Update: Audi A1 Cabrio set for 2009 Frankfurt debut

Posted Thu Jun 26 2008 9:14 PM by Ralph Hanson

Update: Audi’s new A1 minicar is expected to hit showrooms in early 2010 but before that we should see a concept version of a new cabriolet A1, reported to be unveiled at next year’s Frankfurt Motor Show. Aimed at squarely at other compact cabrios, namely the Mini Convertible, the new A1 drop-top will follow the launch of its hardtop sibling by roughly 12 months.

The A1 Cabrio will feature an automated fabric roof, but unlike the design of the Mini, where the roof folds away on top of the rear deck, the new A1’s soft-top will store neatly in the trunk when down. According to AutoExpress, the design means there will be no rear seats as they have been taken up the extra storage space required for the roof.

Original: Audi’s CEO has reaffirmed his company’s plans to boost its lineup to 40 models by 2015 and expand its production facilities, including possibly building a plant in the U.S., as well as upgrading its current European sites. Audi has already confirmed it will invest €200 million in its Brussels plant to prepare it for the new A1 minicar due in 2010.

Speaking with Germany’s Focus, Rupert Stadler confirmed that Audi was investigating U.S. production and revealed that it could simply use extra capacity a new American Volkswagen plant to be announced within months.

The upcoming A1, meanwhile, will exclusively be built in Brussels and will be available in several different variations in addition to the core hatchback model. The other variants are tipped to include a cabrio, sportback and a possible SUV-crossover.

Audi was originally planning to build around 100,000 A1 minicars per year but with the new upgrades production can now be boosted closer to 120,000 units annually.

Heavily influenced by the Audi Metroproject concept car, the A1 is being built by Audi as a direct response to new premium mini-cars being brought out. The competitors on this stage include Mercedes’ Smart brand, the Volkswagen Up!, and even a new BMW minicar currently being developed.

Gallery: Audi A1 family renderings

Reader Comments

Tue Jun 10 2008 11:01 AM
chris says

I'm looking at the side of the 2 door model and I think those doors need to be a little longer than that.. a 3 door should be all door.. should look hot.. that just reminds me of the old school 2 door suburbans. MORE DOOR!
Tue Jun 10 2008 11:24 AM
Alan says

These are just preview though, although i wonder how much will this cost, if it's close to Golf money then why buy this over Golf
Tue Jun 10 2008 9:38 PM
HECTOR says

I'd rather walk.

MotorAuthority