Available in both Coupe and Roadster, the Audi TT RS Plus compact sports car stands out for its awe-inspiring performance. Its power-boosted five-cylinder turbo delivers 265 kW (360 hp), sufficient for a top speed of 280 km/h (173.98 mph). The 2.5-liter TFSI in the Audi TT RS plus is a high-performance engine. Compared with the engine on which it is based, this turbocharged direct-injection unit delivers 15 kW (20 hp) more power. It produces 465 Nm (342.97 lb-ft) of torque, 15 Nm (11.06 lb-ft) more than before. Customers can choose between a manual six-speed transmission and the seven-speed S tronic with its lightning-fast gearshifts.

The Audi TT RS Plus Coupe with S tronic catapults from a standstill to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 4.1 seconds (with manual transmission: 4.3 seconds). The Roadster completes the same exercise in 4.2 seconds (with manual transmission: 4.4 seconds). Top speed is limited to 280 km/h (173.98 mph) for all versions of the car.

The Audi TT RS plus is fitted with 19-inch cast wheels of five-arm “Rotor” design; they are painted black with contrasting red rim flanges. The wheels are fitted with 255/35 tires. The adaptive damping system known as Audi magnetic ride is available as an option. A large, fixed rear wing increases downforce at the back of the car.

The Audi TT RS plus Coupe with manual transmission costs €60,650 in Germany or €62,800 with the seven-speed S tronic. The Audi TT RS plus Roadster has a list price of €63,500 or €65,650 respectively.

The Audi Q3 Vail features a 2.5-liter five-cylinder TFSI engine with direct injection and turbocharging that generates an output of 231 kW (314 hp) and 400 Nm (295.02 lb-ft) of torque from a displacement of 2,480 cc. The power of the turbocharged five-cylinder unit is transferred to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system via a seven-speed S tronic transmission. The Audi Q3 Vail accelerates from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 5.5 seconds and continues to a top speed of 262 km/h (162

The Audi Q3 Vail is fitted with five-arm wheels in 8.5 J x 20 format. Mirroring the single-frame grille, their visible edges have a high-gloss finish, while the inside areas feature the same matt quartz-based paint. The off-road tires are size 255/45. Track width has increased 40 millimeters (1.57 inches) at the front and rear compared to series-built models, and the body is 30 millimeters (1.18 inches) higher. The themed vehicle also features unique solutions at the back – the two tailpipes of the dual-branch exhaust system are integrated in the diffuser and underbody guard area.

In the interior of the Audi Q3 Vail, three colors offer an ambience of sophistication and sporty elegance – black, gray and red. The headlining is made from titanium gray Alcantara; large parts of the interior, including the carpet, are black. The black, ribbed floor mats are edged with narrow strips of red velvet-finish leather.

Audi S5 engines feature forced induction and direct injection for tremendous pulling power. Even the entry-level engine produces 320 Nm (236.02 lb-ft) of torque. The start-stop system and the recuperation system are standard with all engines. The lineup comprises three gasoline engines and four TDI units. CO2 emissions have been reduced by as much as 22 percent.

The completely redesigned 1.8 TFSI showcases the full extent of Audi’s expertise. Groundbreaking innovations can be found in the control of the valves and their lift, the thermal management concept, the injection system, the turbocharger and the integration of the exhaust manifold. In the Audi A5 Coupé, the high-end four-cylinder unit consumes on average just 5.7 liters of fuel per 100 km (41.27 US mpg). This value corresponds to 134 grams CO2 per km (215.65 g/mile) and is 21 percent lower than before. With 125 kW (170 hp), the 1.8 TFSI accelerates the A5 powerfully.

The output of the 2.0 TFSI remains unchanged at 155 kW (211 hp). New to the Audi A5 lineup is the 3.0 TFSI, a supercharged V6 producing 200 kW (272 hp).

The diesel engines are also impressively efficient, and the four-cylinder units feature modifications in numerous areas. Equipped with the 130 kW (177 hp) 2.0 TDI and a manual transmission, the Audi A5 Coupé consumes on average just 4.7 liters of fuel per 100 km (50.05 US mpg) – a CO2 equivalent of 122 g per km (196.34 g/mile) and a milestone in the coupe segment.

Three V6 diesel units round out the lineup on the top end. The 3.0 TDI with 150 kW (204 hp) is the most fuel-efficient six-cylinder unit in its class worldwide. In the Audi A5 Coupé with multitronic, it consumes on average 4.9 liters (48 US mpg) of fuel and emits just 129 grams CO2 per km (207.61 g/mile). The second variant of the 3.0 TDI produces 180 kW (245 hp).

A manual six-speed transmission and the continuously variable multitronic are available for models with front-wheel drive. The quattro models come with a manual transmission or the lightning-fast, seven-speed S tronic. 17-inch wheels with 225/50 tires are standard. Options include wheels up to 20 inches and 265/30 tires as well as four new wheel designs.

Despite the extensive product improvement, Audi is raising prices only slightly. The price increase for the Audi A5 Coupé 2.0 TFSI is only €200, for example. The base model, the Audi A5 Sportback 1.8 TFSI, costs €33,350.

The Audi Q5 Hybrid Quattro wheelbase measuring 2.81 meters (9.22 ft) provides for a generously spacious interior. The seats are ergonomically shaped and versatile in their layout. The angle of the rear seat backs can be adjusted, and they can be laid flat very easily – it suffices to operate the release catches in the cargo area so that they can be folded down onto the seat cushions. This increases the cargo volume from 460 to 1,480 liters (16.24 – 52.27 cu ft). The lithium-ion battery cells are located in a crash-proof area beneath the cargo floor, minimizing their impact on the cargo volume.

The Audi Q5 Hybrid Quattro is powered by a 2.0 TFSI producing 155 kW (211 hp) and an electric motor producing 40 kW (54 hp). This combination provides for a system output of 180 kW (245 hp). The average fuel consumption measured according to the NEDC is just 6.9 liters per 100 km (34.09 US mpg). The quattro permanent all-wheel drive system and an agile chassis are an unbeatable technology package.

The Audi Q5 Hybrid Quattro will be appearing in the fourth quarter of 2011 at a starting price of EUR 53,700.

The Audi Q3 will be available with one of four engines. Upon its market launch, two gasoline engines and one TDI engine will be offered; a second TDI engine will appear a little later. All four of the four-cylinder engines will have a displacement of 2.0 liters. They all deliver great output and terrific torque from 280 to 380 Nm (206.52 to 280.27 lb-ft). In addition, all engines combine Audi’s mighty efficiency technologies: direct fuel injection, turbocharging, the start-stop system, and the energy recovery system.

The 2.0 TFSI delivers either 125 kW (170 hp) or 155 kW (211 hp). The more powerful version propels the Audi Q3 from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 6.9 seconds and on up to a top speed of 230 km/h (142.92 mph). The 2.0 TDI is available with 130 kW (177 hp); a version with 103 kW (140 hp) is to come a little later. Paired with front-wheel drive, the version offering 103 kW (140 hp) averages less than 5.2 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (45.23 US mpg).

Both TFSI engines and the stronger of the TDI units will be supplied with quattro permanent all-wheel drive. Its key element is a hydraulic multi-plate clutch, which redistributes power at lightning speed from the front axle to the rear axle as needed.

The Audi Q3 2.0 TDI with 103 kW (140 hp) will roll off the assembly line with front-wheel drive and – just like the Q3 2.0 TFSI quattro with 125 kW (170 hp) – with a six-speed manual transmission. The 130 kW (177 hp) TDI engine and the 155 kW (211 hp) TFSI combine quattro drive with a dynamic seven-speed S tronic. Gears can also be shifted via optional paddles on the steering wheel. When a driver selects efficiency mode in Audi drive select, the S tronic disengages a clutch while the sporty SUV is coasting and allows it to roll freely – which further enhances fuel efficiency.

