Chassis

In terms of their handling, the Audi A1* and A1 Sportback* offer qualities of the next higher vehicle class – they are very maneuverable and agile in the city, and stiff and precise on highways and expressways. The axle load distribution – in the range of 62:38 – harmonizes excellently with the front-wheel drive; with most engines, the battery is located in the luggage compartment.

A MacPherson-type suspension is used at the front with lower wishbones and a subframe made of high-strength steel. Rigid front transverse link mounts produce precise lateral stability. The track width is 1,477 millimeters (4.85 ft).

A new feature in this model series is electromechanical steering with its electric motor mounted on the steering column. It has a sporty, direct steering ratio of 14.8:1; it offers a precise feeling of contact with the road; and the steering boost gradually decreases with increasing speed. The new steering system is lightweight, and it consumes less energy for its drive than the previous system which was already a very efficient electrohydraulic steering system. The turning circle measures just 10.6 meters (34.8 ft).

Operating at the rear of the revised Audi A1 and A1 Sportback is a semi-independent suspension with separately mounted springs and shock absorbers. Rear track width is 1,471 mm (4.83 ft). Guide bearings make a major contribution to elasto-kinematics that combine agile driving with comfort. A sport suspension is standard in the sport equipment line. As an alternative, Audi can install the dedicated stiff S line sport suspension which – together with 17-inch wheels – is also available in the S line sport package.

Multifaceted: Audi drive select
The Audi drive select dynamic handling system is a standard feature for the sport line. The driver can use it to vary the characteristics of the accelerator pedal and steering assist – as well as the optional climate control system and cruise control system – between the modes efficiency, auto and dynamic. Engine sound is added with the 1.8 TFSI. Adjustable shock absorbers – a new special feature – can also be controlled by Audi drive select.

In all versions, Electronic Stabilization Control ESC was systematically further developed, and for the first time it can be deactivated over two levels. It adds a revised sport mode, and it may be deactivated entirely.

Thanks to defined interventions, a more agile driving style is enabled by the sport mode together with torque vectoring with its more direct response. When ESC is completely deactivated, torque vectoring remains active for precise vehicle handling, and the Electronic Differential Lock (EDL) remains active for optimal traction. The control strategy for torque vectoring was extended, and it now takes all road friction values into account.

Before the understeer threshold is reached, finely metered brake torque that is imperceptible is applied to the wheels at the inside of a curve. When power is applied, the excess torque flows to the outer wheel; this makes the car steer into bends and hairpins precisely. Within physical limits, the tendency to understeer is minimized by this ESC function.

A sub-function of ESC is the standard multicollision brake assist system. After a crash, it prevents continued uncontrolled rolling of the car and possibly a secondary collision.

The wheels lineup consists of 16 versions, seven of which are new. The basic wheels are 15-inch steel wheels for size 185/60 tires. The design and sport lines have 16-inch alloy wheels with tires sized 215/45. The 1.8 TFSI of the Design selection and in the S line sport package has 17-inch wheels with size 215/40 tires.

As options, Audi can fit further aluminum wheels from 15 to 17 inches in diameter, and quattro GmbH also offers impressive 18-inch wheels with 225/35 tires. Some of these wheels are two-tone or partially polished. Audi Genuine Accessories supplements the diverse wheel lineup with six additional designs. A tire pressure indicator is standard.

Mounted behind the large wheels are powerful brakes. The front brakes are internally ventilated and are either 256 or 310 millimeters (10.1 or 12.2 in) in‑diameter, depending on the engine. At the rear wheels, all models feature 230 millimeters (9.1 in) discs gripped by aluminum floating calipers. In an emergency braking situation, the adaptive brake lights flash as a warning to drivers behind.

The equipment, data and prices specified in this document refer to the model range offered in Germany. Subject to change without notice; errors and omissions excepted.