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May 18, 2015
Audi A1 / A1 Sportback Minor Change | Audi
Audi A1
Audi A1 Sportback
Audi A1 / A1 Sportback Minor Change
Audi Japan announced that it will release minor changes to the "A1," its most compact model, and its 5-door variant, the "A1 Sportback," starting June 18. On the same day, the company's compact SUV model,New Q3was also announced, with model Jessica Michibata appearing as a guest.
Text by AKIZUKI Shinichiro (OPENERS)
From ¥2.49 Million for 3-Cylinder Models
The "A1," which debuted in Germany in 2010 and Japan in 2011 as Audi's most compact model, has undergone its first minor change.
While retaining the basic silhouette of the previous generation, the new A1 incorporates Audi's latest design language. The length has increased by 20mm, and the adoption of a wider Singleframe grille gives it a sharper, more powerful impression.
Among the many changes to the new A1, the most notable is the adoption of Audi's first 3-cylinder gasoline engine. This newly developed 1.0 TFSI direct-injection turbo engine produces a maximum output of 95 ps and a maximum torque of 160 Nm. Combined with a reduction in vehicle weight from 1,200 kg to 1,120 kg, it achieves an impressive fuel economy of 22.9 km/liter, the best ever for an Audi.
Of course, the 1.4 TFSI engine with the cylinder deactivation system "Cylinder on Demand," introduced last year, will continue to be offered. This engine's maximum output has been increased from 140 ps to 150 ps. Both engines are paired with a 7-speed S tronic (dual-clutch) transmission, meeting the 2020 fuel economy standards and qualifying for eco-car tax reductions.
In terms of safety, the car newly adopts Multi Collision Brake, which automatically applies the brakes after a collision to prevent secondary impacts. It also features an electro-mechanical power steering system that reduces power assistance as vehicle speed increases. Audi explains that this achieves high driving stability while providing handling performance comparable to mid-size cars, despite being a compact vehicle.
Furthermore, models equipped with the 1.4 TFSI engine now come standard with Audi drive select, allowing drivers to choose driving characteristics according to their preferences and driving conditions.
Audi A1
Audi A1 Sportback
Audi A1 / A1 Sportback Minor Change (2)
Limited Edition Model of 345 Units Also Introduced
Meanwhile, the "S1" and "S1 Sportback," the top models in the A1 series, will continue to be sold. A new "Sport" grade has been added, featuring sports seats and sports suspension. Key equipment for this grade includes 16-inch alloy wheels, sports seats with lumbar support, sports suspension, front fog lights, aluminum-look interior trim, and rear exhaust tailpipes.
Pricing is as follows: "A1 1.0 TFSI" at ¥2.49 million, "A1 1.0 TFSI Sport" at ¥2.65 million, "A1 1.4 TFSI Cylinder on Demand Sport" at ¥3.29 million, and "S1" at ¥4.10 million. For the 5-door variants, the "A1 Sportback 1.0 TFSI" is ¥2.69 million, "A1 Sportback TFSI Sport" is ¥2.85 million, "A1 Sportback 1.4 TFSI Cylinder on Demand Sport" is ¥3.49 million, and the "S1 Sportback" is ¥4.30 million. Sales begin on June 18.
Additionally, to commemorate the introduction of Audi's first 3-cylinder engine, a limited edition model of 345 units, the "Audi A1/A1 Sportback 1st edition," will be released. Based on the "A1 1.0 TFSI Sport" and "A1 Sportback 1.0 TFSI Sport" mentioned earlier, this model will feature package options not available on the standard models.
These include the S line exterior (S line front & rear bumpers, side skirts, roof spoiler), S line emblems, door sill trims, and a 3-spoke leather multifunction steering wheel with paddle shifters. It also includes the Navi Xenon plus package (MMI 3G+ Navigation Plus, bi-xenon headlights, automatic headlight range control, headlight washers), and body-colored door mirrors, among other features.
The limited edition models will be available in three body colors: Mythos Black metallic, Glacier White metallic, and Misano Red pearl effect. The "A1 1st edition" will be priced at ¥3.30 million (115 units), and the "A1 Sportback 1st edition" at ¥3.50 million (230 units), for a total of 345 limited units.
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