While there were no clear signals that Audi Sport will have its way with the new generation A1 Sportback, we are disappointed to find out that they have clearly ruled out an RS1.
In fact, they will not build a model smaller than the RS3 Sportback, as the compact hatchback will remain the most affordable Audi Sport on sale, according to managing director Julius Seebach, who spoke to Autocar on the topic.
Read Also: 2021 Audi RS3 Sportback Repackages Five-Pot Turbo In New Body
Four-cylinder-powered RS cars are thus a ‘no-no’, so those looking for an A1 with some grunt will have to settle for the 40 TFSI. The supermini packs 200 PS (197 hp / 147 kW) and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque from the 2.0-liter TFSI, does the 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 6.5 seconds and tops out at 235 km/h (146 mph).
On a more positive note, the five-banger found in the outgoing RS3 Sportback and Sedan, as well as the RS Q3 and RS Q3 Sportback, is believed to be updated for the next generation. The compact hot hatch needs to better challenge the likes of the new Mercedes-AMG A45 S, which enjoys a whopping 421 PS (415 hp / 310 kW), so it should kick out more than 400 horsepower.
The 2.5-liter five-pot currently makes 400 PS (395 hp / 294 kW) and 480 Nm (354 lb-ft) of torque, rocketing the hatchback to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just a little over 4 seconds and up to 280 km/h (174 mph). Some believe that the upcoming VW Golf R could ditch the four-pot for Audi’s five-banger, but we wouldn’t hold our breath on that.
