Audi has brought the 2019 A1 Sportback to Paris Auto
Show. Audi’s new entry-level model
adopts a more aggressive styling than the previous models, featuring a wide
front grille backed up by three stilts just above, paying homage to the Sport
Quattro homologation special.
The aggressive theme continues at the back, where
the rear bumper gets a pair of -probably fake- air outlets and a small diffuser
and the taillights adopt a distinctive LED signature. Compared to its predecessor, the
new Audi A1 Sportback is now longer by 56 mm, at 4.03 meters.
Width its the same as before, at 1.74 meters, while height is 1.41
meters.
The interior gets a driver-oriented dashboard that
features a 10.1-inch glass-surfaced MMI infotainment system with Android Auto
and Apple CarPlay in its range-topping version. All models will come with
Audi’s 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster as standard. Audi claims that
interior space has been improved in the new A1, as is the luggage capacity (335
liters with the rear seats in their normal position). Other onboard features
include wireless charging for compatible smartphones, a premium B&O audio
system and more.
The range of driver assistance
systems is pretty impressive; the 2019 Audi A1 Sportback will offer everything
from Audi’s Pre Sense Front, which uses a radar sensor in front to recognize
critical situations, to Adaptive Speed Assist and a new parking assistant,
among others.
The engine range includes three- and four-cylinder
petrol engines, ranging from 93 hp to 197 hp. As before, customers
will be offered both a manual or a dual-clutch automatic transmission.
The new Audi A1 will also be offered with two
different dynamic packages, which according to the company are individually
configured for each engine. The ‘Basis’ pack will be offered for the base
gasoline versions and includes a sport suspension, red brake calipers, and
larger brake rotors. Other engine options will be offered with the
‘Performance’ pack, that also includes bigger brakes with red calipers but adds
adjustable dampers, a sound actuator and Audi Drive Select.
The new Audi A1 Sportback will be launched in the
European market this fall, with prices in Germany starting at under 20,000
euros (US$ 23k).
