24 Oct 07
Here's the Audi that could make the Mini look very old-hat. The A1 Metroproject Quattro, unveiled at Tokyo and likely to be ready for production in 2009, is a supermini with a hybrid powertrain.
A 1.4-litre TFSI petrol engine making about 150bhp drives the front wheels through a dual-clutch gearbox, and an electric motor making a further 40bhp can drive the rear wheels.
As well as taking energy from the petrol engine when needed, the battery can also be plugged in for an overnight recharge. Driven in electric-only mode the A1 would have a range of more than 60 miles.
Both powerplants working in unison ensure the A1 Metroproject will have a reasonable turn of speed, reaching 62mph in 7.8 seconds and topping out at 124mph.
Meanwhile, thanks to the electric motor and the efficient TFSI engine, the A1 should average 57.6mpg at the pumps and pollute to the tune of just 112g/km of CO2.
The concept has Audi's magnetic adaptive suspension that has already been honed on the TT and R8 supercar. Drivers will also be able to fine-tune suspension, steering and shift speed via the Audi Drive Select system that made its debut on the new A4 range.
Inside, technophiles will appreciate a touchscreen Audi phone that docks with the A1 Metroproject's dash and allows the navigation, audio and heating system to be programmed before you reach the car.
Check out the rest of our Tokyo Motor Show coverage
