Like the regular A1, the S1’s cabin is a high-quality, expensive-feeling place to be with grade-A fit and finish and a smart retractable colour display screen atop the dashboard.

Separating the S1 from the rest of the range are stainless steel pedals, various Audi ‘S’ emblems and deeper seats finished in part-leather, part-cloth.

Should you wish, the standard very dark colour scheme can be jazzed up with various colour packs from the options list along with racier seats and a flat-bottomed steering wheel – see the Equipment section for more details.

As standard the S1 is fitted with electronically adjustable dampers via the ‘Drive Select’ switch on the centre console. Selecting ‘Dynamic’ mode firms up the suspension and reduces body roll but results in a rather jiggly ride, while ‘Efficiency’ mode reverts to a softer setup.

The difference between the two isn’t especially pronounced and, regardless, ride quality isn’t the strongest aspect of Audi S1 comfort even on the smaller 17-inch wheels – take care around pot holes.

Each S1 we’ve tested so far has been fitted with the optional sports seats and although these look pretty special and include some chunky side bolsters they’re not quite as supportive as they look, particularly for the lower sides of the driver’s torso.

There’s a good range of adjustment for both seat and steering wheel though and drivers of all heights and sizes should be able to get comfortable without difficulty.

Overall refinement is excellent, too – the S1 is only noisy when you want it to be.