For job-need drivers that spend more time behind the wheel than in the office a car’s interior matters.

And if it’s sophisticated styling they are looking for with a premium feel then the A1 fits the bill nicely.

The top of the range S line we’re testing uses high quality materials with leather and cloth combination seats (standard on this model). The soft touch plastic looks and feels expensive.

Audi says it has taken inspiration from an aircraft for theA1’s interior styling. The most distinctive feature is the four circular air nozzles (see image) which Audi says are based on the turbines of a jet engine.

The speedometer and rev counter are black with red needles, giving a sporty feel.

Those features aside the A1 could be accused of having a bland interior, particularly in comparison to the ‘funky’ interiors of the Fiat 500 and the A1’s main rival the Mini.

However, going for a classy look rather than a fun one is in keeping with the A1’s premium qualities.

The level of technology available in the A1 is impressive. The state-of-the-art infotainment and multimedia systems on offer are borrowed from the A8 luxury saloon.

The model we’re testing has a BOSE surround system (for £690) with 14 speakers and a subwoofer. One noticeable feature is that at night time the edges of the woofers in the doors light up.

A DAB digital radio is also specified for £305.

Drivers can still get a decent system without paying extra, though, as a six-speaker audio system with iPod connectivity and a retractable 6.5-inch display is standard on all A1s.

The A1 also has a pretty sophisticated sat-nav (which is available as part of a technology pack for £1,375).

There’s a mind boggling number of settings which have had me reaching for the manual on more than one occasion.

Perhaps the most surprising feature about the A1 is that underneath its expensive look and feel it shares the same platform as the VW Polo.