Audi’s Metroproject quattro concept hit all the right design notes when it was unveiled at the Tokyo Auto Show in 2007, with a decidedly aggressive stance aimed at scaring the likes of Mini JCW and MiTo GTA. It’s likely an aggressive S1 model is destined for production then…
By Kyle Kock
… Or, at least that’s what the folk at seem to think. The renderings on the right portray the A1 with an aggressive front end, including front splitter, deep air intakes and (what else?) daytime LED running lights – all topped off with chrome inserts. The flared wheel arches are filled with 19-inch alloy wheels.
It’s known that the A1 line-up is set to receive small-capacity engines, including a 1,2-litre TFSI unit for the entry level model, but it’s also believed that a redeveloped version of the new 1,4-litre twin-charged engine will find its way under the bonnet – said to produce in excess of 150 kW and 300 N.m of torque.
Mated with a seven-speed S-Tronic twin-clutch gearbox that drives the power to the wheels via a 40:60 rear-wheel biased quattro all-wheel drive system, the S1 is expected to sprint to 100 km/h from zero in the region of six seconds, with an electronically-governed top speed of 250 km/h.
It’s also likely that the A1 will benefit from magnetic dampers in the suspension set-up that will work in conjunction with Drive Select – a system that offers the driver a choice of several driving modes including Dynamic and Comfort, allowing them to sharpen steering, throttle and suspension response according to road conditions.
Audi will probably sweeten the deal by including certain features previewed on the Metroproject concept, like the interface that allows owners to control a few of the cars features through their mobile phones – nor forgetting a flat-bottomed steering wheel, form-fitting sports seats, aluminium trim and all the other niceties that come with the S-line.