About Audi A1
Launched in 2010, the A1 is Audi's first foray into the supermini arena. It may be the runt of the Audi family but it's packed with every bit of sophistication we've come to expect from the brand.Long associated with class and style, Audi has produced one of the market's most prestigious hatchbacks in the A1. Fun to drive and cheap to run, it's everything a discerning buyer would want in a compact city car. But when you add in the unique Audi desirability and reputation, the A1 becomes as much a lifestyle statement as an affordable urban runaround.
Why buy a used A1?
While the A1 marks Audi's first step into the supermini segment, it brims with the same class and style that has been synonymous with the brand for decades. And don't think you'll be paying markedly more than the average hatchback either, as the A1 is no more expensive than some versions of the VW Polo and is available with a very economical 1.0 litre petrol, three-cylinder engine.As far as looks go, the typical Audi aesthetics make the A1 a handsome, sporty little number. It has a sleek body with subtle curves and narrow, piercing headlights that flank the instantly recognisable grille. Audi offers a choice of two body styles, including the standard three-door as well as the slightly more impressive looking five-door Sportback.
On the inside, the A1 is just as attractive — even the entry-level model feels plusher than the average supermini. Viewed from the driver's seat, the cabin generates an upmarket impression, with clear instruments, slick controls and materials that are easy on both eye and fingertips. All this style doesn't detract from functionality, though most of the in-cabin equipment can be operated from a single, easy-to-reach rotary dial. The rear seats are spacious enough for your average-sized passengers, but not much more, and the boot space isn't huge either.
In terms of handling and drivability, critics have labelled the A1 as little more than jazzed up Polo. But in reality, not only is this hatchback different to its VW counterpart, it's better. With a body that doesn't extend far beyond its wheels, the A1 is easy to place on the road, and its quick, responsive steering make it very fun to drive. Also, rather than being built for just one type of road, it adapts nicely to country lanes, motorways and city streets comfortably. If you like your hatchbacks with a good bit of torque, you won't be disappointed with the four-wheel-drive S1.
The A1 is available with 1.0 litre and 1.4 litre petrol engines as well as a 1.6 litre diesel option. The 1.4 has a very impressive average of 60.1 mpg due to a nifty cylinder deactivation system that shuts down part of the engine when you're driving it conservatively. If you tend to cover a lot of ground, then the 1.6 diesel is the one to opt for as it averages around 75 mpg in government tests and is exempt from road tax.
A1 updates
The Audi A1 is stylish to look at, comfortable to drive and more affordable than you’d think.
Here's a rundown of the Audi A1's relatively brief history, since it was first previewed in 2007.
- The A1 was previewed at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show in the form of the Audi Metroproject Quattro concept car, which featured a plug-in hybrid powertrain engine.
- Renamed A1 Project Quattro, the car was presented at the Leipzig Auto Mobil International show in 2008 by Audi AG designer Jurgen Loffler.
- In the same year, the five-door A1 Sportback concept was unveiled at the Paris Motor Show.
- The popular A1 three-door SE went on sale in most markets around the world in 2010, and was released in earnest later in the year at the Paris Motor Show.
- As part of the launch, Justin Timberlake became an Audi brand ambassador in 2010.
- In the following years a number of limited edition A1s came to market, including the Contrast Edition in the UK, the Samurai Blue and Sportback Urban Style in Japan, the Huffer Edition in New Zealand, as well as the Amplified range.
- In 2011 an A1 Competition Line was created for the UK market, showcasing a striking sporty design inspired by the legendary Audi Quattro rally car.
- Audi's electric car, the A1 e-tron, won the 2011 Silvretta Electric Car Rally in Austria.
- The A1 1.4 Sport was awarded Car of the Year 2011 by What Car? magazine in the UK.
Which used A1 should I buy?
Here is a list of some of the various Audi A1 models to choose from as well as what standard features to look out for:
Audi A1 SE
Automatic start-stop function, 3-spoke Sport adjustable steering wheel, 6.5" display screen, MP3 CD player, 6 speakers in front and rear, electric front and rear windows (Sportback only), heat-insulating glass windscreen and side windows, air conditioning, 15" x 6J '5-arm' design alloy wheels with 185/60 R15 tyres, Dynamic suspension, power steering, adaptive brake lights, front side and head airbag system.
Audi A1 Sport
Automatic start-stop function, 3-spoke leather Sport multi-function steering wheel, 3.5" monochrome display, MP3 CD player, 6 speakers in front and rear, bluetooth connectivity, heat-insulating glass windscreen and side windows, air conditioning, 16” x 7J '5-spoke' design alloy wheels with 215/45 R16 tyres, Sport suspension, Audi Drive Select with 3 modes, power steering, adaptive brake lights, front side and head airbag system.
