A2 more than a posh supermini

Jan 5 2009 Peter Hayward

MOTORING pundits often put the Audi A2 into the same class as the Vauxhall Astra or Ford Focus.

They've got it wrong because it's just a posh supermini and should be compared with the likes of the Corsa or Fiesta.

Of course, it is an Audi so it comes with high build quality and has an aluminium body for lightness.

Because of Audi's very good reliability, premium status and lasting qualities, plus the rarity factor, prices are steep compared to other small cars.

And there are other downsides - the power steering lacks feel and the ride is too soft, causing massive thumps over rougher surfaces.

But lower numbers on the road mean exclusivity and the unusual shape does stand out from the crowd.

It's also very slippery and this, together with the lighter aluminium, means excellent economy from both petrol and diesel 1.4 engines.

Both produce 75bhp and are smooth and quiet but performance is only adequate.

Interior

Equipment is good and owners like the high driving position, but the low, curved rear window gives a poor view and has no wash/wipe.

Big screen pillars are strong for safety but can also restrict vision and there is not much rear legroom behind a tall driver.

FAST FACTS

Audi A2 1.4

Price : Pay about £3,500 for an '01 51-reg, £5,250 for an '03 03-reg SE or £6,400 for an '04 54-reg Sport

Mechanical : 75bhp, 1,390cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving front wheels via 5spd manual gearbox

Max speed : 107mph

0-62mph : 11.6 secs

Combined mpg : 47

Insurance group : 5

Marks : 8/10

Main rival : Skoda Fabia