The interior of Audi’s latest model is very roomy; its ergonomics and its workmanship are exemplary. Just as for the exterior, customers have many opportunities to express their very own style in the interior: Audi offers a wide selection of materials and colors. The luggage compartment offers 460 to 1,365 liters (16.24 to 48.2 cu ft) of capacity.

Customers can opt to supplement the standard specification with numerous options straight from the luxury class. Examples include adaptive light technology for the xenon plus headlights. And an enhanced parking assistant alerts the driver to obstacles, even if they are off to the side.

The Audi Q3 will go on sale in June 2011. Its basic price in Germany will be 29,900 euros.

It was only logical that after BMW released the X5 and the X5M to the market, Audi would eventually bring out more models for their crossover, the Q5. The idea started almost a year ago with details surrounding two more variants of the Q5 – the SQ5 and the RSQ5 – coming out with good projected outputs of 333hp and 408hp, respectively. That idea has certainly catapulted since then with news that Audi has registered the SQ5 and RSQ5 monikers, meaning that the German company has finally decided it has much more to offer to the SUV market.

The current Q5 line-up includes the standard Q5 model and the recently launched Q5 Hybrid Quattro, but the two new and sportier models will most likely attract many more customers. All this means is that the BMW X5 and the X5M may need to start working a bit harder to win over their clientele. However, being that the X5M puts out a rewarding 555hp, we find it a little hard to believe that anyone would opt for the Audi. As of right now, BMW is the clear choice, but we never know what these automakers have up their sleeves. Perhaps Audi will bring out something that is that much more entertaining.

Audi has added a new and especially efficient member to its Q7 family. The Q7 3.0 TDI offers 150 kW (204 hp) while consuming an average of just 7.2 liters of diesel per 100 km (32.67 miles per U.S.gallon) – better than all direct competitors. At the same time, a 3.0 liter V6 drives this large SUV powerfully and smoothly. An eight-speed tiptronic and quattro permanent all-wheel drive round out the luxurious drivetrain.

The new V6 TDI in the Q7 is a high-tech engine. It weighs far less than 200 kilograms (440.92 lb) and extensive measures minimize internal friction. Innovative thermal management – a new feature of many Audi engines – is particularly complex in the 3.0 TDI. The crankcase and the cylinder heads have separate cooling water circuits; coolant is not circulated within the block while the engine is warming up.

The EU 5 classification for this new entry model in the Q7 family will come as no surprise, just like its high fuel efficiency. On average, it needs 7.2 liters per 100 km (32.67 miles per U.S. gallon). And its CO2 equivalent is just 189 grams per km (304.17 grams per mile) – no other large SUV from a European brand boasts such a low value. The efficient TDI delivers 150 kW (204 hp). Its maximum torque becomes available just above the idling point: 450 Nm (331.90 lb-ft) remain constant between 1,250 and 2,750 rpm.

This large SUV accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 9.1 seconds. In the version with an optional air suspension, it reaches a top speed of 205 km/h (127.38 mph); with steel suspension, 202 km/h (125.52 mph).

The Q7 3.0 TDI with 150 kW (204 hp) offers the same power transmission as all other models in this line. The new and efficient eight-speed tiptronic – with its high overall gear ratio – delivers torque to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive, which has a sporty rear-end bias. Double wishbones made of aluminum guide all four wheels; the chassis delivers great agility and stability. An off-road mode and a hill-descent assistant aid off-road driving.

With a wheelbase measuring 3.00 meters (9.84 feet) and an overall length of 5.09 meters (16.70 feet), the interior offers plenty of room. Audi offers the Q7 with five, six or seven seats. The luggage compartment offers as much as 2,035 liters of capacity (71.87 cubic ft). This new entry model’s standard equipment package includes two-zone deluxe automatic air conditioning, a high-beam assistant, and an MMI radio multimedia interface.

Despite a generous equipment package, this model line’s new entry model costs just 51,800 euros in Germany. This basic price makes the Q7 more affordable than all of its direct competitors.

Eisenmann has long been the acme of superior performance exhaust systems. For the first time the exhaust specialist has transformed an entire vehicle. The highest standards, which are hallmarks of Eisenmann, also apply to the carbon aerodynamic package, the alloy wheels, the chassis, and of course the exhaust system. This converts the Audi R8 into the Spark Eight by Eisenmann.

Not only does the aerodynamic package contribute to its ultimate visual effect, it also improves the functionality of the super sports car from Ingolstadt. The components significantly improve the driving dynamics and the load distribution between front and rear axle. The new carbon outfit includes the spoiler with grille and fins (7800 Euro including VAT), the brake cooling chambers (1260 Euro), the front splitter (1800 Euro), the rear spoiler with grille (4800 Euro), and the rear diffuser (3800 Euro).

It goes without saying that exhaust systems are the domain of Eisenmann. The Spark Eight by Eisenmann is fitted with a performance stainless steal system, with a gigantic tailpipe exit in the center of the rear spoiler (4600 Euro). This warrants a one-of-a-kind visual effect. Thanks to the flap control system, sound and optimal performance can be controlled with the push of a button. As an alternative Eisenmann offers an exhaust system with four stainless steel tailpipes (3800 Euro) that can be combined with the standard rear spoiler. The retro-classic intake funnel (1200 Euro) and the two oval tailpipes (1000 Euro) provide the look of the R10.

Eisenmann also ensures that the improved chassis matches the upgrade of visual effect and sound. The new shock absorbers with four performance springs (3850 Euro) increase the driving dynamic for even more agile handling characteristics. The 235/35 (front) and 315/30 (rear) tyres mounted on 8.5×19 inch alloy wheels ensure a solid grip (complete set available for 7300 Euro).

For the Spark Eight by Eisenmann, visual appearance, sound and performance enter into a perfect symbiosis. All of the above is based on experience Eisenmann has amassed in motoring. Many years of research and development for racetracks and motorways alike have merged into an unrivaled project. Components and the complete conversion package are exclusively available at Eisenmann and on the Web at www.eisenmann-sportauspuff.de

With the Audi A7 Sportback, which will be rolling into dealerships in the fall at a base price of €51,600, Audi is taking up a new design line representing elegance on a grand scale. The five-door coupe is 4.97 meters (16.31 ft) long and 1.91 meters (6.27 ft) wide, but only 1.42 meters (4.66 ft) high. Its long hood, the short front overhang, the long wheelbase, the sportily flowing C-pillars and the sharply dropping rear create a dynamic overall impression. The five-door coupe is an aesthetic athlete with a wide, powerful road stance.

Audi will initially offer the Audi A7 Sportback with a choice of four powerful and cultivated V6 engines: two gasoline and two TDI units. Their power output ranges from 150 kW (204 hp) to 220 kW (300 hp), and their efficiency sets impressive new standards in the vehicle class. The new 3.0 TDI with 150 kW (204 hp) and multitronic consumes on average just 5.3 liters of fuel per 100 km (44.38 US mpg), corresponding to CO2 emissions of just 139 g per km (223.70 g/mile). All engines use Audi’s innovative thermal management system, a recuperation system and a start-stop system.

If a few days ago we have seen the first teaser images of the Audi A1 city car, today Audi revealed two new teaser video for the future car. We’ll keep teasing you until in early February 2010 when the A1 celebrates its online premiere (end of secrecy).

