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By Craig Hale
A good car should be reliable, enjoyable to drive, affordable to run and comfortable for everyday use – four boxes that the Audi A1 ticks.
It might be the smallest model in the Audi range, but it carries the same premium feel as larger models, including the larger A3 hatchback. So is the Audi A1 the right choice for you?
Audi has a strong reputation for high-quality engineering, so everything feels solid and well-put-together. Many drivers praise the A1's build quality and long-term durability, putting it ahead of other key rivals in the supermini space.
As with any car, regular servicing and proper maintenance is important to avoid unexpected costs, so look after your A1 and it should look after you.
Superminis (small hatchbacks) like the Audi A1 are perfect for UK roads because they're small enough not to feel awkward in tight side streets. But because the A1 also shares parts with the bigger models in Audi's range, it feels more refined than its rivals.
For example, when you're on the motorway, high levels of soundproofing prevent excessive wind and tyre noise, which ultimately makes you feel less exhausted at the end of a long run.
Second-generation Audi A1 cars sold from 2018 are petrol-only, but you'll have a choice of 1.0-litre and 1.5-litre engines alongside a variety of power outputs to suit your needs.
The 110hp 1.0-litre engine in the '30 TFSI' represents the best overall balance – it's quiet, feels spritely and will do up to 49.6mpg in the best conditions.
Standard equipment is the A1's strong point – all models come with Audi's easy-to-use MMI infotainment system, which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and the virtual cockpit digital instrument cluster.
Look out for higher-spec models and optional extras (like the Navigation Pack or Technology Pack) for more features, such as built-in sat-nav, wireless phone charging and an even more comprehensive virtual cockpit.
If you like your tech, there are plenty of additional extras to explore, including the 11-speaker, 560-watt Bang & Olufsen sound system, which has been specially designed for the A1 to reflect sound from the windscreen for a full 3D effect.
Inside, the Audi A1 feels more upmarket than many of its rivals, with comfortable and high-quality materials where it matters, such as on high-touch points.
The cabin design is driver-focused, with a wraparound cockpit that angles the display slightly towards the driver for a more engaged feel.
The ride is smooth, especially if you avoid larger alloys, but if you're after a sportier feel, consider the Sport, S line and Black Edition models with their stiffer suspension.
Up front, the seats have plenty of adjustability, and headroom in the rear is great even for adults, with space for a third in the middle if you find yourself ferrying about friends or family.
Running costs are important when deciding if the Audi A1 is a good car, and thanks to its efficient engines, it offers impressive real-world fuel economy.
Besides spending less time at the pump, younger drivers will appreciate the A1's low insurance groups, which help to keep premiums low. Servicing costs are also in line with other premium brands, with service plans on offer to help you spread the cost.
Compared to many other small hatchbacks, the Audi A1 has strong resale value. So while it may cost more to buy than something like a Volkswagen Polo or Ford Fiesta, its premium badge, desirable image and solid reputation mean it depreciates more slowly, holding on to more of its value.
This makes a used Audi A1 a sensible choice if you plan to sell or part exchange it after a few years of ownership.
So is the Audi A1 a good car? For drivers who want a stylish, reliable and efficient hatchback with a touch of premium quality, the answer is a resounding yes.
If you'd like to explore which Audi A1 model is right for you, including offers and finance options, take a look at our used Audi A1 cars for sale.
By Craig Hale
A good car should be reliable, enjoyable to drive, affordable to run and comfortable for everyday use – four boxes that the Audi A1 ticks.
It might be the smallest model in the Audi range, but it carries the same premium feel as larger models, including the larger A3 hatchback. So is the Audi A1 the right choice for you?
Audi has a strong reputation for high-quality engineering, so everything feels solid and well-put-together. Many drivers praise the A1's build quality and long-term durability, putting it ahead of other key rivals in the supermini space.
As with any car, regular servicing and proper maintenance is important to avoid unexpected costs, so look after your A1 and it should look after you.
Superminis (small hatchbacks) like the Audi A1 are perfect for UK roads because they're small enough not to feel awkward in tight side streets. But because the A1 also shares parts with the bigger models in Audi's range, it feels more refined than its rivals.
For example, when you're on the motorway, high levels of soundproofing prevent excessive wind and tyre noise, which ultimately makes you feel less exhausted at the end of a long run.
Second-generation Audi A1 cars sold from 2018 are petrol-only, but you'll have a choice of 1.0-litre and 1.5-litre engines alongside a variety of power outputs to suit your needs.
The 110hp 1.0-litre engine in the '30 TFSI' represents the best overall balance – it's quiet, feels spritely and will do up to 49.6mpg in the best conditions.
Standard equipment is the A1's strong point – all models come with Audi's easy-to-use MMI infotainment system, which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and the virtual cockpit digital instrument cluster.
Look out for higher-spec models and optional extras (like the Navigation Pack or Technology Pack) for more features, such as built-in sat-nav, wireless phone charging and an even more comprehensive virtual cockpit.
If you like your tech, there are plenty of additional extras to explore, including the 11-speaker, 560-watt Bang & Olufsen sound system, which has been specially designed for the A1 to reflect sound from the windscreen for a full 3D effect.
Inside, the Audi A1 feels more upmarket than many of its rivals, with comfortable and high-quality materials where it matters, such as on high-touch points.
The cabin design is driver-focused, with a wraparound cockpit that angles the display slightly towards the driver for a more engaged feel.
The ride is smooth, especially if you avoid larger alloys, but if you're after a sportier feel, consider the Sport, S line and Black Edition models with their stiffer suspension.
Up front, the seats have plenty of adjustability, and headroom in the rear is great even for adults, with space for a third in the middle if you find yourself ferrying about friends or family.
Running costs are important when deciding if the Audi A1 is a good car, and thanks to its efficient engines, it offers impressive real-world fuel economy.
Besides spending less time at the pump, younger drivers will appreciate the A1's low insurance groups, which help to keep premiums low. Servicing costs are also in line with other premium brands, with service plans on offer to help you spread the cost.
Compared to many other small hatchbacks, the Audi A1 has strong resale value. So while it may cost more to buy than something like a Volkswagen Polo or Ford Fiesta, its premium badge, desirable image and solid reputation mean it depreciates more slowly, holding on to more of its value.
This makes a used Audi A1 a sensible choice if you plan to sell or part exchange it after a few years of ownership.
So is the Audi A1 a good car? For drivers who want a stylish, reliable and efficient hatchback with a touch of premium quality, the answer is a resounding yes.
If you'd like to explore which Audi A1 model is right for you, including offers and finance options, take a look at our used Audi A1 cars for sale.
