Search Car Reviews



See all makes

Audi A1 1.4 TFSI

We've driven the flagship petrol Audi A1, but the pocket rocket’s pace comes at a price

Audi A1

Text: Jack Rix / Photos: Otis Clay

July 2011

Here’s the flagship petrol Audi A1. The hot new baby features the same 1.4-litre turbocharged and supercharged engine as the VW Polo GTI and SEAT Ibiza Cupra, but there’s no S badge. That’s being saved for a 4WD, 220bhp model due next year. So how does this 182bhp car fare in the meantime?

Performance is strong – the sprint from 0-62mph takes 6.9 seconds, thanks in part to the quick-shifting seven-ratio S tronic box. Straight-line speed is also impressive, but it comes with strings attached. Floor the throttle, and torque steer tugs the wheel around in your hands. There’s a nice surprise at the pumps, though, with 47.9mpg economy. Emissions of 139g/km mean an annual road tax bill of only £110, too.

Video: watch CarBuyer's video review of the Audi A1

 

This range-topping engine is available solely in S line trim, which brings a subtle bodykit, including a rear diffuser, roof spoiler and updated front bumper. There’s also a set of 17-inch S line alloys and, critically, stiffer suspension.

These last two additions make for an uncomfortably firm ride. You quickly learn to avoid potholes and drain covers as they send a thud through the cabin. Long motorway trips are louder and more tiresome than they are in an A1 with the standard suspension, too. On a tight, twisty road, though, the S line spec comes into its own. The steering isn’t the most involving, but it’s direct, and tight body control ensures the small Audi has a fantastic ability to carry speed through corners.

As with all A1s, the cabin is a highlight. S line models get part-leather seats, a sports steering wheel and aluminium trim. Yet even without the additions, the stylish design and first-rate build quality make this one of the best interiors in this segment.

The blend of luxury and performance comes at a price, though. This model starts from £20,710 – that’s nearly £2,000 more than a Polo GTI. 

What Next

For more breaking car news and reviews, subscribe to Auto Express magazine. We'll give you 6 issues for £1 and a free gift!

< Previous   Next >

Sponsored Results

0 Comment

Be the first to comment on this article

You need to register to post comments. Existing members can log in below to comment, otherwise click here to join.



Sponsored Results

More AUDI A1 1.4 TFSI articles


Related Index Pages

- Advertisement -

Pictures

Audi A1
Audi A1
Audi A1
Audi A1
Audi A1

Sponsored Results

Find New Cars

Find your new Audi A1 with our new car search:

Find New Cars

FIRST OPINION

    If you’re looking for hot hatch performance, but don’t want big spoilers and garish bodykits, this range-topping A1 is a good solution. Its classy, understated looks and top-class cabin combine with truly capable handling, although the trade-off is the overly firm suspension. The question is, will people looking for a £21,000 small premium car really want a bone-shaking ride? We think Audi would have been better off saving the stiff set-up for the real performance model – the 220bhp S1, which is due in showrooms next year.

 

AT A GLANCE

    Price: £20,710
    Engine: 1.4-litre four-cylinder twin-charged, 182bhp
    Transmission: Seven-speed automatic, front-wheel drive
    0-62mph: 6.9 seconds
    Top speed: 142mph
    Economy/CO2: 47.9mpg/139g/km
    Equipment: Climate control, Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control, rear parking sensors, part-leather seats
    On sale: Now
     
    - Advertisement -