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Used test: Audi A1 vs Mini 5dr vs Peugeot 208 verdict

You can save around £5000 on these classy hatchbacks by buying nearly new, but which should you spend your money on?...

Peugeot 208 with Audi A1 and Mini hatchback

Our verdict 

The Mini 5dr gets a lot right, including the interior quality, performance and infotainment. It comes third in this test simply because its competitors excel that bit more in a few key areas, mainly comfort, fuel economy and value for money. 

The A1 comes second, and is comfortable, fun to drive and has good safety kit. It’s a great all-rounder and came very close to taking the top spot in this test. 

We’ve crowned the 208 the winner, though. As a small hatchback package, it has the most plus points – it’s stylish, the cheapest to buy, has good levels of equipment and features a plush-feeling interior.

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1st – Peugeot 208

Blue Peugeot 208 rear cornering

For Eye-catching, plush-feeling interior; lots of standard kit; comfortable ride; quietest 
Against Not much fun to drive; flawed driving position; so-so infotainment

WhatCar? rating 4 stars out of 5

Read our full used Peugeot 208 review >> 

Audi A1 rear - white 19-plate car

For Comfortable ride; most agile and enjoyable to drive; good crash protection
Against Interior not that special for the price; infotainment could be improved

WhatCar? rating 4 stars out of 5

Read our full used Audi A1 Sportback review >>

Find used Audi A1s for sale >>


3rd – Mini 5dr

Mini 5dr rear - black 69-plate car

For Best for interior quality; punchy engine; excellent infotainment upgrades
Against Bumpy ride; poor safety provisions; pricey to own; noisiest; poor gearshift; thirstiest

WhatCar? rating 3 stars out of 5

Read our full used Mini 5dr review >>

Find used Minis for sale >>


Specifications: Audi A1 Sportback 30 TFSI Sport (Plus Pack)

Engine size 1.0-litre petrol
Power 114bhp
Torque 146lb ft
0-60mph 9.1sec
Top speed
126mph
Fuel economy 46.5mpg (Official average)
CO2 emissions 131g/km


Specifications: Mini 5dr Cooper Exclusive (Comfort Pack)

Engine size 1.5-litre petrol
Power 134bhp
Torque 162lb ft
0-60mph 8.5sec
Top speed 129mph
Fuel economy 44.1mpg (Official average)
CO2 emissions 144g/km


Specifications: Peugeot 208 Puretech 100 GT Line

Engine size 1.2-litre petrol
Power 99bhp
Torque 151lb ft
0-60mph 10.3sec
Top speed 117mph
Fuel economy 44.7mpg (Official average)
CO2 emissions 126g/km