Audi A1 1.4 TFSI Sport 3dr Car Review - January 2012

The petrol engine delivers excellent cruising with a power of 120 bhp at 5000 rpm, with torque figures at 147 lb-ft at 1500-4000 rpm. The car has a decent fuel economy at 53.3 mpg, lower than that of the Audi A1 1.6 TDI SE, but it delivers marginally higher performance than the 1.6 TDI SE with a top speed of 126 mph, going from 0-62 mph in 8.9 seconds.

The car line has a long top gear to reduce engine revs and keep fuel economy up at high speeds. It comes with a standard and convenient stop and start system, which also helps to conserve fuel. The car provides effective insulation from road and wind noise. As a petrol model, it is much quieter than the diesel powered 1.6 TDI SE.

The TFSI Sport comes fitted with firm, supportive seats, adjustment levers and a dash with well organised, large and clear instruments. The windows provide a good view and the central control unit and screen give access to many of the car's functions.

The car has a nicely crafted exterior and cabin fitted with comfortable leather. It has the basic equipment but lacks the driving technology found in standard models of other cars. The technology includes stability control, electric door mirrors and front windows, stereo, Bluetooth and MP3 connectivity. Audi also offers additional features at extra costs like climate control, powered seat adjustment, satellite-navigation, cruise control, rear parking sensors, auto dimming rear view mirrors and a tracking device. As a Sport model, it comes with firmer suspension and bigger wheels than the 1.6 TDI SE version.

The Audi A1 TFSI Sport has a big boot which can accommodate adequate luggage for long trips and errands. Only the car's front seats have ample room for average sized adults while the rear seats are cramped due to the sloping roof-line, making them suitable for small children.

The Audi A1 TFSI Sport has an advanced safety kit with a five out of five Euro NCAP rating. In addition to the basic six air bags and anti-lock brakes, the car has stability control and electronic rear differential which helps to keep the car stable when rounding corners. Daytime running lights and automatic beam adjustment are other safety kit options offered by Audi.

The car comes with a three year warranty or 60,000 miles. It has higher running costs than the 1.6 TDI SE version coming under the road tax band D and insurance group 15. The car has decent green credentials with a carbon footprint of 124 g/km, although much higher than the diesel-powered 1.6 TDI SE.

The Audi A1 TFSI Sport is priced at £15,670. Only marginally costlier than the 1.6 TDI SE, it is an affordable price for a stylish, user friendly, economical and safe car for families and first time buyers. It can be used comfortably for daily tasks from school runs, grocery shopping to long road trips and holidays.

The car delivers good fuel economy which keeps running costs low. Customers can enjoy the car for longer as it pays for itself by enjoying good dealer service and Audi’s excellent quality and reliability record . The combination of the car’s popularity, performance and the Audi brand gives it excellent resale values. Purchasing the car is a good investment.