Audi A1 Sport-back 2015 Car Auto Review
Audi Audi A1 Sport-back X Auto
For 2015 the ultra-fashionable Audi A1 super-mini has been refreshed, with equipment upgrades and even the option of Audi’s first three-cylinder petrol engine. I know, you’re thinking it does look very similar, and while its design hasn’t drastically changed, it didn’t really need to. Instead, Audi has improved kit levels to keep its demanding customers happy, and improved the engine line-up for lower running costs. The main visual change is the large single-frame grille that’s become an Audi trademark. The A1 boasts an interior the likes of which hadn’t been seen in a super-mini just a decade ago, with the same level of quality you’ll find in Audi’s larger models.
Changes are minimal, but there’s now more chrome detailing and gloss black plastic, along with new upholstery options. This being the five-door Sport-back, access to the rear seats is more than adequate, and for more information on the boot check out our 2014 review. There are three trim levels: SE, Sport and S line, and alloy wheels, air-con and a 6.5-inch display are all fitted as standard. Sport models now get Audi Drive Select bringing different driving modes as well as preparation for sat-nav via the SD card slot. Go for an S line like this one and Xenon headlamps are now standard, along with LED surrounds and rear lights, 17-inch alloy wheels, a sports body kit and stiffer suspension.
Across the range a Tech Pack is also offered bringing in-car internet, a music interface and MMI-controlled sat-nav, as well as a Comfort pack, which now adds an enhanced trip computer and auto main beam to the cruise control, auto lights and wipers and rear parking sensors included previously. Take to the road and the biggest difference is the steering, which is now an electric set-up instead of hydraulic, saving fuel. Its weighting changes depending on your speed, so it’s very light for parking and heavier on the motorway. It’s still a little lacking in feel though, so it won’t reward you quite like a hot hatch or even its rival, the MINI hatch. There’s plenty of grip, but it sadly just lacks the grin factor. The seven-speed s tronic automatic gearbox is impressive though, with fast changes and it’s available across the range.
Audi has made the suspension a touch more supple, but we’d still recommend deselecting the S line setup and going for the softer option instead, it’s much more comfortable. Under the bonnet, there’s the option of Audi’s first 3-cylinder petrol, a turbocharged 1.0-liter with 94bhp capable of returning 67.3mpg. This replaces the 1.2. Stick with petrol and there’s also a 1.4-litre TFSI with power up to 123bhp and the 147bhp version we’re driving now. This engine boasts cylinder on demand tech, shutting down two cylinders when you don’t need them.
Tax costs just £30 annually and 58.9mpg is possible. The 1.6-litre diesel now gets 114bhp with economy up to 80mpg and no road tax thanks to CO2 emissions of 92g/km. Audi didn’t need to change the A1’s design, so it has concentrated on bringing it even more in line with its large models by updating its technology instead. You now get more equipment for your money and the A1 should cost less to run, which is a win win in our books. It might not be quite as exciting to drive as it looks, but the A1 is still a great city car which is equally at home on longer trips and out in the countryside. Tempted by the Audi A1?