While our A5 Cabriolet’s white on brown exterior was something to be admired, the Cinnamon Brown interior was simply amazing. The spicy chocolate leather covered everything from the door panels to leather seats that could substitute for a set of genuine sport buckets any day of the week. As usual Audi made good use of brushed aluminum in the dash, framing the instrument cluster, but also some tasteful wood trim in the doors and center console. Our car came complete with Audi’s multimedia interface, a unique take on the classic iDrive system where occupants control every aspect of the A5’s infotainment, Navigation and vehicle options through the in dash display. It is also worth noting that the A5’s back up camera comes with guidance lines that move along with the steering wheel, a small touch that goes a long way and should be more prevalent in cars that call themselves luxury vehicles.

It was always interesting that Audi would produce two distinct power train layouts depending on whether you were buying a Quattro car or just a front wheel drive version. The cost of designing and then constructing two different versions of the same car would seem quite impractical. It seems that the German automaker has solved this problem by incorporating a Porsche like transaxle layout, with the engine mounted longitudinally, so that if a consumers wants to have Audi’s patented all wheel drive system, the workers at the factory just have to bolt up the rest of the hardware, which includes a sport tuned rear differential, for something that looks much like a Subaru from underneath.

Our car came with the proven 2.0 Liter TFSI four cylinder that takes full advantage of Audi’s race tested turbocharged fuel stratified injection that makes more power with less waste than traditional fuel injection. The result is a maximum output of 211 HP and 258 lb-ft of torque being shifted by Audi’s FrontTrak front wheel drive Multitronic transaxle to a top speed of 130 MPH. Speaking of which, Audi’s engineers have repositioned the clutch and torque converter which evens out the weight over the car’s wheelbase as well as eliminating Audi’s old long overhang forward of the 18 inch 15 spoke rollers up front. This not only makes the new A5 handle better, but it looks a bit sportier as well. So thanks to the combination of a turbocharged direct injected motor and a CVT transmission means that the mid size luxury sports coupe can still get up to 23 MPG in the city and as much as 30 MPG on the highway.

Despite the aggressive exterior, our A5 Cabriolet was much more of a boulevard cruiser than a track day machine. The suspension was tuned for comfort which means the car exhibited a bit of body roll and unless you would press the accelerator all the way to the floor the turbo four powered A5 seemed a bit lethargic getting up to speed, which is perfect for a 50 year old woman who wants to look good when the valet brings her car around at Saks. If what you are looking for is a real performance machine, then the new S5 offers a supercharged V6 that makes 333 HP and offers even more good looks and best of all is available with Quattro all wheel drive, ensuring that your new convertible sports car is up to anything you want to throw at it.

Starting at $42,000 our Ibis White 2010 A5 2.0 TFSI FWD Multitronic Cabriolet came equipped with the $3500 Premium plus package that includes 18 inch wheels, LED lamps, hands free Bluetooth connectivity, three zone climate control and Audi’s magnificent Music Interface. The Comfort and Navigation packages were $2400 each and brought perforated genuine Milano leather and that wonderful back up camera. The Nutmeg laurel wood trim was an additional $400 and was well worth it bringing our A5’s total price all the way up to $51,525. Although this may seem a bit steep for Audi’s entry level drop top, the luxuries are well worth it.

After a successful and extravagant debut at the Audi Pavilion in Miami a few days ago, the new Audi A8 luxury sedan is now poised to become a new challenger in the race for supremacy in the luxury sedan market – a market that features no less than the BMW 7-Series, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, and the Lexus LS.

In the event that you missed the world debut of the A8, check out this video regarding everything you need to know about Audi’s new ride. Who know, you might end up wanting one as soon you finish watching.

We’re pretty sure by now you know that August Horch was the one responsible for Audi. You didn’t? Well, he is (he was also a former engineer for Karl Benz – the other guy in the Mercedes-Benz – tie-up, but that’s not relevant to the topic at hand). As a matter of fact, if you translate ’Horch’ to Latin, you’d come up with – make a wild guess – Audi.

That being said, you can expect that the man whose name bears the brand would have a car named after him. And the company did just that with the Horch – a car that survived until 1953 when the last one was rolled out of Ingolstadt. In recent years, Audi has been in search to find the last Horch that was created in ’53. So they got Ralph Hornung, their resident vintage car locator, to find the missing car.

It’s a treasure hunt that would make even Indian Jones blush.

After months of searching, Hornung found his unicorn in West Texas. We’ve spoiled enough so we’re just going to let you watch the video to find out how Hornung ended up in the most unlikely of places and, more importantly, how the Horch found itself there in the first place.

Jamiroquai front man Jay Kay is a consummate automotive consumer, and if his personal collection of super cars isn’t enough to convince you then just take the German luxury car builder Audi’s word for it because they put the singer behind the wheel of a new Audi Q5 crossover to see what he thinks of the new car. Jay Kay was particularly fond of the Q5’s aggressive exterior lines as well as the full length sunroof that opens up the interior as well as the spacious accommodations for up to six passengers and the ability to carry loads of cargo. But don’t take our word for it, see for yourself.

Barely a month after it was first introduced at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the all-new Audi R8 Spider has found its way into Audi’s new flagship dealership in London.

The convertible version of Audi’s supercar, the R8, the R8 Spider is still not for sale until the spring of 2010. Nevertheless, the car brand has decided to display the car as a way of enticing prospective buyers of what they’re in store for as soon as the R8 Spider goes on sale.

As far as performance is considered, the R8 Spider retains much of the same specifications of the hard-top version, especially the 5.2-liter V10 engine and all-wheel drive system found in the 5.2 FSI R8 coupe. If there was any difference between the two – apart from the obvious roof-of-choice – the R8 Spider weighs in at about 100 kg more than the coupe version, thanks in large part to balancing the car’s weight with the weight of the retractable roof. As a result of the ‘bulkier’ Spider version, the car’s top speed falls just a tad under the 194 mph coupe version, although, as we’ve said, the difference isn’t all that striking.

In any case, the new R8 Spider is set to go on sale at the spring of 2010 where it will be sold from £109,580. If prospective buyers are interested in equipping the R8 Spider with an R-tronic transmission, they’ll have to shell out a few more euros – £114,670, to be exact – before they can get their hands on one.

Peter Duffy, Audi UK’s Head of Marketing, commented: “The Isle of Man held the very first Tourist Trophy event in Britain and became an integral part of Audi’s heritage in its days with NSU. We look forward to writing the next chapter in our company’s history with the public showing of the new Audi TTS on the island.”

There will be a total of eight Audi models from the entire range to manage the running of the event including vital course inspection and roads opening duties. The Isle of Man TT runs from 24 May-6 June.

Audi For Hollywood

Audi tackles its most ambitious product placement project ever: For the epic event motion picture “I, ROBOT”, Audi Design developed the spectacular vehicle, which helps leading actor Will Smith – a homicide detective in the year 2035 – solve a mystery that could have grave consequences for the human race. Fox releases “I, ROBOT” in the U.S. on July 16; the film arrives in Germany in August.

In the near future, technology and robots are a trusted part of everyday life. In “I, ROBOT”, that trust is broken and one man, alone against the system, sees it coming. The film employs spectacular visual effects innovations beyond any ever put on screen, to bring a world of robots to life. The film is directed by Alex Proyas (Dark City, The Crow) and is set in a world created by famed science fiction writer Isaac Asimov in his short story collection “I, ROBOT”.

For the first time ever, Audi developed a car specifically for a major Hollywood motion picture. Audi engineers created a car for “I, ROBOT’s” incredible world of 2035.

The resulting Audi RSQ sport coupe is a visionary interpretation of Audi’s typical design language. The most important thing was that despite its extreme character the car should still be recognized as an Audi. The cinemagoer will therefore see the new Audi front-end with the typical single-frame grille in the movie.

