Bringing upmarket materials, refined driving manners and a strong brand image, it has proven popular with those wanting something premium in a more compact package.
That has remained over the preceding years and generation, with the latest A1 being packed full of technology, while also being roomier than before as well.
But if you’re shopping for an Audi A1 Sportback, what colours, options and personalisation are available? Let’s take a look at the most recent version.
Colours
Whether you’re shopping for a new or used A1, there’s a great range of colours available, including solid, metallic and pearl effect paint finishes.
The no-cost colour is Shell White, but if you want to upgrade to a metallic shade, there is Navarra Blue, Progressive Red and a new colour – the funky District Green, a colour previously seen on the Q5 and A5 models. Other shades available include Manhattan Grey and Mythos Black, while Arrow Grey is the pearl-effect finish available.
Full Audi A1 Sportback Colour Range
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Shell White Solid
Dew Silver Metallic
District Green Metallic
Glacier White Metallic
Manhattan Grey Metallic
Mythos Black Metallic
Navarra Blue Metallic
Progressive Red Metallic
Arrow Grey Pearl Effect
Trim levels
Audi has slimmed down the range of trim levels available on the latest A1, with three versions now available – Sport, S line and the Black Edition.
Even the entry to the A1 range, the Sport, features plenty of standard equipment, with 16-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights with LED rear lights and dynamic indicators and dynamic suspension all included. You also get light and rain sensors, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster,a 10.1-inch touchscreen, rear parking sensors and cruise control.
The S line model brings a more dynamic look courtesy of its 17-inch alloy wheels, sports suspension and S line body kit, bringing specific bumpers, a spoiler and privacy glass. You also get an upgraded steering wheel, stainless steel pedals, LED interior lighting and part leather seats.
For a meaner look, you can choose the Black Edition, bringing 18-inch alloy wheels and a full black styling kit, such as for the badges, door mirror housings and roof.
Options and personalisation
Regardless of which trim level you go for, you’re able to option upgraded alloy wheels up to 18 inches, depending on trim level. Inside, you can also choose a Microfiber and leatherette seats as an extra.
In terms of more conventional extras, there are two main option packs available. The first is the Technology Pack, which brings a Sonos 3D sound system, wireless smartphone charging, reversing camera and heated front seats. You can also choose the Technology Pack Pro, which gains keyless entry, an upgraded infotainment system, a front centre armrest and dual-zone climate control along with the other aforementioned extras.
What’s new?
This latest-generation A1 is rather different to its predecessor, now coming with a far more modern design inside and out. Key changes include new TFSI petrol engines (you can’t have a diesel now), along with a high-tech cabin that includes a digital dial display and large touchscreen. This new A1 is also far more spacious than its predecessor thanks to its increased dimensions – the boot growing by an impressive 65 litres to 335 litres.
What’s under the bonnet?
There are three engines available on the A1, with the line-up beginning with the 25 TFSI – a 94bhp 1.0-litre petrol engine paired to a five-speed manual gearbox. Sitting in the middle is the 30 TFSI – another 1.0-litre unit, but this time producing 108bhp, while also getting the choice of a six-speed manual or seven-speed S tronic automatic transmission. Currently, the most powerful engine is the 35 TFSI. Only available on the S line and Black Edition grades, and in combination with an S tronic automatic gearbox, it uses a 148bhp 1.5-litre petrol engine. With this, it can accelerate the A2 from 0-60mph in a zippy 7.5 seconds, while still returning a claimed 46mpg.
What’s it like to drive?
The A1 excels behind the wheel at offering the feel of a larger vehicle. The level of refinement is superb for a small car, and it’s fantastic on the motorway, particularly with the more powerful engines. Stay clear of the largest 18-inch alloy wheels and the ride is exceptional, while the general feel of the A1 is very grown-up, yet still with compact dimensions that make it easy to drive and park.
How does it look?
This latest A1 also looks more grown-up than its predecessor, helped by the increase in dimensions. It helped to usher in a new look for Audi’s models, headed up by the wide Singleframe grille, and small vents between the bonnet and grille. With Audi’s trademark LED lighting at both the front and rear, it has a clear link to the brand’s more expensive models too. If you want a more eye-catching look, there’s the more purposeful S line and Black Edition trims to choose too.
What’s it like inside?
Though this might be Audi’s most affordable model, you wouldn’t think so when you have a look at the cabin. The quality is superb, and one of the best in the small car segment, while Audi’s easy-to-use and modern displays help to give the A1 more of an expensive feel. As we’ve touched on, it’s far roomier too. At 335 litres, the boot is a great size for a supermini and increases to 1,090 litres once the rear seats are folded. There’s also room for two adults to comfortably sit in the rear seats.
Verdict
If you want to downsize to a smaller car, but don’t want to compromise on refinement or quality, the Audi A1 is a superb choice.
It’s a small car that manages to offer the feel and finish of something much larger, and with generous equipment levels and decent interior space, it’s a fantastic choice.