Audi A1 Car Review Ultimate Guide, Price, Features, Tech & Lots More

So, if you are looking for a small car that is smart, stylish, and fun to drive, all wrapped up into one chassis, then the brand new Audi A1 supermini might just be what you are looking for.

For instance, it has got that premium Audi feel but in a more compact, city-friendly size that most people going for this car will want it for, as it is really easy to park around town.

So, whether you are nipping around town or heading out for a weekend trip, the A1 really does make it all very easy.

It even comes packed with the latest tech, feels solid enough to drive on the road, and looks pretty sharp as it does, too.

But is it really worth the hype?
Well, in this A1 Sportback review and buyer's guide, let us take a closer look and see what the Audi A1 is all about and if this is or is not the car for you.

Top 10 Reasons to Own an Audi A1

✔️ Smart, modern design
✔️ Compact size, great for city driving
✔️ Premium interior feel
✔️ Easy-to-use touchscreen infotainment
✔️ Good fuel economy
✔️ Smooth and fun to drive
✔️ Advanced safety features
✔️ Comfortable front seats
✔️ Customisation options (colours, trims)
✔️ Reliable brand with strong resale value

What is the Audi A1 Sportback?
History & Evolution
Exterior Design
Interior Comfort and Tech
Infotainment and Connectivity
Performance and Engine Options
Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
Trim Levels and Customisation
Packages and Upgrades
Pricing and Value for Money
Warranty and Maintenance
Is the Audi A1 Sportback good for long journeys?
How many people can the A1 Sportback fit?
Dimensions
BIK Information
So Is the Audi A1 Is It the Right Car for You?
Test Drive
Related New Car Reviews & Buyer's Guides
Who is Sinclair Group?

What is the Audi A1 Sportback?

The Audi A1 is a Sportback, which is a small, stylish car with five doors that can come with a six-speed manual gearbox, a TFSI S Line engine, and sports suspension if needed as well. As a result, it is made for people who love city driving, family car, first-time & young drivers, and people who are looking for good, affordable company cars as well.

This is because, in our view, it has all the good bits you would expect from Audi – some very nice smart looks, clever tech, and great build quality – but in a more compact size that makes driving around town and parking very easy.

If you want a luxury car that is easy to park and fun to drive, this might be the one.

History & Evolution

For its history, Audi launched the A1 all the way back in 2010, and it has come a very long way since its entry-level model back then.

The Sportback version, which was first available with only five doors, was added soon after, and this has become really popular ever since, helping to contribute towards the almost 1 million Audi A1s sold during its first 8 years in production.

Consequently, over the years, Audi has made it better and better, with newer versions getting more features, smarter tech, and even more stylish designs. As a result, it now often frequently appears as one of the top choices for small car lovers due to this and is one of Audi's more popular models as well.

2010–2018 - First Generation

The very first Audi A1 was launched in 2010 by the VW Group and made its debut at the Geneva Motor Show.

It was built to bring the premium quality Audi is known for into a smaller, more affordable car.

As a result, this version was available as both a three-door to start with and, later, a five-door Sportback was added.

It was built in Belgium and shared some parts with the Volkswagen Polo but with a more stylish and upmarket feel.

2018–Present - Second Generation

The second-generation A1 then arrived in 2018 and was first shown off in Barcelona.

This model, unlike its older model, only comes as a five-door Sportback, making it more practical for everyday use.

It is also more sporty, roomier, and packed with more modern tech as well.

Built-in Spain, it also no longer offers you diesel engine options, focusing instead on small turbo petrol options, with a newer bold design that will suit drivers in our view, who want a smart city car but with a bit of punch as it does so.

Exterior Design

Looking at it from the front on closer inspection, the Audi A1 has a sporty and very stylish body style, and in our opinion, it really stands out for being a small car.

For instance, one of the first things you will notice is how compact it is, but how the design will give you a bold and confident feel when you take it out on the road.

For instance, its sharp lines, wide stance, and stylish touches all help to make it look more expensive than many cars in terms of size, and it has clearly been made to turn heads while still being practical for everyday use as it does so as well in our view.

For example, the front of the Audi A1 is both very sharp and modern, and it has a wide grille with a honeycomb pattern - giving it a sporty edge from the off.

The headlights are also very stylish and come with LED Daytime Running Lights that look great and will help you with visibility, especially at night, and for other drivers during the day.

This is complemented really well, thanks to some very strong lines on the bonnet that add to its overall bold look here.

From the side, the A1 also looks well-balanced and neat as well.

For example, it has clean lines running from front to back, which gives it a longer and lower appearance, all while its door handles and mirrors are neatly placed, and the five-door layout of newer models makes it more practical - without ruining its sporty shape as they do so.

For your roofline, the Audi A1 is low and sporty, sloping gently towards the rear here.

For instance, this all gives the car a coupe-like shape, especially when combined with the sharp rear window design.

All while some versions can even come with a contrasting roof colour, which really helps to make it look more stylish and fun as it does so.

Looking at the back of the A1, here you get a strong look with bold rear lights, good rear visibility, and a tidy bumper.

The LED rear lights here have a modern shape, and the lines across the back make it feel wide and planted as well.

