Audi A1 Sportback Unwrapped: 2011 Tokyo Auto Show

Just the Facts:

• Audi officially unveiled the new five-door edition of its A1 compact.
• The A1 Sportback was shown as a concept at the Frankfurt auto show.
• It goes on sale in Europe in early 2012.

TOKYO — Audi officially unveiled the A1 Sportback, a new five-door addition to its compact A1 range, here at the 2011 Tokyo Auto Show. The A1 Sportback previously was displayed in concept form at the Frankfurt auto show. The car goes on sale in Europe in early 2012, priced from just under $23,000.

There are no current plans to market the A1 Sportback in the U.S., according to Audi of America.

Aimed at "a young, urban public," the A1 Sportback is taller than the three-door A1, with more room for rear-seat passengers. Tire/wheel sizes range from 15 to 18 inches, and options include an S line package, panoramic sunroof and a 465-watt Bose surround-sound audio system with 14 speakers.

In Europe, the A1 Sportback will be offered with a choice of six four-cylinder engines, including three gasoline and three diesel units. All of the engines employ direct injection and forced induction, and four get stop-start systems to enhance fuel economy and reduce emissions.

The range-topping gasoline engine is a supercharged and turbocharged 1.4-liter unit that makes 185 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, providing 0-60 acceleration in less than 7.0 seconds and a top speed of just over 140 mph.

The top diesel is a 143-hp 2.0 TDI that delivers 0-60 acceleration in less than 8.5 seconds and returns an average 57 mpg.

Audi offers a variety of transmissions, including five- and six-speed manual boxes and a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic.

Inside Line says: Could be a sleeper in the U.S., depending on window stickers and pump prices.