Audi A1 running costs and reliability

• All-petrol line-up is economical 
• Only the 40 TFSI falls slightly short 
• 1.0-litre petrols impressively efficient

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Most new car drivers choose to purchase their cars with finance and purchased on PCP finance the A1 is still a relatively pricey prospect, following the launch of the car. However, monthly payments are relatively close to those of the MINI five-door hatchback and the Ford Fiesta Vignale. Top-flight models come with some eye-watering monthly costs considering the size of the car, so shop about to see if you can get a better deal. 

Entry-level 25 TFSI models put in strong claims of up to 49.6mpg, but CO2 emissions of 128g/km feel a little high. Interestingly, the more powerful 30 TFSI (it’s the same engine as the 25), performs slightly better with 50.4mpg and 126g/km in manual form. Both tested under WLTP conditions. Efficiency falls for S Tronic-equipped cars, with 45.6 and 46.3mpg respectively, and CO2 emissions of up to 140g/km. 

Move up to the 35 TFSI and you can expect up to 44.8mpg according to Audi, while CO2 emissions nudge 145g/km for one with an S Tronic transmission. At the top of the range, the S Line Competition and its 40 TFSI engine claims 39.8mpg and up to 160g/km. 

Audi A1 reliability

• Brand new model
• Shared platform and engines
• Shouldn’t be any bother

Being an all-new model it’ll take time for any mechanical gremlins to come to light but we’re pretty sure the Audi A1, which shares a platform and engines with many other VW group products, will give you little cause for concern. The latest Polo and Ibiza have both been around a little while now without too many concerns coming forward. 

As ever, the A1 comes with a three-year, 60,000-mile warranty from new to keep your mind at ease.