Hot diesel Audi A1 launched

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Audi has introduced a new, more powerful, diesel engine to the A1 line-up. It looks set to take the identically powered Mini Cooper SD square on. The 2.0-litre TDI unit provides 141bhp and 236lb ft of torque, comprehensively topping the A1’s other diesel option, a 103bhp/136lb ft 1.6 TDI unit. The new 2.0 hustles the A1 to 62mph in 8.2sec, (2.3sec faster than the 1.6) and on to 135mph (up from 118mph). Despite its useful hike in performance, the new engine delivers 68.9mpg while emitting 108g/km of CO2, meaning £20 annual road tax. In comparison, the 1.6 manages 74.3mpg and free tax-garnering 99g/km.  Two new A1 special editions have also been announced, the Contrast Edition and the Black Edition. The Contrast Edition gives the A1 a contrasting A-to-C pillar roof line colour, further aerodynamic styling elements over the Sport model and bi-colour 17in alloy wheels. Asking a £1350 premium over an equivalent A1 Sport, Contrast Editions are available from £16,610 (for the 1.2 TFSI manual petrol). It’s an option on all A1s except the 182bhp 1.4 TFSI.  The Black Edition, however, is exclusively available on either the 182bhp 1.4 TFSI petrol or the new 141bhp 2.0 TDI diesel. It equips the A1 with a black single frame grill, black number plate holder, tinted windows, Xenon headlights, LED daytime running lights and 18in titanium coloured alloys. You also get an Audi Sound System speaker upgrade along with full electronic climate control. You’ll pay a £1100 premium over like-for-like A1 S lines, with the 1.4 TFSI costing £21,810. evo reviews the Audi A1 1.4 TFSI 185 S line