Audi is set to join the combative compact car segment with its stylish A1 hatchback just launched in Europe.
It’s certainly a looker and is loaded with the sporty, high-tech luxury features that are the hallmarks of the German brand.
Power comes from four turbocharged engines.
The entry-level is a 1.2-litre four cylinder petrol with 63kW/160Nm while the most potent engine is a 1.4-litre four cylinder petrol with 90kW/200Nm. The 1.2-litre engine drives through a five-speed manual transmission while the 1.4-litre gains Audi’s seven-speed Tiptronic.
Two diesel engines are both 1.6-litres in capacity with the first good for 66kW/230Nm, driving through a five-speed manual and the second providing 77kW/250Nm and driving through a six-speed manual.
All engines feature fuel-saving technology including automatic start/stop and regenerative braking.
While the A1 is a compact, styling is distinctly Audi with the trademark single-frame front grille, coupe-like side profile and C-pillars plus the sporty looking large wheel arches. The three-dimensional tail-lights provide further Audi-unique styling cues.
Inside the A1 delivers the usual Audi quality but executed to appeal to younger buyers (many A1 owners will be females). The air-conditioning ducts are boldy-coloured, there are LED interior mood lights and the interior trim has a range of customizable colours.
And the A1 is not short of the expected Audi features such as the large MMI navigation screen/media center that rises from the center console and includes a 465 watt Bose sound system.
The chassis provides ESP stability control with electronic differential lock for the normal Audi pin-sharp ride and handling.
No word yet on local details.
