Audi A1 1.6 TDI Contrast Edition 3dr Car Review - February 2012

The Audi’s cabin is impressive. The seats are firm and supportive with lots of adjustment and the usual Audi methodical dash is present with large, unambiguous instruments. Even the switches and dials have an expensive look and feel.

The windows are quite shallow, but the overall glass area gives good visibility. The central control unit and screen give information about many of the car's functions, and you soon get the hang of it.

The 4 cylinder, 16valve, 1.6L TDI diesel engine notably gives the highest fuel economy (74.3mpg) of the range, and is responsive; producing 105bhp and a top speed of 118mph; it’s capable of delivering enough power and speed for most needs and able to take you from 0-62mph in just 10,5 seconds. Low down pulling power of 184lb-ft torque makes it really at home nipping in and out of city traffic, being fast and flexible, and its long top gear makes for effortless cruising at higher speeds.

The diesel engine can clatter a bit when pulling, but the petrol engines are always smooth and silent, and there’s plenty of insulation from wind and road noise. Stop-start engine technology is standard across the range and it works quickly and unobtrusively adding to economy.
Three trim levels, offer firmer suspension and bigger wheels. The entry-level version is quite firm, and Sport models become more so, while still remaining comfortable. Sport line versions maybe take it a little too far, though. The A1 isn’t as attentive in corners as say, a Mini, but it still provides a fun drive.

The design of the Audio won’t knock you out, but it’s good-looking and practical, well put together and has integrity. The A1 comes well equipped with power steering, central locking, electronic stability control, allot wheels, air conditioning, electric windows and door-mirrors, driver, passenger and front-side airbags, alarm and immobilizer, a CD system with MP3 and Bluetooth as normal.

Plenty of personalization options are available, and more are promised in the future. You can even have the latest the A8 flagship navigation and infotainment system, which is also available.

Comparing the A1 to a MINI; the A1 has a superior, more useful boot area than the MINI’s offering, but whilst the MINI can accommodate four adults, the Audi’s rear seating is only apt for children really, owing to the noticeably inclined roofline.

Audi has a tremendous track record for theft deterrence and in safety terms. The A1 gets a Euro NCAP rating of 5, and goes much further than the just the usual six airbags and anti-lock braking system. It also comes with stability control with an electronic rear differential helping you to navigate round corners safely if you find yourself going a little too quickly.

According to some reliability surveys, Audis don't always live up to their prestige image, so hopefully things have improved with its newest models.

Priced at £17,670 it’s a bit more than some of its rivals like the MINI Hatchback or Alfa Romeo Mito, but it gives excellent fuel economy and low CO2 emissions (99g/km). Road Tax band A and insurance group 14 mean running costs are reasonable. Overall it provides plenty of value for money-it’s well packaged and resale prices are generally better than others in its class.