Audi has sold over half a million of its A1 hatchbacks since the model's launch in 2010, so when it came to updating the small hatch, the German manufacturer hasn't messed with its winning formula. The updated A1 and A1 Sportback take their predecessors' sharp styling and add a pair of new three-cylinder engines into the mix.
The updated A1 will be offered with two new three-cylinder engines – a 1.0-liter petrol and 1.4-liter diesel. For people who prefer petrol power, the 1.0-liter motor will produce 70 kW (95 hp), while using just 4.3 L/100km (54.7 mpg) of fuel, allowing it to emit just 99 g/km of CO2.
Alongside the three-cylinder petrol is a 1.4-liter diesel engine, which generates 66 kW (90 hp) for a New European Drive Cycle economy figure of 3.4 L/100km (69.2 mpg) and an incredibly low 89 g/km of CO2, which is slightly less than the 92 g/km achieved by the 1.5-liter motor under the bonnet of the Mini Cooper D.
Audi is also offering a range of three petrol engines and one diesel alongside the three-cylinder motors that feature in the updated A1 range, and claims that the more conventional engines are up to 10 percent more efficient than those they replace.
As well as the new engines, Audi's supermini is also fitted with a new electromechanical steering system, which is light at low speeds before getting heavier at high speeds for a more stable feel. Audi also claims that the car's new sport line suspension is firmer than that on the outgoing car, but provides better ride comfort. If the car is fitted with the optional S Tronic gearbox and S Line suspension, Audi's drive select system can adjust the shift speed and suspension stiffness along with the engine's characteristics.
Customization is a key part of buying a small car these days, so Audi has prepared an extensive list of options for the new A1. Owners can choose everything from the color of the air vent surrounds in the interior, to special decals that will really make your car's paint job stand out. The color of the roof arch of the A1 or roof dome of the A1 Sportback can also be supplied in a contrasting color to the body. These options should (if chosen carefully) complement the A1's updated body, which is 2 cm (0.8 in) longer than that of the outgoing model.
For owners concerned with speed, the updated S1 will sprint from 0-100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.9 seconds on the way to a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) thanks to its 170 kW (231 hp) 2.0-liter turbo engine that produces 370 Nm (273 lb.ft) of torque. This power is put down by Audi's quattro all-wheel drive, while the car sits on stiffer springs than those found in standard A1s.
There is no word on pricing for the new A1 yet, but expect prices to stay largely the same as those on the current car.
Source: Audi
