Introduction

Building the A1 was a sound move by Audi. Borrowing a platform and engines from parent company Volkswagen, Audi furnished the A1 with its own technologies and style, creating an upmarket car in a size to trouble Mini. Tens of thousands have sold across Europe since its launch in 2010, as buyers look to capture a slice of the good life without breaking the bank.

Did you know? Choose an Audi A1 with either the optional Bose sound system or the Technology Pack, and the boot capacity shrinks

Verdict | Design | Interior | Technology | Performance | Safety | Specs | Running Costs | Pricing

Verdict:★★★★★★★☆☆☆ (7.6/10)

The A1 is a great idea from a commercial standpoint, and its sales figures suggest it meets its brief well enough. However, while the interior is beautifully built, it’s short on features until prices begin to nudge £20,000. Also, ride quality of pricier versions with large alloy wheels is below the modern Audi standard. Style and image win plenty of points for the car, and it does offer something no one else quite does. However, value-seekers should note that other brands offer superminis that are at least as good, if not better in some areas, for considerably less money.