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As to size, the A1 measurements are comparable to those of what are sure to be its chief targets, the BMW-engineered Mini Cooper and Clubman; the Audi is as long (155.5 inches) as a Clubman but rides on a wheelbase (97.2) nearly identical to the three-door Cooper’s. Height (55.9 inches) is also a wash among all three models. Where the A1 differs most is in width—at 68.5 inches, it’s two inches wider than the Minis.

Inside, the cabin looks as if it will uphold well the Audi tradition of beautiful craftsmanship and interesting design. An LED lighting package can be ordered to up the tech factor, which is already high with the availability of an SDHC card reader, iPod integration, and an MMI navigation package that includes 20 gigs of music storage and Bluetooth connectivity. As on larger Audis, MMI-equipped A1s will have a knob that controls the infotainment functions. Two trim levels are on offer: Attraction and Ambition. The A1 Attraction is the base model, with 15-inch wheels, keyless entry, power mirrors and windows, and stability control. The Ambition adds sport seats, aluminum-look trim, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and it can also be outfitted with an S-line package that nabs a Sport suspension, 16- or 17-inch wheels, and even sportier seats. A few of the items on the A1’s options list looks like they were ganked from the A8, stuff like automatic high beams, rain-sensing wipers, a panoramic sunroof, keyless go, and heated side mirrors. Cruise control, heated seats, parking sensors, a 465-watt Bose stereo, and automatic climate control will be available, too.

The A1 will go on sale in Europe this summer as a three-door hatchback; a five-door is scheduled to join the lineup in 2011. The base price, Audi says, will be around €16,000, or roughly $22,000. There’s no word yet as to whether the A1 will be coming stateside, but Audi has left the door open during previous conversations. Could this little Audi work in the U.S.? We’re not sure, but with the Mini Cooper’s success and the Fiat 500 on the way, now would be a great time to find out.

http://www.caranddriver.com/news/car/10q1/2011_audi_a1-official_photos_and_info