Audi's recent nod-to-rallying A1 concept
The all-but-inevitable hot version of the Mini-rivalling Audi A1 looks like it could be heading for reality, as Audi has listed an 'S1' as one of its exhibits for the forthcoming Paris motor show.
We don't know as yet whether this represents a concept, a full production car, or a production car that's been thinly disguised as a concept, however.
No technical details of the S1 have been revealed either, although the smart money is on the installation of the same 1.4-litre 177bhp turbocharged and supercharged motor that serves in the Polo GTI, Fabia vRS and Ibiza Cupra.
Given its exalted position within the VW Group corporate hierarchy, Audi might just be allowed to squeeze a little more poke out of the engine, but it will for now remain a solely front-wheel drive proposition.
That's not to say the A1 won't ever get quattro'd: as PH editor Chris-R - ever the news hound - found out at the A1's launch, the all-wheel drive running gear from the A3 will slot into the A1, as will its more powerful turbocharged engines.
It's just that Audi isn't sure there's a market for such a car. Our advice? Send your pleas for a really fast A1 to Audi now...