Hi-tech New Audi A1 Grows Up

New posh supermini gets classier look, A8 tech and more space in five-door-only body

- Jonathan Burn

AUDI’S smallest car has been a big success for the brand, clocking up more than 830,000 sales since its launch back in 2011. Now there’s an all-new A1, promising more technology and improved practicality, and it goes on sale in showrooms next month.

The new A1, now available only as a five-door Sport back, is based on the same platform as the VW Polo and SEAT Ibiza. It’s longer, wider and lower than the car it replaces and will be produced by SEAT at the Spanish brand’s factory in Martorell. The second-generation A1 comes in at 4,030mm long, 1,740mm wide and 1,410mm tall; that’s 50mm lower than its Polo sister car.