I attended the launch of the Audi A1 last September and was offered to drive it for a longer period of time recently. I am not going into basic details about the car as I’ve already mentioned that in my original post, which you can find here: https://www.nafisa.co.za/launch-drive-audi-a1/. 

This post is around the things that stood out for me from my time with it.

LOOKS
The car delivered to me was in the launch edition shade ‘python yellow’ with a ‘mythos black’ roof, and normally I wouldn’t mention a colour but it simply cannot be ignored. The A1 is fun and bold car, and the yellow suits it completely. While I’m not sure I’ve got the guts to drive a yellow car (side note: I drive a red car but yellow just seems bolder, weirdly in this context). The front logo is in black, which I love, and overall it gives off a sporty, edgy, aggressive look; one that is noticed by others on the road. This car is aimed at those who want to be seen, and who loves to make an entrance. 

Audi A1 40 TFSI

POWER
The model I drove was the A1 40 TFSI, which has an output of 147kW and 320 Nm of torque. To put it into a little more context when compared to my daily driver, it has 7kW more power, and I gotta tell you, I felt it. It was such a thrill driving the A1. I could take off at the green light immediately and be way ahead of everyone in no time leaving them at a distance; it gave me the same thrill as going on a rollercoaster (that’s not scary, haha). I love me some kick when I put my foot down and I simply had the best time driving the A1. I cannot fault the drive; even going to buy groceries was exciting for me. I can confidently say I am the target market for this car and I could see myself owning one.

TECHNOLOGY
Of course technology is important to me and this car was kitted out with the following extras: Technology package (smartphone interface, sound system, virtual cockpit); MMI Navigation with Audi connect; Audi phone box; Bang & Olufsen sound system with 3D sound; parking cameras and parking aid plus, all worth a total of R65 600.

I know it’s a ridiculous amount of money to spend on extras, but if I were buying this, I’d go for the Technology package at R9 900. Don’t get me wrong, I loved using the extras but realistically speaking, I know how to alley dock and parallel park, and standard sound should be ok for me, and I won’t miss the navigation, which brings me to my next point. I love Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. My phones on both systems paired seamless via the cable and was good to go in no time. I cannot live without Google Maps and being that seamless was a huge win. I didn’t even bother pairing it over Bluetooth because cable was better.

Audi A1 – CarPlay

PRICE
When I drove the A1, I was very aware this I was driving a car worth R612 700. This can be broken down to R488 000 as standard and the rest being extras like 18″ sport wheels for R15 600; ambient multi-colour lights that I loved for R2 300; Edition 1 for R19 000 (black styling); heated seats that fold electrically for R4 100; leather handbrake at R2 500; and sport contoured steering wheel at R3 400. 

The Audi A1 may be Audi’s baby car but it’s very much a premium brand with high-end finishes and appeals to those who want something extra above being standard. Just like how you buy an iPhone and pay Apple tax, I feel the same about an Audi. You know you’re getting something more. If you appreciate the finer things in life, the Audi A1 is for you.