The hot hatch derivative of the all-new 2019 Audi A1
is set to arrive late next year, powered by an upgraded version of the Group
VW’s 2.0-liter TFSI four-cylinder unit. The second-generation Audi S1 aims to
become the most powerful hot hatch among its competitors, offering around 250 hp
from its turbo four-cylinder engine according to Autocar.
Power will be sent to all four wheels via the
company’s Haldex-based Quattro system, which should enable the 2019 Audi S1 to
significantly improve the straight-line performance of its predecessor. That
means a way better 0-100 km/h time than the 5.9 seconds required by the
outgoing five-door S1.
The new Audi S1 will also benefit from the adoption
of the latest MQB A0 platform, which is stronger than the old PQ25
underpinnings. In combination with model-specific adaptive suspension, the new
Audi S1 should offer a proper thrilling driving experience.
After all, the new Audi A1 appears to be sportier
than ever, with the company opting to draw inspiration from their rallying
heritage. The new S1 will act as the halo model of this philosophy and
therefore expected to receive more Quattro-esque features, like a large rear
wing and perhaps even white wheels.
It’s not clear yet if the upcoming Audi S1 will be
offered with a manual transmission, but given that the ‘normal’ A1 40 TFSI with
the 197hp 2.0-liter engine will be offered with a dual-clutch only, chances to
see a three-pedaled range-topper are slim.
