A1 not coming to the U.S.

Although Audi was toying with the idea of bringing the A1 to the U.S., it should surprise no one that Audi has now confirmed its smallest car will stay in Europe. In an inteview with Automotive News, Audi’s global sales and marketing boss, Peter Schwarzenbauer said, "Audi is engaged in an aggressive campaign in the U.S. market to build brand awareness. Until that takes hold, Audi won’t be bringing small cars such as the A1 to the United States."

Part of this decision may also be centered in what a car the size of the A1 may do to Audi’s reputation. Small cars and luxury cars do not intersect well in the minds of Americans. If Audi were to bring something the size of the A1 to the U.S., it would not only have a hard time justifying a lofty price tag, but the A1 may also hurt its premium brand image.