Audi has officially confirmed this month’s Paris motor show as the location for the launch of its new S1 hot hatch.
The Audi S1, seen here in these undisguised spy pics taken last month, is listed as one of the exhibits on the show’s official website, although Audi has yet to release any tech or spec details.
See the undisguised pics of the Audi S1
Autocar understands the S1 will use a tuned version of VW Group’s 1.4-litre turbocharged engine, producing around 180bhp and 184lb ft.
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 dual-clutch unit, with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
Read Autocar's scoop story on the new Audi S1
Expect the S1 to match the Mini 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.
These spy pictures reveal 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. A larger exhaust will also feature.
Expect sales of the S1 to start in early 2011, priced from around £19,000.
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Re: Audi S1 confirmed for Paris
What's the point in a s car without quattro and more power than its be equivalent. Say what you like about audio but they have made very few s cars that weren't great cars in their own right.
Re: Audi S1 confirmed for Paris
Couldn't agree more! there are only 2 hot hatches worth buying and both are Renaults.
Re: Audi S1 confirmed for Paris
Looks like a Fiat 500 with an Audi grill. You cant engineer style but you can botch the copy job Audi.
Im sure it will sell in droves to the utterly mindless sheep who buy the rings!