Features

The RSQ includes special features suggested by movie director Alex Proyas. The mid-engined sports car operated by the story’s police department, races through the Chicago of the future not on wheels but on spheres. Its two doors are rear-hinged to the C-posts of the body and open according to the butterfly principle.

In addition to the RSQ concept car, Audi supplied further series-production cars which appear – in disguised shapes – in the movie’s traffic scenes. Audi also supplied the interior mock-up used for interior car scenes.

With this project Audi opens up a new chapter in product placement. Previously, Audi has always supplied volume-production cars to movie productions. In individual cases, such as “Mission: Impossible II,” these cars were even used in movies before their market launch. With “I, ROBOT” and the systematic development of a “car of the future,” Audi goes far beyond its previous product placement activities.

Audi has been participating as an automobile partner in major movie productions for many years. In addition to John Frankenheimer’s action classic “Ronin” with Jean Reno and Robert De Niro (1998), Audi played the automobile lead in “The Insider” (1999) featuring Academy Award Winner Russell Crowe, “Mission Impossible II” (starring Tom Cruise, 2000), “The Mothman Prophecies” (starring Richard Gere, 2002), “About a Boy” (starring Hugh Grant, 2002), Reese Witherspoon’s “Legally Blond 2” (2003), and in the latest Transoprter movie (2005)

Audi presents the highlight of the IAA 2009: the e-tron, a high-performance sports car with a purely electric drive system. Four motors – two each at the front and rear axles – drive the wheels, making the concept car a true quattro. Producing 230 kW (313 hp) and 4,500 Nm (3,319.03 lb-ft) of torque, the two-seater accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (0 – 62.14 mph) in 4.8 seconds, and from 60 to 120 km/h (37.28 – 74.56 mph) in 4.1 seconds. The lithium-ion battery provides a truly useable energy content of 42.4 kilowatt hours to enable a range of approximately 248 kilometers, or 154 miles.

The performance figures are by no means the only evidence of the consistent and holistic strategy. The design makes it clear that the e-tron belongs in the major leagues of sports cars, and the package takes into account the specific realities of an electric vehicle. The battery is directly behind the passenger cabin for an optimal center of gravity and axle load distribution.

The e-tron is able to freely distribute the powerful torque of its four electric motors to the wheels as required. This torque vectoring allows for dazzling dynamics and an undreamed-of level of agility and precision when cornering.

Audi has taken a new, and in some cases revolutionary, approach to many of the technical modules. A heat pump is used to efficiently warm up and heat the interior. The drive system, the power electronics and the battery are controlled by an innovative thermal management system that is a crucial component for achieving the car’s range without compromising its high level of interior comfort. Networking the vehicle electronics with the surroundings, which is referred to as car-to-x communication, opens new dimensions for the optimization of efficiency, safety and convenience.

The Concept

Electric drive systems are still very much outsiders. The first vehicles of this type took to the roads around 1900, yet in 2009 no volume car manufacturer has a car powered exclusively by batteries in its lineup. Fewer than 1,500 electric vehicles are currently registered in Germany, corresponding to only 0.035 percent of all registered vehicles.

Yet electric driving potentially offers numerous advantages. Electric cars reduce the dependence of transportation and the economy on the raw material petroleum. They produce no direct exhaust emissions and thus ease the local burden on the environment. Electric drive systems are also significantly more efficient than combustion engines, consequently making them easier on the customers’ wallets. Other strengths include sportiness and the fun they bring to driving. All of the torque is essentially available the moment the driver steps on the accelerator, allowing for breathtaking acceleration.

There is still a lot of work to do before electric cars are ready for volume production, however. The greatest challenge is the integration of the energy storage system. Acceptable range and performance requires a traction battery that is heavy and takes up a lot of space. Audi is taking a new approach to offset these disadvantages – a holistic approach with a specific vehicle package, a systematic lightweight construction concept and an optimal configuration of all components for the electric drive.

Audi e-tron – The Holistic Approach

The most important development related to batteries for electric drives are lithium-ion cells. Numerous experts throughout the world are working on their further development for use in cars, with the primary objectives being to reduce weight and increase capacity and performance. Audi has also opted for this technology, both for use in a hybrid production vehicle, such as the upcoming Q5 hybrid, and in the e-tron test platform.

The requirement specification for the concept vehicle goes far beyond battery technology and the replacement of the combustion engine with an electric drive system, however. The Audi development engineers decided back in the concept phase to design practically every component and technology based on the new requirements of electric mobility. The interaction of all elements has a decisive influence on the factors efficiency, range and practicality.

The Audi team therefore focused its attention on the total vehicle, which is reflected in the comprehensive requirement specification.

• The reduction of road resistances and the resulting increase in range plays a major role with electric vehicles. Lightweight construction was therefore a top priority for the e-tron concept car. The body, in particular, combines low weight with supreme strength and rigidity. An intelligent aerodynamics concept with active elements helps to reduce consumption.
• The package ensures the safe integration of the electric drive system and the battery. Placing the battery in front of the rear axle ensures an optimal axle load distribution without compromising the compact overall design and the generous amount of interior space.
• Advanced battery technology enables a practical range. The battery system is water-cooled for optimal performance and service life.
• A needs-based energy management system controls all functions for the chassis, convenience equipment and other auxiliary consumers.
• The innovative thermal management system with optimally matched cooling and heating components considers the cooling requirements of the battery and the drive system in addition to the interior temperature.
• Driving dynamics and road comfort are what Audi customers have come to expect in the sports car segment.
• Vehicle safety is on par with the best of today’s production vehicles.
• The driver is provided with clear and comprehensive information.
• The e-tron concept car uses car-to-x communication technology developed by Audi to improve the efficiency of conventionally powered vehicles. For example, information about traffic light cycle times and the flow of traffic – provided by the infrastructure and other vehicles – is used to compute an optimal driving strategy. Audi has already modeled such a solution in Ingolstadt as part of its “travolution” project.

Design and Package

The caliber of the car is apparent to the observer at first glance. The Audi e-tron has a wide, powerful stance on the road. The car body seems almost monolithic; the closed rear end appears powerful and muscular. The trapeze of the single-frame grille dominates the front end and is flanked by two large air intakes. The top of the grille merges into the flat strips of the adaptive matrix beam headlamp modules with their clear glass covers. High-efficiency LED technology is used for all lighting units – a matter of honor for Audi as the worldwide pioneer in this field.

The headlamps are the core of a fully automatic light assistance system that reacts flexibly to any situation. The new technology recognizes weather conditions and adapts the illumination to rain or fog. The technology at the heart of the light assistance system is a camera that works together with a fast computer to detect oncoming traffic, recognize lanes and measure visibilities, such as in the event of fog.

If there is oncoming traffic, for example, the high beams are turned off in the corresponding section of the illumination field. The cornering light system analyzes data from the navigation system and illuminates corners before the driver steers into them. The Audi e-tron does not have conventional fog lamps that consume additional power. It instead intelligently varies the low beams to widen the illumination field, thus significantly reducing the glare from the car’s own lights.

The variability of the headlamps is also reflected in their design. The LED elements change appearance and thus the character of the front end of the vehicle depending on the speed driven and the ambient conditions. The innovative lighting technology offers the Audi designers almost as much design freedom as the shape of the body does.

New design elements unique to the e-tron are the air intakes in the single-frame grille and in front of the rear wheel wells. They are closed flush under normal circumstances and opened by means of flaps when additional cooling air is required. Maximum efficiency is also the reason behind this measure. The concept car has a remarkably low drag coefficient, which gets even better when the flaps are closed.