Overall, it gives you a neat design that finishes off the car’s sporty feel without being over the top, as it does so in our view.

For your boot space in the new Audi A1, you will find it to be quite roomy for a small car.

For example, although it may not be an estate car, it does gives you around 335 litres of space with an adjustable boot floor, which is enough for a few suitcases or a decent weekly shop easily.

The rear seats can fold down in a 60:40 split configuration, which can then give you up to 1,090 litres of space if you need extra room - making it more useful than some other small hatchbacks in this class here.

In the Sport and SD-Line modes, you also get privacy glass, which gives you dark-tinted rear and rear-side windows from B-pillar backwards to help give you more privacy and to make it harder for people to see what is in the back when it is parked.

Here, you also get electrically folding, electrically adjustable, and heated, with integrated LED side indicators and a kerb-view function for passenger side door mirrors as well.

For your wheels, here, the A1 comes with a range of stylish alloy wheels, from 15-inch on entry models to 16-inch wheels and even 18-inch on sportier versions.

The designs are also modern and eye-catching, with some versions getting two-tone or diamond-cut finishes as well.

All of which allow the wheels to give the A1 its premium and sporty look.

For your wheel options, here you have:

Code	Description	SE	Sport	S line
C3V	15” x 6.0J ‘5-arm’ design alloy wheels with 185/65 R15 tyres	•	–	–
C2P	16” x 6.5J ‘10-spoke turbine’ design alloy wheels with 195/55 R16 tyres	–	•	–
C2D	16” x 6.5J ‘10-spoke’ design alloy wheels with 195/55 R16 tyres	–	•	–
CP4	17” x 7.5J ‘5-arm Star’ design alloy wheels with 215/45 R17 tyres	–	•	–
CJ1	17” x 7.5J ‘5-twin-spoke’ design alloy wheels, diamond-cut finish with 215/45 R17 tyres	–	–	•
CQ6	17” x 7.5J ‘5-spoke V’ design alloy wheels, diamond-cut finish with 215/45 R17 tyres	–	–	•
CF9	18” x 7.5J ‘5-Y-spoke’ design alloy wheels in contrasting grey, diamond-cut finish with 215/40 R18 tyres	–	–	•
1G9 / 1S1	Space-saving spare wheel – including car jack Only in combination with Luggage Compartment Pack (3GD)	•	•	•

There are plenty of colour choices for the Audi A1 - 10 to choose from, for instance.

For example, you can go for classic shades like black, white, or grey or even choose something brighter, like red, blue, or yellow.

All models can also let you pick a different roof colour, which really adds a cool contrasting colour to our view.

For instance, here you have:

Body Colour Code	Body Colour	Mythos Black Roof (metallic)	Manhattan Grey Roof (metallic)
B4	Shell white, solid	–	–
H1	Manhattan grey, metallic	•	–
5U	Firmament blue, metallic	•	•
2Y	Glacier white, metallic	•	•
0E	Mythos black, metallic	–	•
R1	Python yellow, metallic	•	•
N9	Misano red, pearl effect	•	•
P3	Tioman green, solid	•	•
N6	Turbo blue, solid	•	•
Z7	Chronos grey, metallic	•	–

Interior Design, Comfort and Tech

Inside, the Audi A1 Sportback also feels much more grown-up than you might expect from a small car.

For example, the seats are comfy, but give you a firm ride, the dashboard is clean and modern, and everything just feels solid.

There is also a big screen in the middle for your music, maps, and apps, and another digital display behind the steering wheel as well.

For instance, looking at the...

Seat Comfort

The front seats are supportive and shaped nicely to keep you comfy, even after a long day of driving.

As we will find out, they also come with adjustments so you can find the perfect position, and there is decent space in the back for two passengers - and while it’s not huge, it’s perfectly fine for everyday use or giving your mates a lift.

Front Seats

Although referred to as standard, there really is nothing ordinary or standard about the standard seats.

Comfortable, stylish and available as standard in Delta cloth

There is also a good adjustment for both you and your passenger, including manual adjustment for seat height, forward / backwards position, backrest angle, headrests and seat belt height - so it is easy to find a nice seating position.

The seats also sit fairly low, giving you a sportier feel, all while your visibility is good, too, and the controls are all within easy reach - making you feel really relaxed and in control as a direct result.

Code	Description	SE	Sport	S line
N0B	Standard seats with Delta cloth. Delta cloth in seat centre panels and seat side bolsters. Door trim inserts in black. Centre armrest (if ordered) in black single-colour cloth.	S	–	–

Code	Description	Delta cloth
YM	Black upholstery with black stitching. Headlining in Titanium grey. The upper and lower dashboards are in black, and the carpet is in black.	•

Front Sport Seats

The front seats are also available as front sport seats, and not only do they have a sports design, but they also offer a firmer and more supported driving position with prominent side bolsters, which will improve your lateral support here.

Your seat functionality also includes manual adjustment for seat height for you and your passenger as well, with 2-way lumbar support, seat forwards / backwards position, backrest angle, headrest and seat belt height adjustment here as well.

