Audi A1 Sport

The Audi A1 Sport is the compromise between the firmer, more racy S-Line trim and the base model SE version.

The Sport model sees the addition of front fog lights and larger alloy wheels to the standard equipment list. Also included is a dynamic drive selector, which can help to change the throttle and steering response along with the stiffness of the suspension.

Three engine variants are on offer: 1.0-litre and 1.4-litre TFSI engines make up the petrol side, while a 1.6-litre TDI diesel is also an option. The 1.0-litre petrol is the least powerful, producing 93bhp, with the 1.4-litre version creating 123bhp and they generate fuel economy figures of 67mpg and 58mpg respectively. The 1.6-litre diesel splits the middle, having 114bhp on tap, but produces a much more respectable 81mpg.

Emissions can be as low as 97g/km in the 1.0-litre TFSI petrol, so buyers have the chance of escaping road tax under the current bands if they opt for this model. If you choose the seven-speed paddle-shift automatic over the 5-speed manual, however, expect those emissions figures to rise by around 5g/km no matter which engine is picked.

Good points

The interior quality of the A1 is almost second to none, due to its ergonomic feel, clean design and solid construction. The materials used to furnish the dashboard and interior elevate the A1 to a class of car far above the small hatchback it actually is. The engine range means buckets of choice for potential buyers, and all models are clean and efficient. The 1.4-litre is particularly good for those wanting a slight sporty edge to their premium hatch.Due to the A1's popularity, resale values are strong. This may not be so good for used buyers, but for those looking to sell on after a few years should see relatively low levels of depreciation.

Bad points

The A1 suffers from incredibly stiff suspension, no matter what the set-up. The sports suspension in the Sport trim may offer impeccable road handling abilities, but drivers will tire easily of the A1 finding bumps in the road that aren't even there.The smallest hatch in the Audi range cannot escape the brand's price premium. The amount of optional extras in the price list mean that even the Sport trim is relatively spartan compared to its rivals, and the initial buying price might be enough to put some off.

What you get

• Alloy wheels
• Folding rear seats
• Alarm
• Front fog lights
• Manual air conditioning
• Height adjustable driver's seat
• Front electric windows
• Single CD player
• AUX stereo input
• DAB Radio
• Stop/Start
• Sports suspension
• Sports seats
• Bluetooth

Recommended optional extras

• Comfort Package
• Technology Package

Our choice

Our vote would be for the 1.4-litre TFSI model. The 123bhp is more than enough to sprint the A1 Sport from 0-62mph in 8.8 seconds, while the frugal, fuel sipping behaviour means its cheaper to run than you might expect, achieving 58mpg.