Based on the entry-level A1, the S1 is billed as a successor to the limited-edition 252-horsepower A1 quattro. It is powered by a 2.0-liter TFSI engine that sends 231 horsepower and 272 lb-ft. of torque to all four wheels via a six-speed manual transmission and Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system.
The S1 sprints from zero to 62 mph in 5.8 seconds and reaches an electronically-limited top speed of 155 mph. The hot hatch returns 33 mpg in a mixed European cycle when driven with a light right foot.
A performance-tuned electric power steering system and an upgraded suspension setup help create a sporty driving experience while larger brake rotors and an upsized master cylinder safely bring the car to a stop. An electronic stability control system that can be turned off in two stages comes standard.
The interior gains sport seats for the front passengers, aluminum pedals, a S-specific instrument cluster and a flat-bottomed steering wheel with three spokes. The list of options includes a convenience key, a premium Bose sound system and Audi’s connect infotainment system.
In Germany, the three-door S1 will carry a base price of €29,950 (about $40,800) and the five-door S1 Sportback will retail for €30,800 (roughly $42,000). At the time of writing Audi is not planning on selling the S1 and the more humble A1 in the United States due to the cars’ diminutive size.
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