COVER New Audi A1
Exclusive images preview classier look for 2018’s more hi-tech, more luxurious baby
Exclusive images and details on posher, more hi-tech supermini
AUDI is preparing to give its small but big-selling A1 hatchback a thorough refresh, as it readies the second-generation model for release in 2018. Our exclusive images show the biggest changes will focus on a new look, although A8-style luxury and interior tech plus a boost in practicality will also broaden the car’s international appeal.
When the A1 arrives in 2018, it will be wading into a far more premium supermini market than the current model inhabits. A plusher Volkswagen Polo and Ford Fiesta are due ahead of the new Audi, so the brand will take big steps to ensure it isn’t outdone by cheaper rivals. That’s not to mention an updated version of its chief competitor, the MINI Cooper, and the next generation of the DS 3, which are due around the same time.
The biggest change will be one you can’t see, because the new A1 will move to the smallest version of the VW Group’s ubiquitous MQB platform, called A0. The switch in architecture also means that production of the A1 will transfer from Brussels in Belgium to SEAT’S Martorell plant in Barcelona, where the car will be built alongside the Ibiza and Ibiza-based SUV, both of which are due next year.
The new platform will bring many benefits – the first being the ability to make the A1 larger than the current model. Auto Express understands that after intense debate inside the VW Group about the number of wheelbases spun off any single version of MQB, the company’s top brass have ordered a single length of around 2,560mm across all of the forthcoming small cars from Audi, VW, SEAT and Skoda.
That’s a gain of around 90mm over the existing A1, and while the body is likely to grow by a tiny fraction of that, the extended wheelbase should bring benefits for rear passengers. Boot capacity will also rise slightly, potentially from the current car’s 270 litres to around 300 litres.
A new platform brings new engines, and the A1 range is likely to kick off with a re-engineered version of the current 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo, developing around 100bhp. With the new Polo and upcoming A1 sharing lots of mechanical DNA, Audi may also choose to offer the A1 with the VW Group’s new 1.5-litre petrol and diesel engines – although the latter units are likely to appear first in the next A3.
When the A1 does get the new 1.5-litre engines, their range of outputs – from 90bhp to 160bhp – should give Audi enough options for the entire line-up, with the exception of the S1 hot hatch.
There is also the possibility of Audi introducing a plug-in hybrid e-tron version of the A1. Back in 2012 it developed a concept featuring a three-cylinder turbo and electric motor. The technology is expensive, though, and if introduced it will push the A1’s price into new territory – possibly upwards of £25,000. However, it would give Audi a competitor for the BMW i3 – a car it can’t currently rival.
Of course, a new model wouldn’t be complete without a new look. Our images give an idea of how the second-generation A1 will develop, with evolutionary rather than revolutionary changes. Expect sharper headlamps with a unique daytime running light signature either side of the latest company grille, which follows the rule of being hexagonal on hatchbacks and saloons, rather than octagonal as on Audi’s SUVS.
At the rear, wider tail-lights are likely to be inspired by the recently refreshed A3, with an integrated roof spoiler to aid aerodynamic efficiency and give the A1 a sportier look. Audi’s ‘scrolling indicators’ are set to be offered as an option across the range.
What is likely to be more intriguing to buyers is the raft of new tech inside. Audi’s 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit will make an appearance for the first time, while Apple Carplay and Android Auto will also be introduced on an updated version of Audi’s MMI infotainment system. The firm may roll out a Wifi hotspot as well as it aims to rival the connectivity offered by the A1’s main rival, the MINI.
The existing car will soldier on with only minor tweaks before the next model is introduced, but it could get a sign-off flagship. Audi has fenced off the RS 1 badge, and while senior company insiders deny any plans for such a vehicle, it’s possible that the company could issue a limited-edition, extreme hot hatchback version of the A1 as part of the tail end of its current production run in early 2018.
“New platform will bring many benefits – the first being the ability to make A1 larger than at present”