subject: The Audi A1 – just another supermini? [print this page] The Audi A1 just another supermini? The Audi A1 just another supermini?
For anyone who's still not convinced that good things come in small packages, take a look at the A1, Audi's answer to the MINI, the 500, the Polo, the Clio...There has been a veritable influx of superminis recently, so what makes the A1 so special?
Let's start with the exterior. There's no doubt the car is a member of the Audi family the front shows the characteristic Audi grille and the back is reminiscent of the Q5, if a little more rounded. Inside, Audi offers all important comfort, with curved, supportive seats, and practicality cupholders, coin holder and a decent sized glovebox. Spacewise, there is plenty of room in the boot, and the back offers sufficient for the kids, if not for grown adults.
A three door body will be available initially, with a five door coming onto the market late on. A choice of three four cylinder engines is available: two turbo petrol units (1.2, 85bhp and 1.4, 120bhp) and a 104bhp, 1.6 turbodiesel. The Audi A1 is not a car to zoom off into the distance with a screech of tyres in, but it wasn't designed for that. The 1.4 litre gets from 0-62 in 8.9 seconds, what this car does offer is flexibility. It's great for getting around town, and the ride is supple, with neat handling and balance through corners.
With prices starting from 13,145, the A1 is certainly a rival for the MINI One and Ford Fiesta, offering a sophistication and practicality that the others do not. It may lack the edge of a MINI, but its flexibility and ride quality more than makes up for that. The supermini has already gained a high level of media attention; if it's attracted yours too, and you would like to buy an Audi A1 in Essex, register your interest and receive more information from Essex Audi Group.
