Everyday use, family trips or long-distance drives – here’s where the differences show.
Discover whether Audi A1 or VW Golf fits your lifestyle better.
In the world of compact hatchbacks, the Audi A1 and VW Golf have been perennial favorites, each offering a unique blend of performance, comfort, and innovation. With both models refreshed for 2024, our comparison will delve into what makes these cars stand out, focusing on their technical specifications and the innovations they bring to the table.
When it comes to engine choices, the Audi A1 provides a range of petrol engines starting from 95 HP up to 207 HP with a maximum torque of 320 Nm. It offers both manual and dual-clutch automatic transmissions, ensuring a smooth driving experience, especially with its 6.5 seconds acceleration from 0-100 km/h in the most powerful variant. The A1 is strictly a front-wheel-drive, which provides balanced handling for city driving.
On the other hand, the VW Golf offers a more diverse powertrain selection, including petrol, mild-hybrid electric vehicles (MHEV), diesel, and plugin hybrid options. The power ranges from 116 HP up to a robust 333 HP, with torque reaching up to 420 Nm. The Golf can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds in its top-tier variant, standing out among competitors with the addition of all-wheel drive for those seeking enhanced road grip and dynamic performance.
Both the Audi A1 and VW Golf demonstrate commendable fuel efficiency ratings. The A1's consumption varies from 5.3 to 6.5 L/100km, while the Golf ranges between 4.3 to 8.5 L/100km with its petrol and diesel engines, and offers remarkable efficiency with 0.3 L/100km in its plugin hybrid version.
When it comes to CO2 emissions, the Golf shows a broader spectrum with ratings from as low as 6 g/km in its eco-friendly models to 192 g/km in its performance-focused variants. The Audi A1, meanwhile, emits between 121 and 147 g/km, indicating a strong focus on balancing power and environmental responsibility.
Inside, both cars seat five passengers comfortably, offering a range of features to enhance the driving experience. The Audi A1's trunk boasts a capacity of 335 liters, suitable for daily use and weekend getaways. In contrast, the Golf provides a slightly more generous space with up to 381 liters, accommodating more luggage or gear, which is ideal for families or adventure enthusiasts.
Both models are equipped with a suite of digital and connectivity features, with the Golf pulling ahead thanks to an expansive infotainment system and advanced driver assistance technologies aimed at making urban and long-distance drives safer and more enjoyable.
Styling is subjective, but both vehicles offer a modern and sleek design. The Audi A1 measures slightly shorter at around 4046 mm in length and has a width of 1756 mm, offering a compact yet sporty appearance. The VW Golf, stretching to approximately 4289 mm in length and a width of 1789 mm, presents a more elongated profile, hinting at its additional interior space.
Ultimately, the choice between the Audi A1 and VW Golf boils down to personal preference and driving needs. If you prioritize a wider range of powertrains, all-wheel-drive capability, and slightly more interior space, the VW Golf is the go-to option. However, if a sporty city car with a reputation for performance and compact agility is more your style, the Audi A1 stands as an enticing choice.
Both cars shine in their categories and are excellent showcases of German engineering. Whichever model you choose, you’ll be investing in reliability, performance, and a touch of luxury in the compact hatchback market.
Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.
Audi A1 has a evident advantage in terms of price – it starts at 19700 £, while the VW Golf costs 25200 £. That’s a price difference of around 5524 £.
Fuel consumption also shows a difference: VW Golf manages with 1.10 L and is therefore significantly more efficient than the Audi A1 with 5.20 L. The difference is about 4.10 L per 100 km.
Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.
When it comes to engine power, the VW Golf has a noticeable edge – offering 333 HP compared to 207 HP. That’s roughly 126 HP more horsepower.
In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the VW Golf is decisively quicker – completing the sprint in 4.60 s, while the Audi A1 takes 6.50 s. That’s about 1.90 s faster.
In terms of top speed, the VW Golf performs minimal better – reaching 270 km/h, while the Audi A1 tops out at 245 km/h. The difference is around 25 km/h.
There’s also a difference in torque: VW Golf pulls distinct stronger with 420 Nm compared to 320 Nm. That’s about 100 Nm difference.
Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.
Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.
In curb weight, Audi A1 is somewhat lighter – 1175 kg compared to 1307 kg. The difference is around 132 kg.
In terms of boot space, the VW Golf offers somewhat more room – 381 L compared to 335 L. That’s a difference of about 46 L.
In maximum load capacity, the VW Golf performs a bit better – up to 1237 L, which is about 147 L more than the Audi A1.
When it comes to payload, VW Golf barely noticeable takes the win – 508 kg compared to 470 kg. That’s a difference of about 38 kg.
Overall, the VW Golf shows itself to be wins the duel decisively and secures the title of DriveDuel Champion.
It convinces with the more balanced overall package and proves to be the more versatile choice for everyday use.
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
The Audi A1 is a compact premium hatch that wraps Audi's polished design and surprisingly grown-up cabin into a city-friendly package. It’s poised and fun to drive, a smart pick for buyers who want luxury flair without the fuss of a bigger car — and it makes tight parking feel almost enjoyable.
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@ Audi AG
@ Audi AG
@ Audi AG
@ Audi AG
@ Audi AG
@ Audi AG
The VW Golf remains the everyman’s favourite — cleverly balanced, composed and just posh enough to feel grown-up without pretending to be something it’s not. It slips through town and eats up longer trips with a refined cabin, practical layout and a kindly, capable character that turns everyday driving into something a little bit special.
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@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
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@ Audi AG
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@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
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Costs and Consumption |
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Price
19700 - 28300 £
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Price
25200 - 47600 £
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Consumption L/100km
5.2 - 6.4 L
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Consumption L/100km
1.1 - 8.1 L
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Electric Range
-
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Electric Range
131 - 143 km
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Battery Capacity
-
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Battery Capacity
19.70 kWh
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co2
118 - 146 g/km
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co2
25 - 184 g/km
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Fuel tank capacity
40 L
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Fuel tank capacity
40 - 55 L
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Dimensions and Body |
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|---|---|
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Body Type
Hatchback
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Body Type
Hatchback
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Seats
5
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Seats
5
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Doors
5
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Doors
5
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Curb weight
1175 - 1365 kg
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Curb weight
1307 - 1662 kg
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Trunk capacity
335 L
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Trunk capacity
273 - 381 L
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Length
4029 - 4046 mm
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Length
4282 - 4296 mm
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Width
1740 - 1756 mm
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Width
1789 mm
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Height
1409 - 1459 mm
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Height
1454 - 1483 mm
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Max trunk capacity
1090 L
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Max trunk capacity
1129 - 1237 L
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Payload
410 - 470 kg
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Payload
438 - 508 kg
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Engine and Performance |
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|---|---|
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Engine Type
Petrol
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Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
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Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
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Transmission
Automatic, Manuel
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Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
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Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic, Manual Gearbox
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Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
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Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
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Power HP
95 - 207 HP
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Power HP
116 - 333 HP
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
6.5 - 11.5 s
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.6 - 10.2 s
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Max Speed
182 - 245 km/h
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Max Speed
202 - 270 km/h
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Torque
175 - 320 Nm
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Torque
220 - 420 Nm
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Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
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Number of Cylinders
4
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Power kW
70 - 152 kW
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Power kW
85 - 245 kW
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Engine capacity
999 - 1984 cm3
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Engine capacity
1498 - 1984 cm3
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General |
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Model Year
2025
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Model Year
2024 - 2025
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CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E
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CO2 Efficiency Class
D, F, G, C, B
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Brand
Audi
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Brand
VW
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Available configurations include Front-Wheel Drive.
The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.
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