AUDI S1 Sportback Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos

The top sporty model of the Audi A1 Sportback was named S1, like the glorious rally-car from the '80s. It was introduced in 2014 and it was the fastest car in its segment.

While the BMW didn't want to diminish the importance of the M1 supercar from the late '70s, Audi risked and used the S1 for their smallest in the lineup. And it was a risk worth taking since it boosted out very good performances. It was a car built for backroads, and due to its all-wheel-drive system, it was faster than any other RWD supercar on slippery roads.

The exterior look of the S1 received some upgrades when compared with the rest of the A1 range. A singleframe grille with mate-silver rim was one important step in its recognition. It was fitted with standard xenon plus headlights and rear LED taillights. The 17” light-alloy wheels were fitted as standard while an 18” set was on the options list.

Inside, the dark colors were dominating the interior. The instruments featured S-specific dark-gray scales, and the pedals were covered with caps made out of brushed stainless steel. The S1 badge was added to the flat-bottom three-spoke steering wheel. A red contour line was installed on the center console to visually enhance the sporty ambient.

Power came from a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine that offered 231 hp. It was mated to a standard 6-speed manual gearbox. Due to its heavier, 5-door, bodywork, the S1 Sportback was 0.1 seconds slower than the S1 with three doors.