Audi A1 leaked

A leaked image of Audi's new A1 compact car featuring newly appointed brand ambassador Justin Timberlake has made its way onto the Internet well ahead of the car's February 2010 debut.

Taken during the filming of a TV commercial, the leaked image shows the A1 has an angular face, one that is instantly recognisable as an Audi, thanks to the LED driving lights and single frame grille. The compact German runabout also features silver A-pillars and a sporty front apron, suggesting this particular A1 is a range-topping model.

Audi is aiming to take market share away from the successful MINI Cooper with its new A1, and signing up Justin Timberlake to spruik its new youth-targetted compact car will be one of its more costly campaigns. Audi is keen to win over younger buyers with the A1, which will be its most affordable model yet.

The German company says that American megastar Justin Timberlake will "play the leading role in an exceptional Audi A1 Internet campaign to be launched in the spring of 2010". Despite using an American to market the vehicle, it will not be sold in the US.

Peter Schwarzenbauer, Member of the Board of Management of AUDI AG for Marketing and Sales, said: "As a superstar he appeals to a young target audience that we're particularly intent on exciting about the compact and efficient A1, which is superlatively well suited for city traffic."

The Audi A1 drip-feed campaign has already begun and after its online unveiling in February 2010, the car's first public appearance will take place at the 2010 Geneva motor show in March.

At this stage the car has been confirmed for Australia and will arrive sometime during 2010.

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