Audi learned its lesson with the A2. The unloved bubble car never made it to the U.S., but we never noticed. That will likely not be the case with the upcoming A1 and its hotter sibling the S1.

Like most projects from the Volkswagen Group, the A1/S1 will dig deep into the parts bin for most of its goodies. The car will share a platform with the Volkswagen Polo, but it doesn't stop there. For the S1, Audi will utilize the same turbocharged 1.4-liter engine as the VW Polo GTi Cup Edition. It currently makes 178 hp in the VW, but Audi is likely to upgrade the engine to the point of about 200 hp.

The engine will be mated to a seven-speed S-Tronic twin-clutch gearbox. The 0 to 60 mph sprint will be made in 6 seconds, while top speed will be limited to the German gentleman's agreement of 155 mph. This kind of performance should give the John Cooper Works Mini, Alfa Romeo MiTo GTA and Fiat 500 Abarth all something to keep an eye on.

The S1 will be offered with flared arches, 19-inch alloy wheels, roof-mounted spoiler, and a front end with a low front splitter and deep air intakes. If all this looks good, keep your fingers crossed. Audi still has not confirmed the A1/S1 for the U.S. yet.

UPDATE 05/25/2010: Audi Spain has just revealed prices for the S1 while communicating the price list for the A1 lineup. The Audi S1 will be priced at 28,360€.

UPDATE 08/19/2010: Check out our latest spy shots for the 2011 Audi S1 in the gallery!

2011 Audi S1

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2011 Audi S1
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