Code	Description	SE	Sport	S line
N0L	Front Sport seats with Novum cloth. Novum cloth in seat centre panels. Single-colour Granite grey cloth with contrast stitching on front seat side bolsters. Single-colour black cloth with contrast stitching on rear seat side bolsters. The front centre armrest (if ordered) should be in black single-colour cloth. Door trims in black.	–	S	–

Code	Description	Novum cloth
ZV	Granite grey with Steel grey stitching. Headlining in Titanium grey. The upper and lower dashboards are in black, and the carpet is in black.	•

Front Sport Seats with ‘S’ Embossed Logo

Unique to the S line and an upgrade on the Front Sport seats, these seats come with ‘S’ embossing on the front seat backs.

The seats for instance not only have a Sport design, but also give you firmer and more supported driving position with prominent side bolsters which improve lateral support also.

The seat functionality here also includes manual adjustment for seat height for the driver and passenger, 2-way lumbar support, seat forwards / backwards position, backrest angle, headrest and seat belt height as well.

Code	Description	SE	Sport	S line
N7V	Front Sport seats with Pulse cloth/leatherette. Pulse cloth in front and outer rear seat centre panels with two feature silver cloth stripes. Seat side bolsters, headrests, middle seat and front centre armrest (if ordered) in black leatherette with contrast stitching. Door trims in black.	–	–	•
N7K	Front Sport seats with Frequency Alcantara/leatherette. Alcantara with an embossed pattern and contrast stitching enhances the styling of your seats, offers an additional grip for sportier driving and, at the same time, provides added comfort across the seasons. The front and outer rear seat centres are in Alcantara. Seat side bolsters, headrest, and front centre armrest (if ordered) are in black leatherette with contrast stitching. Also includes two feature Alcantara strips in Rock grey. Door trims in black.	–	–	•

Code	Description	Pulse cloth/leatherette	Frequency Alcantara/leatherette
TV	Black with Fine silver stitching. Headlining in black. Upper and lower dashboards in black. Carpet in black.	•	•

Heated Front Seats

Heated front seats also come as standard in all trims as well.

Rear Seats

The back seats are best for two passengers rather than three, especially on longer journeys, just like any compact car of this class, really - but it can seat 3.

That said, there is still enough legroom and headroom for most adults, but taller people might feel a bit squeezed on long trips.

For children or shorter journeys, though, the space is just fine, and the wide-opening rear doors make it easier to get in and out, as well as fit a child's seat with ease.

Inlays and Interior Accents

For the car's inlays and interior accents, here you have a few options, including, for example:

Code	Description	SE	Sport	S line
0UA	Accent areas in black For air vents, centre console and interior door handle recesses	•	–	–
0UK	Accent areas in Silver grey, diamond paint finish For air vents, centre console and interior door handle recesses	–	•	–
0UL	Accent areas in Structured grey, quartz paint finish For air vents, centre console and interior door handle recesses	–	–	•
5MA	Inlays in Polygon structure, black	•	–	–
5MB	Inlays in Polygon structure, Slate grey, fine paint finish	–	•	–
5MJ	Inlays in Polygon structure, Silver grey, diamond paint finish	–	–	•

Cabin Space

The Audi A1 might be small on the outside, but it does make really good use of the space inside.

For instance, there are really some very handy storage areas for your bits and pieces like drinks, phones, and keys.

The boot is also a decent size for a small car class vehicle, as we covered earlier as well, thanks to it giving you enough room for a weekly shop or a couple of weekend bags.

Audi Sound System

With the Audio pack - more on that later - you can also get an impressive sound throughout the cabin with 8 loudspeakers, including a centre speaker and subwoofer, a 6-channel amplifier with a total output of 180 watts, all from the Bang & Olufsen 3D Sound System.

Upholstery

As you can see from above, depending on which trim you go for, Audi offers you a mix of cloth and leather-style upholstery in the A1.

Overall, the materials also feel good quality and are well put together in our view, and even the basic trims don’t feel cheap.

Some models also come with bright colour options or contrast stitching, which also gives the interior a bit of character without going over the top, which we should note.

Suspension Setup

The suspension in the A1 has also been tuned to handle both city bumps and smooth open roads easily as well.

One of the things you may or may not notice is just how good it does at soaking up potholes and speed bumps without rattling you, but it still keeps things firm enough for sporty handling.

In our view, this has a nice balance – not too soft, not too stiff – just right for everyday driving.

Cabin Noise Levels

Even though it’s a small car, the A1 is surprisingly quiet inside.

Road noise and wind noise are also kept to a minimum, especially on the motorway, and the engines are smooth and refined, so you won’t hear much unless you are really putting your foot down.

All in all, it really is a relaxing place to be, even on longer trips.

Rear Legroom

The back seats also have a decent size for a car this small as well, and there is enough legroom for kids or average-sized adults on shorter journeys as well.

If you are tall, you might find it a bit tight, but for everyday running about, it does the job well, as it is more comfortable than you would think for a car of this size.

Smart Storage Solutions

Audi has also made clever use of space in the A1. For instance here you will find handy cubbies, cup holders, and door pockets for all your bits and bobs as well.

There is also a good-sized glovebox and a centre console with storage space, which, granted, is not huge, but it is practical and well thought out – for example, everything really does have its place.

Driver Display

Right behind the steering wheel, you will also find a smart digital screen that shows your speed, fuel level, and loads of other handy info to make your drive that bit more easier as well.

