These photos show the latest S1 prototype, sporting the S-brand quad exhaust pipes layout at the Nurburgring Nordschleife in Germany.
Audi was close to naming the range topping HTML1.4 TFSI the S1 in 2010, but it decided against it because the vehicle wasn’t an all-wheel-drive model, as is the case with all S-brand models. In response to the positive feedback on the A11.4 TFSI’s debut at the Paris Motor Show in 2010, Audi decided to build an S1 model using quattro technology. The tentative decision to build a Volkswagen Polo R was also a key factor in the business case.
These photos show a prototype with the S-brand quad exhaust pipes layout at the Nurburgring Nordschleife in Germany. Audi has also shown us the limited edition HTML1 Quattro model. According to recent reports, the S1 will use the 256 PS (188kW / 252 HP) A1 Quattro engine but be powered by a tuned 2.0-liter four-cylinder petrol motor that produces 220 PS (162kW / 217 horsepower).
The Audi S1 will arrive in the second quarter of 2013.