Audi A1 S line
Automatic start-stop function, 3-spoke leather Sport multi-function steering wheel, 3.5" monochrome display, MP3 CD player, 6 speakers in front and rear, bluetooth connectivity, heat-insulating glass windscreen and side windows, air conditioning, 17" x 7.5J '10-spoke' high-gloss alloy wheels with 215/40 R17 tyres, S line Sport suspension, Audi Drive Select with 3 modes, power steering, front side and head airbag system, xenon headlights with LED daytime-running lights.
Audi A1 Black Edition
Automatic start-stop function, 3-spoke leather Sport multi-function flat-bottomed steering wheel, front Sport seats in leather upholstery, 3.5" monochrome display, MP3 CD player, 6 speakers in front and rear, heat-insulating glass windscreen and side windows, air conditioning, 18" x 7.5J '5-spoke' titanium finish, diamond cut alloy wheels with 225/35 R18 tyres, S line Sport suspension, Audi Drive Select with 3 modes, power steering, front side and head airbag system, xenon headlights with LED daytime-running lights, high-gloss black radiator grille frame.
Audi A1 S1
Automatic start-stop function, 3-spoke leather Sport multi-function steering wheel, 3.5" monochrome display, MP3 CD player, 6 speakers in front and rear, bluetooth connectivity, heat-insulating glass windscreen and side windows, air conditioning, 17" x 7.5J '5 parallel-spoke S design alloy wheels with 215/40 R17 tyres, S Sport suspension, Audi Drive Select with 3 modes, power steering, front side and head airbag system, xenon headlights with LED daytime-running lights.
What should I look for when buying a used A1?
- If the A1 you're interested in is fitted with a sliding roof, check that it's functioning properly as the motors have been known to fail. If you can hear the motor struggling when the sliding roof is opening or closing then it's probably on its way out.
- Be sure to listen out for any rattling sound coming from either the centre console or the gear stick surround. If you hear anything, it's down to the poor fitting of the gearbox surround trim. Ask to get that sorted before you make a purchase.
- The turbo on the 1.4 litre petrol engine has had a tendency to fail. On the test drive, if you notice a real lack of power, a whistling noise from the top of the engine or black smoke coming from the exhaust, then you have problems with the turbo.
- Due to sharp edges on the seat-belt recess, second hand A1's seat belts are often frayed. Be sure to check they're still structurally sound.
- Check under the bonnet for signs of a leak from the oil filter housing or the sump. Either would likely mean the engine has run out of oil at some point and caused damage that might prove expensive to fix down the line.
- With the diesel versions, the DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) warning light can sometimes play up when the car is only used for short journeys. If it shows up on your test drive, take the car out onto the motorway and drive it at 2500 rpm to burn off the particles. If the light stays on, you know you've got an issue.
FAQs
Are Audi A1 cars reliable? ›
Contrary to what you might think, the word 'Audi' isn't the panacea for reliability. In our 2022 What Car? Reliability Survey, the brand finished down in 21st place out of 32 manufacturers – well below Mini and also Skoda, Hyundai and Kia. The A1 itself was 14th out of 17 small cars in the same reliability survey.
How many miles will an Audi A1 last? ›From that, the Audi reads around 420 miles of range, though I've been getting nearer to 500. For a car of this size and type, that kind of range is pretty sensational in my view.
Which Audi A1 is most economical? ›The 1.6-litre diesel engine is the most economical, capable of around 76mpg and with CO2 emissions of 97g/km.
Do Audi A1 hold their value? ›The four rings on the A1's grille have also imbued it with excellent resale values, so you should at least get more of your initial investment back when it comes time to sell. Audi's supermini comes with three doors as standard, but the five-door Audi A1 Sportback is also available.
What problems do Audi A1 have? ›Common issues with the Audi A1 include a rattle from the front doors (easily fixed with a cable tie), damage to the light housings caused by hot xenon lights, and sticking electric windows. The biggest worry may be turbocharger issues on the 1.4-litre petrol model, which could be costly to fix.
What's better Ford Fiesta or Audi A1? ›The Fiesta Active is also softer than the normal supermini version, and in both forms it rides more smoothly than the Audi, but also feels more fun. The A1 has precise steering, decent grip and a solid gearchange, but the Fiesta's entertaining chassis and quick steering give it the advantage here.
Is Audi A1 high maintenance? ›Answers. Fortunately, the Audi A1 is based upon the same mechanical hardware as its concurrent Polo (the one that's currently known as the Vivo), so many mechanical items and repairs will be fairly affordable and easy to do.
