Audi amplifies appeal of its A1 baby

The baby of the Audi range has just received a boost in engine lineup and spec.

When Audi entered the competitive premium compact hatch segment with the A1, many wondered if it was ever going to find its feet.

But it quickly settled in and has found 4244 buyers in South Africa since introduction in early 2011.

The latest A1 range includes the entry level 1.2 TFSI engine producing 63kW and peak torque of 160Nm, coupled with a five-speed manual transmission. Also in the lineup is the 1.4 TFSI displacing 1390cc, available in two versions. With the 90kW version, the four-cylinder unit is boosted by a turbocharger with a peak torque of 200Nm, available between 1500 and 4000rpm. Its average fuel consumption is just 5.4l/100km; with the seven-speed S tronic, this improves to 5.3l/100km.

The most powerful engine is also a 1.4 TFSI. The four-cylinder unit, which is only available with S tronic, produces 136kW and 250Nm of torque.

The sprint from zero to 100km/h takes just 7.0 seconds, and the top speed is 227km/h. Average fuel consumption is just 5.9l/100km.

The diesel option is a four-cylinder 1.6 TDI turbodiesel unit, delivering 77kW of power at 4400rpm, together with 250Nm of torque between 1500 and 2500rpm. Fuel consumption is just 3.8l/100km.

The Audi A1 Sportback followed suit in 2012, expanding the range to a more practical and well-rounded offering.

Customisation is a unique feature of the Audi A1. From roof arch colours to airvents and interior colours, the options cater for every taste.

Also introduced to the A1 is an Audi Genuine Accessories package, which combines an array of popular customisation features.

The new edition models are based on the Ambition line.

The Audi A1 Amplified package is a limited edition styling package available exclusively with a choice of Misano red or glacier white exterior colours. It includes a high-gloss black roof arch on the three-door and full roof dome on the Sportback, S line roof spoiler, exterior mirror housings and single-frame grille. The exterior is further accentuated by 17-inch alloy wheels, in five-arm design with black inserts and a matt, transparent film for the engine hood, roof and rear hatch.

The package is priced at R20580.

The A1 range is priced from R21900 to R319000.