Since its debut in 2016, the Audi Q2 has captivated drivers and car enthusiasts alike, quickly becoming a favourite in the premium compact SUV segment. But as the automotive industry accelerates toward electrification, the sun is setting on the combustion-powered Q2 — making room for an exciting new chapter. Enter the Audi Q2 e-tron: a bold, fully electric SUV set to take the spotlight as its predecessor gracefully exits the stage.
Positioned just below the Q4 e-tron, the Q2 e-tron is expected to launch with a starting price around €40,000, placing it squarely in competition with models like the Volvo EX30 and Alfa Romeo Junior. Despite announcing the end of production for both the A1 and Q2 this year, Audi is far from stepping away from the small SUV market — instead, it’s evolving.
In a recent interview, Audi CEO Gernot Döllner underscored the brand’s commitment to electrification: “We’re not leaving this segment. While production of the A1 and Q2 is ending, there will be no direct successor to the A1. However, we are preparing to launch our new entry-level battery electric vehicle next year.” That model, now confirmed to be the Q2 e-tron, is expected to be revealed in late 2026, with sales beginning in early 2027.
Due to the development timeline, the Q2 e-tron won’t utilize the Volkswagen Group’s upcoming Scalable Systems Platform (SSP). Instead, it will be built on the proven MEB (Modular Electric Drive) platform — the same architecture underpinning a wide range of electric vehicles from Volkswagen, Škoda, Cupra, and even Ford. Already in use for models like the Škoda Elroq and the Audi Q4 e-tron, the MEB platform offers a reliable and adaptable foundation for this new compact Audi.
Design-wise, all eyes are on Massimo Frascella, Audi’s recently appointed design chief, who joined from Jaguar Land Rover. His influence is expected to shape the Q2 e-tron’s visual identity, which will follow Audi’s evolving design language. Early teaser images hint at clean, confident lines and a distinctive front end — a first taste of Frascella’s debut concept, which is due to premiere in September and may also preview the future of the iconic TT line.
In terms of size, the Q2 e-tron is expected to be approximately 100mm shorter and slightly lower than the Q4 e-tron. Though it may offer less cargo space than the Q4’s generous 520 liters, practicality remains a focus. At launch, the vehicle will likely come with a 201 hp motor and a 63 kWh battery — but the real head-turner is a higher-performance variant featuring a 282 hp motor, 82 kWh battery, and an estimated range of over 560 km on a single charge.
Audi’s broader strategy is now focused on premium positioning, favoring quality and profitability over volume. While the A1 and Q2 were top sellers, demand for smaller models has softened in key markets like the U.S. and China. In fact, the larger Q7 has recently outperformed the A1 globally, contributing more significantly to Audi’s bottom line. Even so, Europe remains a vital market for the Q2 e-tron.
Looking further ahead, Audi plans to launch its next wave of electric vehicles on the SSP platform, including a much-anticipated A3-sized model. This same architecture will underpin the future Volkswagen ID.Golf — successor to the ID.3 — as well as Škoda’s upcoming entry in the family EV segment. These models, however, are still a few years away.
For now, the stage is set for the Q2 e-tron to lead Audi’s next-generation electric charge. With strong design, competitive specs, and a sharp focus on sustainability, it promises to inspire a new wave of Audi fans. Buckle up — the electric future is just getting started.
