Skip advert
Advertisement
In-depth reviews

Audi S1 quattro (2014-2018) review – performance and 0-60mph time

The Audi S1 brings speed, premium appeal and impressive build quality to the junior hot hatch segment.

Evo rating
RRP
from £27,000
  • Performance, secure handling and overall quality
  • Expensive, not as exciting as some

With four-wheel drive and a huge slug of torque – 273lb ft between 1600 and 3000rpm – the S1 is very rapid off the line. It’ll reach 62mph in an impressive 5.8 seconds, which is quicker than most hot hatches from the class above. The top speed is electronically limited to 155mph.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Combined with the unimpeachable traction of the Quattro four-wheel-drive system that torque output gives the S1 serious point-to-point pace. In wet conditions it would certainly stick four exhaust pipes up to anything short of a Volkswagen Golf R, and there's a real thrill to exercising such performance from a car that feels so compact.

Don't be fooled by the appearance of the Competition Package on the S1's options list. Unlike similar packages on Audis further up the range, there are no power upgrades here and so performance remains the same. The £2450 option simply gives you a different design of alloy wheel, some gloss black trim and matte black decals, and a more prominent roof spoiler.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Mercedes-AMG GT 43 2025 review – £100k four-cylinder lacks Affalterbach soul
Mercedes-AMG GT 43
Reviews

Mercedes-AMG GT 43 2025 review – £100k four-cylinder lacks Affalterbach soul

Affalterbach’s flagship GT range now begins with a four-cylinder, lifted straight from the A45 hot hatch. It might have reasonable performance on tap,…
15 Sep 2025
Audi R8 V8 (2007 - 2015) review – the Porsche 911’s equal is a bargain super sports car
Audi R8 V8
Reviews

Audi R8 V8 (2007 - 2015) review – the Porsche 911’s equal is a bargain super sports car

The Audi R8’s launch was perhaps one of the biggest moments in 2000s performance motoring. It’s as sweet today as back then
9 Sep 2025
Mini Cooper and Cooper S (2001 - 2006) review – the 'new' Mini is now a classic
Mini Cooper S
Reviews

Mini Cooper and Cooper S (2001 - 2006) review – the 'new' Mini is now a classic

The ‘new’ Mini was perhaps motoring’s most anticipated sequel. BMW didn’t get it wrong – quite the opposite, as it transpired
11 Sep 2025