AUDI is about to take the supermini market by storm with its new A1 – there’s nothing retro about this sharp and stylish techno mover that’s right for now!

It might be the baby of the Audi stable but it’s not small, and while there’s no road tax to pay on all four launch models because of their sub-130g/km CO2, there’s none of the breathlessness of some ‘eco’ city cars.

But the overwhelming first impression is that of pure Audi, a quality machine.

If you were put behind the wheel blindfolded then had the cover removed you would instantly know it was an Audi and could be excused for thinking it was an A3 or even a TT.

This is acknowledged by residual value experts CAP that put it way above its rivals – especially Mini and Alfa Romeo Mito – with predicted value retention of 55 per cent over three years/30,000 miles and class-leading running costs too of just 29.6p per mile.

Externally it is a neat two-door coupe hatch that seats four with split-fold rear seat for versatility, and yes, as a six-footer I could comfortably sit in the back behind my own driving position, if with a little brush of my silver locks on the rooflining.

Economies of ownership, and top class residuals, are enhanced for private buyers with a five-year/50,000-mile service plan for just £250.

A lucky couple of thousand who pre-ordered get their cars this year at the current VAT rate, but for the majority new year delivery is going to mean 20 per cent VAT so prices will be ranging from £13,420 to £18,665.

Initially there is a choice of two petrol engines, 86PS 1.2 and 122PS 1.4 litre TFSI, with a 105PS 1.6 TDI diesel, and three trim levels – SE, Sport and S line.

But now we move into the techno world with all engines having turbocharging, direct fuel injection, engine stop-start and energy recuperation.

The 1.2 petrol and the diesel come with five-speed manual transmission, the 1.4 Sport and S line with a choice of six-speed manual and, wait for it, the fabulous seven-speed S tronic double-clutch automated manual, unique in the segment.

Driving with the S tronic you can select Drive and let it do its own thing or keep both hands on the wheel and use the paddles to change gear – which ever you choose its change is fabulously fast and almost imperceptible.

All models have the latest electronic stability program (ESP) with electronic axle differential to cut understeer for the front-wheel drive.

Alloy wheels are standard on all levels too, with 6.5in wide 15in on the entry 1.2 SE that’s good for 112mph (electronically limited) with 0-62mph in 11.7sec while returning 55.4mpg combined.

The 1.4 Sport has 7J 16in ten-spoke wheels for performance including 8.9sec sprint and limited 126mph max with 53.3mpg, while the S line with same performance boasts 7.5J 17in five-twin spoke alloys.

Sport and S line models have sports suspension and sports seats – the S line in cloth and leather – and I must say that the ride is everything you would expect of any Audi, with none of the choppiness of so many minis.

Naturally the in-car systems are top-notch, including the latest Multi Media Interface 3G+ with really slick satnav, and the latest infotainment platform.

Who could want for more?

Well at the Paris show Audi lifted the lid on a 185PS 1.4TFSI A1, supercharged as well as turbocharged, good for the dash in 6.9sec, 141mph and still 47.9mpg! And it goes on sale early in the new year.