Audi’s first venture into the compact car segment, the new A1, will be priced between €18,900 and €25,975 ex-works.
The small hatch boasts technological sophistication and quality of finish that mark out every Audi.
The powerful and instantly recogniseable exterior design is complemented by a surprisingly spacious, bright and airy interior with considerably more storage room than that of its core competitors. The clean, clear control layout is just as much a classic Audi strength as the high level of fit and finish. The attention lavished on numerous details underscores the premium character of the A1.
Audi claims the A1 offers agile and precise handling and comes with the latest generation ESP system with an electronic differential, which initiates brief, controlled braking of the inside front wheel while cornering and transfers the excess torque to the outside wheel, which can apply more power to the road.
According to Audi technicians, this helps to further boost the impressive handling agility delivered by the sophisticated front MacPherson strut and rear torsion beam suspension by minimising understeer and improving traction.
Audi expects the majority of buyers to select either the petrol 1.4TFSI with 125bhp, or the diesel 1.6TDI with 105bhp. Audi says buyers opting for either of these engines benefit from additional equipment in the form of 16” alloys and air conditioning.
The 1.4TFSI delivers 125bhp and 200Nm of torque via the six-speed manual or optional seven-speed S-tronic transmission.
The 1.4TFSI unit offers power with efficiency, 0-100km/h takes 8.9 seconds yet emissions sit at just 119g. The 105bhp 1.6-litre diesel is the diesel engine option, and via a five-speed manual gearbox, uses its impressive 250Nm torque output to power the A1 to 100km/h in 10.5 seconds and on to a 190km/h top speed, while retaining the potential to achieve 70.6mpg economy with emissions of 105g.
The entry level 1.2TFSI with 85bhp and 160NM of torque emits 118g of Co2 and kicks off the range pricing at €18,900 ex-works. Standard equipment on this model is generous, including features such as alloy wheels, start stop technology with recuperation, remote central locking, electric front windows and mirrors, and the latest generation ESP with electronic differential.
Sport and S Line versions will be available to order from launch. Sport model additions include larger diameter alloy wheels, sports suspension, sports seats, leather covered steering wheel and a driver’s information system, while S line versions have extras such as an exclusive S line exterior treatment including 17-inch alloy wheels, S line sports suspension, Xenon lights, and leather and cloth combination upholstery.
