Name: Audi A1 Review
Item: Audi A1
Author: Gumtree.com

First launched in 2010, the A1 is Audi’s newest entry into the supermini market, and it’s currently in its second generation. A couple of different body styles are available, and it’s an accessible city runabout for those who want the premium quality of an Audi without having to meet the high price point of one of the German manufacturer’s larger vehicles. Its diminutive dimensions don’t mean that it’s sacrificed performance, though, and it’s even practical enough to function as a smaller family vehicle.

Check out the Audi A1 model page to learn more.

What we think about the Audi A1

The A1 is one of the classiest superminis on the market, matching comfort and style.

Pros

Smooth, comfy handling

Classy interior

Decent amount of cargo space

Very safe

Great fuel efficiency

Cons

–

Not the most exciting drive

–

More expensive than some rivals

As of 2020, the five-seater Audi A1 is available in a hatchback style, known as the Sportback, and a higher-riding SUV style, known as the Citycarver. Its entry-level trim is the A1 Technik, and the basic engine is a 1.0-litre petrol unit, with a claimed efficiency of 50.4 mpg. The top trim is the Vorsprung, and in between there’s the Sport and the S-Line.

Driving performance of the Audi A1

Our Driving Rating7 / 10

The Audi A1 offers a decent ride, though the suspension can be a little on the bumpy side, particularly if you opt for larger wheels. It’s a nice car to take around city streets, with natural agility coming from its compact dimensions and extremely nimble, accurate steering. However, there’s a little extra body roll compared to some of its supermini rivals. Overall it’s a balanced, comfy drive, but if you really want an engaging experience with sharper cornering, it might be worth looking elsewhere.

Safety and reliability of the Audi A1

Our Safety Rating8 / 10

The last time the Audi A1 was crash-tested by the Euro NCAP was in 2019, and it achieved the full five-star rating from the safety body. A score of 95% was awarded for how well it protected adult passengers, and it got an 85% score for its protection of children on board. The car’s safety equipment was given an 80% rating. Emergency braking and lane-keeping assistance come as standard, but there’s no blind-spot monitoring or traffic sign recognition available.

Under the bonnet of the Audi A1

Our Engine Rating7 / 10

The car’s entry-level 1.0-litre petrol engine can provide 108 bhp. It’ll hit 62 mph from standing in around 9.4 seconds, and max out at around 124 mph, which isn’t bad for such a small unit. Higher up the range there’s a 1.5-litre engine that can provide 148 bhp. This is probably the best option for balancing performance and price. It can do 0-62 mph in just 7.7 seconds, with a maximum speed of 137 mph. The 2.0-litre engine from older models, which had a 0-62 mph time of 6.5 seconds, is now discontinued.

What you'll find in the Audi A1

Our Design Rating8 / 10

The design of the A1 is sportier than the majority of Audi models, and it’s one of the sportiest superminis on the market. It might not have the iconic appeal or futuristic style of some of its rivals, but its powerful aesthetic exudes class and quality, all in a small package. The body is precisely crafted with aerodynamic curves and a subtle rear spoiler. The front also looks dynamic, with a large trapezoid-shaped honeycomb grille and three sculpted slots under the bonnet.

Comfort and interiors in the Audi A1

Our Comfort Rating8 / 10

Inside the A1, you get the premium Audi style that sets it apart from many other superminis. All the plastics feel expensive and high-quality, the seats are comfortable and easy to adjust, and there’s a nice, clean layout. Despite the car’s small size, you’ll have plenty of headroom and legroom for at least four adults, with a fifth maybe getting a little uncomfortable on longer drives. This roomy cabin even allows for a big, spacious boot, which makes the A1 a practical option for family outings.

What features you'll find in the Audi A1

Our Features Rating8 / 10

The A1 has an 8.8-inch touchscreen on its elegant dashboard, which allows you to access the infotainment system, and it also offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for smartphone integration. You can upgrade to the mid-range trim to get front sport seats. The basic 16-inch alloy wheels can also be swapped out for 17 or 18-inchers if you pay a little more, giving the A1 a really striking sports look. A number of paint jobs are also available, including two-tone colour schemes.

What fuel efficiency to expect from the Audi A1

Our Fuel Consumption Rating7 / 10

No diesel units or eco-friendly hybrids are available with the A1, but Audi’s petrol engines are surprisingly efficient, particularly the smaller ones. The entry-level 1.0-litre unit can apparently provide up to 50.4 mpg, although you’re unlikely to get this figure in reality. A CO2 emissions figure of around 128 g/km is not bad for a petrol engine. Claimed efficiency for the 1.5-litre 35 TFSI is also around this level. For the most powerful 2.0-litre 40 TFSI unit, available on older models, you could get up to 40 mpg.

Running costs of the Audi A1

Our Cost Rating7 / 10

Decent fuel economy means you’ll be making some noticeable savings in the long-term with the A1, although it won’t get you any eco-friendly benefits in terms of tax or congestion charges. The relatively small engines make it a cheap car to insure, particularly if you opt for a lower trim. Audi’s a prestige manufacturer, though, so you might find yourself paying a little more for maintenance than you would with rivals. The warranty is also quite basic, offering you three years or 60,000 miles.

Our verdict of the Audi A1

4 / 5 Gumtree rating

If you want sporty style and reliable performance in a compact package, the A1 is a strong contender, and it has that extra touch of Audi class.

Audi A1 Review