Compact Yet Sharp Exterior

The new premium compact from Audi, the "A1," long-awaited in the Japanese market, has finally gone on sale. Audi positions the A1 as its most sporty premium compact, designed for the "urban egoist"—users who value their own tastes and possess refined aesthetic sensibilities—offering an emotional and individualistic experience.

Its styling is particularly distinctive. The single-frame grille, instantly recognizable as an Audi, adopts the hexagonal shape common to new-generation Audi vehicles, while the headlights feature a sharp wing design. The side profile is defined by a striking, powerfully arched roofline, with an optional contrast roof available.

"1.4-liter TFSI gasoline direct-injection turbo engine"

Further enhancing its appeal are numerous Audi hallmarks meticulously integrated into its compact form, such as the long, sharp shoulder line that runs across the body and the three-dimensional rear combination lamps that create a unique luster through their sculpted lens design.

The powertrain consists of a 1.4-liter TFSI gasoline direct-injection turbo engine paired with a 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission, driving the front wheels. In terms of fuel efficiency, it incorporates Audi's first start-stop system (idling stop mechanism) and an energy regeneration system. Achieving 19.4 km/ℓ in the 10-15 mode fuel economy test, and meeting the "FY2010 Fuel Economy Standards (+20%)" and "FY2005 Emission Standards 75% Reduction Level (4 Stars)," it qualifies for eco-car tax reductions.

A Highly Rigid Body Earning 5 Stars from Euro NCAP

The body utilizes high-strength steel, resulting in a lightweight yet highly rigid safety structure that has earned a 5-star rating from Euro NCAP. Combined with an ideal front-to-rear weight distribution, wide-track sports suspension, ESP (Electronic Stabilization Program) with an electronic limited-slip differential function, and a newly designed chassis, it delivers agile yet stable driving performance.

The interior design is inspired by aircraft cockpits, showcasing Audi's signature precision assembly and high-quality finish. It comes standard with a 60GB HDD navigation system featuring the MMI user interface and digital TV. The sound system is also a highlight, including the AMI (Audi Music Interface), DVD/CD player, SD card reader, jukebox (music server) function, and a 10-speaker system with a rear subwoofer. An optional 14-speaker, 465W Bose surround sound system is also available.

A New Approach to Stimulate Purchase Intent

Audi is also introducing a new initiative with the A1: the "Audi A1 Configurator," available online. This website allows users to experience customizing their Audi A1 using a PC, iPad, or iPhone. Through the "Audi A1 Configurator," customers can personalize their vehicle by selecting body colors, interior options, and wheels, creating their own unique A1 while viewing the customized image on screen. Customized A1 designs can be saved as wallpapers or exported as PDF quote documents. Furthermore, the quoting page allows users to simulate purchase costs, including monthly payments for financing options.

Initially, only the right-hand drive version of the 1.4 TFSI, produced at Audi's Brussels plant in Belgium, will be imported. A choice of 10 body colors is available. The price has been set strategically below the ¥3 million mark, at ¥2.89 million, defying many expectations.

Audi A1 1.4 TFSI | Audi A1 1.4 TFSI
Body | Length 3,970 x Width 1,740 x Height 1,440mm (1,425mm with sunroof)
Wheelbase | 2,465mm
Engine | 1.4-liter DOHC inline 4-cylinder 16-valve with intercooler turbo
Maximum Output | 90 kW (122ps) / 5,000 rpm
Maximum Torque | 200 Nm (20.4kgm) / 1,500-4,000rpm
Transmission | 7-speed S tronic
10-15 Mode Fuel Economy | 19.4km/ℓ
CO2 Emissions | 120g/km
Drivetrain | FWD
Seating Capacity | 4 people
Trunk Capacity | 270 liters (VDA method)
Vehicle Weight | 1,190kg (1,210kg with sunroof)
Price | ¥2.89 million

"Audi A1 Configurator"
http://app.audi.co.jp/