The 2.0 TFSI guarantees the kind of performance that drivers expect from an Audi S model, turning the small compact car into a driving machine par excellence.

The Audi S1 and the S1 Sportback accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 5.8 and 5.9 seconds respectively before going on to a top speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph) – making a clear statement and taking pole position in their class. Even in sixth gear the sprint from 80 to 120 km/h (49.71 to 74.56 mph) takes 6.5 (6.6) seconds. Despite this sports car-like performance the two compact sports cars consume in the NEDC cycle just 7.0 (33.60 US mpg) and 7.1 liters (33.13 US mpg) of fuel per 100 kilometers with CO2 emissions of 162 and 166 grams per kilometer (260.71 g/mile and 267.15 g/mile) respectively.

A high-tech engine lies behind these top-class figures. The compact, lightweight 2.0 TFSI produces peak output of 170 kW (231 hp) from a displacement of 1,984 cc (bore x stroke 82.5 x 92.8 millimeters [3.25 x 3.65 in]). Peak output is on tap from 6,000 rpm, with the engine speed limiter kicking in at 6,800 rpm. The turbocharged four-cylinder engine transmits maximum torque of 370 Nm (272.90 lb-ft) to the crankshaft between 1,600 and 3,000 rpm.

The 2.0 TFSI responds instantly to gas pedal commands; the response is honed further if dynamic mode is selected on the Audi drive select dynamic handling system. The driver can also use Audi drive select to alter the sound – courtesy of a sound actuator which boosts the intake noise, and a variable flap in the exhaust system which opens at high load and speed. The dynamic character of the four-cylinder engine goes hand in hand with superb mechanical refinement – in the cylinder block two balancer shafts contra-rotate at twice the crankshaft speed.

A host of details underscore the high-performance character of the 2.0 TFSI. Special aluminum pistons and higher-strength connecting rods transmit the forces to the crankshaft. The crankcase is specifically reinforced on the main bearing bridges and on the main bearing cap; the cylinder head is made out of an aluminum-silicon alloy which combines high strength and temperature stability with low weight.

The turbocharger was optimized for fast response and features an electronically controlled wastegate. It generates up to 1.4 bar of pressure. An intercooler reduces the temperature of the compressed air, improving engine charging in the process.

The 2.0 TFSI uses sophisticated solutions in many areas of technology: the intake camshaft is fully adjustable through 60 degrees of crank angle; the exhaust camshaft through 30 degrees; the Audi valvelift system (AVS) also varies valve lift in two stages on the exhaust side. Drumble flaps (from “Drall”, the German word for swirl, and tumble) set the in-flowing air into a specific pattern of movement to ensure optimum mixture formation.

High tech from Audi: dual injection
A major highlight of the four-cylinder engine is the additional indirect injection. It supplements the FSI gasoline direct injection under partial load. This reduces fuel consumption and particulate emissions. FSI injection, with its up to 200 bar pressure, comes into play in the starting phase and at higher loads.

A great deal of attention was paid to thermal management during development of the four-cylinder engine. The exhaust manifold is integrated into the cylinder head, where it is bathed in coolant – this solution reduces exhaust gas temperature and accelerates warm-up under cold-start conditions. Two rotary valves in a single module regulate coolant flow. A special coating on the piston skirts and antifriction bearings on the balancer shafts keep internal friction low in the four-cylinder unit, while the oil pump is regulated to work on-demand. The start-stop system is standard.

The equipment, data and prices specified in this document refer to the model range offered in Germany. Subject to change without notice; errors and omissions excepted.