Audi A1

Auto Express's top German contacts have uncovered plans for a striking new entry-level MINI rival that will see the firm take on BMW's baby for the first time.

The mag's exclusive pictures give a flavour of what designers have in store for their new small three-door, which will be called the A1. Late last year, Audi boss Martin Winterkorn confirmed the project's existence when he said: "This will be an entry-level model designated as the A1."

Speaking about the firm's factory in Brussels, Belgium, he added that "considerably more than 100,000 vehicles per year could be produced there if this model proves to be viable". The newcomer fills a gap in Audi's range where the innovative A2 used to sit, but the A1's shape will cast a similar shadow to Audi's TT Shooting Brake concept, which appeared at the 2005 Tokyo Motor Show.

While that model was originally scheduled to go into production as a third TT bodystyle alongside familiar coupé and Roadster versions, bosses are now thought to have pulled the plug on the project.

Instead, the smaller A1 will fill a hole in the range for an ultra-desirable three-door. The car's dimensions will be little bigger than a supermini's, but don't expect it to be cheap. While entry-level models are likely to be available for a price similar to the £15,995 MINI Cooper S, higher spec variants will cost more.

And the good news is that the A1 isn't as far away from the showroom as you might expect - it's set to go on sale within the next two years.