IT’S fast, it’s fun and if you’re already a big fan of Audi, you’ll love the S1.

The World Rally Championship-winning Audi S1 of the 1980s is these days powered by new 2.0 TFSI engine which channels 231PS and 370Nm through six-speed manual transmission.

It is available both as a 3-door and a 5-door Sportback and, like all Audi S models, the S1 Sportback applies power to the road cleanly and via quattro permanent all-wheel drive.

Power delivery is incredibly smooth, handling is stable and precise and suspension is firm. The drive itself though, is thoroughly enjoyable (especially on the motorway), all-round visibility is good and the clutch-based four-wheel drive system gives the car traction on the road whatever the weather.

In fact, it’s even more fun driving in the wet, of which there’s been plenty of opportunity of late. Put your faith in the grip because there’s plenty of it!

You can vary the weighting or the damping characteristics by choosing one of three modes - auto, dynamic and efficiency.

As you would expect, it’s a little on the thirsty side with less than 40mpg, but you can’t have everything, although a reasonably economical 40.3mpg is achievable in the three-door version.

Styling tweaks include bespoke 17-inch wheels and LED rear lights and inside is unmistakeably Audi. The comfy sports seats, which feature side bolsters, height adjustment and lumbar support, are in black Fine Nappa leather with S1 embossing. Creature comforts include electronic climate control, a six-speaker single CD audio system with auxiliary iPod connection and SD card reader linked to a 6.5-inch retractable colour display, a Bluetooth interface and a Driver’s Information System. Oh and heated seats obviously.

Optional features for the S1 include the advanced key keyless access and ignition system, hard disk-based MMI navigation plus, the Bose surround sound system and mobile phone preparation – High with Audi connect, a £350 option.

The Audi connect option gives passengers access to an array of Internet-based services such as Google Earth and Google Street View and enables them to go online and send emails on their mobile devices via a Wi-Fi hotspot.

Factfile
Car:
Audi S1 Sportback quattro
On the road: £31,200
Top speed: 155mph
0-62mph: 5.9 seconds
Fuel: 39.8mpg (combined)
CO2 emissions: 166g/km