Audi takes on Mini: A1 first pics

Click here for more pictures of the Audi Metroproject Quattro

Audi is set to release a supermini to take on the successful Mini – and will equip it with a hybrid engine.

Although officially a concept, the Audi Metroproject Quattro in these official pictures is rumoured to be close to the production car named the Audi A1

The most notably change is expected to be more conventional ‘framed- doors’.

Under the raised bonnet of the Metroproject Quattro concept is a 1.4-litre turbocharged engine producing 150bhp and 177lb/ft of pulling power.

In the boot is a battery pack bathed in blue mood lighting. This powers an electric motor which can send 40bhp and 150lb/ft of pulling power to the rear wheels.

Importantly, the battery can be charged directly from the mains – not just from regenerative power like a Toyota Prius – and it can travel up to 62 miles on battery power alone.

Inside the Mini rival has cutting edge instruments and Audi’s trademark round air vents. The concept features several colour display screens within the dashboard, but it is unclear if these would make it to production in the A1.

The top-of-the range model will almost certainly feature Quattro four-wheel-drive.

The Audi A1 is expected in showrooms by 2010 with a full range of engines and specifications available.

Click here for more pictures of the Audi Metroproject Quattro