Compare performance (300 HP vs 207 HP), boot space and price (28,800 £ vs 20,000 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – BMW 1 Series or Audi A1?
When it comes to the world of compact luxury, the Audi A1 and the BMW 1er Reihe (1 Series) both command attention. Both vehicles offer potent engines, eye-catching designs, and sophisticated technology. Let's dive deeper into the specifics that differentiate these two iconic hatchbacks in terms of performance, innovation, and overall driving experience.
The Audi A1, a beloved creation from the German automaker, is available with a range of petrol engines offering between 95 to 207 horsepower. Its front-wheel-drive system is tailored to provide a nimble driving feel, especially in urban settings. The power outputs are complemented by practical torque figures up to 320 Nm, allowing for a lively drive. Featuring both manual and dual-clutch automatic transmissions, the A1 caters to diverse driving preferences.
In contrast, the BMW 1er Reihe expands its appeal with a selection of petrol, diesel, and mild-hybrid engines ranging from 122 to an exhilarating 300 horsepower. It is available with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive, offering improved traction and stability, particularly in adverse conditions. The BMW's dual-clutch automatic transmission offers seamless gear transitions, enhancing the sporty and responsive character that BMW enthusiasts cherish.
For the eco-conscious driver, fuel economy and emissions are critical considerations. The Audi A1's consumption ranges between 5.3 to 6.5 L/100km with CO2 emissions spanning from 120 to 147 g/km. This efficiency settles the A1 into a practical option for everyday driving without hefty fuel bills.
The BMW 1er Reihe exhibits a slightly more varied range, with consumption figures between 4.3 and 7.6 L/100km and CO2 emissions from 112 to 173 g/km. It showcases a balanced approach between performance and economy, with its diesel and mild hybrid options particularly standing out for efficiency.
Both hatchbacks maintain a high standard of aesthetic appeal, each exuding brand-specific styles. The Audi A1 measures around 4,046 mm in length, with a compact stance suitable for tight city maneuvering. Meanwhile, the BMW 1er Reihe is slightly longer at 4,361 mm, offering more interior space.
The trunk capacity stands as another pivotal difference, with the A1 providing 335 liters of storage and the BMW offering a spacious 380 liters, making it more accommodating for those with cargo considerations.
Modern drivers expect cutting-edge technology, and both the Audi A1 and the BMW 1er Reihe deliver. The A1 is equipped with state-of-the-art infotainment systems and driver assistance features, further enhanced with optional Audi Virtual Cockpit.
The BMW counters with its iDrive system, offering a superior interface and connectivity options. Driver assistance and safety features are abundant, aiming to provide a secure and comfortable driving experience. The use of mild-hybrid technology in the BMW also exemplifies a progressive step towards greener driving solutions.
Choosing between the Audi A1 and the BMW 1er Reihe comes down to the individual priorities of each driver. The Audi shines with its balanced economy and urban convenience, while the BMW offers spirited performance and a more luxurious feel. Both have proven themselves as leaders in the compact luxury hatchback category, ensuring that no matter the choice, drivers receive top-tier German automotive craftsmanship.
Price and efficiency are often the first things buyers look at. Here it becomes clear which model has the long-term edge – whether at the pump, the plug, or in purchase price.
Audi A1 is clearly cheaper – starting at 20,000 £ , while the BMW 1 Series costs 28,800 £ . That’s a price difference of around 8,829 £.
Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the BMW 1 Series uses 4.3 L/100km and is visibly more efficient than the Audi A1 with 5.2 L/100km. The difference is about 0.9 L/100km.
Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.
When it comes to engine power, the BMW 1 Series offers visibly more power – delivering 300 HP compared to 207 HP. That’s roughly 93 HP more horsepower.
When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the BMW 1 Series is noticeably quicker – completing the sprint in 4.9 s, while the Audi A1 takes 6.5 s. That’s about 1.6 s quicker.
There’s also a difference in torque: the BMW 1 Series delivers slightly more torque with 400 Nm compared to 320 Nm. That’s about 80 Nm more.
Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.
Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.
In terms of curb weight, Audi A1 is clearly lighter – 1,175 kg compared to 1,465 kg. The difference is around 290 kg.
Looking at boot space, the BMW 1 Series offers moderately more boot space – 380 L compared to 335 L. That’s a difference of about 45 L.
When it comes to payload, the BMW 1 Series carries barely more – 510 kg compared to 470 kg. That’s a difference of about 40 kg.
The BMW 1 Series is decisively ahead in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.
The BMW 1 Series is a compact premium hatchback that injects a proper sense of driving fun into everyday life, with sharp handling and a cabin that punches above its class. It’s a great pick for buyers who want sporty manners without losing practicality, and yes, you’ll still get that unmistakable BMW grin behind the wheel.
details
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.
details
Costs and Consumption |
|
|---|---|
|
Price
28,800 - 51,100 £
|
Price
20,000 - 28,800 £
|
|
Consumption L/100km
4.3 - 7.6 L/100km
|
Consumption L/100km
5.2 - 6.4 L/100km
|
|
Consumption kWh/100km
-
|
Consumption kWh/100km
-
|
|
Electric Range
-
|
Electric Range
-
|
|
Battery Capacity
-
|
Battery Capacity
-
|
|
co2
112 - 173 g/km
|
co2
118 - 146 g/km
|
|
Fuel tank capacity
49 L
|
Fuel tank capacity
-
|
Dimensions and Body |
|
|---|---|
|
Body Type
Hatchback
|
Body Type
Hatchback
|
|
Seats
5
|
Seats
5
|
|
Doors
5
|
Doors
-
|
|
Curb weight
1,465 - 1,625 kg
|
Curb weight
1,175 - 1,365 kg
|
|
Trunk capacity
300 - 380 L
|
Trunk capacity
335 L
|
|
Length
4,361 mm
|
Length
-
|
|
Width
1,800 mm
|
Width
1,740 - 1,756 mm
|
|
Height
1,459 mm
|
Height
-
|
|
Max trunk capacity
1,135 - 1,200 L
|
Max trunk capacity
-
|
|
Payload
475 - 510 kg
|
Payload
410 - 470 kg
|
Engine and Performance |
|
|---|---|
|
Engine Type
Diesel, Petrol MHEV, Diesel MHEV, Petrol
|
Engine Type
Petrol
|
|
Transmission
Automatic
|
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
|
|
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
|
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
|
|
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
|
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
|
|
Power HP
122 - 300 HP
|
Power HP
95 - 207 HP
|
|
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.9 - 9.8 s
|
Acceleration 0-100km/h
6.5 - 11.5 s
|
|
Max Speed
210 - 250 km/h
|
Max Speed
-
|
|
Torque
230 - 400 Nm
|
Torque
175 - 320 Nm
|
|
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
|
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
|
|
Power kW
90 - 221 kW
|
Power kW
70 - 152 kW
|
|
Engine capacity
1,499 - 1,998 cm3
|
Engine capacity
999 - 1,984 cm3
|
General |
|
|---|---|
|
Model Year
2,024
|
Model Year
2,025
|
|
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, C, F
|
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E
|
|
Brand
BMW
|
Brand
Audi
|
Deutschland
France
Nederland
Great Britain
Sverige
Danmark
Suomi
Italia
Polska
España