The vehicle body is compact. The sweeping line of the front end and the flat curved roof immediately identify the two-seater as an Audi. The contours of the flanks are familiar. The tapering of the dynamic line above the sill and the shoulder line tie together the front end, the side and the rear, lend a plastic quality to the doors and the transition to the side air intake and sharply emphasize the Audi-typical round wheel wells with the large, 19-inch tires.

At 1.90 meters (74.80 in) wide, just 4.26 meters (167.72 in) long and 1.23 meters (48.43 in) tall, Audi e-tron has the proportions of a supercar. The wheelbase of 2.60 meters (102.36 in) leaves plenty of room between the axles for people and technology. Like with a mid-engined sports car, the cabin of the e-tron is shifted far forward toward the front axle, leaving room in front of the rear axle for the roughly 470 kilogram (1,036.17 lb) battery unit, the inverter and the power electronics.

The two electric motors, which have their own cooling system, are mounted behind the rear axle. The front electric motors are mounted on the front axle, with their cooling system arranged in front of them. This special package, which features a 42:58 weight distribution, ensures perfect balance, which contributes to the driving dynamics of the e-tron.

Systematic lightweight construction is an even more important prerequisite for efficiency and range with electric vehicles than for conventionally powered automobiles. The Audi development engineers drew on the core competence of the company for the e-tron. The body structure is based on Audi Space Frame (ASF) technology and was realized as a hybrid construction. All add-on parts – doors, covers, sidewalls and roof – are made of a fiber-reinforced plastic.

The combination of aluminum and carbon fiber-reinforced composite material guarantees supreme rigidity coupled with low weight. Audi will soon use this technology in a similar form for production vehicles. Despite the complex drive system layout with four electric motors and a high-capacity battery system, the total weight of the Audi e-tron is only around 1,600 kilograms (3,527.40 lb).

Interior and Control Concept

Optical and functional references to the new drive concept characterize the interior design. They establish an advanced connection between proven Audi genes and new formal hallmarks. Typical for the Audi design language is the reduction of the architecture, controls and flow of information to the essential in favor of visible lightweight construction and a tidy overall impression.

The dash appears to float and has a curve that extends laterally into the door panels. With no need to allow for a transmission, shifter and cardan tunnel, the designers took advantage of the opportunity to create a particularly slim and lightweight center tunnel and center console. The flush gear selector, with which the driver chooses between the modes forward, reverse and neutral, emerges from the tunnel when the vehicle is started.

The cockpit of the e-tron is also oriented toward the driver – a further characteristic Audi trait. Instead of the classic instrument cluster, the concept car is the first Audi to be equipped with a large, fold-out central display with integrated MMI functions. It is flanked by two round dials.

The MMI is controlled via a scroll pad with a touch-sensitive surface on the steering wheel (“MMI touch”) – an element inspired by modern smartphones.

While an analog speedometer on the right provides speed information, the instrument on the left tells the driver how much power is being drawn. The central display shows the range in the status bar and presents all key information from the infotainment and navigation systems. It also provides the driver with relevant data from the vehicle’s communication with its surroundings. The instruments combine the analog and the digital worlds into a single unit.

Characteristic for the concept of the Audi e-tron is the near total elimination of switches and small components such as the ignition. The climate control unit is located to the right above the steering wheel. The display provides temperature and ventilation information. Again drawing inspiration from a smartphone, the system is controlled by means of a touch-sensitive sliding control.

The racing-inspired lightweight bucket seats combine excellent lateral support with comfort. Contrasting colors – snow white and cognac – delineate the various zones of the interior. The colors and the high-quality materials combine elegance and sportiness.

Drive System and Energy Supply

Four asynchronous motors with a total output of 230 kilowatts (313 hp) give the Audi e-tron the performance of a high-output sports car. The concept car can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (0 – 62.14 mph) in 4.8 seconds if necessary, and goes from 60 to 120 km/h (37.28 – 74.56 mph) in 4.1 seconds. The torque flows selectively to the wheels based on the driving situation and the condition of the road surface, resulting in outstanding traction and handling.

The top speed is limited to 200 km/h (124.27 mph), as the amount of energy required by the electric motors increases disproportionately to speed. The range in the NECD combined cycle is approximately 248 kilometers (154 miles). This good value is made possible by the integrated concept: technology specially configured for the electric drive system combined with state-of-the-art battery technology. The battery block has a total energy content of roughly 53 kilowatt hours, with the usable portion thereof restricted to 42.4 kWh in the interest of service life. Audi uses liquid cooling for the batteries.

The energy storage unit is charged with household current (230 volts, 16 amperes) via a cable and a plug. The socket is behind a cover at the back of the car. With the battery fully discharged, the charging time is between 6 and 8 hours. A high voltage (400 volts, 63 amperes) reduces this to just around 2.5 hours. The Audi engineers are working on a wireless solution to make charging more convenient. The inductive charging station, which can be placed in the garage at home or also in special parking garages, is activated automatically when the vehicle is docked. Such technology is already used today in a similar form to charge electric toothbrushes.

The battery is charged not only when the car is stationary, but also when it is in motion. The keyword here is recuperation. This form of energy recovery and return to the battery is already available today in a number of Audi production models. During braking, the alternator converts the kinetic energy into electrical energy, which it then feeds into the onboard electrical system.

The Audi e-tron, which is slowed by four lightweight ceramic brake discs, takes the next large step into the future. An electronic brake system makes it possible to tap into the recuperation potential of the electric motors. A hydraulic fixed-caliper brake is mounted on the front axle, with two novel electrically-actuated floating-caliper brakes mounted on the rear axle. These floating calipers are actuated not by any mechanical or hydraulic transfer elements, but rather by wire (“brake by wire”). In addition, this eliminates frictional losses due to residual slip when the brakes are not being applied.

This decoupling of the brake pedal enables the e-tron’s electric motors to convert all of the braking energy into electricity and recover it. The electromechanical brake system is only activated if greater deceleration is required. These control actions are unnoticeable to the driver, who feels only a predictable and constant pedal feel as with a hydraulic brake system.

Making its Automotive Debut: The Heat Pump

The heat pump – used here for the first time ever in an automobile – also serves to increase efficiency and range. Unlike a combustion engine, the electric drive system may not produce enough waste heat under all operating conditions to effectively heat the interior. Other electric vehicles are equipped with electric supplemental heaters, which consume a relatively large amount of energy. The heat pump used by Audi – and commonly used in buildings – is a highly efficient machine that uses mechanical work to provide heat with a minimum input of energy.

A high-efficiency climate control system is used to cool the interior. It works together with the thermal management system to also control the temperature of the high-voltage battery. The battery, the power electronics and the electric motors must be kept at their respective ideal operating temperatures to achieve optimal performance and range.

As soon as the vehicle is connected to a charging station the vehicle is preconditioned as appropriate by the thermal management and other associated systems.

The drive system is heated if temperatures are cool, and cooled if hot. This preconditioning can also be extended to the interior, if necessary, so that the passengers can step into a cabin that has been heated or cooled as appropriate for their comfort.

Driving Dynamics

The normal distribution of the tractive power is clearly biased toward the rear axle in accordance with the weight distribution of the e-tron. Similarly to a mid-engined sports car, roughly 70 percent of the power goes the rear and 30 percent to the front. If an axle slips, this balance can be varied by means of the four centrally controlled electric motors. The electric vehicle from Audi thus enjoys all of the advantages of quattro technology.

The four individual motors, which in the interest of greater traction are installed behind the wheels as wheel drives, also enable the e-tron’s lateral dynamics to be intelligently controlled. Similar to what the sport differential does in conventional quattro vehicles, torque vectoring – the targeted acceleration of individual wheels – makes the e-tron even more dynamic while simultaneously enhancing driving safety. Understeer and oversteer can be corrected by not only targeted activation of the brakes, but also by precise increases in power lasting just a few milliseconds. The concept car remains extremely neutral even under great lateral acceleration and hustles through corners as if on the proverbial rails.

