Audi->ke14 is further expanding its A1 line-up with the addition of the new A1 Sportback version that will go on sale in early 2012. The model will be offered as a five-doors only version and in Europe will be offered with three TFSI gasoline and three TDI diesel engines with power ranging between 86 HP to 185 HP. Prices will start from €16,950 (about $23,000 at the current exchange rates) for the 1.2 TFSI version and from €19,050 ($25,800) for the 1.6 TDI one.

The new A1 Sportback continues with the same design language as the standard A1, but it can get the roof line, the roof arch, the roof and the roof spoiler in one contrasting color. Audi will also be offering an option S Line package that will add even more sportiness to the car. The model will be offered with four seats as standard, but a fifth one can be added at no extra cost.

Hit the jump to read more about the 2012 Audi A1 Sportback.

2012 Audi A1 Sportback

Specifications
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  • Model: 2012 Audi A1 Sportback
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The exterior and the interior

Like any other A1 the new Sportback model will feature a large single-frame grille with beveled upper corners, headlamps with xenon plus lamps and a pair of sculpted tail lights equipped with light-emitting diodes. But what makes the A1 Sportback really special is the opportunity to opt for one of the three contrasting colors for the roof line, the roof arch, the roof and the roof spoiler. Also, exclusive on the A1 Sportback is the Samoa Orange and a special S Line package that adds kits with aerodynamic add-on parts and colorful decal sets.

Audi is offering the new A1 sportback with standard four seats, but upon request and at no extra cost you can get a fifth one. The car's instrument panel has been designed to resemble an airplane wing, while the center console is inclined slightly toward the driver; the four round air vents are reminiscent of jet engines. The console on the center tunnel is reminiscent of the rear of a sailing yacht.

The engine

The engine line-up includes a choice of six four-cylinder engines: three TFSI and three TDI units. The petrol engines start with a base 86 HP 1.2 TFSI that delivers an impressive fuel economy of 46.12 US mpg. There is also a 1.4 TFSI engine with either 122 or 185 HP. The most powerful one will sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 7 seconds and will hit a top speed of 141 mph.

Diesel line-up starts with a 1,6 liter engine available in two different versions: 90 and 105 HP. This engine delivers an impressive fuel economy of 61.90 US mpg. And the last choice is a 143 HP 2.0 TDI engine that will sprint the car from 0 to 60 mph in 8.5 seconds and will deliver a fuel economy of 57.37 US mpg.

Depending on the engine, the A1 Sportback will be offered with standard five-speed or six-speed manual gearbox or an optional seven-speed S tronic available only for the 1.4 TFSI and 1.6 TDI.

Prices

Prices in Europe will start from €16,950 (about $23,000 at the current exchange rates) for the 1.2 TFSI version and from €19,050 ($25,800) for the 1.6 TDI one. Sales will begin in early 2012.

The competition

If you are looking for a competitor for the new A1 Sportback then the Mini Countryman should be the first one on your list. It is offered in standard and S version, both powered by a 1.6 liter engine, but with the S version tuned to 184 HP. The car comes with a choice of six-speed manual or an automatic transmission. The Countryman however has the disadvantage of being slower than the A1: it sprints from 0 to 60 mph in 11 seconds, and can hit a top speed of only 118 mph.