In higher trims, this screen also becomes fully digital, and you can customise what you see – like maps, music, or even who’s calling, and it feels like something out of a bigger, posher car, which makes driving that a lot easier as a result.

Digital Controls

Everything in the A1 is also easy to control thanks to its digital layout as well.

For instance, its main touchscreen works just like a smartphone does – swipe, tap, and scroll through your settings and apps. It really is that simple.

Your climate control is also simple to use as well, so you can keep the car warm or cool without fussing about it, and it is all very user-friendly, even if you are not that into tech.

Ambient Lighting

Want to give the cabin a cosy or cool vibe? Well, the A1’s ambient lighting does just that. With soft LED lights around the dashboard and doors that add a touch of style – especially at night.

It’s not just for show either; it helps you see inside the car in the dark without being blinded, which is a small detail but a nice one we noticed.

Noteworty Interior Equipment

For its noteworthy interior equipment, here you have:

Code	Description	SE	Sport	S line
9AK	Dual-zone electronic climate control Separate controls to set exact temperatures for the driver and front passenger. Electronically regulates air temperature, air flow rate and air distribution. Includes air quality sensor, humidity regulation and rear vents.	•	•	•
QE1	Storage Pack Includes under-seat storage, lockable glove compartment, driver/passenger seat storage bags, and logbook holder.	•	•	•
QQ1	LED Interior Lighting Pack Includes LED lighting for roof modules, reading lights, vanity mirrors, inside door handles and footwell lights.	•	•	–
QQ2	LED Ambient Lighting Pack – multi-coloured Additional to QQ1. Includes coloured contour/ambient lighting and a selection of 30 colours.	–	–	•
3GD	Luggage Compartment Pack Includes loading floor and luggage nets.	•	•	•
6E3	Front centre armrest Angle adjustable, fold-up storage compartment.	•	•	•
2PF	Flat-bottomed 3-spoke leather multi-function plus steering wheel With full-size airbag, S line trim, leather grips and contrast stitching. Standard controls included.	–	•	–
2PK	Flat-bottomed 3-spoke leather multi-function plus steering wheel, with paddles for S tronic transmissions As above, with paddles for gear selection.	–	•	•

Infotainment and Connectivity

For your infotainment system, here you have a few areas, such as:

MMI System

The Audi A1 Sportback comes with Audi’s MMI system, which stands for Multi Media Interface, which gives you a screen in the middle of the dashboard that controls everything from music to maps.

It is also bright and clear and responds quickly when you touch it, and you can even customise the home screen to show your favourite features as well.

Smartphone Integration

Connecting your phone is also a breeze.

This is because the car supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so you can use your phone’s apps right on the car’s screen.

That means that you get easy access to your playlists, texts, calls, and even Google Maps or Apple Maps, with no fiddling needed – it all works smoothly and keeps your hands on the wheel when you need it the most.

Navigation and Audio

If you go for one of the higher trims, you will also get a built-in sat nav that is easy to use and shows you real-time traffic updates as well.

Furthermore, this is also supported by the optional Bang & Olufsen sound system, which sounds just amazing – like being at a live concert in your car.

Whether you’re into podcasts or music while you drive, the A1 here will really make every drive a joy.

Performance and Engine Options

Moving on to its engines, the A1 Sportback comes with a few different petrol engines to choose from.

The smallest one is a 1.0-litre petrol three-cylinder engine - with power outputs ranging from 94 HP up to 116 HP - which is both very nippy and great for city driving.

If you want a bit more power, though, there is a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine option that gives you a smoother and quicker ride, all while the engines are turbocharged, so they give you a good kick without using too much petrol needed to be used as well.

Engine	Fuel type	Power	Transmission	CO₂ g/km
30 TFSI Petrol	Petrol	116PS	6-speed manual	108
30 TFSI Petrol	Petrol	116PS	7-speed S tronic	108

Engine	Fuel type	Power	Transmission	CO₂ g/km
30 TFSI Petrol	Petrol	116PS	6-speed manual	111
30 TFSI Petrol	Petrol	116PS	7-speed S tronic	110

Engine	Fuel type	Power	Transmission	CO₂ g/km
30 TFSI Petrol	Petrol	116PS	6-speed manual	111
30 TFSI Petrol	Petrol	116PS	7-speed S tronic	110

Gearbox and Transmission Choices

You can also pick between a manual gearbox, which is great if you like to be in control, or an automatic version called S tronic that’s smooth and super quick as well.

Here, you will tend to find that the automatic gearbox is perfect if you do a lot of stop-start driving in traffic or just like an easier drive.

Here you also have the options for a six-speed manual, a five-speed manual and a seven-speed S Tronic automatic as well to choose from.

Either way, gear changes are easy, and the drive feels light and fun.

Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact

The A1 Sportback is also pretty good on fuel.

Depending on which engine you go for, for instance, you can get between 45 and 55 miles per gallon, which means fewer trips to the petrol station while you still get a high-quality overall driving experience as well.

As a result, it is perfect if you are looking to save money on running costs while still enjoying a high ride quality.

