Audi A1 quattro

A quattro-equipped model joins the A1 lineup

Audi has released the first test photos of a model equipped with its full-time four-wheel-drive system, "quattro," for the premium compact car A1.

By Matsuo Dai

Will it debut as the S1?

The model recently unveiled in Japan,Audi A1, is currently only available in Japan with the 1.4 TFSI engine. Even in Europe, a four-wheel-drive model has not been released. However, there are many voices wishing for the appearance of quattro, Audi's signature system. Therefore, Audi has released photos of a quattro model under development.

The photos were taken in the suburbs of Montreal, Canada, which were covered in snow. While it appears to be a winter driving test, there is no particular teaser camouflage, suggesting it will be released to the market in almost this exact form. However, Audi has avoided mentioning its addition to the lineup, hinting instead at a "future high-performance A1." This suggests it may not be an addition to the standard A1, but rather debut as the long-rumored high-performance variant, the "S1."

Details regarding the mechanics and powertrain have not been revealed, but the quattro system appears to be the one used in the A3 andTT.

Specifically, it seems to employ a system with a Haldex coupling, an electronically controlled hydraulic multi-plate clutch, rather than the variable torque distribution function being integrated into higher-end models. Older Haldex coupling systems typically operated in front-wheel drive under normal conditions, only distributing torque to the rear wheels when the front wheels began to slip. However, current models usually distribute torque with a front-to-rear bias of 95:5, electronically sending up to 50 percent of the torque to the rear wheels before the front wheels lose grip. Despite its simple structure that does not use a center differential, this system enables stable driving characteristic of four-wheel drive.

Pricing and release dates have not been announced, but it seems certain that a quattro model will be added in the not-too-distant future.