Most 2018 A1 Sportbacks with petrol automatics use Audi’s 7‑speed S tronic dual‑clutch gearbox paired to small turbo petrol engines (commonly 1.0 or 1.4 TFSI). The drivetrain is efficient in town but the S tronic needs regular fluid/maintenance and occasional software updates; parts are widely available through VW/Audi networks but workshop bills are higher than mainstream brands. There’s no diesel DPF to worry about on petrols, but check for any oil consumption or turbo-related oil leaks on higher-mileage cars.

• S tronic/DSG service history and test for smooth, fast shifts with no jerking or hesitation (dual‑clutch wear/mechatronic faults can be costly)
• Check for signs of oil leaks around the turbo/intercooler and note any blue/grey smoke on cold start that could indicate oil consumption
• Suspension and steering knocks over bumps (drop‑links, anti‑roll bar bushes and shock top mounts commonly show wear on older small cars)
• Tyre age and condition plus brake disc/pad wear — replacement costs on Audi wheels can be higher than mainstream equivalents
• Corrosion under the car and around rear wheelarches/door sills (Irish roads and salted winters accelerate underside rust on older cars)