Category	Wheel Size	30 TFSI (Manual)	30 TFSI (S tronic)
Fuel Consumption – Urban (mpg / L/100km)
Urban	15" wheels	47.9 (5.9)	48.7 (5.8)
	16" wheels	47.1 (6.0)	47.9 (5.9)
	17" wheels	47.1 (6.0)	47.9 (5.9)
	18" wheels	47.1 (6.0)	47.9 (5.9)
Fuel Consumption – Extra Urban (mpg / L/100km)
Extra Urban	15" wheels	68.9 (4.1)	67.3 (4.2)
	16" wheels	67.3 (4.2)	67.3 (4.2)
	17" wheels	67.3 (4.2)	67.3 (4.2)
	18" wheels	67.3 (4.2)	65.7 (4.3)
Fuel Consumption – Combined (mpg / L/100km)
Combined	15" wheels	58.9 (4.8)	58.9 (4.8)
	16" wheels	57.6 (4.9)	58.9 (4.8)
	17" wheels	57.6 (4.9)	58.9 (4.8)
	18" wheels	57.6 (4.9)	57.6 (4.9)

Emission Standards

Audi has made sure the A1 Sportback meets all the latest Euro 6 emission rules, so it’s cleaner than older cars. It produces less CO2, which is better for the planet and could save you money on road tax, too. A good choice if you’re thinking about the environment but still want a petrol engine.

Category	Wheel Size	30 TFSI (Manual)	30 TFSI (S tronic)
CO₂ Emissions (g/km)
CO₂	15" wheels	108	108
	16" wheels	111	110
	17" wheels	111	110
	18" wheels	111	111

Safety and Driver Assistance Features

Audi also has not cut corners when it comes to safety with this car.

For instance, the A1 Sportback includes automatic emergency braking, lane departure warnings, and multiple airbags as standard.

These systems then all help to keep you safe and alert, whether you are cruising down the motorway or nipping through town - it is no surprise that it gets top marks in crash tests due to this.

For instance, it has been awarded the Five-Star Rating at the Euro NCAP Awards and also been awarded the Best Car for New Drivers Award at the AutoTrader New Car Awards as well to name just two here.

Technology Driver Assistance

For its advanced driving features, here it comes packed with features that can you can even find in small SUVs, such as:

Code	Feature	SE	Sport	S line
KA2	Rear-view camera An image of the area behind the vehicle is shown on the MMI display. Activated when reverse gear is selected or via the button. Only with Audi Parking System Plus (7X2), Park Assist (7X5) or Comfort and Sound Pack (WF5).	–	●	●
7X1	Rear parking sensors Aids with acoustic signals for obstacles behind the vehicle. Activated by engaging reverse gear.	●	●	●
7X2	Audi Parking System Plus Acoustic and visual systems show the distance to obstacles on the MMI screen. Uses ultrasonic sensors. Also in Comfort and Sound Pack (WF5).	–	●	●
7X5	Park assist Calculates parking path and performs automatic steering. Supports: ▸ Parallel parking in reverse ▸ Exiting parallel space, driving forwards ▸ Bay parking (both directions) The driver still controls acceleration, gear changes, and braking.	–	●	●
PCG	Adaptive Speed Assist Radar-based distance regulation. Maintains set distance and includes Stop&Go for S tronic. Adjustable in 5 intervals.	–	●	●
PG3	Advanced key Keyless entry and start system. Unlock and start the car without taking the key out of your pocket or bag.	–	●	●

Trim Levels and Customisation

The A1 Sportback comes in several trims to suit different tastes and budgets. The base model is called SE – it’s got all the basics you need and is a good entry-level car.

The Sport and S line is then a bit sportier, with nice extras like bigger wheels and sharper styling.

For example, they all come packed full of features, including:

The A1 gives you a high level of specification, just as standard. On the exterior, you have stylish details such as LED headlights with LED rear lights and dynamic rear indicators, and 15” alloy wheels create a striking look.

Inside, there is a 10.25” Digital Cockpit, an 8.8” digital touch screen, an Audi Smartphone Interface and a 3-spoke leather multi-function plus steering wheel, including, for instance:

Wheels

15” x 6.0J ‘5-arm’ design alloy wheels with 185/65 R15 tyres
Tool kit
Tyre repair kit

Performance and suspension

Automatic Start-Stop system
Dynamic suspension
Electro-mechanical power steering

Lighting

LED headlights with LED rear lights and dynamic rear indicators – all-weather headlights with dynamic headlight adjustment and dipped beam, high beam, indicators and turning light with LED technology. Enables near-daylight illumination of the road, minimum energy consumption and long service life. Includes LED daytime-running lights and dynamic rear indicators, which sweep from inside to out. This helps to clearly identify not only that the vehicle is turning but in which direction.
Rear fog lights

Exterior equipment

Radiator grille in Matt black
Front side air inlets, front spoiler lip and rear diffuser in Matt black, grained
Door mirrors – electrically adjustable and heated, with integrated LED side indicators
Body-coloured door mirrors

Seats

Standard seats in Delta cloth
Driver and passenger seat with manual height, forwards and backwards adjustment
3 rear seats with headrests
Split-folding rear seat – can be split-folded 40:60 or folded fully

