Reporting on leaked images of the 2019 Audi A1 Sportback yesterday, we said to expect a formal reveal of the car in the coming days.
Well, just one day later, Audi have showcased the compact hatchback in all of its funky 'confirmed' glory. Although now we get a more complete picture of what the A1 features under the skin.
Engines — for the moment anyway — come in three key TSFI variants. There's a 1.0-litre three cylinder that produces 70kW at the bottom end, then a middling 1.5-litre four cylinder, and at the current top end a 147kW 2.0-litre. That's the same donk with the same power output as the new Polo GTI.
Those engines will be mated to the buyer's choice of a six-speed manual or a seven-speed DCT. Though, top 40 TFSI models will only come with one option; a six-speed S-tronic box.
Now, none of that is particularly surprising stuff given the A1's intrinsic link with other MQB-platform superminis in the Volkswagen Group range. But that's OK, because the A1's sharper design and high level of tech (particularly for an entry-level platform, at least) is where the most investment has been made.
Along with the 'Virtual Cockpit' instrument cluster clear in pictures, and the advanced MMI Touch infotainment screen Audi's already teased, there's also a bevy of safety tech confirmed. This includes a camera-based active lane-departure warning system, adaptive speed assist, automatic emergency braking, and park assist.
Luxury options include the ability to upgrade from the standard Audi eight-speaker sound system to an 11-speaker Bang & Olufsen system. That touch-screen infotainment set-up starts with an 8.8-inch screen, but that can be traded for a larger 10.1-inch display. Though (in the case of the smaller screen at least), Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are optional extras via Audi's 'connectivity package', which also chucks in a few USB ports.
More efficient use of space means that storage space grows in the boot; from 269 litres to 338 litres. And if you fold the rear seats down, that figure swells to more than 1000 litres.
Availability and pricing globally, let alone for the New Zealand market, are still to be confirmed. But we'll keep you posted when that information comes through.
