1.6 TDI Sport 105 5dr Hatchback

More practical than a MINI & more substantial than a rebodied POLO

Currently at 15 months / 19,000 miles of a 2 year lease, I chose this car as it represented good value from my Employer's company car lease provider, the only other small car that gave 'more' car for your money was a MINI Cooper, but I am not a fan and internal room is terrible, so this was my choice.
The A1 is a well engineered car although not in the same class as larger Audi's, but inevitably it was built to a cost which can be frustrating, for example the standard equipment on model grades is not consistent with say the A3, so not many Customers will buy a base SE as it lacks many creature comforts so will opt for the Sport.
The A1 is more than a rebodied POLO, most noticabely the POLO doesn't get the 105PS 1.6TDI and the 'e-diff' stability control system which really helps on cold wet surfaces to minimise understeer.
The 1.6TDI is divisive amongst owners who expect that it might be a downsized 2.0TDI, it is not.
There is no driver selectable engine modes so you are permanently in 'ECO' mode, the engine has a lot of inertia so you do need to adjust your driving style to coast when approaching junctions etc.
The 1.6TDI can be frugal I have averaged over 60mpg on premium diesel and I have checked the accuracy of the trip computer (>98%) but it needs to be driven hard every month to keep it running in good order. I have never had any DPF issues. Many Customers complain about poor mpg but this is more likely to do with short journeys, excessive acceleration whilst the engine is cold and using cheap supermarket fuel.
The gearing in 3rd/4th/5th is long, I guess this was the same gearbox from from the Mk5 Golf Bluemotion, it's a shame that 3rd is geared for 90mph as it makes the car feel slower than it could be, 5th is geared for 150mph giving c.2,000rpm at 70mph, however I guess Audi used these parts as they needed the 99g/km of CO2 rating, hopefully the Mk2 A1 will get a 6-speed box.
The traction and grip of this car is impressive, this is helped by the wide 215 section tyres, although these are extra load 'XL' rated the ride is acceptable and replacements are c.£100 which isn't bad, my car was supplied with Michelin Pilot Sport2's and the wear rate has been acceptable. The steering / cornering grip is enhanced on the 1.6TDI as the engine is relatively light, over 50kgs lighter than the 2.0TDI and this makes lateral grip and change of direction very good.
Faults, well there are a few minor rattles (doors etc) but as a lease car I don't mind, the turbo failed after 6,000 miles but Cambridge Audi were great even though I was traveling for business they worked around my requirements to fix and return the car in good time, was impressed that I got a Q5 to run around in for a couple of days.
The A1 has made a refreshing change after a 5 door BMW 118d MSport, it certainly has the premium feel of a German car and is a nice place to be whether making the daily commute or a cross country drive from Cambridge to North Wales, it is well worth a look trying to finding a used ex-lease company with a few options.

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