Audi A1 review - MPG, CO2 and running costs

The 25 TFSI is the smallest engined A1 you can buy, so it's not surprising it's also the most economical. The three-pot 1.0-litre can return up to 50.4mpg on the WLTP combined cycle and emits 128g/km of CO2 in its most basic Technik form. There are as yet no hybrid or ‘green’ powertrain options, but efficiency of the base models remain impressive.

The 35 TFSI has cylinder deactivation to improve its figures. By cutting off fuel to half the cylinders when they’re not under load, you can mimic the efficiency of a smaller engine. Despite having 148bhp and a 0-62mph time of 7.7 seconds, the 35 TFSI can return 45.6mpg with CO2 emissions from 141g/km.

In the mid-range is the 30 TFSI, which is in its most efficient guise when mated with the six-speed manual 'box - managing 51.4mpg and emitting 124g/km of CO2. The increased performance of the 40 TFSI model means efficiency is down compared to other versions in the range. It still manages a maximum return of 40.4mpg, however.

25

In general terms, the Audi A1 shouldn’t cost any more to run than similarly high-spec supermini rivals, at least when it comes to filling up, insurance and road tax. However, maintenance costs could be a little higher than some, as you’ll be helping to play for all those swishy Audi showrooms.

Insurance groups

The 25 TFSI is the cheapest to insure as that’s only in Group 16. When the sportier models arrive the bills go up according to performance, with the most expensive models to insure being the 35 TFSI, which is Group 25 and the, now discontinued, 40 TFSI which is Group 31.

Depreciation

Residual values for the A1 remain strong, with the five-door hatch retaining an average of 56 per cent of its value over three-years and 36,000 miles. The 108bhp 1.0 TFSI model in either Techink, Sport or S-Line trim holds onto nearer 60 per cent of its original list price after 36 months of ownership, while top-spec Vorsprung cars perform less well, keeping around  50 per cent over the same period.