Audi A1 production confirmed for 2009

Yesterday Audi took control over VW Brussels plant saving it from closure. On this event, Audi also confirmed the production of the mini A1 starting the end of 2009. As the company said the Audi A1 will be built exclusively in Brussels.

"We are delighted to be able to add to our capacity in the Group thanks to the Brussels plant and a motivated team. We want to develop Audi Brussels into a benchmark within the Volkswagen Group with regard to production processes and productivity," explains Audi Chairman Rupert Stadler.

Some think that the A1 will also be available with Audi’s ‘quattro’ 4WD. We do not think that that is going to happen as this type of transmission is quite expensive and. therefore not suitable for a low budget car. The Syncro cheap 4WD system used on the Golf III cannot be used because it excludes the ESP and therefore cannot meet modern safety standards.

The engines available for the A1 should be those from the TDI and FSI ranges. TSI and TFSI are expensive and performance orientated, which makes them less likely to be offered for the new Audi base model.