Audi's Mini Cooper rival

Audi has the Mini Cooper in sights with a new addition to its model line-up -- dubbed the A1 -- which debuts in concept form at the imminent Tokyo motor show.

Previewed two years ago by the Shooting Brake Concept (more here), the A1 Metroproject Quattro is destined for production in 2009/10 and is conceived to pinch sales from the hot-selling Mini, which has been a runaway success since its 2001 debut.

The A1 will be underpinned by a new MQB platform, which will also form the basis for the next-generation A3. A key selling point for the A1 over the Mini is in that it will be available with Audi's trademark quattro all-wheel-drive hardware, while the BMW-built baby car is offered only as a front-driver.

The Tokyo concept is powered by a 110kW 1.4-litre Twincharger engine, as used in the Volkswagen Golf GT, and this is mated to an S-tronic dual-clutch gearbox. However, adding interest is a 30kW electric motor mounted on the rear axle, and this unit also produces 200Nm of torque when under the cosh.

The electric powerplant has plug-in capability, allowing its lithium-ion batteries to be charged from a household power point -- this provision enables the car to be driven solely on electric power for 100km.

Audi also employs engine start/stop technology and brake energy regeneration, which the automaker claims decreases fuel consumption by 15 per cent.

Visually, the A1 embraces the design language pioneered by the likes of the A5 and new A4 and, we must admit, its proportions are rather appealing. It could be a handy addition to the range, and Audi is reportedly hoping to build 100,000 units in its first full year of production.

Further down the track, there will be convertible and micro-SUV derivatives, enabling Audi to broaden its target audience.

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