Audi have officially confirmed that production of the Audi A1, the brand’s smallest and most affordable model, will come to an end. After more than a decade on sale, the premium supermini is being phased out as the German marque shifts focus toward electrification and higher-margin vehicles.

The decision to discontinue the A1 is largely a response to tightening EU emissions regulations and the increasingly high costs of developing small combustion-engine cars that comply with them. In an interview with the German publication Handelsblatt, Audi CEO Markus Duesmann previously hinted at the A1’s uncertain future, citing "economic pressures" and a strategic refocus.

In short, the margins on compact petrol and diesel cars are becoming too slim to justify investment - particularly for premium manufacturers like Audi. The resources are instead being redirected towards EV development and larger, more profitable models.

Launched in 2010, the A1 was Audi's answer to the likes of the Mini Hatch and other upmarket superminis. Built on Volkswagen Group underpinnings, it delivered a refined and upmarket experience in a compact package. The second-generation model arrived in 2018, bringing sharper styling, improved tech, and a more grown-up driving experience.

Over the years, the A1 won praise for its premium interior quality, efficient engines, and compact urban-friendly proportions. Hot versions like the A1 Quattro and S1 even gave the supermini real enthusiast appeal.

With the A1 being dropped, the Audi A3 becomes the brand’s new entry point, at least for now. It’s also likely that any future replacement in the small car segment will be fully electric, possibly built on Volkswagen Group’s MEB or SSP platform.

Audi has already committed to becoming an all-electric brand by 2033, and the removal of low-margin petrol models like the A1 is a clear step in that direction.

The discontinuation of the Audi A1 marks the end of an era for premium small cars. For buyers still interested in Audi’s smallest model, the A1 remains on sale while stocks last, with used examples likely to become increasingly sought after - especially the sportier variants.

So, if you’ve ever fancied owning a pint-sized Audi, now might be the time to act.