Not exactly an SUV or a crossover, but as sub-compact with some crossover attributes and stance, the Audi A1 citycarver is the first of its kind, with no direct or indirect predecessor.
The model is obviously based on the regular A1 Sportback, but has an increased ground clearance, bigger wheels and a more robust exterior look.

Design wise, the Audi A1 citycarver is more reminiscent of an Audi Q model, especially thanks to the look of the large, octagonal Singleframe engine grill. That said, despite the additional four centimeters of ground clearance thanks to the different suspension and bigger wheels, underbody protection and other SUV-like features, the car is front-wheel-drive only. The quattro badge will never be available on this generation of the A1, so the A1 citycarver won’t get it either. That said, almost everything except the design is identical between the Sportback and the citycarver, meaning that Audi simply wanted to offer more choice in the sub-compact segment.

The origins of the small premium model A1 were linked to the VW Polo platform.
The sum of luxurious items and a different badge on the grille helped the german manufacturer to gain more from the cheap platform. Since more and more customers were concerned more about the look, fit and finish, Audi moved on and repeated the technical recipe, by installing more technology and adding luxury options, specific for the upper-class Audis.

The exterior look of the second-generation Audi A1 Sportback received a fresh design with Audi-type design elements such as the single-frame front end, rear wings remembering those on the Audi Sport quattro from 1984 and side air inlets. The exterior dimensions grew compared to the first generation. Now it is 4.03m (13.2ft) long, with a 1.74m (5.7ft) width, and it has a height of 1.41m (4.6ft).

The engine range comprises only of direct-injected gasoline units with power ranging between 95 hp and 200 hp. Apart from the top version, a 7-speed dual-clutch S Tronic transmission is available for any of the engine variants. The top version is fitted as standard with a 6-speed S tronic automatic transmission.

But, despite the look and the 200 hp engine, underneath the body there is a McPherson suspension for the front and a semi-independent rear suspension.

Maybe it was time for Audi to respond to the BMW’s Mini with a mini-premium car.
And the response came in 2011, with the new Audi A1.

The mini car was based on the VW Polo and the Skoda Fabia, with added the luxury specific to the Audi.

The small car had lots of appeal and lots of options. Surprisingly, the base version did not have air conditioning, option that could be added at a cost of $1,525. However, the Pro Line trim package had AC included and many other features for just $1,500. A nice strategy from Audi!

Inside the cabin we could find the classy dashboard Audi got us used to, lots of storage spaces and useful cupholders.

For such a small car, the cargo area was more than decent and it could also be extended by folding the rear seats.

The Audi A1 was easy to drive, mostly great around town and in traffic. However, taking the small car on a long journey might not feel that great. The steering was designed to do well in traffic situations, but did not offer much feedback to the driver.
The suspension was a little bit firm and mostly felt like a bigger car that did very well on turns, with little to no body roll.

The A1 was only available in a 3-door model and due to its shape, the passengers in the back had limited headroom.

The first generation of the rather successful Audi A1 subcompact received a mid-cycle facelift in 2015, with the biggest changes consisting of an upgraded exterior and interior design, new trims and refreshed engines.
Following an updated choice of colors and materials, for both the exterior and the interior, the front end of the car features redesigned bumpers, which actually makes the model 2 centimeters (0.8 in) longer. New headlights and taillights complete the exterior revamp.

On the inside there is great deal of new customization options either via trim level or optional features program, which even includes colored air vents. The six-engine lineup of the facelifted Audi A1 and A1 Sportback comprises of turbocharged three- and four-cylinder mills that are entirely new or carried over but with extensive modifications. The four TFSI and two TDI engines offer an output between 90 hp and 192 hp and can be paired with a six-speed manual or a seven-speed S Tronic dual-clutch transmission.