Is the Audi A1 a good first car?

After the hours of lessons, nerves, and finally earning that pass certificate, the next big decision is which car to call your first. Most advice points towards something small, affordable, and easy to run, which explains why hatchbacks dominate the options for new drivers.

On the surface, the Audi A1 doesn’t seem like the obvious pick. It carries a premium badge and a reputation for style rather than budget. But the story changes on the used market.

Let’s discover why the Audi A1 might just be the perfect first car.

Why first-time drivers choose the Audi A1

Here are some of the main reasons why the A1 appeals to first-timers:

• Premium feel in a smaller package – The A1 may be a supermini, but it carries the design quality and finish expected from a luxury car, which appeals to young drivers who want something more than basic.
• Easy to live with – Compact dimensions make it straightforward to park and control, especially for those new to the roads.
• Stylish inside and out – The aesthetic appeal of the Audi badge, sharp exterior, and well-finished cabin give the A1 a standout look that’s rare at this level.
• Choice of layouts – With both three-door and five-door versions available, the A1 offers flexibility depending on whether practicality or sportier looks matter more.
• Strong reputation for safety – Solid build quality and advanced safety features help reassure parents and first-time drivers alike.

New vs used: What to look out for

First-car buyers often debate between a new Audi and a used Audi. A brand-new model gives peace of mind with a full warranty, the latest tech, and no previous wear. However, the price point can be steep for someone just starting out.

On the other hand, a used A1 can be a smart way to save money, especially if you find one with low mileage and a complete service history. The A1 holds its value well, but well-kept history and proof of regular servicing will tell you a lot about how the car will hold up.

Another factor is the trim level. Even among older models, higher trims include extras like upgraded interiors, better safety equipment, and infotainment features that make everyday driving easier. A newer base model might cost the same as an older, better-equipped trim.

If you’re exploring both new and used options, Carplus can help you compare what’s available, and see how different finance terms might make one option more practical than the other.

Audi A1 overview: Features that matter

If you’re a young driver, the A1 offers plenty to explore. Let’s take a look at the details that matter most when driving:

Compact size and easy handling

The Audi A1 is a small car that sits in that sweet spot where it never feels bulky on the road, making it easier to manoeuvre in tight spaces. Unlike some rivals, it stays settled even over broken surfaces, so you don’t get bounced around in traffic. The steering is light but precise, so you can guide it exactly where you want without much effort.

Interior practicality and boot space

The A1 has a simple, tidy interior with controls that are easy to use. Every version post-2018 comes with a touchscreen infotainment system, so you can connect your phone and use modern tech features without any upgrades. There are also useful storage spots, including door bins, cup holders, and space for a phone in front of the gear stick.

In terms of space, the front seats are comfortable and offer plenty of adjustment. The back seats are tighter, but still spacious enough for two adults when needed.

The Audi A1 gives you 270 litres of boot space, which works well for shopping or everyday gear. You can fold the rear seats to have more room for larger items, and because the boot is quite square, it’s easy to stack bags and cases.

Engines and transmission options

The range starts with a 1.0-litre three-cylinder in 30 TFSI form, which is lively enough for everyday use and keeps running costs low. Above that, there are more powerful petrol engines, including a 1.5-litre and a 2.0-litre option. Both give the car more punch and quicker acceleration.

Before 2018, the A1 offered a range of petrol engines from the 1.0 L TFSI three-cylinder up to the 2.0 L TFSI four-cylinder. Diesel options included a 1.6 L TDI diesel engine.

Transmission options include a standard six-speed manual or Audi’s dual-clutch automatic, both of which suit the A1’s easygoing character.

Safety features: Euro NCAP rating & driver assistance

The Audi A1 achieved a full five stars in Euro NCAP testing in 2019. Standard safety kit includes multiple airbags, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning.

The A1 also comes with plenty of features to make life easier on the road. Most trims include rear parking sensors, but front sensors and a rear-view camera are optional with the Comfort and Sound pack. Cruise control is standard from the Sport trim onwards. Other driver aids include speed limit recognition and Audi Pre-Sense Front.

Total cost of ownership explained

A car’s total cost includes more than the purchase price. First-time buyers should look at the full picture to choose a car that works long term.

Running costs: Fuel economy and day-to-day expenses

The Audi A1 is a sensible choice for a first car, thanks to its strong fuel efficiency. The 1.0-litre petrol engines deliver up to 52 mpg for the 94 bhp model, and the 116 bhp version still manages around 51 mpg. Both versions emit less than 100 g/km of CO2, which also helps keep company car tax lower compared with rivals like the Mini Cooper.

