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The Audi A1 – just another supermini?
For anyone who’s still not convinced that good things come in small packages, take a look at the A1, Audi’s answer to the MINI, the 500, the Polo, the Clio…There has been a veritable influx of superminis recently, so what makes the A1 so special?
Let’s start with the exterior. There’s no doubt the car is a member of the Audi family – the front shows the characteristic Audi grille and the back is reminiscent of the Q5, if a little more rounded. Inside, Audi offers all important comfort, with curved, supportive seats, and practicality – cupholders, coin holder and a decent sized glovebox. Spacewise, there is plenty of room in the boot, and the back offers sufficient for the kids, if not for grown adults.
A three door body will be available initially, with a five door coming onto the market late on. A choice of three four cylinder engines is available: two turbo petrol units (1.2, 85bhp and 1.4, 120bhp) and a 104bhp, 1.6 turbodiesel. The Audi A1 is not a car to zoom off into the distance with a screech of tyres in, but it wasn’t designed for that. The 1.4 litre gets from 0-62 in 8.9 seconds, what this car does offer is flexibility. It’s great for getting around town, and the ride is supple, with neat handling and balance through corners.
With prices starting from £13,145, the A1 is certainly a rival for the MINI One and Ford Fiesta, offering a sophistication and practicality that the others do not. It may lack the edge of a MINI, but its flexibility and ride quality more than makes up for that.  The supermini has already gained a high level of media attention; if it’s attracted yours too, and you would like to buy an <a rel=”nofollow” onclick=”javascript:_gaq.push(['_trackPageview', '/outgoing/article_exit_link']);” href=”http://www.essexaudi.co.uk/new-cars/view/49/A1″>Audi A1 in Essex</a>, register your interest and receive more information from Essex Audi Group.

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