Used Audi A1 Cars For Sale
Used Audi A1: Buyer's Guide
The Audi A1 is the definitive premium supermini, setting the benchmark for quality and desirability in its class. It wraps you in a tech-filled, beautifully crafted interior that makes every journey feel special, proving that good things really do come in small packages. With a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating and competitive running costs, it delivers a reassuringly sensible ownership experience alongside its sophisticated design.
Used Audi A1 Popular Trims
- Technik: A great starting point with plenty of tech. Features a digital instrument cluster and smartphone integration for a connected drive, offering excellent value without the premium price tag.
- Sport: The sweet spot for many. Adds sport seats and larger alloy wheels, enhancing the car's appeal while maintaining reasonable running costs and ride comfort.
- S line: The ultimate expression of style. Boasts aggressive body styling, LED ambient lighting, and stiffer sport suspension for sharper handling and a more focused drive.
Used Audi A1 Popular Battery & Drivetrain Options
- 25 TFSI (95 PS): A smooth and quiet 1.0-litre engine that keeps insurance and fuel costs low, making it perfect for relaxed city cruising.
- 30 TFSI (110 PS): The pick of the range. A punchy 1.0-litre turbo that feels lively around town and settled on the open road, offering a better balance of power and economy.
- 35 TFSI (150 PS): Offers effortless performance for a more relaxed motorway experience, ideal for those who cover more miles.
Running Costs
- Real-World MPG: Expect between 47 and 61 mpg (WLTP), delivering efficiency alongside performance.
- Road Tax (VED): Annual tax ranges from £0 to £180 depending on the specific model and year.
Used Audi A1 Practicality
The A1 is surprisingly practical for its size, offering usable space for daily tasks without compromising on style.
- Boot Space: Offers a generous 335 litres of space for luggage, expanding to 1,090 litres with seats down, perfect for shopping trips or weekend getaways.
- Dimensions: Measures 4,029 mm in length and 1,740 mm in width, making it easy to park in tight city spaces.
- Rear Legroom: Improved over the previous model, offering more comfort for passengers on short journeys.
Used Audi A1 Key Features
- Digital Cockpit: Standard on all models, providing clear driving data right in your eyeline.
- Smartphone Interface: Connects seamlessly with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for a fully connected drive.
Desirable Options
- Comfort and Sound Pack: Includes heated seats and a Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system that turns your A1 into a concert hall on wheels.
- Parking System Plus: Adds front and rear sensors for easier manoeuvring in tight spots.
Used Audi A1 Reliability Rating
The A1 is generally dependable, scoring 93.9% in reliability surveys, and is built on a proven platform shared with other VW Group cars. It offers peace of mind alongside its premium feel.
What to Check on a Test Drive
- Engine Response: Check for hesitation when pulling away at junctions, especially on 1.5 TSI models.
- S Tronic Gearbox: Ensure the automatic gearbox shifts smoothly without jerking, as roughness can indicate a mechatronic unit issue.
- Suspension: Listen for any knocks or rattles from the suspension on rougher roads, and check that the ride isn't too harsh on S line models.
Used Audi A1 Safety Rating
The Audi A1 achieved a full 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating in 2019, scoring 95% for Adult Occupant Protection. It features advanced driver assistance systems like Audi Pre Sense Front to keep you and your passengers safe.
Awards for the Used Audi A1
- What Car? Car of the Year Awards: Best Small Car Interior (2019).
Who is the Used Audi A1 Best For?
- City Commuters: Ideal for navigating busy streets and tight parking spaces thanks to its compact dimensions.
- Style Seekers: A car that looks at home parked outside a trendy cafe and offers a premium badge.
- Quality Obsessives: Perfect for those who demand the best materials and build quality in a smaller package.
Key Alternatives to Consider
- MINI Hatch: Offers a more retro design and go-kart handling, though with less practicality.
- Volkswagen Polo: Shares the same mechanical base but offers a more understated image and often lower price.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Used Audi A1
What are the running costs for the Audi A1 including insurance and tax?
The Audi A1 offers competitive running costs for a premium small hatchback, with a range of efficient engines and reasonable insurance groupings.
- Fuel Economy: The real-world MPG ranges from approximately 47 to 61 mpg (WLTP), with motorway driving achieving around 50 mpg.
- Road Tax (VED): Annual road tax varies between £0 and £180 depending on the specific model and year of registration.
- Insurance Groups: Models sit between insurance groups 14 and 31, with the 25 TFSI Sport often being the most affordable to insure.
How can I check for hesitation in the Audi A1 1.0 or 1.5 TFSI engines?
You can identify potential hesitation issues by performing specific checks during your test drive, particularly at low speeds.
- Junctions: Check for any delay or reluctance when pulling away from a standstill at roundabouts or junctions.
- Hill Starts: Test the vehicle on an incline to ensure it moves off smoothly without severe hesitation.
- Acceleration: Accelerate gently after slowing down to ensure the engine responds promptly without a significant lag or loss of torque.
Does the Audi A1 require any special maintenance for its turbocharged engines?
The turbocharged engines in the Audi A1 are generally robust, but a few specific checks can help maintain their long-term health.
- Turbo Sound: Listen for any unusual whistling noises during acceleration, which could indicate a turbo issue.
- Exhaust Smoke: Check for thick black exhaust smoke, which can be a sign of turbocharger wear or failure.
- Oil Levels: Regularly monitor oil levels, as some engines may experience higher oil consumption.
