Audi A1 quattro: 333 for production, none for Australia

Just 333 A1 quattros will be made, although Australian fans will be forced to admire from afar, as each one will be produced in left-hand drive.

The Audi A1 quattro features the 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine from the Audi S3 and Volkswagen Golf R. It produces an identical 188kW of power in the A1 quattro, but an additional 20Nm of torque, taking its total output to 350Nm.

Teaming a six-speed manual transmission with Audi’s quattro permanent all-wheel drive system, the A1 quattro blasts from 0-100km/h in 5.7 seconds and goes on to a top speed of 245km/h.

A host of ‘go fast’ exterior elements mean the A1 quattro special edition will never be mistaken for the standard light hatch. It’s available only in Glacier White metallic paint with a high-gloss black roof, rear hatch and diffuser, and red highlights in the headlights. The front bumper is muscular and aggressive with gaping side intakes, while the rear hatch gets a large wing spoiler.

The A1 quattro rides on 18-inch cast alloy wheels wrapped in 225/35 tyres. Hiding within are massive 312mm front disc brakes with black calipers and a tautly tuned suspension setup.

The cabin is finished with Silk Nappa leather with contrasting red stitching. Unique features include a flat-bottomed sports steering wheel, aluminium gearshift knob, and a red tachometer wih white needles.

Standard features include xenon headlights, smart access key, Audi Connect with internet connectivity, and a 14-speaker Bose audio system with digital radio.

The Audi A1 quattro will hit left-hand drive markets in the second half of 2012.