If you’ve been following my quest to find the perfect new car, you’ll know that I had my eyes on the Audi A1. After struggling to find a dealership willing to sell me one, Tyneside Audi came to the rescue and loaned me an A1 1.4TSFI Sportback for the weekend. It was the perfect opportunity to truly experience what this small but mighty Ingolstadt machine had to offer.
First Impressions: Style and Luxury
The moment I laid eyes on the Glacier White A1 Sportback with its contrasting roof, I knew I was in for a treat. As an S line model, it boasted luxurious features like LED lighting in the doors and footwells, half leather seats, and a beautifully crafted perforated leather steering wheel. Despite its price tag of over £18,000, the A1’s interior exuded a sense of elegance that could easily belong to a car two or three times its price.
On the Road: Thrilling Performance
As I navigated through rush hour traffic, the turbocharged 1.4 engine impressed me with its zippy acceleration and surprisingly throaty sound. The A1’s engine bay seemed to emit a noise that resembled a surprised owl when I lifted off the throttle at higher revs – an unexpected but delightful surprise. The lightness of the steering and the lack of feedback through the leather-covered wheel stood out as minor drawbacks, but they didn’t dampen my overall enjoyment of the ride.
Aesthetics and Practicality
The A1’s striking appearance turned heads wherever I went. The combination of the Daytona Grey roof, 17″ wheels, and S line bodykit gave it a bold and aggressive presence on the road. Even during a quick trip to the shops, the A1’s boot proved surprisingly spacious, easily accommodating a weekly shop for two people and a whippet. The secondary set of lights beneath the tailgate added a touch of sophistication and functionality to the overall design.
Driving Pleasure Takes Center Stage
Driving the A1 was an absolute joy. From its impressive performance to the well-designed pop-up display and MMI system, every aspect of the car was tailored to enhance the driving experience. Although the steering lacked some feedback, it didn’t diminish the overall sense of confidence and control. I found myself driving more than necessary, simply because I couldn’t resist the sheer pleasure it brought me.
The Verdict: A Worthy Contender
As my time with the A1 drew to a close, I reluctantly returned the keys, knowing that parting ways would be difficult. The A1 may come with a higher price tag for a supermini, but its superior craftsmanship, powerful performance, refined driving experience, and everyday practicality make it worth every penny. I’m seriously considering investing my hard-earned money in this exceptional vehicle, and I couldn’t recommend it highly enough.
Note: This article is based on my personal experience with the Audi A1 1.4 S Line loaned by Tyneside Audi.
