2012 Audi A1 Convertible

2012 Audi A1 Convertible

2012 Audi A1 Convertible

2012 Audi A1 Convertible

2012 Audi A1 Convertible

The Audi A1 is based on the Metroproject Quattro that debuted at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show. The A1 hard top is scheduled as a 2011 model and is scheduled to enter production before the release of the convertible the following year. So how might the A1 Convertible look? Our artist put together an illustration of what to expect.

A1 used hybrid powertrains — with electric motors providing Audi’s signature quattro all-wheel drive — but the production version will likely use conventional drivetrains. Power for the MINI-fighting drop top could come from a wide range of small engines at Audi’s disposal thanks in part to VW. One possible engine derivative is the TSI engine range found in the Golf GT Sport. That means a turbo and supercharged 1.4L, good for either 140 or 170 horsepower. A 150 horsepower 1.8L turbo unit and a 102 horsepower 1.6L are expected to round out the gas engine offerings.

Also possible are the several versions of Audi’s 1.4L TFSI engine. If so, the base model would likely put out 120 horsepower. Performance oriented S1 and RS1 models are believed to be in the works, generating 180 and 220 horsepower, respectively. Audi’s DSG dual-clutch transmission will at least be optional on A1 models. In true European style, the A1 cabrio will also likely offer two version of the company’s 2.0L TDI, producing 140 and 170 horsepower respectively.

There are also reports that Audi is readying an S1 version of the A1 convertible, which will likely use the same 261 horsepower engine found in the S3.Also worth noting is the expectation for the A1 to feature automatic engine stop/start and brake energy regeneration, improving overall fuel economy by about 15 percent, regardless which engine(s) it receives.

The A1 is expected to hit the European market shortly after its Geneva debut, but U.S. sales are still in question. However, the latest photos were sourced from a Los Angeles photo shoot, but it remains to be seen if that has any bearing on where the A1 will be sold. Audi has reportedly set a sales target between 100,000 and 120,000 units annually.