Audi A1 vs BMW i Series
What's the difference?

Audi A1

$18,998 - $29,990

2020 price

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BMW i Series

$88,900 - $233,400

2026 price

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Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Summary

2020 Audi A1

2026 BMW i Series

By Matt Campbell

By Emily Agar

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Turbo 4, 1.8L

Electric motor type

Electromagnetically Excited

Fuel Type

Premium Unleaded Petrol

Vehicle type

Battery Electric

Fuel Efficiency

5.9L/100km (combined)

Electric range

805 km

Energy consumption

18.8 kWh/100km

Battery capacity

108.70 kWh

Seating

Likes

Character-filled car
Sporty performance
City-friendly dimensions

Great driving range
Spacious cabin for the whole family
Excellent real-world efficiency

Dislikes

Fuel use a bit high
Expensive
Back seat lacks amenities

Optioned wheels hurt range
Fussy ride on rough roads
Missing features for flagship grade

2020 Audi A1 Summary

The Audi A1 2020 range offers something for everyone, and in the case of this particular variant, it’s the one you buy if you want as much grunt and gear as you can get.

It’s the top-of-the-range Audi A1 40 TFSI model, which gets the zestiest engine, the lengthiest equipment list, and offers performance to match some hot-hatches out there. It’s essentially an Audi-ised version of a VW Polo GTI.

This test wasn’t so much about the wow-factor, though. We put it through its paces as an urban runabout to see how it coped as a real-world city car.

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2026 BMW i Series Summary

We’re in the new BMW iX3, the first production model to arrive on BMW’s Neue Klasse (new class) EV architecture. We’re testing the flagship 50 xDrive, and it begs the question: has BMW actually managed to make its next generation of EVs feel like a proper Bimmer? Buyers expect a lot from that badge when it comes to ride and handling, so does this electric SUV actually deliver?

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Deep dive comparison

2020 Audi A1 2026 BMW i Series

Verdict

If you’re eager for a sporty compact hatchback with premium design and luxury car badges, the Audi A1 40 TFSI is a very, very strong contender. It’s fast, fun, and functional for a little hatchback. It’s just very expensive, and for most people the $10K cheaper 35 TFSI model will tick most of the boxes. I’d recommend you drive it before signing on for the top-spec model.

Verdict

The BMW iX3 50 xDrive is a seriously quick electric SUV that earns points for its family practicality, while its impressive range could go a long way towards easing range anxiety. The ride isn’t always as settled as I’d like, but for the most part, this is a well-executed premium EV.

Audi A1 vs BMW i Series What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Audi A1 vs BMW i Series
What's the difference?