Used Audi A1 S-line cars

The S line is a sporty trim level for the Audi A1 compact hatchback. Rather than offering the performance of an Audi S1 hot hatch, it’s a version that gives a sportier look and feel, while keeping running costs to a minimum.

The A1 is the smallest model in the Audi range and a rival to premium compact hatchbacks such as the Volkswagen Polo, the DS 3 and the Mini Hatch. It’s like owning a car with the strong image and high build-quality of a larger Audi, but at a more affordable price.

The first-generation Audi A1 was sold new from 2010 until 2018, initially as a three-door model but with a five-door model (called A1 Sportback) available from 2012. The current five-door-only Audi A1 Sportback arrived in 2018 and there are lots of versions to choose from.

In the case of the current Audi A1, the S line trim sits towards the top of the range. There are two trim levels below it (Technik and Sport), with the Black Edition above it. Although there are no differences in terms of performance, the lowered suspension of the S line and Black Edition models makes them feel a bit more responsive and sporty to drive.

When looking at the previous A1, you’ll note that the S line sits more in the middle of the range, above the SE and Sport trim levels. It’s not that the spec is any less impressive, just that the A1 was available with a couple of high-performance versions, namely the S1 and S1 Competition. Thanks to a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine, these cars offer the power to go with the sporty styling.

It’s easy to spot an S line model – just look for the sportier styling and large alloy wheels. What you get will depend on the age of the car – not to mention the options that may have been added by the original owner – but you’re guaranteed a sporty appearance and some interior enhancements.

The features you get as standard with the latest Audi A1 Sportback S line include 17-inch alloy wheels, lowered suspension, sport seats that hug you in place, stainless steel pedals and body-coloured side sills. In addition to these, you also get S line badges on the front wings and bespoke front and rear bumpers. The LED interior lighting pack adds extra illumination to the footwells, door handles and vanity mirrors.

When introduced in 2018, the A1 Sportback S line was also available with three upgrades: Competition, Style Edition and Contrast Edition. The Competition is the sportiest of the trio, with suspension that can be adjusted (via a switch) for extra comfort or sharper cornering, red brake calipers and a few cosmetic upgrades.

The Style Edition has 18-inch alloy wheels, darkened LED headlights, a choice of two paint colours with a contrasting roof, leather seat trim, LED ambient lighting and other interior and exterior upgrades. 

You’ll also find 18-inch alloy wheels, a contrasting roof colour and darkened LED headlights on the S line Contrast Edition, as well as yellow metallic paint and privacy glass.

The older A1 S line model – sold new until 2018 – had a similar vibe, with 17-inch alloy wheels, lowered suspension, improved headlights, sport seats, an LED interior lighting pack and a full S line styling makeover.