US-Bound Audi A1 Coming Without AWD

Audi is still working on the A1 model and, even if the company canceled the first public display projected for the Frankfurt Auto Show in September, it still wants to release it in the United States. However, it appears that the German brand is looking at ways to cut costs and make the product more affordable and potential solution for that is to remove the all-wheel drive system.

According to a report by German publication Autobild, Audi will thus reduce weight and production costs. Still, it's unclear whether Audi wants to continue its efforts and remove even more features from the future A1.

A curios thing is that Audi wants to launch the S1 and RS1 performance version of the A1, which aren't quite the cheapest models on the market.

Details on the aforementioned models are still unknown but according to the source, the S1 will be powered by a 1.4-liter engine that develops 180 horsepower.

The A1 will be offered in Sportback, Cabriolet and Crossover form. Earlier rumors are hinting that the Audi A1 is projected to arrive in European dealerships as soon as early 2010 and will be initially available as a three-door model. It will be based on the A1 Concept showcased for the first time at the 2007 Tokyo Auto Show but will come with slight modifications, as some features would not make sense on a production model.

The first public unveiling is yet to be announced but the 2010 Geneva Auto Show might be the first event to witness the launch of the A1.