Audi->ke14 has been working on a facelift for the A1 for almost a year now, and it appears the revised hatchback->ke304 is almost ready to make its public debut. Our spy photographers caught the supermini on the move somewhere in Southern Europe, where the Germans are testing the final tweaks operated on the vehicle's drivetrain and chassis.

Although the A1->ke1729 is still hidden under swirly camouflage, most of its visual updates are obvious and it seems we're looking at the milder version of the hotter S1->ke2837. Our paparazzi weren't able to take a peek inside, but don't expect to see major improvements in that department save for some additional trim options and maybe a slightly revised center console.

Same goes for the engine lineup, which will mostly remain unchanged, with only minor improvements as far as power, fuel efficiency, and CO2 emissions go. Expect it to arrive with the same 1.2-liter TFSI, 1.4-liter TFSI, and 2.0-liter TDI in showrooms, although the range-topping version might carry a turbo 1.8-liter with 192 horsepower under its hood. We will find out more about that when the 2014 Paris Motor Show->ke227 kicks off in October.

Click past the jump to read more about the revised Audi A1.

Spy Shots

As we've previously mentioned, the A1 borrows most of the details seen on the brawnier S1, including the redesigned headlamps with adaptive Xenon Plus technology. The revised front grille now features slightly bulkier horizontal bars, which add a touch of aggressiveness and make the hatch seem a tad wider. The bumper doesn't change too much, as everything but the air intake design remains unaltered.

Around back, a new pair of LED taillights come to replace the old units, while the wraparound bumper carries a new apron and wider diffuser-like piece.

Technology-wise, the A1 will be equipped with a heap of active safety and convenience features, including Volkswagen's new radar system for oncoming traffic, as well as an updated MMI in-car media system.

Why It Matters

Although the A1 won't come to the United States to take on the Mini Cooper, the two will meet face to face in Europe, where a fierce battle will be carried in the performance diesel market. With Mini's new Cooper SD rated at an impressive 170 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque, Audi has a lot of ground to cover and needs to fit the A1 with the latest in terms of technology to succeed.