Inlays

Inlays in Polygon structure, black

Interior equipment

3-spoke leather multi-function plus steering wheel – height and reach adjustable
Leatherette handbrake grip
Leather gear knob with aluminium trim
Light and rain sensors
Auto-dimming rear-view mirror
Air vents, door handle recesses and centre console in black
Headlining in Titanium grey cloth
Electric front and rear windows
Heat-insulating glass windscreen and side windows
Front and rear floor mats
Heated rear windscreen
Centre console with 2 cupholders and 12V socket
Interior lighting – front and rear reading lights and luggage compartment light
Manual air conditioning
Washer fluid level indicator

Audio and communication

10.25” Digital Cockpit – the fully digital instrument cluster displays the ‘Classic’ style instrument dials, plus the following content:
- Speed
- Time
- Odometer
- Outside temperature
- Fuel level warning with remaining range
- Gear change recommendation (for manual transmissions and automatic transmissions in manual mode)
- Current radio station or music title, radio and media lists
Telephone menu – the onboard computer supplies information about fuel consumption, remaining range, average speed, driving time and distance travelled. Including Attention Assist
MMI Radio Plus with 8.8” MMI colour display screen and MMI Touch
Audi Smartphone Interface* – connects your compatible smartphone with your A1, bringing your mobile content via USB directly into the MMI display. Navigation, telephone, music and selected third-party apps can be easily controlled via the MMI controller and via the voice control system.
Voice control system
Bluetooth interface
DAB digital radio
6 passive loud speakers
1 SDXC card reader
1 USB-C and 1 USB-A charging points

Driver assistance

Audi Pre-sense Front with pedestrian and cyclist recognition – uses radar sensors to detect vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians in front. If an imminent collision is detected, the system warns the driver and may initiate emergency braking to reduce the severity or avoid the collision.
Hill-hold assist – maintains brake pressure briefly after the brake is released to help the driver pull away smoothly on a slope.
Lane departure warning – helps prevent unintentional lane departure by correcting steering if the driver does not signal. Active above approximately 37mph.
Speed limiter – allows the driver to set a speed limit; the car gently decelerates when reached. Can be overridden by kick-down.

Safety and security

Audi Connect Safety and Service including e-call – triggers an emergency call in case of a serious accident, connecting to local emergency services. Also sends vehicle data to emergency services. Includes:
- Online roadside assistance for minor accidents and breakdowns
- Audi Service request
- Via myAudi app, access to:
  - Vehicle status report
  - Remote lock and unlock
  - Car finder
  - Theft alarm notification
Driver, front passenger, front side and head airbags
Front passenger airbag deactivation switch
Electronic Stabilisation Control (ESC) including ABS, EBD, ASR and EDL
Tyre pressure warning light
First aid kit with warning triangle
ISOFIX child seat mounting for front passenger and outer rear seats – including Top Tether attachment point for the outer rear seats
Seat belt monitoring
Seat belt height adjustment for front seats
Anti-theft alarm
Anti-theft wheel bolts and loose wheel warning
Remote central locking with 2 foldaway keys

For an even more dynamic impression, the Sport trim then adds Sport styling, 16” alloy wheels and stylish aluminium interior inlays.

Here, you also get more technology enhancements, including cruise control, rear parking sensors and Audi Drive Select as standard.

In fact, for features in addition to the SE model, here you have:

Wheels

16” x 6.5J ‘10-spoke turbine’ design alloy wheels with 195/55 R16 tyres

Performance and suspension

Audi Drive Select – enables the driver to alter the power steering assistance, engine and gear-shift characteristics (S tronic only) between 3 preset modes: ‘Auto’, ‘Dynamic’, ‘Efficiency’ and an ‘Individual’ mode. The ‘Efficiency’ mode sets the engine, automatic transmission, air conditioning and cruise control systems to a more fuel-efficient basic setting.

Exterior equipment

Radiator grille and rear diffuser in Matt titanium black
Radiator protective grille frame in Matt aluminium silver
Front side air intakes in Matt black, grained with C frame in Titanium black
Side front spoiler lips in Matt black, grained

Seats

Front Sport seats in Novum cloth
Manually adjustable lumbar support in front seats

Inlays

Inlays in Polygon structure, Slate grey, fine paint finish

Interior equipment

Accent areas in Silver grey, diamond paint finish
Aluminium interior elements – interior details with aluminium finish in the following areas: air vent trim, electric window controls, door-mirror adjustment switches, handbrake lever button and frame around digital instrument panel
Door sill trims with aluminium inlays

Driver assistance

Cruise control
Rear parking sensors

The S line trim adds Sport suspension for firmer, more dynamic handling, upgraded 17” alloy wheels, S line exterior bumpers, S line badging and the LED Interior Lighting Pack.

