Audi’s rival for the Mini Cooper S, the S1, has been caught undisguised near the Nürburgring in Germany ahead of its debut at the Paris motor show late next month.
As expected, the S1’s look is borrowed from the standard car’s S-line package, including lowered suspension, 17in alloy wheels and a small spoiler at the trailing edge of the roof.
See the exclusive undisguised spy pics of the new Audi S1
The model spied here gives away its identity with a larger exhaust, while our spy photographer noted the S1 had a much louder and more distinctive sound than the rest of the A1 range.
Audi has yet to confirm any technical details on the car, but it’s understood to use a tuned version of the VW Group’s 1.4-litre turbocharged engine, producing around 180bhp and 184lb ft.
Read Autocar's full scoop story on the new Audi S1, including an exclusive rendering
The S1 will be front-wheel drive, making it the first S-badged Audi to do without a quattro drivetrain. The gearbox will be a seven-speed double-clutch unit, with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
Expect the S1 to match the Cooper S’s performance figures; Audi technical development boss Michael Dick has said the firm is aiming for a 0-62mph time of less than seven seconds and a top speed of more than 140mph.
Join the debate
Add your comment
Re: Audi S1 - first undisguised pics
Err Nimo. Ha, got me thinking about "clowning" around in the van!!
Re: Audi S1 - first undisguised pics
You'd have more fun driving TBH's Citroen Nemo van. And more space in the back for the ladies ;-)
Re: Audi S1 - first undisguised pics
What is the point of yet another VW Group, high revving ,flappy paddled semi-auto cloned super mini!! Getting like a soap powder marketplace.