BMW 1 Series vs Audi A1
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Hatchbacks compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The BMW 1 Series starts from $57,600 before on-road costs, while the Audi A1 opens at $51,500. That makes the Audi A1 the more affordable entry point by $6,100.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $63,360 and $56,650 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Audi A1 by roughly $1,000 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the BMW 1 Series and Audi A1 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 83% for the BMW 1 Series and 95% for the Audi A1.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Audi A1 packs more ADAS features with 7 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 6 in the BMW 1 Series.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 6 in the BMW 1 Series and 6 in the Audi A1.
Feature Showdown
The BMW 1 Series features a 10.7-inch touchscreen, while the Audi A1 gets a 10.1-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The BMW 1 Series stands out with wireless charging that you will not find on the Audi A1. The Audi A1 counters with head-up display, heated front seats, power tailgate, Bang & Olufsen audio and ambient lighting. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The BMW 1 Series uses a Petrol producing 115kW and 230Nm of torque, sent through a auto to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 7.3 seconds.
The Audi A1 responds with a Petrol making 152kW and 320Nm, paired to a s tronic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 6.3 seconds.
The Audi A1 has the clear power advantage at 152kW vs 115kW. In the real-world sprint, the Audi A1 is 1.0s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The BMW 1 Series measures 4,369mm long on a 2,670mm wheelbase, 340mm longer than the Audi A1 at 4,029mm (2,563mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the BMW 1 Series generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 380L in the BMW 1 Series and 335L in the Audi A1, giving the BMW 1 Series a 45L advantage.
For towing, the BMW 1 Series leads with a 1,000kg braked capacity vs 750kg. That 250kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.7m to 10.8m
Based on 10.8m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 10.7m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $1,796/year for the BMW 1 Series and $1,596/year for the Audi A1. That is a $200 annual difference in favour of the Audi A1.
Estimated annual total: $1,796 (BMW 1 Series) vs $1,596 (Audi A1). The Audi A1 saves you roughly $200 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (BMW 1 Series) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Audi A1). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the BMW 1 Series if: You need more boot space, need stronger towing, or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Audi A1 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, want lower running costs, or prefer Audi's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Audi A1 takes 4 of 6 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Audi A1 will save you roughly $200 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the BMW 1 Series has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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