For instance, for features above the Sport model, here you have:

Wheels

17” x 7.5J ‘5-twin-spoke’ design alloy wheels, diamond-cut finish with 215/45 R17 tyres

Performance and suspension

Sport suspension

Exterior equipment

S line badges on front wings
S line exterior styling:
- S line exterior bumpers
- Side air inlet frames in Titanium black
- Front spoiler clip and rear diffuser clip in Matt platinum grey
- S line roof spoiler
Body-coloured side sills

Seats

Front Sport seats in Pulse cloth/leatherette with embossed ‘S’ logo

Inlays

Inlays in Polygon structure, Silver grey, diamond paint finish

Interior equipment

3-spoke leather multi-function plus steering wheel with ‘S’ badging, grips in perforated leather and contrast stitching
Accent areas in Structured grey, quartz paint finish
Black cloth headlining
Door sill trims with aluminium inlays and ‘S’ logo
Pedals in stainless steel
LED Interior Lighting Pack – includes bulb lighting included as standard plus LED lighting in the following areas:
- Front and rear roof module including reading lights
- Illuminated vanity mirrors
- Inside door handles
- Front footwell lights
Front and rear floor mats in black with contrast stitching in fine silver

Packages and Upgrades

Audi also offers various upgrade packs, like the optional Technology Pack, Comfort Pack, or Parking Pack for instance.

As a result, these bundles give you a lot of extra kit for less money than buying things separately.

Want heated seats, better speakers, or a wireless charging pad? Just pick a pack that matches your needs, and off you go.

For example, here you have:

Technology Pack

This pack brings together the most popular technology options that are frequently ordered together for those wanting the highest level of connectivity and navigation.

MMI Navigation Plus with MMI Touch

Navigation system on a high-resolution 10.1” colour display
Advanced 3D city models with realistic building texture and road lane illustration for selected cities
Entry of up to 10 interim destinations
Detailed route information:
- Map preview
- Alternative route selection
- POIs, lane recommendations, motorway exits, detailed junction maps and more
Online map update (includes 5 free updates)
Personal route assistance (when enabled) – monitors traffic on regular routes and helps avoid jams with delays of 7 minutes or more
TMC traffic information
MMI search: free text search with intelligent suggestions
MMI Touch for intuitive operation – handwriting recognition and map zooming
Natural voice recognition for infotainment
Predictive navigation data for speed limits and inclines
Country info (speed limits, tax stickers, etc. when crossing borders)

Audi Virtual Cockpit

10.25” full-colour digital instrument cluster
‘View’ button to switch between display modes (Standard and ‘Sport’)
Displays:
- Audi Connect Services
- 3D navigation map and info
- Driver assistance systems (when ordered as options)

Audi Connect Infotainment Services (36-month subscription)

Includes high-speed 4G access via embedded SIM – no data charge. Supports:

Navigation with Google Earth™
POI search with voice control
Travel information
Destination input via myAudi or Google Maps™
Traffic info online
Parking information
Messages
Email
Calendar
Access to Twitter
News online (individual)
Fuel prices
Weather
myAudi special destinations
Country information
Online media streaming display area

Audi Phone Box with wireless charging

Wireless charging (Qi-enabled phones)
Extra Bluetooth interface for a second device
Connects up to two mobile phones at once

Comfort and Sound Pack

A pack that adds value by combining some of our most popular options – designed to improve comfort and enhance your sound experience.

Bang & Olufsen 3D Sound System

Surround sound reproduction via 11 high-performance speakers, including a centre speaker, subwoofer and a 12-channel amplifier with a total output of 560 watts. Spatial sound reproduction through the new 3D sound feature for the front seats. Exclusive speaker covers with aluminium applications. The sound is permanently adapted to compensate for driving and background noises determined by a microphone.

Audi Parking System Plus

Acoustic and visual park assist system for the front and rear with MMI screen display showing a graphical representation of the distance to any obstacles detected outside and within the driving path. Measurement is by ultrasonic sensors concealed in the bumpers.

Heated front seats

Heating for the seat and backrest centre panels, and also the seat side bolsters. Individually adjustable in several stages for the driver and front passenger side via the air conditioning controls.

Pricing and Value for Money

Prices for the Audi A1 Sportback start at around £27,000, which is decent for a premium small car.

However, please note that pricing can change over time, so please see our up-to-date pricing page for our latest new car deals for the Audi A1 as well encase it has in the meantime.

Warranty and Maintenance

All new Audi models come with a 3-year warranty as standard, and you can choose to extend this to a 4 or 5-year warranty for a one-off cost.

What’s more, if you decide to sell your Audi before the warranty expires, it will be fully transferred to the new owner. Warranty terms and conditions apply, though.

Code	Description	SE	Sport	S line
–	Audi warranty, covering you for unlimited mileage in the first 2 years of ownership and up to 60,000 miles in the third year. Transferable between owners^	S	S	S
EA6	Audi warranty, covering you for up to 4 years or 75,000 miles, whichever comes sooner. Includes a 2-year unlimited-mileage warranty and up to 75,000 miles in the third and fourth years. Transferable between owners^	●	●	●
EA9	Audi warranty, covering you for up to 5 years or 90,000 miles, whichever comes sooner. Includes a 2-year unlimited-mileage warranty and up to 90,000 miles in the third, fourth and fifth years. Transferable between owners.	●	●	●

Is the Audi A1 Sportback good for long journeys?

Even though it’s a small car, it’s very comfortable on the motorway. For example, the seats are supportive, and there’s not much road noise. Plus, it’s efficient, so you won’t have to stop for fuel too often - making it ideal for both city runs and longer weekend trips.

How many people can the A1 Sportback fit?

