Audi’s second take at the A1 arrives!

This week sees the latest version of Audis smallest production car hit our shores and it most certainly has created some buzz. But it’s more than just good looks. We take a closer look at the range and at some of the differences between this and the outgoing version.

Edition #1 is exceptionally striking, even in photos

Exterior changes

On the outside, the new Audi A1 is 56mm longer but the width is virtually identical to the previous A1. In the flesh, the car appears more aggressive and chunkier than before. Designed by an up and coming young Japanese designer, the car takes queues from games such as Gran Turismo and pays homage to the Audi Sport Quattro with its slats and vents.

The Edition #1, exclusively available in Python Yellow is most certainly the bell of the ball, sporting the biggest wheel available for the A1, the 18” Audi Sport alloys. Wheels sizes start from 15” but on a car this stylish, I prefer the arch filling 17” and 18” options.

Inside

Audi A1 features a cockpit that is ever so slightly angled towards the driver. Coupled with the customizable interior trim and the standard 8.8-inch display the car has a modern stylish interior, that although does have similarities to the Polo, is certainly more premium with soft materials everywhere. The optional Virtual Cockpit adds yet another level of interior class making to the A1 Audi.  

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also available options and the B&O audio system which boasts 11 speakers with 560 watts of output can be specced too. To simplify the order books the entire technology package is now bundled at an additional R9 900.

Engine options

Currently available in 3 engine vairants. The 85kW 1.0 litre,  110kW 1.5 litre and with no talk of the S1 coming anytime soon, the current flagship 147kW 2.0.  The latter fitted with a 6-speed S-Tronic gearbox while the other two have the 7-speed dual clutch transmission

Verdict

Still a chic, funky premium option at the lower end of the market. And now with its more muscular looks, this car will certainly appeal to a broader audience.

Pricing

The Audi A1 range is priced as follows, along with the standard Audi Freeway plan (5 year / 100 000 km) and inclusive of all taxes:

• Audi A1 30 TFSI S tronic at R 359,900
• Audi A1 30 TFSI Advanced S tronic at R 373,900
• Audi A1 30 TFSI S line S tronic at R 388,900
• Audi A1 35 TFSI S tronic at R 429,900
• Audi A1 35 TFSI Advanced S tronic at R 443,900
• Audi A1 35 TFSI S line S tronic at R 458,900
• Audi A1 40 TFSI S line S tronic at R 488,000