Audi is entering a new vehicle class. The compact A1 condenses all of the strengths of the brand – a progressive design, supreme quality and groundbreaking efficiency – into a space of measuring 3.95 meters (12.96 ft) in length. The new compact model bearing the four rings is dynamic and high-quality, emotion-packed and individual. Its powerful engines and the agile chassis make it the sportiest car in the segment.
Body and interior
One look is all it takes to see the sporty character of the A1. The design with the encircling shoulder line is cutting-edge and integrates the youngest Audi into the large model family. The front end with the dominating single-frame grille, the side line with the distinctive roof arch, the coupé-like C-pillars and the large wheel arches are among its defining style elements. The hood and the rear hatch wrap around the body. Audi offers optional xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights and LED taillights. These are already three-dimensionally styled in the base version and are unmistakable, day or night.
High- and ultra high-strength steels comprise two-thirds of the new compact model’s body. The strongest of these are the hot-shaped steels, which draw their extremely high tensile strength from a dramatic temperature increase during the shaping process. Hot-shaped steels are used primarily within the passenger cell. They provide the basis for the precise, sporty handling, the good comfort, the quiet interior, the excellent passive safety and the low base weight.
The interior of the A1 is spacious, bright and airy. The instrument panel resembles an airplane wing; its four round air vents are reminiscent of jet engines. The clean, clear controls are every bit a classic Audi strength as the superior workmanship. Many lovingly designed details underscore the premium character of the A1. In addition to the Attraction and Ambition trim lines, Audi also offers a media style package focused on infotainment and interior design. The on-board computer with efficiency program and shift indicator is among the standard features of the Ambition line.
Drivetrain
Audi is rolling out its new compact model with four four-cylinder engines: two TDI and two TFSI units. All of the engines follow the downsizing principle – they substitute turbocharging for displacement and draw their fuel through direct injection units. Their performance range extends from 63 kW (86 hp) to 90 kW (122 hp).
All versions of the A1 impress with exemplary fuel economy. Standard cycle values lie between 3.9 and 5.3 liters per 100 kilometers (44.38 - 60.31 US mpg). Scheduled for introduction in 2011, the 1.6 TDI with 66 kW (90 hp) and manual transmission emits only 99 g of CO2 per kilometer (159.33 g/mile). Efficiency modules that come standard with all versions are a start-stop system and a recuperation system. A new, particularly effective thermal management system in the engine contributes to the low fuel consumption of the 1.2 TFSI.
Engine lineup:
* 1.2 TFSI with 63 kW (86 hp)
* 1.4 TFSI with 92 kW (122 hp)
* 1.6 TDI with 66 kW (90 hp) (Launch date: 2011)
* 1.6 TDI with 77 kW (105 hp)
At Audi, efficiency always means high-tech. The A1 1.4 TFSI is available with the seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission, which shifts extremely quickly, comfortably and with no perceptible interruption to the flow of power. It can be operated as an automatic or manually, with paddles on the steering wheel available as an option. Thanks to its high efficiency and the intelligent control system, the S tronic also helps to reduce fuel consumption.
Chassis
The agile, wide-track chassis moves the A1 to the head of its class. Whether in the city, on an interurban road or on the expressway – the newest Audi is always great fun to drive thanks to its sporty setup, the favorable weight distribution and the direct-ratio steering.
The ESP stabilization program with electronic limited slip differential, which comes standard on all models, makes the handling even more precise while also enhancing driving safety. It minimizes understeer at the cornering limit by means of slight braking, which also improves traction.
Equipment and trim
Innovative materials and modern colors emphasize the youthful character of the A1. Whether color-matched air vents, LED interior lights or seat covers in expressive colors – customization is the key. The equipment program offers countless opportunities for matching the A1 to the driver’s own personal style. There are even a variety of paint finishes from which to choose for the roof arch. Customers can also order many features after the initial sale to follow a trend or a whim.
The available infotainment and multimedia systems for the A1 come directly from the luxury class. The top of the line is MMI navigation plus, a media center that sets new standards in the compact segment. It borrows closely from the system used in Audi’s A8 flagship, including the monitor that folds out from the instrument panel and the control unit, which uses MMI logic.
The Connectivity package, which is based on the concert radio, includes a navigation preparation kit that allows the customer to later install a map-based navigation system – that, too, is a new idea. The 465 watt Bose surround sound system with 14 speakers is just one example of the additional high-end complementary features available. Convenient Bluetooth and wired interfaces are available for cellular phones and external players such as the iPod. The A1 has a base price in Germany of €15,800.
