Audi A1 Sportback 2019 Is the supermini worth its premium price tag?

Audi's second generation A1 Sportback brings big car standards to the small car marketplace.
The Audi A1 has firmly established itself as the ultimate supermini - the essence of democratic down-sizing. This second generation A1 Sportback is smarter, more efficient and better-equipped - and remains a seductive package for small car buyers. Luxury makers often cut corners to drive down the cost of their smaller models and it shows. Not Audi. In any form you choose, this A1 Sportback will always feel reassuringly expensive.
Background
What if you really could distil the essence of a large luxury car into a smaller, more affordable one? Many brands have promised us this but in reality, only one model has actually delivered it. This car, Audi's A1. It was launched back in 2009 in three-door form, based on VW Polo underpinnings, with a five-door Sportback body style added to the range in 2011. Half a decade on though, the A1 was starting to feel its age, especially against cheaper Volkswagen Group models like the fifth generation SEAT Ibiza and the sixth generation Volkswagen Polo, both of which made use of the group's more modern MQB platform.
That chassis now undergirds the second generation version of this A1, now offered only in five-door Sportback form and only with petrol power. It gets the pick of the Wolfsburg conglomerate's latest green pump-fuelled engines, plus cutting-edge infotainment and safety technology, plus the chance for buyers to specify the Audi Virtual Cockpit digital instrumentation screen that's gone down so well further up the range. Sounds promising.
Driving Experience
Not too much is new on the engine front, though Audi disguises the fact with a range of new model designations. There's a choice of efficient TFSI petrol units with outputs ranging from 95PS to 200PS, all enhanced by turbocharging and direct injection. Things kick off with the '25 TFSI' derivative, which has a 1.0-litre three cylinder unit offering 95PS. Next up is the '30 TFSI' variant, which uses a 116PS version of the same engine. Moving further on, there's the '35 TFSI' model offers a 150PS 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine which uses a cylinder on demand technology. And if you want more power, there's a '40 TFSI' 'S line Competition' derivative using a 2.0 TFSI engine with 200PS. Diesel power is notable by its absence. All engines can be linked to either a manual gearbox or the seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission, with the exception of the 200PS variant which uses a six-speed S tronic transmission as standard.
The chassis configuration is much as before, which means a straightforward torsion beam suspension set-up is still used at the rear. Tauter sport suspension is optional if you're happy to keep your chiropractor on speed dial, but it's better to upgrade yourseolf to adjustable dampers if you can. Other driver-focused additions you can add include a sound actuator, red brake calipers, larger brake discs and the Audi 'drive select' adaptive dynamics system. This allows drivers to select from four modes that influence the driving characteristics: auto, dynamic, efficiency and individual.
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[@halemcdan1]

Best review I've seen. Ego free presenting. Just ordered black 30 S-line.

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Great to hear 👍 enjoy the new S-Line

[@Shyted]

Have you been happy with it?

[@halemcdan1]

@@Shyted yep. Gone now. Was stolen but the built in tracker got it back in half an hour.

[@tebohophuthi]

I have never been able to attentively watch a car review for longer than 10min. This is such great content. Very detailed & well delivered. Thank you

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Thank you for watching, Teboho. If you'd like to see more in-depth reviews like this, please consider subscribing. It really helps us out! bit.ly/319ZKoT​

[@jonathanbishop6996]

Picking up my 35 TFSI on Thursday. I like it, it was within my budget and after test driving Polo, Ibiza and Fabia I thought this offered the best package for the money.

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Thanks for the comment Jonathan 👍 it's great to hear feedback from owners and their journey.

[@msi4887]

If you think that the Audi is more worth its money than the Polo, Ibiza and Fabia then you must be insane.

[@senate2674]

@@msi4887 audi is audi my dude

[@davidsouthgate763]

Been looking into buying an A1 for a couple of weeks - this has been the best review by far

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Hi David, Thank you. We try and make our reviews as detailed as possible (which can make them long 🤷‍♂️). If you're looking for a new car in the UK, please get in touch, we have a team of experienced vehicle experts who would be happy to help. You can find our contact details on our website: www.osv.ltd.uk/contact-us/

[@Illegal190]

thanks for the very comprehensive review of the range... this is a great review upon which to base buying decisions.

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Thanks for the feedback 👍 This is the exact audience we are trying to help

[@tpv59]

This guy is the VERY BEST. I do not know Who he is, but he is AWESOME, the BEST.

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

We appreciate the great feedback, Terry. Thanks for watching!

[@ariframzan8602]

I was considering getting this but going go for the new Audi A3 that’s due out sometime this year . I love the turbo blue . I wish Audi released the new 2019Audi A3 ASAP .

