2011 Audi A1 To Offer Premium Trims Only, Engine Capacity To Be Hidden

FOLLOWING REPORTS that the upcoming A1 hatch will not be offered with Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive system, new reports suggest the A1 will be aimed at the MINI Cooper's price range.

According to the UK's evo magazine, Audi will offer only a 'premium' A1 line-up, avoiding 'budget' entry-level models.

Mechnically, the A1 is expected to share much of its components with the new Volkswagen Polo 5, though specific technical details have not been revealed.

Audi is also expected to leave any reference to the A1's engine capacity off the car's badging (previous models have worn '1.8T', '2.0T' style badges).

With future models dropping in engine size, Audi reportedly believes customers will not want to advertise the fact.

The A1 is expected to debut at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, before going on sale late next year in Europe.

A performance-oriented S1 is expected in 2011, powered by a highly tuned version of the company’s 1.4 litre TFSI petrol engine, producing around 120kW.

While the A1 is a strong contender to reach Australia, the hungry European market will most likely be catered to first, before a launch schedule is locked in here.