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The design elements should look stunning on larger models.

Modified by TWinbrook46636 at 4:37 AM 10/3/2008

X a big number TWO i would own that A1 in a heartbeat. i loved my A3 but the smallness of the A1 is just cool

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I completely agree with you regarding Audi's opportunity with the A1. I think the A1 will provide much needed utility to the U.S. market in this segment.

But don't think we won't get this vehicle. Audi isn't bringing it over...yet! It is built to be DOT certified so if and WHEN they decide AoA can bring it over without creating a whole new model like with the A3. I believe we will see this car. Audi just has to be careful how they market it. There is a reason why the MINI is not a BMW. Branding is very important. Audi has been spending a lot of time, money and energy making themselves out to be the new face of luxury. The A1, especially as a hybrid compact, could step on that a bit.

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2006 Audi A3 3.2Q

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Drive!

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http://killwithfire.blogspot.com/

Yeah, I'd like to know as well.

Also, I noticed in the press release that the rear wheels aren't driven at all in the A1!?

Why not build this on the plug-in architecture VW's currently developing and have four in-wheel electric motors? There's no drivetrain loss from the AWD system, and it decreases rolling resistance, actually increasing efficiency (provided electric motors are smaller than in a FWD example)!

The A3 is expensive and they don't offer a 2-door. It's basically a much smaller A4 Avant in terms of bodystyle and interior (never mind it's on the Golf chassis), with the same engines and for a similar price - and it's a hatchback.

That's why it doesn't sell.

The A1, though still a hatch, could be sold in the low-mid 20s as a luxury alternative to the Cooper S, which is in the same price range, but doesn't have as nice an interior.

Audi said they would rather concentrate on diesel versions of the Q7 and [maybe] the A4 because Americans like big cars with mild fuel economy gains as opposed to small cars with significant economy gains.

And yet they keep pushing back the diesels later and later... and then won't offer them with manuals.

I think they should do both!

Audi Credit doesn't lease these cars anymore and supply is throttled because demand (at higher profit) is better in Europe. It's not an Apples and Apples comparison or example. The company line I got in Paris was more 'wait and see'. A3 will get an all-new version shortly, including a more US-friendly sedan version. It could even be built in Chattanooga, which would bring down the costs considerably and make a leasing model more viable. If that happens, and A3 'gets in line' then A1 would be considered.

Something else to consider.... prius does so well because there is no mostaking it. There are no petrol Priuses. Should Audi bring the A1 over, making it diesel or diesel hybrid only would be an interesting strategy.

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