Paris show: Audi tops A1 range

AUDI has lifted the lid on a potent new version of its upcoming A1 city-car, which will be badged as the A1 1.4 TFSI rather than the S1, as was widely anticipated.

The hottest A1 yet to emerge is powered by a higher-performance (136kW/250Nm) version of the Volkswagen Group’s new turbocharged and supercharged 1.4-litre ‘TSI Twincharger’ petrol four that also does duty in the latest Golf 118TSI (118kW/240Nm) and upcoming Polo GTI (132kW/240Nm).

Apparently that is not enough of a performance increase for the most powerful A1 to wear Audi’s exclusive S badge.

It is too early to confirm whether the 1.4 TFSI will be part of the A1 range that is due for launch here during the first quarter of next year, and which is based on the same underpinnings as the fifth-generation Polo that went on sale here in May.

Left: Audi 1.4-litre TFSI engine.

However, Audi Australia says it will evaluate all A1 variants – including the 1.4 TFSI – for local consumption when they become available.

For now, Audi says the top-spec A1 – which will be a direct rival for the Mini Cooper S, Citroen’s new DS3 DSport and Alfa Romeo’s upcoming MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde – will come standard with the same seven-speed S-tronic dual-clutch automated manual transmission that is seen in the Golf and Polo GTI.

Not only is it claimed to return average fuel consumption of just 5.9L/100km (and CO2 emissions of only 139g/km), but Audi says the A1 1.4 TFSI can sprint to 100km/h in 6.9 seconds (the same as the lighter, cheaper Polo GTI) and has a top speed of 227km/h (2km/h faster than the Polo GTI).

As with the Golf and Polo models in which it is already fitted, the ‘dual-charged’ engine’s supercharger spins up from 1500rpm and is usually disengaged by 2400rpm, after which the turbocharger takes over.

Expect the A1 1.4 TFSI to come with revised MacPherson strut front and torsion beam rear suspension systems, along with larger 288mm front brake discs.

Like other A1s, the three-door 1.4 TFSI will get an electronic limited-slip differential as part of its standard electronic stability control system, along with twin front, side and curtain airbags.

Standard equipment with the Ambition trim level comprises 17-inch wheels, the S Line interior package with black headlining, manual air-conditioning and LED interior lighting.

High-end options will include Xenon Plus headlights with LED daytime running lights, LED tail-lights, automatic headlights and wipers, a panoramic sunroof, two navigation systems, a 14-speaker 465-Watt Bose sound system, automatic climate-control and heated front seats.