Audi A1 allstreet 30 TFSI S-Tronic: is it an interesting premium city car?

The premium city car segment doesn’t offer many alternatives to choose from, however, there are certain models that have very interesting features for anyone looking for a city car, compact in size but, with finishes and driving manners, typical of a premium segment.

With that premise, the four-ring brand has created the A1, which now receives a different debut, betting more on the SUV side and on a more personal design. We analyse in five points whether this Audi A1 allstreet is a premium city car worth considering.

1. A familiar design in a different package, which still stands out

The Audi A1 was launched on the market in 2010, being the German manufacturer’s first foray into the city car segment (with my apologies to the original A2, which is another story). Over the years it has become a genuine premium-oriented urban option.

Now, with the allstreet version, it is updated with the success of being current and, at the same time, offering a city car with a certain ground clearance, ideal for example for speed bumps or low-complexity broken tracks.

The exterior design of the A1 allstreet continues to catch the eye on the street, and with its raised height and pronounced wheel arches, it creates a very personal and rejuvenated design. Finally, the green of our unit (Distrito Green metallic, at no cost) is a real success.

2. Correct, comfortable and practical interior

The interior of the Audi A1 allstreet has been updated, with design lines that can also be seen in the A3. Personally, I think the design is simple, but very practical and well integrated. A digital instrument cluster and a touchscreen can be used, without resorting to poorly integrated “tablets” that are hard to see in bright sunlight, so, well done to Audi, which knows how to combine technology with practicality.

Details such as the climate control with physical controls, restore my faith that technological advances cannot go against practicality.

The front seats are adequate, while the rear ones are somewhat tight, especially for three occupants; two will travel comfortably, with interior space in line with the segment average.

3. Petrol only: 116 or 150 CV

The A1 allstreet mechanical range consists of two engines: the 116 CV 30 TFSI and the 150 CV 35 TFSI. The difference under the bonnet is considerable, as the first uses a three-cylinder engine (quite economical) and the second a more performance-oriented four-cylinder unit.

Our unit was the 116 CV 30 TFSI with a seven-speed S-Tronic dual-clutch automatic gearbox. It is a more restrained engine in performance, but balanced in response, and stands out for its modest consumption (around 5.5 litres per 100 km on the road and around 7 litres per 100 km in the city).

The engine’s feel is typically three-cylinder, with a faint sound and the usual sensations of a three-cylinder, although it integrates well with the automatic gearbox, which provides comfort and smoothness (with the manual gearbox it is less smooth).

4. Relatively dynamic handling and well-insulated interior

Although the 116 CV engine is not exactly sporty, when we push each of its three cylinders and every horsepower to the limit, the A1 allstreet responds nobly and predictably, making it an agile car, although for those seeking dynamism, the 150 CV is the better choice.

The ride is very comfortable, and we particularly liked the level of interior soundproofing, in line with what is expected from a premium brand. It stands out precisely for its pursuit of comfort, without being excessively soft and with a good middle ground.

5. From 30,330 euros, a somewhat high price

The starting price of the Audi A1 allstreet is slightly high, especially considering that the equipment does not include LED headlights or dual-zone climate control, but it does feature 16-inch alloy wheels and rear parking sensors.

Our unit with the “Adrenalin Black Edition” finish has complete equipment, with black detailing, front LED headlights, dual-zone climate control, 17-inch Audi Sport wheels, a digital instrument cluster and sports seats. The price, however, rises to 35,950 euros.

An extra on our unit, highly recommended for lovers of good sound, is the Audi Sound System, which for just 330 euros adds 8 speakers with 180 W of power and very good audio quality.

In short, the Audi A1 allstreet takes urban design one step further, with a very personal touch and good quality both in its finishes and on the road. It is a comfortable and practical car, with an engine that is not sporty but sufficient for everyday use and economical as well. It is not cheap, though.

Technical specifications of this car

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