Audi A1 1.4TFSI S-Line Auto22 | 08 | 2010Scotcars rating

Number of clever design touches

Under the A1's cute looks, much of its DNA stems from the Volkswagen Polo, Seat Ibiza and Skoda Fabia. The front-wheel-drive A1 shares its steel-based platform with all three. That though is no bad thing and, from a corporate perspective, highlights economies of scale within the Volkswagen Group necessary to keep A1 costs low.

Stop and take a look at the A1 before you get in and you'll immediately identify a number of clever design touches which have migrated from larger models in the extensive Audi range. One, which falls into the Marmite conundrum — you'll either love or hate — are the ‘wing-design’ LED daytime running lights, such a familiar facial feature of new Audis.

I put the range-topping 120bhp 1.4 TFSI model through its paces. Fitted with the optional seven-speed S Tronic gearbox, in S Line trim the A1 will set you back £18,280. But it's money well spent, believe me. Out on the road the A1 feels reassuringly bigger, and definitely more substantial, than its petite external dimensions. And considering its relationship with the Polo, et al, that's something of an achievement; but it should come as no surprise.

While the Polo has previously set the benchmark, the A1 raises the bar to a whole new level of sophistication and refinement within its class. There's a definite 'big car' feel to the A1, so much so, in fact, that in many ways it actually feels like a mini-A3.

Steer away from optional big alloys

Despite the fact the A1's suspension is a little firmer than that found in the Polo, allied to the fact the body sits a little lower on the wide wheels, the little Audi has an inherent ability to nip round corners and curves as though it was glued to the road surface. It's something which is helped by the fact the wheels on the A1 are set more widely apart than the Polo's.

Motorway cruising is a delight, aided by the fact the weight of the A1's steering is heavier than anything in its class — another clever touch which enhances the big car feel — and overall the ride is smooth, though I'd recommend you don't go for the optional big alloys; they just won't cope with Scotland's potholed roads.

Inside the cabin, it's as you would expect; it exudes premium quality in the way that every Audi should. It may be the cheapest and smallest car in the range, but there's no question this is an Audi. In the front, all the touch-surfaces are expensive-feeling, smooth and solid, again highlighting the feeling of a premium world.

I loved the MMI sat-nav which pops out of the top of the dash; neat and very stylish, the idea is one which could easily gravitate up through the rest of the Audi range. The A1, thanks to its efficient turbocharged petrol and diesel engines, will be cheap to run.

Through the range, all models will return at least 50mpg, with the 1.6 TDI diesel giving you more than 70mpg. Standard kit too is impressive with all versions coming with alloy wheels, air conditioning and ESP stability control as standard.

Stylish, chic and sophisticated it may be, but there's no denying the A1 is definitely an Audi in miniature.

Craig James