The chassis has triangular double wishbones at the front axle and trapezoidal wishbones made of forged aluminum components at the rear axle – a geometry that has proven in motorsports to be the optimal prerequisite for high agility, uncompromising precision and precisely defined self-steering behavior. A taut setup was chosen for the springs and shock absorbers, but it is still very comfortable.

Exceptional performance and breathtaking dynamism coupled with the intense sensations of open-top driving: Audi presents the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro. Its lightweight cloth top opens and closes fully automatically; several body parts are made of a carbon fiber composite material.

The V10 engine produces 386 kW (525 hp) and launches the open-top two-seater to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 4.1 seconds on its way to a top speed of 313 km/h (194.49 mph). Featuring technologies such as the Audi Space Frame (ASF), quattro permanent all-wheel drive, full-LED headlights and with an innovative seatbelt microphone available as an option, the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro is the new top-of-the-range Audi.

The Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro makes a powerful statement. The sculptured lines of the emotion-packed, high-performance sports car are a fascinating and unique interpretation of its dynamism. Unlike the Coupé, the Spyder does not have sideblades behind the doors. The side panels and the large cover over the storage compartment for the cloth top are made of a carbon fiber composite. Two arched cowls, which extend to the spoiler lip and include large, integrated air vents, give the rear of the open-top two-seater a powerful profile.

Like every open-top Audi, the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro has a cloth top – an uncompromising solution for a high-performance sports car. The soft top’s approximate weight is a mere 30 kilograms (66.14 lb); it thus keeps the vehicle’s total weight and center of gravity low. The top takes up little space when open and is a harmonious design element when closed. It tapers off to two slim fins extending to the trailing edge of the car, emphasizing the elongated silhouette.

The electrohydraulic soft top opens and closes in 19 seconds, even while driving at speeds up to 50 km/h (31.07 mph). When opened, it folds like a Z into its storage compartment over the V10 engine. The compartment cover opens and closes automatically. The heated glass window, which is separate from the cloth top, is lowered into the bulkhead. It can be independently raised and lowered at the press of a switch, with the top up or down. An additional net-like wind deflector comes standard and can be latched into the bulkhead behind the seats in two easy steps.

The top, which comprises an outer skin of a leakproof textile fabric and the headliner, is fully compatible with high-speed driving. When driving at moderate speeds with the top up, interior noise levels in the R8 Spyder are barely higher than in the Coupé. The bulkhead includes integrated rollover protection in the form of two strong, spring-tensioned plates. Head/thorax side bags in the backrests protect the passengers in the event of a side impact. Full-size airbags stand at the ready in the event of a head-on collision. In a rear-end collision, the integral head restraint system reduces the risk of whiplash injuries.

In the version with manual transmission, the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro weighs only 1,720 kilograms thanks primarily to its aluminum Audi Space Frame (ASF) body. Despite reinforcements in the area of the sills, the center tunnel, the rear wall, the floor pan and the A- and B-pillars, the body weighs only 216 kilograms (476.2 lb) – just 6 kilograms (13.23 lb) more than that of the R8 Coupé. The high stiffness of the ASF body, which includes an integrated engine frame of ultra-lightweight magnesium, provides the foundation for the car’s dynamic handling and superior safety.

Close attention to detail: the design

Numerous details demonstrate that the Audi designers put their hearts into the design of the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro. The air inlets in the nose, which direct air across the three radiators, and the lip of the front skirt are painted high-gloss black. The struts in the broad, low, single-frame grille are finely coated with chrome. The standard full-LED headlights are technical works of art. Their reflectors resemble open mussel shells; the daytime running lights appear to be a homogeneous strip, but actually comprise 24 individual LEDs that form a curve at the lower edge of the headlight.

The full-LED headlights from Audi are unmatched by its international competitors. Light-emitting diodes are used for the low beams, the high beams, the daytime running lights and the turn signals. With a color temperature of 6,000 Kelvin, the LED light is very similar to daylight, making it easier on the eyes when driving at night. Additional strengths include excellent light distribution, long service life and extremely low energy consumption.

The side sills of the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro are broad and angular. V10 badges on the flanks allude to the power of the engine. A dark surface between the rear lights emphasizes the car’s width. The chambers of the lights are colored dark red, with LEDs generating a three-dimensional light pattern. The exhaust system ends in two large, oval tailpipes, and the fully lined underbody ends in an upturned diffuser. The rear spoiler extends automatically at higher speeds.

Audi offers the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro with a choice of three colors for the top. The body is available in eleven paint finishes, with metallic and pearl effect finishes standard. The windshield frame is coated with anodized aluminum.

Sporty luxury: the interior

The open-top two-seater from Audi features a generously spacious interior. The three-spoke leather multifunction sport steering wheel is flattened at the bottom as in a race car, and the low-mounted, electrically adjustable seats guide and support the body perfectly.

Quality of fit and finish is extraordinary and the controls are clear and logical. The standard driver information system includes a lap timer for recording lap times. The instruments and the gear lever knob feature red rings. The pedals, the footrests and the shift paddles of the optional R tronic are in aluminum look. Highlighting the list of standard equipment are a generous full-leather package featuring Fine Nappa leather, an excellent sound system from Bang & Olufsen, a deluxe automatic air conditioning system and heated seats. Six different interior colors are available.

Many additional fine features documents the top status of the Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro. The leather for the seats are colored with pigments that reflect the infrared component of sunlight, which keeps the seats up to 20 degrees Celsius cooler.

Door sill strips coated with aluminum and adorned with black satin finish applications impart an air of luxurious sportiness. Three storage compartments are integrated into the rear bulkhead, one of which contains the optional CD changer or Audi music interface, if desired. There is a front compartment for 100 liters (3.53 cu ft) of luggage.

The latest version of the navigation system plus with MMI operating logic is also standard in the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro. It features higher resolution and particularly fast route calculation. The system’s most visible new feature is the high-resolution, 6.5-inch display. The topographic view can be scrolled in any direction. The system can be combined optionally with a rearview camera that serves as a parking aid.

Audi offers custom extras, such as exclusive leather packages and special inlays. A worldwide first is the optional seatbelt microphone for the hands-free unit, which makes it possible to talk on the phone even with the top down on the highway. Three small, flat microphones are integrated into both seatbelts. At least one of them is ideally positioned relative to the speaker when the belt is on. There is a fourth microphone in the windshield frame.

Audi will unveil three new vehicles at Frankfurt’s International Motor Show (IAA): the remarkably dynamic S5 Sportback, the extremely low-emission A4 3.0 TDI clean diesel quattro, and the especially efficient A3 1.2 TFSI. These innovative engines boast some very different key data, yet they share something in common: They embody Audi’s conviction that dynamics and efficiency are not mutually exclusive; on the contrary, they go hand in hand and are mutually complementary.

Audi will soon launch the most efficient standard-size sedan. The Audi A4 2.0 TDI e will be available at dealerships starting in early June. Equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission, this sedan sips 4.6 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers (51.13 miles per U.S. gallon). It consequently emits a mere 119 grams of CO2 per kilometer (191.51 grams per mile): the best value of any vehicle in its class. “Efficiency is standard in every Audi. The A4 2.0 TDI e is particularly persuasive proof that efficiency, outstanding performance, comfort and driving enjoyment are not mutually exclusive,” says Michael Dick, Board of Management Member for Technical Development at AUDI AG. This ‘e’ model develops an output of 136 bhp (100 kW); it reaches 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 9.5 seconds and swiftly tops out at 215 km/h (133.59 mph). The sedan can be ordered now and costs 30,800 euros. This remarkably efficient A4 is also available as an Avant.

