 is a 1.6, but as there’s not much weight to move, it’s not a problem. 1.4 petrol feels a bit weedy at times, but is fine for town driving. 1.4 TDi is the best option, as it’s got plenty of urgency and useful fuel economy. Petrol 1.6 FSI (from 2002) needs a careful driving technique to get the economy.

SAFETY

Every car has ABS, EBD, traction control plus front and side airbags. It gets four stars from Euro NCAP.