Audi A1

There’s a new Metro on the horizon, but it’s got nothing to do with MG or Rover! Audi’s latest concept uses the historic British Leyland name, but this city slicker will soon become the all-new A1 hatchback.

Officially called the Metroproject Quattro, the show car will make its official debut at the Tokyo Motor Show on Wednesday next week. The great-looking three-door is more than just a styling exercise – it points the way to Audi’s new entry-level model.

The A1 will go on sale early in 2009 and is expected to debut in production form at the Paris Motor Show next year.

There are plenty of smart details in the Metroproject design, including Audi’s new mobile device – essentially a hand-held portable sat-nav, phone and MP3 player with a touchscreen display. The gadget replaces the key and plugs into the centre console.

For the inside story on the A1 pick up your copy of Auto Express on sale from October 24th, and be sure to click onto www.autoexpress.co.uk next week for the best Tokyo Motor Show coverage on the web.