Audi has described the interior of the new Steak Sauce, err -- A1, as "spacious and airy." The guage cluster "is suggestive of an airplane wing" and the "four round nozzles are reminiscent of the turbines of a jet." Apparently, its Audis and not Saabs that are born from jets.
As there is no word yet of an official American release date, Audi stated that the A1 would start at about 16,000 Euro. If we do a straight currency conversion, that is a little over $22,000. Sounds perfect. Its main competitor in the compact luxury class would undoubtedly be the BMW 1 series which starts at, are you ready for this? I'm not so sure you can handle it but here it goes: $29,150. That's a lot of money for not a lot of car.
Back to the A1. Audi describes the target market for their new ride as the younger crowd who live in large cities and "are looking for a vehicle that is designed for the urban environment." A car like this is sure to be quick on its feet when the inevitable moment that a taxi driver tries to switch into your lane while you are side by side arrives.
Customization is the name of the game here, as Audi wants the A1 to match the personality of its driver. The car will come in two trim levels: the Attraction and Ambition lines, and will offer a media package that is "focused on infotainment and the interior design."Look for very high quality materials in the interior and very good sound quality as zee Germans are sure to perfect the acoustics for the 465 watt Bose surround sound system.
Audi will have four engine options available for the European launch of the car: an 86 hp gasoline engine as well as another gasoline 4 cylinder at 122 hp. Two TDI diesel engines will also be offered that generate 90 and 105 hp. The 122 hp TFSI engine will be able to get 46 miles per gallon, as shown in tests.
The Audi A1 is certainly an aggressive looking car with its angry headlights, a grille that yells at you, and largely flared wheel arches on a Fiat 500-like stance.
TheCD's take: With good looks and fuel efficiency to boot, we hope that the A1 lives up to the hype and can't wait to get our hands on it.


Comments
this car is sweet! they should make a 200bhp version of this.