Citycarver brings its A game

Is the A1 Citycarver a worthy addition to the Audi range? Ted Welford finds out.

You’d think that with seven crossovers and SUVs already in Audi’s range, buyers would have plenty of choice when it comes to picking their next rugged-looking model. As well as these ‘Q’ SUVs there are also ‘Allroad’ models, which add genuine off-road ability and sturdy looks to the brand’s estate models. Yet even that doesn’t fill every niche, as now there is a further faux-rugged car - the A1 Citycarver. Adding off-road styling to what is arguably the most premium supermini around.

WHAT’S NEW?

Through a revised suspension setup and larger tyres, the Citycarver sits 50mm higher up than the regular A1. Audi describes it as ‘urban-ready’ - such as the silver underbody protection, two-tone wheel arch extensions and revised bumpers. Unlike the standard A1, the Citycarver is only offered with one high-spec trim level, which incorporates bits and pieces of both the ‘Sport’ and ‘S line’ trim levels of the standard car.

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE? The dinky size makes the A1 Citycarver both easy to drive and manoeuvre, while visibility is excellent too. The light steering aids with this ease of driving when diving in and out of congestion and also when parking. Road noise is also kept to a minimum, while the ride on our car’s 17-inch alloy wheels was comfortable and it handled imperfections in the road well.

HOW DOES IT LOOK?

This will divide opinion, and is perhaps one of the reasons why Audi UK expects it to account for just 5% of A1 sales. Key features include the new octagonal grille (the regular A1’s is hexagonal), which is a feature associated with Audi SUVs. You’ll also find a new colours to choose from, while there is also the choice to have the top half of the car painted in a contrasting shade.

WHAT’S IT LIKE INSIDE? Open the A1’s door and what you immediately notice is just how upmarket the Citycarver’s interior feels - judging on looks alone you could easily think this is a cabin taken from far more expensive models in the Audi range. Highlights are the fantastic 10.25-inch digital cockpit (upgradeable to Audi’s excellent Virtual Cockpit) and the standard 8.8-inch touchscreen.

THE VERDICT

The new A1 Citycarver is undoubtedly a great addition to the Audi line-up. It excels at what the regular - and excellent value - A1 does best, and that’s offering premium appeal in the typically cheap and cheerful supermini sector. What’s more, if it’s the Citycarver’s looks and rugged image that appeal, buyers are unlikely to be disappointed.