The Audi A1 is bustling with activity but maintains quality.
The tiny Audi car has a significant resale value, making it a sought-after used vehicle. It upholds its premium label in the regular vehicle assessment (HU). It outpaces its contenders in almost all test segments, but eventually. Earlier A1s produce some outliers in the HU.
Audi's Model History
The present, second-generation A1 has been in production since 2018. This model followed the first-generation A1, which was introduced in 2010, 32 years after the Audi 50, the ancestor of the Audi A1, went out of production. The first generation was discontinued in August 2018, with the updated version available for the 2015 model year. The updated version featured a minor facelift as well as an efficient three-cylinder engine, with all engines complying with the Euro 6 emissions standard.
Variants and Body
Initially, the first A1 came with a three-door configuration, while the successor was strictly a five-door model (Sportback). In response, the Citycarver and Allstreet versions with an off-road look were manufactured, but exclusively with front-wheel drive. In 2012, sports purists rejoiced with the limited-edition Quattro 2.0 TFSI variant offering 188 kW/256 hp. Subsequently, Audi released its top-tier S1 model (170 kW/231 hp) almost two years later.
Dimensions (according to ADAC)
- First generation: 3.95 to 3.99 meters (L) x 1.74 meters (W) x 1.42 meters (H) (with a trunk capacity of 270 to 920 liters)
- Second generation: 4.03 to 4.05 meters (L) x 1.74 to 1.76 meters (W) x 1.41 to 1.46 meters (H) (with a trunk capacity of 335 to 1090 liters)
Strengths
The "Auto Bild TÜV-Report 2024" comments that the TÜV regards the A1 favorably. Essentially, the chassis components surpass the class average in nearly all aspects across all model years. In the light-load assessment, the A1 leaves its competitors behind in every category. The brake lines, brake hoses, and parking brake were deemed "almost perfect".
Weaknesses
The premium compact car also shows typical flaws, which the report attributes to the spirited way the nimble little car is likely driven by its owners. Brake discs wear down across all model years, most noticable at the first general inspection. One of the few issues is a dysfunction in the foot brake, which is also more common than average. Rusting exhaust systems are typically encountered at the fourth general inspection, and oil leakage is likewise an issue one check later.
Breakdown Behavior
Examining its breakdown statistics, the ADAC remarks that the A1 performs well to excellent in all aspects. Based on the statistics, the only significant breakdowns are the high-voltage ignition cables in vehicles first registered in 2011, causing frequent assistance requests.
Engines
- First generation: petrol engines (including three- and four-cylinder, front- and all-wheel drive): 60 kW/82 hp to 170 kW/231 hp in the S1 (limited-edition A1 Quattro with 188 kW/256 hp); diesel engines (including three- and four-cylinder, front-wheel drive): 66 kW/90 hp and 105 kW/143 hp.
- Second generation: petrol engines (inclusive of three- and four-cylinder, front-wheel drive): 70 kW/95 hp to 152 kW/207 hp.
Dealer Consultation Price according to Deutsche Automobil Treuhand (DAT) given three pricing examples with statistically anticipated kilometers
- A1 2.0 TDI S Line Edition (6/2014); 105 kW, 143 hp (four-cylinder); 153,000 kilometers; €9,635.
- A1 35 TFSI basis Citycarver (6/2019); 110 kW, 150 hp (four-cylinder); 57,000 kilometers; €16,838.
- A1 40 TFSI edition one (6/2020); 147 kW, 200 PS (four-cylinder); 46,000 kilometers; €23,919.
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The small Audi A1, known for its resale value, consistently performs well in ADAC's MOT tests, demonstrating its reliability as a used car. Many used Audi A1 models, including various Audi models, are eligible for ADAC's MOT assessment, ensuring they meet the necessary safety and roadworthiness standards.
Source: www.ntv.de
