Audi A1 1.4 TFSI S line 3dr Car Review - January 2012

The petrol engine delivers excellent cruising with power of 120 bhp at 5000 rpm with torque figures at 147 lb-ft at 1500-4000 rpm. The car has decent fuel economy at 53.3 mpg, lower than that of the Audi A1 1.6 TDI SE, but it delivers marginally higher performance with a top speed of 126 mph, going from 0-62 mph in 8.9 seconds.

The car line has a long top gear to keep revs down and economy up at high speeds, and comes with a standard convenient stop and start system. The car's handling allows for comfortable cruising on different terrain. It has effective insulation from road and wind noise, and as a petrol model is much quieter than the diesel powered 1.6 TDI SE.

The cabin has supportive seats, adjustment levers and a well organised dash. The windows give a good view out and the central control unit and screen give access to many of the car's functions.

The TFSI S line has a nicely crafted exterior with a hybrid sporty and sophisticated look. It is fitted with basic equipment and not the advanced driving technology found in standard models of other cars. The equipment includes stability control, electric door mirrors and front windows, stereo, Bluetooth and MP3 connectivity, with additional features like climate control, powered seat adjustment, satellite-navigation, cruise control, rear parking sensors at additional prices. It also comes with optional features like an auto dimming rear view mirror and a tracking device to retrieve the car is stolen or missing. As a Sport model, the car comes with firmer suspension and bigger wheels than the 1.6 TDI SE version.

The Audi A1 TFSI S line has a big and useful boot which can accommodate adequate luggage for long trips and 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 due to the sloping roofline. The car comes equipped with an advanced safety kit with a five out of five Euro NCAP rating. Along with the basic six air bags and anti-lock brakes, it has stability control with an electronic rear differential which helps to drive the car safely round corners. Daytime running lights and automatic beam adjustment are other safety kit options offered by Audi.

The car comes with a three year warranty or 60,000 miles. It has higher running costs than the 1.6 TDI SE version and the TFSI Sport, coming under the road tax band D and higher insurance premium bracket of 16.With an average fuel economy, the car has decent green credentials with a EURO 5 emissions rating and a carbon footprint of 124 g/m, much higher than the 1.6 TDI SE.

The Audi A1 TFSI S line is priced at £17,215. Even though it is costlier than the 1.6 TDI SE and the TFSI Sport, it is a worthy investment for a stylish, economical, safe and proficient car for families and first time buyers. It delivers fuel economy and low carbon emissions which keep the running costs low. It and can be used comfortably for day to day tasks from school runs and grocery shopping to road trips and holidays. The car pays for itself as it enjoys good dealer services so customers can benefit from it it for longer. Additionally, with the car's performance profile and the Audi brand, it has excellent resale values.