More powerful engines have slightly lower mpg and higher emissions.

Maintenance costs and servicing schedule

Audi cars are backed by the same warranty package as Volkswagen. It comes with an unlimited-mileage warranty for the first two years, followed by a third year capped at 60,000 miles.

As for reliability, Audi didn’t score particularly high in surveys. But the A1 itself sits around mid-table in the small car class and performs well enough to be considered a dependable car.

Resale value and used car market price

The A1 holds its value well compared with many rivals. For example, it costs more upfront than a Volkswagen Polo or Peugeot 208, but you don’t feel the hit as much over time.

On the used market, a 2018 model with higher mileage typically sells for around £6,000, and ones with lower mileage can fetch between £8,000 and £10,000. Audi models retain their value well, as the badge represents quality and desirability.

Insurance costs for young drivers

For a new driver, insurance on an A1 tends to be higher at first. For models after 2018, the 25 TFSI Sport S Tronic is usually the cheapest to insure as it’s in group 14. The S Line Competition 40 TFSI 200PS S Tronic sits in group 31. Mid-range options include the SE 30 TFSI 116PS in group 20 and the Technik 25 TFSI 95PS in group 16.

Older models fall into a wider range of insurance groups. The 1.2 TFSI is the cheapest to insure in group 9. The S1 Competition Nav 2.0 TFSI 231PS Quattro ranks highest in group 38.

Driving experience with an Audi A1

When it comes to the overall driving experience, the A1 has its own character.

Performance

The Audi A1 offers a surprisingly strong drive for a small car. The 30 TFSI 1.0-litre petrol engine pulls well from around 2,000 rpm and reaches 0-60 mph in 9.1 seconds, which is excellent performance for everyday driving.

The turbocharged 1.5‑litre 35 TFSI accelerates from 0‑60 mph in 7.7 seconds. The 2.0‑litre 40 TFSI feels noticeably quicker and reaches 0‑60 mph in 6.5 seconds.

City driving

The A1 is easy to drive around town, thanks to its compact size and light controls. Its slim front pillars make it easy to see out of the front, and the car offers a tight turning circle. Even though rear visibility is more restricted due to the chunky rear pillars, higher trims come with rear parking sensors to make reversing easier.

Motorway driving

Once you pick up the pace, the steering feels steadier and gives you the confidence you need. The car stays calm through bends, with just a slight lean in the corners, but plenty of grip to back it up. It’s more about stability control than excitement, and that’s no bad thing.

Finance options for first-time buyers

A premium car like the Audi A1 can feel out of reach. Upfront cash isn’t easy to come by, but with the right finance, that dream car suddenly feels possible. Here’s why it’s a smart choice for young drivers who want something fun but manageable:

• Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) – Works well if you like flexibility. Monthly payments are lower, and at the end, you have options: return the car, pay a final amount to keep it, or move on to a newer model. Make sure to check different leasing deals and get a clear quote upfront.
• Hire Purchase (HP) – Good if you want ownership from the start. You pay a deposit, then fixed monthly payments until the car is yours.

With these options, being a first-time buyer doesn’t mean settling for something bland. At Carplus, we can guide you through both options and show how different terms and deposits affect what’s possible, helping you make a confident choice, even if it’s your first time financing a car.

Other popular first cars: A1 or VW Polo

The Volkswagen Polo provides more rear-seat space and a larger boot than the Audi A1, making it easier to transport passengers and luggage. It has a softer ride, which feels more comfortable over uneven roads, but it doesn’t turn as sharply or respond as quickly in tight streets. Both cars deliver similar fuel efficiency and running costs, but insurance for younger drivers comes out slightly lower on the Polo. Inside, the Polo provides more room.

The Audi A1 is the perfect first vehicle for those who want a smaller, more agile hatchback. It’s also a flashier car. The Polo is for buyers who need extra space and a softer ride.

Final verdict: Should you buy an Audi A1 as your first car?

The Audi A1 is a fairly practical first car for new drivers. If you need a car that is easy to drive and fits into everyday life, it works well. It has a clean, stylish design and an interior with a premium touch. It does cost more than some other entry-level options, but it’s the best car in its class if you can afford it.

Before committing to an A1, compare it with other similar models to see if the higher price makes sense for you.