The combined impact of several features facilitates the vehicle’s increased efficiency. The standard start-stop system is especially effective during city driving. As soon as the vehicle comes to a stop, the shift lever is in neutral, and the driver removes his or her foot from the clutch pedal, the system turns the engine off. The engine then turns back on as soon as the clutch pedal is depressed.

The start-stop system functions extremely quietly, smoothly, and quickly. While the driver is stepping on the clutch pedal to shift into first gear, the engine instantaneously returns to its idle speed. In the standardized driving cycle, the start-stop system reduces fuel consumption by some 0.2 liters/100 km, which equates to about 5 grams CO2/km (8.05 g/mile).

Furthermore, this ‘e’ model features a 6-speed manual transmission with a final-drive ratio higher by five percent — enabling a reduction in engine speed in each of the six gears. The engine-management system has also been modified for maximum efficiency. The fuel-saving low-resistance tires (205/60 R 16) improve rolling resistance and are exclusive to the A4 model line’s ‘e’ model. Standard equipment also includes the recovery of braking energy. Aided by intelligent alternator regulation, this system converts surplus kinetic energy to electrical energy during a vehicle’s braking phases. This electrical energy is temporarily stored in the electrical system’s battery. When the vehicle resumes acceleration, the battery supplies this stored energy to the vehicle’s network — reducing the load on the alternator and thus saving fuel.

An on-board computer with efficiency program is also part of the standard-equipment package. The driver information system with gearshift indicator and efficiency-data display notifies the driver when it is sensible to shift gears to conserve fuel. The on-board computer displays all fuel-efficiency data on the center screen. These recommendations enable drivers to conserve fuel to the tune of 30 percent — simply by modifying their particular driving habits. Audi’s efficiency program continuously analyzes the vehicle’s energy consumption and gives the driver situation-specific advice on how to optimize fuel efficiency based on the given driving situation or driving style.

The A4 2.0 TDI e also consumes less fuel thanks to enhanced aerodynamics made possible by additional aerodynamic-drag optimizations such as an underbody trim panel, the partially enclosed radiator grille, and the reduction in ride height of 20 millimeters (0.79 inches) facilitated by the sports chassis.

The A4 2.0 TDI e is also available as an Avant. Its combined fuel consumption amounts to just 4.9 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers (48.00 miles per U.S. gallon). This Avant consequently emits 129 grams of CO2 per kilometer (207.61 grams per mile). The basic price for the Avant is 32,800 euros.

The Most Efficient Audi Models

The A4 2.0 TDI e is the fourth Audi ‘e’ model. Another ‘e’ model is the Audi A3 1.9 TDI e, available as a three-door hatchback or a five-door Sportback. It consumes 4.5 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (52.27 miles per U.S. gallon) and emits 119 grams of CO2 per kilometer (191.51 grams per mile). As a three-door model, the Audi A3 1.4 TFSI with start-stop system also achieves outstanding values, with fuel consumption at 5.7 l/100 km (41.27 miles per U.S. gallon) and CO2 emissions of 132 g/km (212.43 grams per mile). In the business sedan segment, the Audi A6 2.0 TDI e, available as a sedan and Avant, emits just 139 grams of CO2 per kilometer (223.70 grams per mile) while consuming just 5.3 l/100 km (44.38 miles per U.S. gallon). The Audi A8 2.8 FSI e was the first luxury sedan to remain under the threshold of 200 grams of CO2: 199 g/km (320.26 g/mile) at 8.3 l/100 km (28.34 miles per U.S. gallon). Although there is no ‘e’ in the model designation of the Audi TT 2.0 TDI quattro, it has attracted a lot of attention as a diesel sports car. The coupé’s fuel efficiency of 5.3 l/100 km (139 g/km CO2) [44.38 miles per U.S. gallon (223.70 g/mile CO2)] sets a benchmark in the sports-car segment. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in just 7.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 226 km/h (140.43 mph)

Finally, we get some good info and images of the new A5 Sportback, set to be released this September as a 2010 model in Europe. We likely won’t be getting it here in the States, unless Audi sees some demand for such a vehicle. The A5 Sportback, which you first saw in the A5 Sportback Spy Pictures article, is made to be a combination of a coupe, sedan, and wagon. It attempts to take the benefits from each and combine it into one great car, which will compete directly with the BMW 5-Series GT.

I’m still not entirely sure why they went with the A5 line with the Sportback; what makes the A5 and S5 so appealing is the 2-door coupe model. I know they want to give the Sportback a “coupe-like” image, and they did, but it would have fit much better with the A4. I guarantee that someone who didn’t know any better would mistake it for an A4 before an A5.

nitially, the Audi A5 Sportback will be available with five engine choices:

The two gasoline-powered engines are a 2.0T with 180 hp or 211 hp, and a 3.2-liter V6 with 265 hp. These will be equipped with a 7-speed S-tronic transmission. The diesel-powered choices include a 2.0 TDI with 170 hp, a 2.7-liter TDI with 190 hp, or a 3.0-liter TDI with 240 hp. The 2.0-liter TDI engine will be a fuel efficient-focused model with Audi’s start/stop system, which will bring fuel economy up to about 45 mpg. The two smaller TDI engines will be FWD only, while the two gasoline and more powerful TDI engine will get Audi’s quattro AWD system, and depending on the model, you’ll get either a manual, multitronic or seven-speed S tronic transmission. Three more engines are expected to be available by mid-2010. Here in the States, we never get this many engine choices!

The A5 Sportback will have all sorts of typical high-tech Audi bits available on other models – MMI, adaptive headlights, bluetooth, adaptive cruise control, parking assistant, rear-view camera, Bang & Olufsen sound, etc. Expect lots and lots of options.

S-line packages are also available, of course. The sport package consists of tighter suspension, lowered body, bigger wheels, sport seats, brushed aluminum, special S-line leather steering wheel and shift knob, and two special paint colors, Monza Silver and Misano Red. The S-line exterior package is also optional, which includes modified bumpers, side air intakes, diffuser and tailpipes, as well as body-color side sills, and S line badges on the door sill trims and front fenders. Fancy.

Here is what the various trim levels will cost at launch:

2.0 TDI with 6-speed manual transmission – 36,050 euros
2.7 TDI with 6-speed manual transmission – 39,300 euros
3.0 TDI quattro with 7-speed S tronic – 47,950 euros
2.0 TFSI FWD with 6-speed manual – 33,650 euros
2.0 TFSI quattro with 7-speed S tronic – 42,150 euros
3.2 FSI quattro with S tronic – 47,000 euros

Audi TT RS has a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine with direct gasoline injection, it generates 250 kW (340 bhp) and 450 Nm of torque, which be supposed to translate into a sub-5 second run to 60 mph. The top speed can be lift up to 174mph if you pay Audi additional to take away the limiter.
Audi’s quattro system have an electronically controlled, hydraulic multi-plate clutch to shift power fore and at the rear an optional magnetic ride damping system can be toggled between “Comfort” and “Sport.”
All pieces are built-in with a six-speed manual and ventilated disc brakes with black four-piston aluminium callipers and diameters of 370mm at the face and 310mm at the back.
Both a new TT-RS Coupe and Roadster will be accessible at start, with the first cars planned to hit car saloons in Europe by the middle of the year.