[@johncalvin9703]

At last…someone who l can listen to all day; thank you, immensely enjoyed your review😊

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Many thanks for watching John! Subscribe for the latest in-depth reviews: bit.ly/319ZKoT​

[@JamesWickendenVideography]

Fantastic review as per OSV! Best on KZbin

[@damianbond679]

Test drove the 25 tfsi I think sport back model for my aunt looking to part from her 12 year old Yaris. 21 reg with only 8,000 miles on the clock. The A1 is definitely more refined interior wise, noise isn’t bad inside at all for a 3 cylinder, light controls too. Power could be better but it’s more spritely than my aunts 1.33 4 cylinder Yaris and surprisingly quieter. I guess it depends on what your used to and for normal town trip it’s perfect, She’s picking up hers in a week!

[@nathanameru7654]

I love this guy's syntax

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Thanks for the feedback Nathan 👍

[@cfbm125]

Excellent review, I’ve test driven the s-line competition 40 tfsi, but can’t justify the cost of the tech and comfort and sound packs to bring the spec to where I want it!

[@adampassmore6940]

Amazing comprehensive review, thank you!

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Our pleasure Adam! We supply every make and model in the UK - get in touch on 01903 538835 or book a call here to secure your perfect A1 Sportback: bit.ly/3soFVbF

[@nicolasdelva1119]

Best review, by far ! Great effort, thanks !

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Many thanks for watching, Nicodla! Make sure to subscribe for more in-depth vehicle reviews: bit.ly/319ZKoT​

[@ziarahman3406]

Are LED ambient interior lights still standard in the newest A1 models I’ve heard that Audi may have removed them from 2023 A1s

[@SDP1999]

Great review but I have to say that the plastic inside - even on the S Line - is appalling. The inside of my 2018 S line felt more luxurious, not as stylish maybe, but it felt more luxurious. I feel Audi have really cut corners and I think they’ve lost me as a customer, whatever the drive quality. Really disappointed. Plastic as far as the eye can see. And are my seats leather or faux leather? Hard to tell.

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Thanks for watching 👍 We understand how crucial the interior feel is for a satisfying driving experience, so it's disappointing to hear that the plastic interior, even on the S Line, didn't meet your expectations. We appreciate your honesty about your experience with the Audi A1 Sportback.

[@curiousgeorge6921]

Best car channel

[@kevinkoster8066]

I looked at it for 15 minutes then got it😂will be delivered next month hopefully. Great review!

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Have fun with your new car, Kevin!

[@5forwards367]

Excellent, thorough review. Well done. Just a question: is the sport suspension lower?

[@thesplin]

Brilliant Review! I'm looking into getting the 30 tfsi Version. Is there known problems that this car might have? Once again fantastic Review!! Thanks!

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Hey there 👋 One of our Vehicle Experts can give the best advise on this, as well as finding your most ideal Audi 👍 Fill-in this quick form and we'll be in touch: bit.ly/39YHCml

[@fdsre]

Thanks for the amazing review :) I have an identical car (35 TFSI auto) and love everything except the kangarooing that happens when going at 20mph in the 3rd gear. Did you notice this? Anyone have any insights into this?

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

No problem, glad you enjoyed it. We can't say that we have, however, if anyone has had the same issues please share your experience.

[@jonathanbishop6996]

Can happen on the manual too (35 TFSI) if you’re at really low revs and feather the throttle. Putting it in dynamic mode seems to solve the issue? Don’t know why 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@curiousgeorge6921]

Can you do comparaison with polo as a summary? Because video is long for us interested in that comparaison and which is worth it in your opinion

[@69petros09]

An excellent review mate, cheers

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Thanks for the feedback Petros 👍 hope it helped

[@whatdoyoufeel7491]

Good review thanks from algeria 🇩🇿

[@laguilayanisulan2830]

after watching this review, i am now considering buying an audi a1.

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

That's great to hear! Our team supplies every make and model available in the UK 👍 Get in touch on 10903 538835 or click here to book a free consultation call at a convenient time - bit.ly/3soFVbF

[@blarkdexture8899]

You have to pay extra for... Everything.

[@stevewilson6390]

£1500.00 For sat nav ( tech pack ) A truly rip off extra .

[@msi4887]

150€ for front middle armrest.

[@rokibuca]

@@stevewilson6390 don't really see a point for bigger screen or navigation just use your phone

[@kinocchio]

True, you can get top spec model, but still have to add the comfort and sound and technology pack. Lame.

[@riling]

It's great car. Had one now for a 6 months.

