Audi A1 Quattro

It is a rare occasion when you can ride an Audi in extreme cold and snow all over the place during car testing facility. This is immense testing for an Audi since the surface is slippery and it has high possibility of spinning completely. This was one of the test drive on Audi ‘s latest A1 Quattro rally where Audi was organizing the event of  showcasing the latest technology of Quattro.

In the North American market where the Volkswagen Polo is all time favorite its definitely challenging for a new Audi to make an entry in the market specially under the category of luxury cars.

During our test dive we could see two testers basically prototypes , A copper colored model sports with contrasting black roof and with a rear c-pillars. The very unique color combination attracts one to drive the car.

This has resemblance to a shrunken A3 of Mazda2  except for LED headlights of premium range of models. Although the exterior looks are made to look different but the interiors are typical Audi like the cockpit, premium classy soft touch material and well fitted leather seats. The pedals are real class with sporty look with aluminum finish.

Audi A1 has the Quattro all wheel- drive technology which enhances power normally from the front wheels to the rear when needed. This is has been made possible by the electronically controlled hydraulic multi plate clutch at the rear axle.

Its suspension has quite a grip in all bumpy rides especially in the slippery surfaces in snow. This is possible due  to two major aspects which are unique in Audi A1. Its front struts and rear torsion beam and the Electri-assist steering which acts quickly whenever you are taking sharp turn. The Quattro system redirects the power when it senses slippery surface and thus making it easy for the driver who doesn’t need to apply much effort to control the vehicle. Isn’t that fascinating feature to look forward to?

Audi A1 has turbo charged 1.4 litre inline four with 121 hp and 148 lbft of torque which provides a smooth ride in the rough surfaces with  0-100 km/hr speed in 8.9 seconds using first and second gears so one can imagine how it would work when you are driving in the dry surface high ways. The efficiency level will just become thrice.

Overall A1 is quite economical in the North American segment but might take some time to pick up since the small car segment is quite new to this market compared to Europe. And Audi A1 is definitely well designed and equipped compared to all expensive Audis available in the market.