Just in time for Christmas, German automaker presents a limited edition, high performance version of its smallest car in the family – Audi A1 Quattro. Not only does the A1 Quattro look stunning – muscular front bumper and red curved bars in the headlights – but it’s also got some serious ponies under its hood.
As its name would imply, the A1 Quattro comes equipped with the automaker’s legendary all-wheel-drive system, with power provided by the same 2.0-liter turbocharged and direct-injected four-cylinder used in the Audi S3, creating 252hp at 6,000 rpm and 258lb-ft of torque from 2,500 to 4,500 rpm, eclipsing the standard 1.4-liter A1 by 70hp and 74lb-ft. What’s even more impressive is that despite its fuel efficient nature (it car return an average of 27.67 US mpg) the Audi A1 Quattro still boasts of some serious figures, including a 0-62 mph time of 5.7 seconds with a top speed of 152 mph.
A six-speed transmission handles the shifts, while a series of multi-clutch differentials distribute power and traction to all four wheels. The four-wheel-drive system sends most power to the front wheels, with drive sent to the rear wheels only if the front ones start to slip. Firmer front suspension and more sophisticated rear suspension are aimed at providing sharper handling.
The exterior speaks for itself. The A1 Quattro is packed with 18-inch turbine design wheels, huge 12.28-inch disc brakes, tinted rear windows, and, of course, a full aerodynamic treatment. The front bumper is aggressive, with huge air scoops, while trim elements in gloss black and red accent the grille and headlights. Quattro badges are everywhere.
Inside, there are leather sports seats with contrasting red trim, white instrument needles and lots of metallic trim. Standard equipment includes a Bose sound system, sat-nav, climate control and Bluetooth.
Pretty impressive figures for a pint-sized premium car, but unfortunately the most impressive figure is the number that will be built. Just 333, and naturally, the U.S. is left out.