[@J.Worldd]

Did you get the leds?

[@edwardpickett574]

Very good report......very interesting.........

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Thanks for the feedback Kevo 👍

[@alexv6043]

Very very good review. This guy nails it!

[@adamgrace3141]

An excellent, in-depth and informative review. I’m very interested in buying an A1 after watching this. Does anyone know if the LED interior lighting pack in the S-Line trim allows for the lights to change colour?

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Hi Adam, thanks so much for your great feedback 😊. Our vehicle specialist team would be more than happy to help you out with getting an Audi A1, and we can look into the LED interior lighting pack for you. Book a consultation with us here: www.osv.ltd.uk/hello-youtube/

[@jondonnelly3]

Looking at a used 40 TFSI and a mild remap. Quite tasty.

[@videostar80sduo24]

Great review. 👍🚗

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Thanks for watching! 👍

[@AcidJiles]

Good to see you driving through Horsham.

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Well spotted AcidJiles 👍 we review all our cars around the area

[@nihadck6361]

@@OsvUkVehicleSupply please drive through NORTHAMPTON also

[@docholliday4292]

Great review as always and great new designed A1 but would i have it over a VW Polo? probably not.

[@oldschoolshaving]

Excellent review 😍🎉

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Thank you 🤗

[@kirstyleigh4399]

what is the name of this colour? is it still available

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Hello Kirsty 👋 The name of this colour is Turbo Blue, however the newest Audi A1 Sportback does not offer this colour anymore.

[@oscarmadison8530]

The A1 Sportback is something I would purchase. The presenters are the best in the business. I don't have to take a one month holiday as they're trying to explain something.

[@forza223bowe5]

Each to their own

[@jondonnelly3]

I hate the minis dinner plate glued to dash pad.

[@AR-fy2qo]

Brilliant expert

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Thanks for watching 👍 For more in-depth car reviews, make sure to subscribe: bit.ly/319ZKoT​

[@VIUCVlogs]

Why there is No audi logo in engine?🙄

[@gentleimpact3580]

Brilliant review, even for people not living in the UK. ;)

[@QuickShiftTV2024]

Well made. Thanks OSV! ✌

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Our pleasure, glad you enjoyed it!

[@curiousgeorge6921]

Can you please explain what diffrenciate it from Polo?

[@jondonnelly3]

Looks.

[@AR-fy2qo]

How the hell does he remember all this! 🎉

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Thanks for watching 👍 For more in-depth car reviews, make sure to subscribe: bit.ly/319ZKoT​

[@forza223bowe5]

Quality seems a bit iffy for an Audi and the price.

[@matthewspry4217]

ELECTRIC ELECTRIC ELECTRIC!

[@pascalkrzeminski7341]

Too expensive for his size Plastics used inside are not Premium.

[@Luigiano]

You pay for everything that is supposed to be standard

[@NotstarvinMarvin]

A1 does not have standard LED..

[@fatsharks]

No, none of these small German cars are worth the money. All are mega overpriced and underpowered. If you really feel like you "need" to get a small German car though, go for a clean, low mileage, used BMW 1 series with rear wheel drive - that's the only one worth having in my opinion.

[@amoddedblueteslap100d7]

This 2nd gen is old and it's outdated now it's now 2021 now they need to make an 3rd gen

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Thanks for watching, Ruben. Are you looking for a new car at the moment?

[@amoddedblueteslap100d7]

@@OsvUkVehicleSupply umm I'm helping my family look for a car but I'm thinking maybe a used 2017 b9 audi a4 tfsi

[@mhubi2968]

Not worth, after 3 years maybe,when the Price is half,PET plastic inside

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Hi Marcus, we're more than happy to help find you the most affordable solution for the A1 Sportback 👍 Feel free to get in touch here: bit.ly/39YHCml

[@kinomraha]

A good review of nothing special and too expensive car.

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

🤣 Thanks for the feedback kinomraha 👍 seems that is the thought of most

[@d.g.3803]

too expensive, too plastic for the price.

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Hi there, are you looking for a new car at the moment?

[@mohamedmammeri2556]

A lot of plastic ps : i have it and i have a polo to me i prefer polo

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Hi there, will you be looking for a new car soon?

[@johanbotha9973]

Boring review

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Sorry to hear that Johan - we have a shorter review of this car if you'd prefer to watch that - kzbin.info/www/bejne/g2WbZWChpbign5Y

[@totoianugheorghelucian488]

Do people realize that for half the base price of this piece of 💩 you can buy a Sandero with the same quality and performances?? Don't forget I'm talking about the base model a1