Audi have officially announced the 2014 Audi S1 and S1 Sportback. The name Audi S1 has become legendary in certain circles, thanks in part to the monster Audi Quattro S1. The 2014 Audi S1 is a little modest compared to the Quattro S1. It isn’t quite the spiritual successor. Yet it makes its debut at the Geneva Motor Show 2014 with pretty impressive credentials!

The new Audi comes in two models, the Audi S1 and the Audi S1 Sportback. Both models create a new flagship for the compact Audi A1 model line. Both feature a 2.0 TFSI linked up to quattro permanent all-wheel drive. The Audi S1 models both develop 231 hp and 370 Nm of torque. In order to put down the power, the Audi S1 receives extensively revamped suspension.

The combination of engine and drivetrain accelerates the Audi S1 and the Audi S1 Sportback from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.8 and 5.9 seconds respectively. The top speed is 250 km/h (155.34 mph) and, on average the S1 consumes just 7.0 (33.60 US mpg) or 7.1 (33.13 US mpg) liters of fuel per 100 kilometres.

The quattro permanent all-wheel drive system uses a hydraulic multi-plate clutch located on the rear axle. Its control software is specifically tuned to the car. An electronic differential is also fitted to aid the Electronic Stabilization Control (ESC). The differential features two-stage deactivation. It supplements the work of the multi-plate clutch with additional finely metered braking intervention on the inside wheels.

The 2014 Audi S1 features electromechanical power steering. Suspension modifications include a four link design which replaces the compound link rear suspension used on the Audi A1 models. The Audi S1 gets a drive select dynamic handling system as well. It comes with a range of settings to vary the response of the engine, automatic air conditioning and the variable shock absorbers.

The 2014 Audi S1 gets larger brakes too. At the front they measure 310 millimetres in diameter with re callipers available as an option. Both models receive 17-inch wheels with 215/40 R17 tires. Audi also offers 18-inch wheels with 225/35 R18 tires as an option.

The front facia receives xenon plus headlights with all-new LED rear lights come with new, horizontally structured graphics. Elsewhere, there are differences in the front and rear bumper, the side sills and the exhaust system to distinguish the new performance model.

Four new exterior colours are available to order on top of the normal paint range. An optional quattro exterior styling package adds further features such as a large roof spoiler.

The interior is finished in a traditional black colour scheme. The instruments feature S-specific dark-gray scales, the pedal caps are made out of brushed stainless steel and Audi fits S sport seats with integrated head restraints. The quattro interior styling package is available to differentiate the interior with various colour options.

Optional equipment will include a convenience key, MMI navigation plus with fold-out color monitor and the Bose surround sound system. The Audi connect module including car phone provides a connection to the Internet, allowing passengers to access the Internet and send e-mails on their mobile devices via a Wi-Fi hotspot.

Both the 2014 Audi S1 and S1 Sportback will hit dealers in Germany during the second quarter of 2014. German pricing will be from €29,950 and €30,800 respectively.