Does 2011′s champ still deserve its gong? We’ve got an Audi A1 to find out

Audi‘s previous foray into the supermini market, with the A2, came up with a clever little car with a big price and equally steep repair costs.

Now it has come up with the perfect little package: the A1. We think it’s so good we made it our Car of the Year for 2011. With the 121bhp 1.4-litre petrol engine it’s perky around town yet powerful enough on the motorway, but with official economy of 53.3mpg it also promises to be economical.

Car of the Year: Audi A1

Car of the Year: Audi A1

Early real-world results are encouraging. I do around 25,000 miles a year, so normally I’d go for a diesel because of the better economy. However, because the 1.4 petrol’s fuel consumption is claimed to be just as good as some rivals’ diesels (and with unleaded costing less than diesel), I shouldn’t lose out too much when I fill up the car.

Our A1′s Sports trim has most desirable items as standard, such as alloy wheels, Bluetooth and front foglights, as well as sports seats and suspension, and a multi-function steering wheel.

Since I spend so long commuting, I added a few essential options, too. First was the Technology Pack, which includes sat-nav and a 40GB hard drive. The map has been useful, already helping me negotiate my way out of sticky jams without needing the navigation system’s help. The system also has voice recognition, so I don’t have to fiddle about changing settings by hand, either.

Audi A1 Interior

Audi A1 Interior

The additional speakers that the Audi sound system (L225) bring make listening to the radio a much better experience, while climate control (which includes light and rain sensors, and costs L330) will make my journeys more comfortable and takes another worry off my mind. The other options I added – which will make the car easier to sell on – are Ice Silver metallic paint (L510) and rear parking sensors (L305).

Audi A1 S Line

Audi A1 S Line

One thing that’s struck me about the A1 so far is how comfortable it is. Yes, the sports suspension on this trim means the ride is firm, but it’s just right for motorway driving and comes into its own on jaunts down country lanes. It also helps that the driver’s seat can be precisely adjusted via the rotary dials on the side. They’re a little awkward to reach, but the adjustable lumbar support also means that my back is well supported and my long trips are pain-free.

I’ve got more than enough space in the A1 for my everyday needs so far – especially for my weekly trip to the supermarket – but we’ll have to wait and see how it’ll cope with more luggage and people.

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