Dr. Ernst Linder, the technical chief of the Polo GTI, has confirmed Volkswagen will introduce a Jetta R and an Audi S1.
In an interview with Drive.com.au, Linder stated the S1 will feature a 136 kW (182 hp / 185 PS) 1.4-liter twin-charge engine and a seven-speed double-clutch transmission. More importantly, Linder confirmed the S1 will have front-wheel drive instead of all-wheel drive. The latter decision will likely anger Audi purists, but it should keep S1 prices reasonable.
Besides talking about the S1, Linder also confirmed Volkswagen was working on a Jetta R. While he didn't provide any details, the Jetta R will likely be powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 198 kW (265 hp / 269 PS) and 349 Nm (258 ft-lb) of torque.
Finally, Linder dismissed rumors of a possible Polo R. He stated "From the technical point-of-view, of course we can do something, but from the financial point-of-view it makes not so much sense. It (the Polo R) would be too expensive and we have the S1." Bummer.
