The A2's spacefame is composed of 60% panels (green), 22% cast elements (red), and 18% profiles (blue). Audi's A2 is aerodynamically efficient for a small car (0.28 Cd) and uses the company's aluminum spaceframe technology.

The A2 is exceptionally efficient aerodynamically for a small car, with a claimed Cd of 0.28. Audi says the use of its spaceframe technology, and experience gained via production of the big A8 aluminum-bodied sedan, have contributed to the five-door A2's body weighing some 43% less than if it was built using steel and conventional processes. Curb mass is 895 kg (1969 lb) — said to be the lowest in its class. Overall length is 3.82 m (12.5 ft) and the car has a "split-level" floor, with rear footwells lower than those in front to aid passenger comfort. The rear seats can be folded down singly or together, or removed.

Initially, the car is being presented with 1.4-L three-cylinder direct-injection diesel (with pump nozzle injection) and gasoline engines. Both have 56-kW (75-hp) output. Later, an ultra fuel-efficient version of the A2 is expected to be capable of 3.0 L/100 km (78 mpg) combined fuel consumption. Audi said it has paid particular attention to routine maintenance of the engine by incorporating a "service module." This constitutes a folding flap with a high-gloss, painted finish that takes the place of a conventional radiator grille. Positioned behind it are the engine oil dipstick, and filler flaps for engine oil and windshield washer fluid. Audi expects the hood to be lifted only by workshop personnel when the car is serviced.

The A2 has front Mac-Pherson struts, with a torsion beam at the rear. ABS is standard, allied to electronic brake force distribution (EBD) and an electronic stability program (ESP). Driver and front passenger get front and side airbags, while Audi's Sideguard head airbags will be an option as will be an enormous opening glass roof. The A2 is slated for public launch in the summer of 2000.

Stuart Birch