Is a small premium car the right choice for everyday driving around Havering? This AUDI A1 review looks beyond the badge at space, running costs and what to check before buying used. For a Hornchurch driver heading into Romford, or an Upminster commuter who occasionally uses the A127, the A1’s compact size has obvious appeal. The question is whether its higher purchase price makes sense for your particular journeys.
The A1 feels at home on busy local roads. Its small footprint makes parking and tight manoeuvres easier than in a larger hatchback, while its composed ride and well-finished cabin give it a more substantial feel than its dimensions suggest. It is also capable of longer trips towards Brentwood or beyond the M25 at junction 29, although it cannot match a larger car for rear-seat comfort or luggage space.
There are two main generations to consider. The first-generation A1 was sold as a three-door and a five-door Sportback; the second generation, introduced in 2018, is five-door only. If passengers regularly travel with you, the Sportback or newer car is the more practical starting point. On a test drive, check visibility, seat comfort and how confidently the car pulls away in stop-start traffic. Take it over varied roads rather than deciding after a quick lap of the forecourt.
Interior quality is a major reason to choose an A1. Controls generally feel well placed, and many cars have the connectivity and driver information buyers expect from a modern hatchback. Equipment varies considerably by year and trim, though, so do not assume that every A1 has smartphone integration, parking sensors or a particular navigation system. Check the individual car and pair your phone before you buy.
The trade-off is space. Front-seat occupants should be comfortable, but taller adults may find the rear seats restrictive, particularly in an older three-door car. Bring the people or items you routinely carry: a child seat, pushchair or luggage for a weekend away will tell you more than a specification sheet. If regular family trips or large Romford and Lakeside shopping runs are the priority, compare the A1 with a Volkswagen Golf or Skoda Fabia as well as other small cars.
Used A1s come with a range of petrol engines, while earlier cars may also be available with diesel engines. A modest petrol version often suits short journeys around Elm Park, Upminster and Hornchurch. A more powerful engine may feel more relaxed when joining faster roads such as the A12 or A127, but it could cost more to insure and run. An older diesel deserves careful thought if most of your driving is short, low-speed trips.
Manual and automatic cars are available. If you are considering an automatic, test it both from a standstill and once warm; changes should feel appropriate to the car, without persistent hesitation or harshness. Ask for evidence of servicing carried out to the schedule for that specific engine and gearbox. Maintenance requirements differ, so a confident answer backed by records is more useful than a general claim that the car has been serviced.
Havering is within London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone, making compliance important even if you rarely drive into central London. As a general rule, petrol cars need to meet Euro 4 and diesels Euro 6 to comply, but check the exact registration with TfL before paying a deposit. Do not rely on the car’s age or an advert alone. Also obtain an insurance quote for the specific registration: premiums can differ substantially with engine, trim, driver and postcode.
Vehicle Excise Duty depends on factors including when the car was first registered and its emissions, so check the vehicle’s current tax details rather than assuming all A1s cost the same. Remember that road tax does not transfer to a new keeper. Budget for tyres, servicing and an annual MOT once the car is over three years old. These costs matter just as much as an attractive monthly finance payment.
A thorough inspection matters more than choosing a particular badge or trim. When viewing an A1, work through these checks:
London Motor Company can help you compare individual cars, but the best choice depends on your driving pattern. Ask to see the documentation for the A1 you are considering and allow time for a proper test drive.
Yes, if you want a compact car with a premium-feeling interior and you are happy to prioritise finish over maximum space. It makes particular sense for one or two people making local trips between Upminster, Shenfield and neighbouring areas, with occasional longer journeys. If value per inch of cabin space matters most, compare it with a Volkswagen Polo, Skoda Fabia or Hyundai i20 before deciding.
Buying used also means weighing the whole deal: condition, documented maintenance, insurance, ULEZ status and any finance interest rate, not just the asking price. EVs are another option for some local drivers, but an A1 can still be a sensible fit if home charging is impractical or you prefer a petrol hatchback. Check current stock rather than assuming a particular engine or trim is available.
Ready to find out how one feels on your usual roads? Browse the available cars at LMC Cars and arrange a viewing at White Post Farm, Ockendon Road, Upminster, Essex RM14 3PP. Bring your licence, insurance details for a quote, and a list of the features you need: the right used A1 should work for your everyday life, not just look good on the driveway.
Browse our full range of quality used cars, or talk to our friendly team.