CAT’S INSIDE LINE: AUDI A1

Carrying on the Inside Line series, we move on from looking at the trio of superminis, Peugeot 107, Citroën C1 and Toyota Aygo and turn our attention to the Audi A1. Originally launched in 2010, the baby Audi is now the entry-level model for the luxury German brand, meaning it is competing with BMW’s Mini, Ford Fiesta, Honda Jazz and sister car the Volkswagen Polo.

The A1 saw Audi harking back to its history and the 1974 Audi 50, which was marketed as an upmarket version of the Polo of the time.

Unveiled in 2010, it was considered Audi’s attempt to take some of the premium supermini pie away from BMW, and was available in three and five door guises.

The baby Audi was launched with a range of powerplants. Motorists could choose from 1.2- or 1.4-litre TFSI petrol engines and 1.6- or 2.0-litre diesel options. This variety of engine options and front wheel drive construction has provided technicians with extra challenges.

Next month we’ll be looking at the Hyundai i30, so if you have expertise and insight to share, we would be delighted to hear from you. To get your advice included contact hemal.mistry@haymarket.com

Click below to see technical contributions on the Audi A1 from:

Autoelectro – explaining why technicians need to be cautious when replacing rotating electrics on the Audi

Cambiare – covers a number of issues with the A1

Comma – discusses the foibles of fluids and the importance of oil

Dayco – comments on replacing the timing belt on the Audi A1

FAI Automotive – discusses the issues with timing belts

First Line – comments on finding steering parts for the A1

Forté – on why engine flushes can prove vital on the Audi

Lucas Oils – on the importance of choosing the correct oil for the Audi A1

Manbat – tackling AGM batteries

Meyle – common issues on the baby Audi solved

Suplex – looks at the front and rear suspension on the A1