The Audi A1 and Volkswagen Polo are two of the most desirable premium small hatchbacks on the market. Both offer upscale interiors, composed driving experiences and a dash of prestige to elevate them above mainstream superminis. However, there are some key differences between these two vehicles that are important for shoppers to consider.
The latest A1 arrived in 2018 as a second-generation model built on an all-new platform. It's only offered as a five-door Sportback bodystyle, whereas the current sixth-generation Polo introduced in 2017 comes in three and five-door forms. Both cars aim to bring a more premium vibe to the small car class, but which one does it best?
Audi A1 vs Volkswagen Polo
Practicality
The A1 Sportback is a very practical small car, with decent space for four adults and split-folding rear seats. Its 335-litre boot is generous for the class and only bettered by cars like the Seat Ibiza and Honda Jazz. The Polo just about edges it with a 350-litre boot capacity, but both cars offer similar levels of interior practicality that put them near the top of the class.
While three adults can squeeze into the back of either car at a push and both are a step up from less practical rivals like the MINI hatch or Fiat 500.
When it comes to practicality, there's not a huge amount separating the A1 and Polo. The Volkswagen's slightly larger boot gives it a slight edge in this area, but both offer excellent packaging for small hatchbacks.
Driving Impressions
With a range of peppy yet refined petrol engines, a comfortable ride and composed, predictable handling, the Audi A1 is an easy and enjoyable car to drive whether you're around town or cruising on the motorway. A MINI hatchback is a bit more fun on a twisty road, but the A1 counters with superior comfort and practicality.
The Polo also prioritises comfort and refinement over outright driving thrills. It has one of the most cosseting rides in the class and excellent suppression of wind and road noise at speed. While not as much fun as the sharper Ford Fiesta, the Polo's controls are precise and its handling is secure if not overly exciting.
Both cars offer a range of punchy yet efficient turbocharged petrol engines. The Audi's lineup spans from a 94bhp 1.0-litre up to a 197bhp 2.0-litre, while the Polo's range includes 1.0-litre units with 79-114bhp plus the 197bhp 2.0-litre in the GTI. Gearbox options include slick manual and automatic transmissions.
While the MINI hatch just pips the A1 for outright driving fun, both the Audi and Volkswagen prioritise comfort and refinement over sharpness. The Polo has an ever so slightly more cosseting ride, but the A1 counters with slightly sharper handling. There's not a huge amount separating them in this area.
Technology and Equipment
Even base versions of the A1 come well-equipped with a 10.3-inch digital instrument cluster, 8.8-inch touchscreen with smartphone mirroring, LED lights and more. Higher trims add even more screens and tech like wireless charging. Interior quality is excellent for class if not quite up to bigger Audi standards.
The Polo also impresses with its generous kit levels across the range. Base Life models get air con, LED lights and electric windows, while the Style adds navigation, parking sensors and dual-zone climate control. The cabin has an upscale design and great ergonomics.
Both cars are available with the latest driver assistance systems too. While the Polo's cabin is superb for the sector, the A1's takes things another small notch upmarket in terms of perceived quality and cutting-edge technology. It just about has the edge in this area.
Running Costs
With efficient turbocharged petrol engines across their respective ranges, both the A1 and Polo should be relatively inexpensive to run day-to-day. Expect real-world fuel economy in the region of 40-45mpg for most A1 engines, falling to around 35mpg for the potent 197bhp 2.0-litre unit.
The Polo's most frugal engine is the 1.6 TDI diesel which can achieve up to 57mpg, though even the petrol units are capable of 50mpg or more with the manual gearbox. Only the GTI hot hatch dips below 40mpg.
Insurance costs are reasonable for both cars, with the A1 30 TFSI Sport sitting in group 20 - the same as an equivalent Polo. Servicing costs shouldn't break the bank for either model if following a fixed-price plan.
Perhaps the biggest difference is in terms of depreciation. The Audi A1 tends to hold its value better than the Polo, though both should fare reasonably well compared to more mainstream superminis.
Day-to-day running costs like fuel, insurance and servicing are broadly similar for the A1 and Polo. However, the Audi is likely to hold its value better on the used market thanks to its premium badge. Overall, there's not a huge amount separating them in terms of ownership costs.
Verdict
The Audi A1 and Volkswagen Polo are both excellent premium small hatchback choices. The A1 just about edges it for in-car technology, perceived interior quality and sharper handling, while the Polo counters with a slightly more spacious boot and smoother ride comfort.
Buyers who prioritise driving dynamics may prefer the A1's slightly more engaging setup, while the Polo's unruffled composure could appeal more to those who value relaxed cruising. There are also differences in ownership costs to consider, with the Polo likely to be slightly cheaper day-to-day but the A1 holding its value better.
Ultimately, both are superb upmarket superminis. The A1 has a slight edge for us in this test thanks to its outright desirability and perceived quality, but the Polo's blend of value, spaciousness and comfort makes it an extremely compelling alternative in its own right. Take a test drive of both if possible to see which one best suits your needs and driving style.