Audi A1 Quattro: Limited Edition Awesome

By Nelson Ireson

7 1,735 views Dec 20, 2011

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Audi A1 quattro

Looking very much like the clubsport concept from earlier this year, the A1 quattro sports all-wheel drive (natch), and gets its power from a 256-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. Zero to 62 mph takes 5.7 seconds, top speed is 152 mph, and it still pulls in a quoted 27 mpg U.S. A six-speed transmission handles the shifts, while a series of multi-clutch differentials distribute power and traction to all four wheels.  

Pretty impressive figures for a pint-sized premium car--but unfortunately the most impressive figure is the number that will be built: just 333. Only a portion of those will come to the U.S., if it comes at all.

Beyond the go, however, the A1 quattro also packs in a lot of show, 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, the theme is "sporty black," with silk nappa leather, contrasting red stitching, bolstered sport seats, and yet more quattro badges. The instrument cluster uses white needles over a red tachometer, while the wheel is wrapped in leather with more red stitching and a plaque bearing the car's serial number.

The convenience and comfort features list is long, too, meaning they'll most likely be loaded from the factory, without much chance to reduce weight by opting out: a Bose 14-speaker sound system, rain-sensing wipers, automatic climate control, CD changer, MMI navigation, and Bluetooth connectivity are all included.

Sales of the A1 quattro start in the second half of 2012, but Audi hasn't yet said if any will make the trip to our shores, but we're not holding our breath.