Audi has finally pulled the covers off the new A1, easily its most important new debutante of the year. As well as marking a lower entry-level into the Audi range, it has been conceived to hit BMW where it works by stealing sales from the MINI.

Dealers will be taking orders in May, and the starting prices of the new car will be from £13,000 - although expect that to rise sharply once you start plumbing the options list. Audi is hoping that the Metroproject-aping style will prove an irresistible draw, and adds visual drama to the solid and stylish interior.

All engines are turbocharged - the TFSI petrol units and two TDI diesels deliver ample power (85bhp 1.2-litre TFSI) and performance, which promises 0-62mph in 12.1 seconds and a 111mph top speed. The more popular 1.6-diesel will be the one everyone will want - 0-62mph in 12.2 seconds, returns 74.3mpg and puts out only 99g/km. A 104bhp version posts a time of 10.8 seconds and offers 72.4mpg economy.

Will the premium baby prove a hit in the showrooms, and prove the perfect commuter car for R8 owners? We'll see in the summer. Deliveries of the three-door A1 start in November, with a hot S1 and a five-door following later.