The Audi A1 was introduced in 2011, initially in three-door hatchback form only. But a 5-door Sportback model soon followed. Before the launch of the current new 5-door Sportback was introduced in September 2019, over 13 700 A1 models in 3-door and 5-door Sportback form had been sold.
The current A1 Sportback line consists of three models, and this is the second-generation car, featuring a totally new body shell and interior, as well as suspension and engine revisions.
Related: First Drive: Audi A1 - Segment Stunner (launch report)
If you are thinking about a used A1...
If you are thinking of buying an older used A1, it should be noted that the initial range was refreshed in mid-2015 with a facelift, while the latest A1 Sportback is an all-new design. Obviously the looks have changed completely, although the basic A1 signature has been carried through nicely.
Related: Shop new and used Audi A1s for sale
We thought you might be interested in some essential changes between the old and the new models that are not immediately apparent:
Top 6 Audi A1 differences – new vs used
- Number of doors: The previous Audi A1 generation was available in both 3-door hatch and 5-door Sportback form. The current model has so far only been released as a 5-door Sportback model.
- Model nomenclature: The previous generation had model names that referred to engine sizing, which was more straightforward. A 1.0 TFSI model, for example, meant you were getting a car with a 1,0-litre engine. The new model naming refers to a power range. So any Audi with a 30TFSI model name has an engine that falls into a power range of 81 to 96 kW, while any Audi with 40 TFSI model nomenclature has an engine falling into a power range of 125 to 150 kW. Weird!
- More powerful engines. The previous A1 had engines producing 70, 92 and 141 kW. The new range has engines producing 85, 110 and 147 kW. The potent, previous-generation S1 had a 170 kW engine, but a new S1 in the latest body shape has not yet been introduced.
- Size. The new A1 Sportback is slightly longer than the previous A1 Sportback and also has a longer wheelbase. This means more passenger space, particularly at the rear. Overall weights between old and new Sportback models are, however, virtually identical.
- Boot space. At 335 litres, the new A1 Sportback’s boot capacity has increased by 65 litres.
- The all-new interior incorporates a new digital dashboard. Top models also have an all new infotainment system with a 10.1 inch touchscreen and MMi Navigation. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto phone integration are offered.
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