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

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.

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.