Audi A1 revealed

After a lot of teasing, Audi decided that it's about time to show us its new Mini rival. I still prefer a Mini  though (especially a Cluman!)...

Audi is following in the footsteps of MINI offering many customizable options including colored air nozzles, LED interior lighting packages, and seat covers in many different hues.

So, about the oily bits now.

• 1.2 TFSI producing 86 hp and 160 Nm of torque, coupled with a five-speed manual transmission. The four-cylinder accelerates the A1 from 0 to 100 km/h  in 12.1 seconds on its way to a top speed of 179 km/h. In the EU driving cycle, it consumes 5.1 liters of fuel per 100 km.

• 1.4 TFSI producing 122 hp and 200 Nm of torque, coupled with a five-speed manual transmission. Together with the seven-speed S tronic dual clutch transmission, the 1.4 TFSI gets the A1 up to 100km/h in 9.1 seconds (9.2 seconds for the manual six-speed transmission) and on to a top speed is 200 km/h. Average fuel consumption is 5.1 and 5.4 liters/100 km, respectively.

• 1.6 TDI producing 105 hp and 250 Nm of torque, coupled with a five-speed manual transmission. The diesel engine accelerates the A1 through the standard sprint in 10.8 seconds before reaching a top speed of 187 km/h while consuming an average of 3.9 liters/100 km. This engine will aave two variants, as another will also be offered with 90 hp and 230 Nm of torque.

• All four engines use a recuperation system with an intelligent voltage controller for the generator to recover energy during the braking and coasting phases and store it temporarily in the battery. The next time the car accelerates, this energy flows back into the on-board electrical system, relieving the load on the generator.

• The four engines also come standard with a  stop-start system. The stop-start system also harmonizes with the optional seven-speed S tronic transmission.

Audi decided to use a steel-based structure,unlike the A2, but it claims that the A1 is the lightest vehicle in the premium compact class as it tips the scales from 1045kg .

The A1 will make its debut in Geneva Motor Show, while sales will start shortly after. According to Audi, the entry-level model will be priced at around �16,000 (which is very sensible).