A GROUP of car experts have picked out a luxury hatchback that can be bought for under £9,000. Swansway Motor Group , a family-owned dealership brand based in Cheshire, have exclusively revealed to Sun Motors their top choice for a practical and modern hatchback with plenty of refinement. The motor in question is the Audi A1, a supermini built by the German marque since 2010.

While the second-gen model was released in 2019, the Mk1 remains a very popular second-hand choice for drivers looking for affordable thrills. Built to take on the new Mini, the A1 is perhaps best known for its premium image and fun-focused driving experience, and there's plenty of scope for customisation, too. The Swansway Motor Group gurus are particular fans of its interior, saying: "Inside, the cabin is designed with comfort and style in mind, offering ample space for both driver and passengers.

" Indeed, it's possibly been the finest small car sold by the Volkswagen Group over the last 10 years - even outweighing the likes of the VW Polo, Seat Ibiza and Skoda Fabia. It certainly boasts a huge fan in former Top Gear and Fifth Gear host Vicki Butler-Henderson, who said via Autoexpress in 2022 that the A1 is "Audi’s answer to the Mini." She added: "The A1 may be the baby of the German giant’s gang, but it has the desirable sophisticated looks of its siblings.

"Behind that premium badge is a car with lots of character and, thanks to good build quality and popularity, there are plenty for you to choo.