2014 Audi S1 Sportback | new car sales price

Audi's pocket-rocket S1 Sportback hits Australian showrooms.

The smallest model in Audi's S-badged performance range is now available in Australia for a smidge under $50,000.

At $49,900, the S1 might be the least expensive Audi performance model available but it's also one of the priciest vehicles in the light-hatch segment. The Volkswagen Golf R from a class above the S1 is just a few thousand dollars dearer at $51,990, though $10,000 still separates the newcomer from its bigger brother - the Audi S3 Sportback.

The S1 uses a 170kW/370Nm 2.0-litre turbocharged four-pot similar to the one found in the larger S3 model, which is hooked up to a 6-speed manual gearbox and Quattro all-wheel drive.

The sprint from 0-100km/h takes 5.9 seconds and combined fuel consumption is 7.1L/100km.

There's no automatic transmission option for the S1, and that makes it the only current model Audi to be available exclusively with three pedals and a shifter.

It's also the only version of the A1 hatch currently available that isn't front-wheel drive, hence it features a unique four-link rear suspension setup – unlike the torsion beam of lesser A1s -  as well as retuned springs and dampers and a revised steering system.

The S1 also comes standard with Audi's magnetic adjustable dampers that can be controlled through the Drive Select program that also adjusts the standard-fit exhaust flaps.

The quad-tip exhaust system opens automatically under full throttle or when 'dynamic' mode is selected to produce a sportier note.

Standard features on the S1 Sportback include, 17-inch alloy wheels, Xenon headlights with LED daytime running lamps, satnav, Bluetooth phone and audio, 10 speaker audio system and sports seats with 'S1' branding.

However, there are also three option packs available, the first of which is dubbed 'S performance package' and costs $4990. This pack adds 18-inch alloys, red front brake calipers, S sport front seats and full leather upholstery, BOSE surround sound system and aluminium-look air-con vents.

The $3990 Quattro exterior pack cannot be had in conjunction with the S Performance pack but adds Xenon headlights with red trim, red front brake calipers, 18-inch alloys in matt black, roof spoiler, Quattro side logo and aluminium-look front spoiler lip.

The third option pack is the $2490 Quattro interior which includes a center console finished in gloss black, yellow or red, sports seats with back-rest finished in gloss black, yellow or red with Quattro logo, flat-bottom steering wheel, leather door armrests, air vent sleeves in high-gloss black with red inner ring and floor mats in black with contrasting double piping.

2014 Audi S1 Sportback list price - $49,900