Audi A1 1.6 TDI S line 3dr Car Review - January 2012

The diesel engine makes an excellent cruiser delivering power of 104 bhp at 4400 rpm with torque figures of 184 lb-ft at 1500-2500 rpm. The car has excellent fuel economy at 74.3 mpg and delivers good performance for a family car with a top speed of 118 mph, going from 0-62 mph in 10.5 seconds.

The Audi A1 range has a long top gear to keep revs down and economy up at high speeds. It is equipped with a standard and convenient stop and start system. Even though firm, the handling allows for comfortable cruising on different terrain. The car comes equipped with firm, supportive seats, adjustment levers and a well organised dashboard with large, clear and easy to understand instruments. The windows give a good view out and the central control unit and screen give access to many of the car's functions.

The car has a nicely crafted exterior and a well laid out cabin. It is fitted with basic driving technology including stability control, electric door mirrors, electric front windows, a stereo system, Bluetooth and MP3 connectivity, along with additional features like climate control, powered seat adjustment, satellite-navigation, cruise control, rear parking sensors, auto dimming rear view mirrors, and a tracking device at additional prices.

The A1 1.6 TDI S line 3dr has a big and useful boot which can store ample luggage for long trips and large errands. Even though the car is a four seater, only the front seats have ample room for average sized adults while the rear seats are suitable only for children. The A1 1.6 TDI S line 3dr comes equipped with an advanced safety kit with a five out of five Euro NCAP rating. In addition to the basic six air bags and anti-lock brakes, it has stability control with an electronic rear differential which helps the driver safely round corners at high speeds. Daytime running lights and automatic beam adjustment are other safety kit options offered by Audi at extra prices.

The car comes with a three year warranty or 60,000 miles. It incurs low running costs coming under the road tax band of A and insurance bracket of 14.With very good fuel economy, the car has excellent green credentials with a EURO 5 emissions rating and a carbon footprint of 99 g/m.

The A1 1.6 TDI S line 3dr is priced at £17,865. Costlier than the 1.6 TDI SE 3dr, the 1.4 TFSI Sport 3dr and 1.4 TFSI S line 3dr, it is a worthy investment for a stylish, economical, safe and proficient car for families and first time buyers. The car can be used comfortably for day to day tasks like school runs, shopping, city cruising to long road trips and holidays.It continues to pay for itself as it enjoys good dealer services so customers can enjoy it for longer, and delivers good fuel economy and low carbon emissions which keep the running costs down. Additionally, both the Audi brand and car's performance profile grant it excellent resale values.