What?

We first saw the A1 at the 2007 Tokyo motor show. It has been restyled slightly from a pillar-less hatchback to a more conventional five-door style. Power still comes from a 1.4-litre, 148bhp petrol engine combined with an electric motor but Audi claims impressive economy for the latest version with over 70mpg and CO₂ emissions of 92g/km. The Sportback features improved mobile phone integration and navigation systems. A new electronic instrument display allows the driver to customise the information on view.

When?

We won't be driving the concept but it is likely that Audi will have something similar in production in two to four years. In the meantime it is likely that the hybrid drive system and mobile communications technology will appear on other Audi and Volkswagen models.

Verdict?

At first glance this version of the A1 looks tantalisingly ready for production but some details would need changing before it could go on sale. Without driving the finished version we can't be certain but if Audi can get the dynamics and prices right it should have a hit on its hands, giving the MINI a real rival.

John Lambert - 8 Oct 2008