It has got five seats in total – two in the front and three in the back. While the rear seats are best for kids or shorter adults on longer journeys, they are perfectly fine for day-to-day travel with friends or family. It’s a small car, but it’s cleverly laid out inside.

Comparison with Competitors

When we compare the Audi A1 Sportback to other cars, the Audi A1 goes above and beyond many other cars in this class and is one of the highest luxury cars you can buy here.

Including, for instance:

VW Polo
Volkswagen Golf
SEAT Ibiza
Ford Focus
Ford Fiesta
Mini Cooper
Renault Clio
Vauxhall Corsa
Nissan Leaf

Dimensions

	30 TFSI (6-speed manual)	30 TFSI (7-speed S tronic)
Engine	3-cylinder
Displacement, cubic cm	999	999
Max. power, PS at rpm	116/5000–5500	116/5000–5500
Height	1,409mm	1,409mm
Width	1.740mm	1.740mm
Length	4.029mm	4.029mm
Performance
Max. torque, Nm at rpm	200/2000–3500	200/2000–3500
0–62mph acceleration (secs)	9.5	9.4
Top speed (mph)	126	126
Weight
Unladen weight (kg)	1105	1125
Gross weight limit (kg)	1655	1680
Further Information
Roof load/nose weight (kg)	75 / -
Fuel tank approx. capacity (litres)	40
ABI insurance group	TBC

BIK Information

Category	Wheel Size	30 TFSI (Manual)	30 TFSI (S tronic)
Benefit in Kind (BIK %)
BIK	15" wheels	22%	22%
	16" wheels	23%	23%
	17" wheels	23%	23%
	18" wheels	23%	23%

So Is the Audi A1 Is It the Right Car for You?

So, is the Audi A1 Sportback worth it? We think so. It’s got style, comfort, and all the clever tech that you will tend to find in a big car, and that you would want in a modern good car – all wrapped up in a small, easy-to-drive package, making this a premium hatchback and a good entry-point to the Audi brand that you should consider.

If you’re looking for a compact car that feels a bit special, then this is it. It comes with the quality and features that will give you a solid investment.

For anyone who values design, reliability, and a premium feel in a small car, the Audi A1 Sportback is hard to beat in our view.

Test Drive

Like what you have seen of this little car, then why not book a test drive of the new Audi A4 at one of our local Audi car dealerships today to experience it firsthand to see if this is your next car?

If you liked our Audi A1 review, then you may like some of our other latest reviews, latest news about lease deals, small cars, hot hatches, as well as in-depth reviews for both plug-in hybrid cars and mild-hybrid systems reviews, car buying guides and car news to help you find your perfect car. For example, some of these are for instance:

Who is Sinclair Group?

Here at the Sinclair Group, we are a prominent family-owned motor retailer based in South Wales with a rich history dating back to 1945. Founded by Bill Sinclair in Port Talbot, our company has grown significantly over the decades.

Today, we operate 25 dealerships representing 12 prestigious automotive brands, including new Audi cars, new BYD cars, new Mercedes-Benz cars, new Land Rover cars to name just some of our 12 car brands.

We are also authorised and regulated by the FCA and also have competitive car leasing deals, new and used car offers, which can also be split over manageable monthly payments if needed as well.

We also employ around 900 staff members, many of whom have been with the Group for over a decade, reflecting our dedication to our employee development and satisfaction as well.

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Audi A1 Car Review Ultimate Guide, Price, Features, Tech & Lots More

Top 10 Reasons to Own an Audi A1

Table of Contents

What is the Audi A1 Sportback?

History & Evolution

2010–2018 - First Generation

2018–Present - Second Generation

Exterior Design

Front

Side Profile

Roofline

Rear

Boot Space

Privacy Glass

Folding Door Mirrors

Wheels

Paint and Roof Colours

Interior Design, Comfort and Tech

Seat Comfort

Front Seats

Front Sport Seats

Front Sport Seats with ‘S’ Embossed Logo

Heated Front Seats

Rear Seats

Inlays and Interior Accents

Cabin Space

Audi Sound System

Upholstery

Suspension Setup

Cabin Noise Levels

Rear Legroom

Smart Storage Solutions

Driver Display

Digital Controls

Ambient Lighting

Noteworty Interior Equipment

Infotainment and Connectivity

MMI System

Smartphone Integration

Navigation and Audio

Performance and Engine Options

A1 Sportback SE Engine Options

A1 Sportback Sport Engine Options

A1 Sportback S line Engine Options

Gearbox and Transmission Choices

Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact

Emission Standards

Safety and Driver Assistance Features

Technology Driver Assistance

Trim Levels and Customisation

Audi A1 SE Key Features

Wheels

Performance and suspension

Lighting

Exterior equipment

Seats

Inlays

Interior equipment

Audio and communication

Driver assistance

Safety and security

A1 Sportback Sport Key Features

Wheels

Performance and suspension

Exterior equipment

Seats

Inlays

Interior equipment

Driver assistance

A1 Sportback S-Line Key Features

Wheels

Performance and suspension

Exterior equipment

Seats

Inlays

Interior equipment

Packages and Upgrades

Technology Pack

MMI Navigation Plus with MMI Touch

Audi Virtual Cockpit

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