Does Audi A1 use a lot of fuel? ›It's only available with Audi's S tronic automatic gearbox, and offers up to 47.1mpg and emissions starting at 137g/km despite plenty of punch.
Is an Audi A1 the same as a polo? ›Funnily enough, they're essentially twins under the skin, sharing plenty - a platform, engine, transmission and even some tech. The cars are the VW Polo and Audi A1. The A1 we've got for this test is the entry-level 30 TFSI variant, which comes in a bit more expensive than the VW Polo Style we've got here.
Is Audi A3 or A1 better? ›If you're looking for the most affordable way to get behind the wheel of an Audi, the A1 is your best bet. It's notably cheaper than the A3, though running costs will about comparable. It's the ideal choice if you're doing the vast majority of your driving around town too and space isn't a major concern.
Did Audi discontinue the A1? ›
Ingolstadt - The Audi A1 and Q2 form the entry point for the premium brand's respective hatchback and SUV line-ups, but now Audi CEO Markus Duesmann has confirmed that both models will be discontinued after the current generations have reached the end of their lifespans.
Does Audi A1 have a timing belt or chain? ›Most of the 1.4 TFSI engines in the A1 do indeed use a timing chain. The exception is the 140hp unit with 'cylinder on demand' technology - that one uses a belt.
Is it more expensive to insure an Audi? ›...
Audi Q3 insurance rates.
| Model | Insurance Group | Tax Band |
|---|---|---|
| Audi A1 Sportback Technik 25 TFSI 95PS 5d | 16 | F |
| Audi A1 Sportback Sport 30 TFSI 116PS 5d | 20 | G |
| Audi A1 Sportback S Line Style Edition 35 TFSI 150PS 5d | 26 | G |
| Audi A1 Sportback S Line 40 TFSI 200PS S Tronic auto 5d | 31 | H |
The Audi A1 is smaller and will be more suited to city driving, while the bigger A-Class will feel more suited to long motorway journeys.
When Should Audi A1 timing chain be replaced? ›Unless there is a specific fault, the timing chain should be replaced between 80,000 and 120,000 miles.
When Should Audi A1 timing belt be changed? ›Most Audi engines have timing belt/cambelt replacement intervals between every 60,000 to 80,000 miles or 4 to 5 years [dependant on engine type].
What is the BMW equivalent to the Audi A1? ›BMW 1 series8/10
'
Sold exclusively with petrol engines, the 2023 Audi A1 Allstreet comes with a choice between a three-cylinder 1.0-litre turbocharged engine and a larger four-cylinder 1.5-litre unit. Dubbed "25 TFSI," the base model has to make do with just 94 bhp and 175 Nm (128 lb-ft).
Is Audi or BMW better? ›When it comes to performance, BMW's reputation is superior to Audi's. Yes, Audi's perform well, but BMW practically invented the sport sedan about 50 years ago. And its M3 and M5 models are global performance legends.
What cars are the same size as an Audi A1? ›
- DS3 Crossback. View new and used DS3 deals. Bet you hadn't thought of this car had you? ...
- Volkswagen Polo. View new and used VW Polo deals. ...
- Mini Hatchback. View new and used Mini Hatchback deals.
The Audi A4 is a compact and reliable model that has all-wheel drive and turbocharged engines, two features that are traditionally prone to technical issues. But the Audi has reliability ratings showing that it can be one of the least expensive automobiles to maintain.
How much is a full tank of petrol Audi A1? ›40 Litres (approx.)
What problems are Audis known for? ›- Oil leaks. Audi engines can be susceptible to oil leaks, which are the result of various issues such as a worn-out oil filter or broken gasket. ...
- Electrical component issues. ...
- Noisy or vibrating constant velocity axle boot (CV Boot) ...
- Damaged or failing spark plugs.
With the ability to get up to 38 highway mpg, the 2022 Audi A3 Sedan is the most fuel-efficient Audi that runs 100% on gasoline.
Which is bigger Audi A1 or A3? ›By contrast, the Audi A3 is a larger, more family-friendly model, which competes against the likes of the BMW 1 Series and Mercedes A Class. The A3 is also available with a wider range of engines than the A1, including a plug-in hybrid option.
What does Tfsi mean on Audi A1? ›The TFSI (Turbo fuel stratified injection) is the world's first turbocharged direct injection engine. This system produces higher power output and optimum engine response, all while providing greater fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. The TFSI engine is available in. 4-cylinder, 6-cylinder, and V-8 variations.
Can an Audi A1 be a family car? ›Rear space
The Audi A1 is not the best small car for roominess in the rear but it's not overly cramped either. You can fit a couple of six-footers behind people of the same size in the front, although their knees will be brushing the backs of the seats and their heads will probably do the same to the roof lining.
