Although it is not obvious, due to Audi’s current reputation in the auto industry, it was only 30 years ago that they were known as a strange unpopular brand. The cars they produced were unlike what people were used to and they became attributed to strange men in funny hats with pipes. This changed drastically following the release of the seminal quarto. It was aggressive, it was sexy, and it was advanced. The new four-wheel drive traction that it sported changed the standard of vehicles forever.
Audi has continued to produce beautifully crafted works of art that are at the forefront of cutting-edge technology and brilliance. They do not appear to be slowing down either. Over the years they have set themselves up to be the poster child of elegant design and prestige. Start with the 3-series models like the A4 all the way to the world acclaimed R8, it has delved into all corners of the car owners’ demographic. Despite this, they have yet to produce a super-mini model. If you are wondering why the 1990s’ A2 does not count, it is simply because it was too expensive (and not even pretty).
Although other companies seem to have a head start with small cars, the Audi A1 is about to set the record straight. It is expected to be superior BMW’s prominent MINI. With Audi expecting to sell 150,000 annually, the car had better live up to the hype it has stirred. According to its specifications, it will do just that. Although it appears to be adapted from the same platform that other smaller cars from Volkswagen, Seat, and Skoda are using, it will provides an atmosphere of class for anybody inside. However, that may not be enough for it to slaughter its competition.
The A1′s appearance resembles that of the A4, just much smaller. Although that is not a bad thing, BMW’s MINI exterior style is retro and futuristic. Although it is not as dashing as the MINI, the A1′s appearance will still be up to date and popular in two years. The large grill with the LED running lamps on the side are synonymous with the Audi logo and the roof arches of the car can be contrasted with color on request. This really does spice up the look of the car from the front. Unfortunately the rear still looks plain and boring.
On the other hand, things start to look up once you step inside the car. Audi does not stop now at its mission to maintain its position of having the best interior designs in the industry. Only split seconds are need after opening the car doors before the sense of quality and comfort overwhelm you. The plastics used are soft on your touch and everything fictional is laid out thoughtfully with precision. From the comfortable seats, the cutting-edge sat-nav is easily accessible.
As everything measures up to standard so far, there is one more thing it will need to officially trump the MINI. If the A1 is much less riotous to drive, then it will knockout its opponent in the race for the best super-mini.
The A1 is currently available in the three-door hatch model, however in the coming year the five-door version will be available in with a cabriolet as well. The current model comes in three different engine choices; on which is a turbo-diesel engine. The turbo-diesel engine has a 1.6-liter capacity where as the two petrol engines come in 1.4 and 1.2-liter capacities. While the 1.2 and 1.6-liter engines come with a manual five-speed gear system, the 1.4-liter petrol engine has a few more perks. In addition to its six-speed manual gearbox, you have the option of switching it in for a dual-clutch automated manual system. The trim levels available are the SE, Sport, and S Line.
Driving the A1 can be compared to driving a much bigger A4 because of its heavy steering. Although the diesel engine produces a refined sound, the smaller petrol engine requires the drivers to rev up constantly to see any kind of performance. The diesel engine also promises lower running costs and greener emissions (99g of CO2/km).
Apart from the sense of being in a bigger car and the high quality feeling, there is not much to completely draw you away from the MINI. The MINI is more fun to drive and also provide the premium feeling of comfort that the Audi does. The thing about Audi though, is that the brand has become synonymous with class and prestige. That, may be enough.
Although the A1 will not exactly fit the position as the prized item in its owners garage, it has many things running in its favor. The car may seem plainer then the MINI and less fun than the Polo, but it is still an Audi in every respect. The car represents the same quality standards of an Audi. As long as it still bears the four rings, you can expect nothing less than satisfaction.
This is just the beginning though. An only a couple of year there will be a wide range of A1 variations come out. In fact, once the turbocharged S1 is available, the MINI competitor may just have to bow down and disappear. The A1 has accomplished its mission as being a super-mini delight.
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