Audi A1 hatchback - MPG, running costs & CO2

From launch, Audi has relied on sophisticated petrol engine technology to keep the A1's fuel economy and emissions figures competitive. Running costs are generally similar to those for the Volkswagen Polo, although Audi customers face rather higher maintenance charges than those who drive a VW.

From launch, Audi has relied on sophisticated petrol engine technology to keep the A1's fuel economy and emissions figures competitive, although it's possible that a mild-hybrid system could be introduced later. Running costs are generally similar to those for the Volkswagen Polo, although Audi customers face rather higher maintenance charges than those who drive a VW.

Audi A1 MPG & CO2

You can expect good fuel consumption figures on all versions of the A1, except perhaps the discontinued 40 TFSI. The entry-level 94bhp turbocharged three-cylinder 1.0-litre 25 TFSI petrol engine claims up to 51.4mpg with CO2 emissions from 124g/km with 15-inch alloy wheels fitted. That’s partly thanks to the tall ratios in its standard five-speed manual gearbox, although the seven-speed S tronic automatic returns a decent figure too, at up to 48.7mpg, but emissions increase to 131g/km. For company-car drivers, that means a Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) tax rating similar to its rivals.

A more powerful 109bhp 30 TFSI is a tuned version of the same engine, and actually manages ever-so-slightly better fuel economy at up to 53.3mpg on the entry-level model - partly thanks to a sixth gear in the gearbox. CO2 emissions start at 123g/km for this model. Above this, the 35 TFSI is fitted with a 1.5-litre petrol with cylinder-deactivation technology, a system that effectively reduces the size of the engine when full power isn't required. It’s only available with Audi’s S tronic automatic gearbox, and offers up to 47.1mpg and emissions starting at 137g/km despite plenty of punch.

The now-discontinued A1 40 TFSI was the thirstiest at 42.8mpg. It had an uncharacteristically large 2.0-litre turbo related to the engine found in models like the Volkswagen Golf GTI, producing 204bhp. It also had the highest emissions of the A1 range, starting at 150g/km.

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Insurance

You’ll find the expected top-selling 30 TFSI in groups 19-21, while the less powerful 25 TFSI occupies group 16.

As you might expect, the group ratings increase as you ascend the engine range, with the 35 TFSI rated insurance group 25-26, and the sporty 40 TFSI carrying a group 31 classification. Remember, though, that personal circumstances can have more effect on insurance costs than group ratings, so always obtain a quote before making a decision to buy a new car.

Servicing

Audi's long-life service schedule is recommended if you drive over 10,000 miles a year. It uses oil quality and wear sensors to determine when a workshop visit is due. Alternatively, you can opt for a fixed one-year interval if you cover a lower annual mileage. There are fixed-price service plans to cover both regimes and make it easier to budget for routine maintenance.

Warranty

Every Audi comes with a three-year/60,000-mile warranty, which is exactly the same as you get with a Volkswagen Polo. By comparison, the MINI is covered for the same period but with no mileage limit. At the end of your warranty, you can purchase an extension to make sure you're still covered, although the extended warranty does feature some exclusion.