Smallest Audi comes to market with all the requisite premium sector attributes including an impressive equipment list.
The Audi A1 becomes available to order today (May 6) with a UK specification that further emphasises the fact that its more diminutive dimensions are its only half measure. Priced at between £13,145 OTR and £18,280 OTR, the latest, more concentrated embodiment of Vorsprung durch Technik combines the trappings that befit a premium sector hatchback with the technological sophistication and quality of finish that mark out every Audi.
Features common to the SE, Sport and S line options available for UK A1 models will include alloy wheels, remote central locking, air conditioning, electric front windows and mirrors and a six-speaker single CD audio system with auxiliary iPod connection linked to a 6.5-inch retractable display.
Sport model additions include larger diameter wheels, sports suspension, sports seats, Bluetooth mobile phone preparation and a Driver’s Information System, while S line versions upgrade with extras such as an exclusive S line exterior treatment including larger 17-inch alloy wheels, S line sports suspension and leather and cloth combination upholstery.
In the initial launch phase the generous specification is combined with three ultra-efficient TDI and TFSI engines, all of which compensate very effectively for their relatively small displacements with the latest turbo charger technology, and benefit from engine start-stop and recuperation systems.
The new 1.2 TFSI petrol engine linked exclusively to a five-speed manual transmission kicks off the range, its 86PS and 160Nm peak power and torque outputs enabling a 0-62mph time of 11.7 seconds and a 112mph top speed, delivered with 55.4mpg capability and low CO2 of 118g/km*.
S tronic twin-clutch transmission also for A1
The more familiar 1.4 TFSI power unit is next in line, and delivers its 122PS and 200Nm via the standard six-speed manual gearbox or the optional seven-speed S tronic twin-clutch transmission. Equipped with S tronic it takes the A1 to 62mph in 8.9 seconds, and on to 126mph where conditions allow, and in this form comes impressively close to matching its smaller counterpart on economy and emissions, delivering up to 54.3mpg with CO2 output of 119g/km*.
The 105PS 1.6-litre diesel is the third engine option, and via a five-speed manual gearbox uses its impressive 250Nm torque output to power the A1 to 62mph in 10.5 seconds and on to a 118mph top speed, while retaining the potential to achieve 70.6mpg economy with emissions of 105g/km*.
Latest generation ESP with electronic differential
All engine options are backed up by the latest generation ESP system with 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. This helps to further boost the impressive handling agility and neutrality delivered by the sophisticated front MacPherson strut and rear torsion beam suspension by minimising understeer and improving traction.
Xenon headlamps with trademark LED daytime running lights will be available at extra cost exclusively for S line models, but all versions will offer the option to upgrade with premium segment specification enhancements such as a BOSE sound system including LED-lit woofers, DAB radio, the Audi Music Interface for iPod connection, cruise and parking distance controls and the Multi Media Interface (MMI) navigation plus system. Based on the system used by the latest Audi A8, MMI navigation plus incorporates a 60 gigabyte hard drive, 20 gigabytes of which can be devoted to music files.
The A1 will also offer a choice of equipment packages, as well as numerous customisation options for both exterior and interior using an array of colours, materials and equipment options designed to make each car feel as unique and personal as possible.
* Preliminary figures
