Should you buy one?

‘I’d certainly be tempted,’ said Tom Goodlad after sending six months with the Audi A1. It may be starting to look a bit old hat against the latest, new-for-2024 MINI, but there’s still much to recommend it.

There’s a decent amount of space and useful tech in a good-looking, user-friendly interior that feels special enough to justify the premium badge – and the price, which can quickly mount up if you tick a lot of options. That makes it a good option if you’re downsizing from a bigger car such as the Audi A3 or A4.

On the road, it feels mature and controlled, and it’s generally quiet and comfortable. But the driving experience is heavily affected by the car’s spec – smaller wheels and softer suspension actually improve matters.

Is it better than a MINI? No. But it offers a different experience that a lot of people seem to enjoy, going by how many A1s we see on the road.

What we like

It feels like a mature, grown-up product from a carmaker that really knows its premium car onions. The tech is impressive – once you’re accustomed to it – and there’s space for four adults plus a bit of luggage, which isn’t always the case in this type of car. It’s a fine long-distance cruiser, as well.

What we don’t like

It’s no great shakes to drive, with uninvolving handling and lifeless steering. Comfort and refinement are spec-dependent, and it can become rather expensive the further up the model range and deeper into the options list you go.

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