Here are the first videos of the Audi A1 premium compact, where we can get a better look at the style and dimensions of the car. It’s quite a deceiving little vehicle and I can’t quite figure out my idea of its size, especially in comparison to other models. The video after the jump gives us further explanation of the A1 design, but I think a few other things are more telling than having someone discuss the single frame grille, for example.
To be specific, let’s get down to simple visuals – this first presentation A1 is red and shows the twin tone roof colour, making this a more street-style, funky Audi than any of the executive sedans, or elegant sportbacks and coupes achieve. So, one for young city goers it appears. The video discusses quality benchmarks in terms of design, with an interesting discussion of the A1 rear. I say interesting because the front is very trademark Audi and adopts in-house style.
I can’t wait to see this live at the Geneva show, where first impressions will be confirmed or overturned. There’s no doubt it’s an exciting prospect for Audi, but it will be the market who determines just how well Audi has pulled off its premium compact. Despite the Audi technology and quality, I’m a little disappointed in the choice of a 1.2-litre engine as the entry level model. It comes at a good price, but I’m not sure whether Audi will go stripping customers from Mini with that kind of option. We might love Audi, but generally we like them fast and powerful – maybe a turbocharger is called for. We’ll have to wait and see what happens…
