Used Audi A2
A history lesson…
The Audi A2 isn’t one of those cars people look back on with nostalgia. In truth, the odd-shaped A2 never really struck home as a winner to the consumers of Britain, even though it was full of that famous German build quality.
While the A2 may have sucked in the design department, it was actually quite an important car. It was the first production all-aluminium bodied car, which means you’re never going to have to pay out for some rust prevention.
Aside from that, the A2 lasted for five years – 2002 to 2005 – and sold in decent numbers, and it does represent a good buy on the used car market thanks to that build quality.
Bang for your buck
Most A2s will be around a decade old now, so expect to put up with early 2000’s technology and design. There are nice aluminium touches around the dash, along with Audi’s superb build quality, which should keep most occupants happy. During its time in the spotlight the A2 definitely had the most upmarket interior, so well played Audi for that one.
The A2, with it being an Audi, was always more expensive than its rivals, but thanks to the used car market you can now pick up an A2 for hardly anything and, if in good condition, they should be a cracking buy for anyone.
What you’ll pay
The price for a used A2 will vary from around £3,000 to £6,000. Whatever you do, don’t go for a seriously cheap A2, as there will likely be something wrong with it.
What to check
A2s are quite reliable motors, so just make sure the service history is in check along with the usual interior and exterior checks. The engine should still pull well and the brakes should perform as you would expect – if they don’t, ask why.
Parts
Service intervals are at a very impressive 20,000 miles, so you don’t really need to worry about these – just remember to check if it has been done recently. Air filters are around £18, while spark plugs retail for £5 each.
Parts are surprisingly cheap, despite it being an Audi – which is a surprise.
How it drives
You will never experience an increased heart rate while in an A2; they are, without any doubt, a little mundane. That said, you probably won’t ever crash in one either because they somehow make you drive in a civilised fashion – which is a good thing!
So yes, the interior is well-made but a little dreary, and the way it gets down the road is anything but inspiring, but it’s still a perfectly acceptable small car for families. And, let’s be honest, the road isn’t a racetrack, so being forced to drive sensibly is actually to the A2’s credit.
If you want something well-built and reliable, the A2 is a great, alternative buy! Just don’t expect it to tickle your pickle when the moment grabs you. It’s a car for the family, not the by-racer!