Audi A1 (2011-2017) Review and Prices
The Audi A1 is the smallest model the German carmaker sells, but it’s been injected with all the qualities that make us love the firm’s larger models – it’s solidly built, boasts impressive features and high-tech engines. It might cost more than the Fiat 500 or a Vauxhall Adam, but then it feels like it does.
- Used
- £9,323
What's good
What's not so good
Find out more about the Audi A1 (2011-2017)
Is the Audi A1 (2011-2017) a good car?
There is one problem, though, and it’s called the Mini hatchback. The British-built challenger is three years younger than the Audi and that shows in its higher-quality cabin and the detailed graphics of its infotainment screen.
It’s also a good deal more fun to drive, but the A1 is still easy to operate and has great all-round visibility. All engines are economical too, with the 1.0-litre petrol the perfect choice for a city runabout, and the 1.6-litre diesel serves as a great motorway companion. Of course, the super-fast S1 isn’t as frugal, but few rivals can match its performance.
A lofty sticker price but low running costs and a premium badge make this a great premium city runabout
If you want the kudos of Audi’s premium badge, but in a smaller package that’s ideal for city driving, then the Audi A1 is a desirable model, especially when Mercedes and BMW have yet to launch direct rivals. Arguably its biggest obstacle comes from within its own ranks – the Volkswagen Polo offers broadly the same classy experience but costs quite a bit less.
For more in-depth and detailed analysis of the A1, read through the Interior, Practicality, Driving and Specifications sections of our review over the following pages.
How much is the Audi A1 (2011-2017)?
The Audi A1 (2011-2017) has a RRP range of £14,335 to £24,260. The price of a used Audi A1 (2011-2017) on Carwow starts at £9,323.
How practical is it?
The Audi A1 will surprise you with how roomy it is in the front, but it’s more cramped in the back, and if you regularly carry rear-seat passengers, the five-door A1 Sportback may make more sense
The A1 is a great little car, but that's the problem: it really is quite a little car
What's it like to drive?
After just a few miles on the road, the thing that strikes you is just how easy the A1 is to drive. The A1 has a rather limited engine line-up, for an Audi at least. However, all of them are impressive for different reasons – the diesel claims over 70mpg and the new 1.0-litre turbo is a great all-rounder with zippy performance and a nice exhaust note.
It’s generally quiet too and, on the whole, visibility is really good
What's it like inside?
Audi’s well-known for its cars’ interiors, and – despite it being the cheapest and one of the oldest models in the lineup – the Audi A1 still has one of the better interiors in its class.
Audi A1 (2011-2017) colours
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- Used
- £9,323