There's no getting away from the fact that the A1 is small, but it's still a comfortable car. Offers from our trusted partners on this car and its predecessors... Buyers need to remember that the Audi A1 is a compact premium car – anyone expecting room to stretch out in the rear is likely to be disappointed.
Is Audi A1 1.4 a good car? ›Although a smaller package than Audi drivers will be used to, the A1 still incorporates all of the style and quality that the brand has become noted for, resulting in a compact but highly appealing package. The concise engine range makes good sense and the 1.4 TFSI Sport offers a great mix of qualities on the road.
What does an Audi A1 cost? ›
R 576 200.00 (Recommended retail)
What is the oldest Audi A1? ›The Audi A1 (internally designated Typ 8X) is a supermini car launched by Audi at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show. Sales of the initial three-door A1 model started in Germany in August 2010, with the United Kingdom following in November 2010.
Where is Audi A1 built? ›The previous generation of the Audi A1 was made in Brussels, while the new Audi Q3 is now being made in Hungary's Györ factory. The Audi A1 becomes the second premium car made in Spain after the Audi Q3.
Does Audi A1 have reversing camera? ›Visibility, parking sensors and cameras
The restricted rear view is less of a problem if you go for an A1 in Sport trim or above because rear parking sensors are fitted as standard. Front parking sensors and a rear-view camera are optional on all trims, which has them as standard.
Audi A1 citycarver 30 TFSI 6-speed manual from £21,155
It may not be designed for off-roading, but with a good set of winter tyres, it's more than capable of handling snowy rural roads.
The lifespan of an Audi car battery will vary. In general, you can expect any car battery to last at least three to five years. Properly caring for your battery can extend its life, but it is normal to have to replace a battery every three years.
How long do Audi engines last? ›You can expect a properly driven and maintained Audi to last 150,000-200,000 miles or 10 to 13 years. In general, Audis are known for their Quattro all-wheel-drive system, technology, style, performance, and well-crafted interiors.
What color car is the most expensive to insure? ›You may have heard red cars are more expensive to insure. But, according to the Insurance Information Institute (III), the color of the car you drive does not affect the price of auto insurance.
Do Audi cars hold their value? ›Audis hold their value better than other luxury cars, but some models lose up to 65% of their value in the first three years of ownership. Mileage: Your car's condition is mostly determined by mileage. Try keeping your mileage at 12,000 annual miles or fewer to prevent your car from aging too quickly.
How much is Audi A1 per month? ›The Audi A1 Sportback 30TFSI is the entry point to the range and will set you back R 441 000 without any options. This results in an estimated monthly instalment of R 7 759 with our calculations.
Does Audi A1 1.6 have timing belt or chain? ›
Our answer: Hi Peter, The 1.6 TDI first-generation Audi A1 has a timing belt, regardless of which of the two available power outputs.
Is Mercedes a better car than Audi? ›While Audi and Mercedes-Benz both have an impressive lineup of luxury cars, the simple fact is that when you compare Audi vs. Mercedes-Benz reliability, Mercedes-Benz can't be matched. In general, Mercedes-Benz models offer stronger engine options, higher efficiency, and more interior features.
What is S line Audi A1? ›Well, S line is a trim level that's available through the range from the entry-level A1 to the range-topping A8, which gives you the cache of a sporty model – a subtle body kit, big rims and some sporty interior appendages – without having to cough up for a proper sporty model with its associated big price tag, ...
Do all Audi A1 have 4 seats? ›Audi A1 Sportback interior space & storage
All UK cars come with five seats as standard, but don't expect masses of space in the back – tall adults will find it a squeeze to sit behind one another.
Funnily enough, they're essentially twins under the skin, sharing plenty - a platform, engine, transmission and even some tech. The cars are the VW Polo and Audi A1.
Are Audi A1 discontinued? ›...
Gallery: Audi A1 Citycarver: First Drive.
| Make/Model | Audi A1 |
|---|---|
| Category | Official |
Most of the 1.4 TFSI engines in the A1 do indeed use a timing chain. The exception is the 140hp unit with 'cylinder on demand' technology - that one uses a belt.
What is the equivalent to a Audi A1? ›It's hard to get much more similar to the Audi A1 than the Volkswagen Polo – not only are they owned by the same parent company, but the cars are built on the same Volkswagen Group MQB A0 platform and offer the same engine range.
Is an Audi A1 big enough for a family? ›The Audi A1 is not the best small car for roominess in the rear but it's not overly cramped either. You can fit a couple of six-footers behind people of the same size in the front, although their knees will be brushing the backs of the seats and their heads will probably do the same to the roof lining.