The Paris auto show started today, and with it comes some exciting new concepts. First up is this premium, subcompact Audi A1 Sportback, a five-door, front-wheel drive hatchback.

The timing of the A1 is perfect. As a concept, Audi makes no mention if they have any intention of importing the car to North America. I think we have shown enough interest in the A3 to at least warrant a look. In an economic climate where fuel costs and spending are major concerns, if we are not ready to embrace the concept of the premium small car, we never will be.

The A1 Sportback is powered through its front wheels by a 1.4 liter, 4-cylinder engine rated at 150hp coupled to an S-Tronic dual clutch transmission. The A1 also employs plug-in hybrid technology. The car plugs into any outlet, and can run on its own battery power cruising in suburban driving situations. The electrical motor also serves as an additional ‘boost’ during hard acceleration and spirited driving. For performance figures, Audi claims 0-62mph in 7.9 seconds, with a top speed of 124mph. Not particularly fast by any modern definition, but those figures sound much more impressive when you will be getting that performance while getting 60 miles per/gallon. 

I don’t see how Audi can risk cheapening its image by offering a premium subcompact-as long as it retains the traits most people associate with contemporary Audi’s-attractive styling, taut handling, and the best interiors in the business. I would expect pricing below the A3, but my only question is how VW would stack up against this car with their new line of diesel engines?