If you’re after a small car with a posh badge, your options are surprisingly limited. You could even argue that your number of choices total just two: the Mini Hatchback and the Audi A1.
But while both are similarly sized and almost identically priced, the A1 ultimately outdoes the Hatchback in its broader choice of engines, whose power outputs range from sensible to spicy. There’s also a wide selection of trims available with the A1, from the relatively austere Technik to the sportily styled and range-topping Black Edition. But before we get into all that, let’s check out its key stats.
| Brand-new price range | £21,000–£30,000 |
| Car Planet price range | £10,000–£11,000 / £208–£213 a month |
| Trims | 4 |
| Engines | 3 |
| Available fuels | Petrol |
| mpg range across all versions | 46–53 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Warranty | 3 years/60,000 miles |
| Company car tax at 20% (min/max) | £1,100/£1,900 |
| Company car tax at 40% (min/max) | £2,300/£3,800 |
Equipment, options and extras
The Audi A1’s entry-level Technik trim includes only the essentials: 15in alloy wheels, and manual air conditioning rather than automatic climate control. That’s why we recommend upgrading to the Sport trim, which entails 16in alloy wheels, cruise control and rear parking sensors, as well as a greater array of personalisation options, including a contrastingly coloured roof. The S Line versions are all about sportiness: bigger wheels, stiffer suspension, more aggressive looks. They’re also available in several style editions, meaning you can tailor the aesthetic to your preferences to an amazing degree. Finally we have the range-topping Black Edition, but that only adds extra style as opposed to any real substance, and so probably doesn’t warrant the extra cost compared to the S Line.
Costs, insurance groups, mpg and CO2
You’ll pay a hefty price premium to own an Audi A1 as opposed to its cousin the Volkswagen Polo, and some versions of the Mini 5dr are cheaper, too. However, the A1 holds on to its value much more tightly than its rivals. In fact, it boasts the slowest predicted depreciation in its class. When it comes to fuel efficiency, the 108bhp 1L petrol engine is fairly thrifty, delivering better real-world economy than the Mini 5dr Cooper. Company car drivers will be pleased to hear that the A1’s relatively low CO2 emissions will net them lower monthly tax payments than the Mini. That being said, if you can live without the Audi badge then you can enjoy even less tax by opting for the cheaper and even more economical Peugeot 208 Puretech 100. However, the A1’s servicing costs over 3 years are competitive for the small car class, and lower than those for the Mini Cooper.
Safety and security
Euro NCAP awarded the Audi A1 five stars in its safety tests, which was also achieved by its rival the Volkswagen Polo. Both cars achieved almost identical scores when it came to adult and child occupant protection, which far exceeded that of their mutual rival the Mini. The A1 comes with a full complement of airbags, as well as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. However, it does lack several notable safety aids you’ll find in other small cars, like traffic sign assistance and blind spot monitoring. It’s also worth noting that no version of the A1 includes Quattro, Audi’s four-wheel–drive system for enhancing traction in slippery conditions.
Reliability
Just like its rival the Volkswagen Polo, for the first 2 years the Audi A1 entails a warranty of unlimited mileage, which is then capped in the third year at 60,000 miles.
The Car Planet verdict
If you can live without a posh badge, you might be better off sourcing a Peugeot 208 or Volkswagen Polo, both of which offer a little more for less. But that’s not to take anything away from the Audi A1, which is a truly excellent choice: brilliant to drive, comfortable to sit in for an extended period, and available with lots of big car options. Car Planet are experts in used cars in Watford and Hertfordshire. Our virtual viewings mean you can check out a car from the comfort of your own home, or you can come in and view our cars in person. Every car goes through a thorough 150-point check to ensure it’s totally roadworthy. We’re transparent, too: we always display the details of a car’s imperfections. We care about sustainability, which is why we plant a tree for every car we sell, and we provide a 7-day money-back guarantee to any customer who isn’t absolutely satisfied with our service. With our competitive finance deals and part exchanges, you’re sure to find what you need, so check out our selection of secondhand Audi A1s today and let’s get the ball rolling!