The Audi TT RS: A Pure Driving Machine developing 340 bhp

Audi is once again producing a five-cylinder engine – and a very special one at that. Arriving at dealerships this summer, the TT RS has a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine with direct gasoline injection; it produces 250 kW (340 bhp) and 450 Nm (331.90 lb.-ft.) of torque. The blazing five-cylinder engine enables the TT RS to perform extraordinary feats. In conjunction with quattro permanent all-wheel drive and a high-performance chassis, the engine makes the compact Audi TT RS a top-notch sports car – available as a coupé or roadster.

Sporty five-cylinder gasoline engines have a long legacy at Audi. The most famous is arguably the turbocharged 2.1-liter engine in the Audi quattro. The first version, which was launched in 1980, offered an impressive 147 kW (200 bhp). And the Sport quattro from 1984, directly inspired by motorsport, delivered a whopping 225 kW (306 bhp). For 25 years, turbochargers and quattro have been a dynamic formula for success.

Audi has resumed using this recipe. Designed from scratch, the five-cylinder engine combines a turbocharger with FSI direct gasoline injection to elevate the TT RS to a high-performance sports car. The TFSI delivers 250 kW (340 bhp) from a displacement of 2,480 cc (151.34 cu in): a specific output of 100.8 kW (137.1 bhp) per liter.

The power-to-weight ratio is also outstanding. In the case of the Coupé, which weighs in at a mere 1,450 kilograms (3,196.70 pounds), the power-to-weight ratio is just 4.3 kilograms per bhp. The Roadster has a weight of 1,510 kilograms (3,328.98 pounds) and a power-to-weight ratio of 4.4 kilograms per bhp – thanks to its extremely lightweight and largely aluminum body constructed as per the Audi Space Frame principle.

The TT RS Coupé rockets from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62.14 mph) in 4.6 seconds; the Roadster needs just a tenth of a second longer. The limited top speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph) is merely the official figure for both versions; as an option, Audi can increase it to 280 km/h (173.98 mph).

Almost even more impressive is the aggressive pulling power. The maximum torque of 450 Nm (331.90 lb.-ft.) is always available between 1,600 and 5,300 rpm. In addition, the TT RS overtakes without the slightest effort. Last but not least, its engine makes passengers’ skin tingle time and again thanks to its speedy and powerful response, its inspiring free-revving character, and its unmistakably guttural tailpipes: five-cylinder classical music by Audi!

Compact and Lightweight: The Five-cylinder TFSI
As an uncompromising sports-car engine, the 2.5-liter TFSI is ultra-compact. Just 49 centimeters (19.29 inches) in length, it is ideally suited for transverse installation in the TT RS. And its weight of just 183 kilograms (403.45 pounds) also sets a record. The crankcase is made of vermicular-graphite cast iron. This high-tech material unites the utmost in strength with low weight; it has otherwise only been used for the large TDI engines from Audi. Perfectly placed reinforcements enhance the block’s loadability. The lightweight cylinder head, the pistons, and the connecting rod are lightweight as well as high-strength.

The ultra-powerful five-cylinder engine is extremely fuel-efficient, requiring an average of just 9.2 liters/100 km [25.57 mpg] as regards the Coupé (Roadster: 9.5 l/100 km [24.76 mpg]). Switchable flaps in the intake manifold mix the incoming air in a calculated configuration. Injected at a pressure as high as 120 bar by the common-rail system, the gasoline swirls intensely in the combustion chamber – which in turn cools the walls. This subsequently facilitates a compression ratio of 10.0:1, which is very high for a turbocharged engine. Both of the adjustable camshafts, controlled via chains, also enhance charging efficiency with respect to the air-fuel mixture.

The large turbocharger generates up to 1.2 bar of boost pressure. The intercooler, fed air ideally by the lower segment of the single frame radiator grille, reduces the temperature of compressed air by over 80 percent at full load.

When an Audi TT RS driver pushes the standard Sport button on the center tunnel, a flap installed in the left exhaust tailpipe renders the exhaust noise even more robust and intense while boosting engine responsiveness. An optional Sport exhaust system is available with matt black tailpipe trims and sound flap.

For Purists: The Driveline
The Audi TT RS is the first classic sports car in the Audi RS family. Like the RS 4 and the RS 6, the Audi TT RS was developed by quattro GmbH as a pure, no-holds-barred driving machine. A new six-speed manual transmission conveys the engine’s tremendous power, and permits easy and precise operation thanks to a specially designed shift lever boasting particularly short shift travel. The transmission’s defining characteristics are a high efficiency ratio and a sportily narrow spread of the gear ratios.

The Audi TT RS features quattro permanent all-wheel drive as standard equipment. Its heart lies at the rear axle: an electronically controlled, hydraulic multi-plate clutch. If a situation calls for it, the clutch redirects a majority of the torque input from the front wheels to the rear wheels.

Within milliseconds, a powerful electrical pump in conjunction with an accumulator presses together the clutch’s plates via hydraulic pressure. Additions to the quattro powertrain include a constant velocity joint before the propeller shaft and a compact rear-axle differential – both are heavy-duty components.

The quattro drivetrain grants the Audi TT RS outstanding traction, fascinating dynamics, and superb stability. Winding rural routes or some laps around a racetrack allow the superior handling to shine. The precise and responsive steering, the instantaneous reactions of the chassis, the neutrality at the cornering limit, the grip while exiting a curve, and – time and again – the engine’s thrilling power: every mile in an Audi TT RS exudes the distilled essence of sportiness.

High-tech Excellence from Audi: Chassis and Body
The chassis of the Audi TT RS builds on the cutting-edge foundation of the base TT design. The four-link rear suspension, which handles longitudinal and lateral forces separately, plays a crucial role. The electromechanical steering is highly efficient and the power steering adjusts to the vehicle’s speed. With aluminum in the front and sheet steel in the back, the body’s innovative mixture of materials results in a well-balanced axle-load distribution, excellent crash safety, and the outstanding rigidity which lays the cornerstone for the car’s precise handling.

The standard sports chassis, which lowers the body by 10 millimeters (0.39 inches), features tightly tuned springs and shock absorbers. The optional Audi magnetic ride adaptive damping system allows the driver to select one of two modes for the shock absorbers by simply pushing the Sport button. Dynamic mode enables the TT RS to hug the road; Comfort mode provides a pleasantly balanced ride perfect for long journeys.

The sportiest version in the TT model line boasts 18-inch wheels fitted with 245/45 tires. They are complemented by mighty ventilated disc brakes, which measure 370 millimeters (14.57 inches) in diameter at the front and 310 millimeters (12.20 inches) at the rear. So that heat dissipates quickly, the front friction rings are perforated. They, in turn, are connected by hollow pins to the aluminum brake discs, which are encircled by black four-piston brake calipers made of aluminum and bearing RS logos.

The Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP) can be switched off partially or entirely. In Sport mode, the engine does not intervene to monitor traction and, correspondingly, the brakes engage later than otherwise. In the second mode, the ESP is fully deactivated.

The Face of Power: The Exterior
At just 4.20 meters (13.78 feet) in length, the vigorously compact Audi TT RS hints at its explosive potential from the very first glimpse. The front spoiler tapers downward into a splitter, reminiscent of a racing car. The large and squared air inlets have diamond-shaped inserts. And the high-gloss black single frame grille with a frame in matt aluminum look and the TT RS badge bear the same styling. The xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights notify faraway drivers that an Audi TT RS is approaching.

The sides of the vehicle are accentuated by large wheels in 5 twin-spoke design, vigorous side sills, and exterior-mirror casings in matt aluminum look. At the tail end, the two large oval exhaust tailpipes – spaced apart – are encircled by a diffuser insert. Here, too, is a TT RS badge. A stationary rear spoiler is standard, though customers can opt for one which automatically extends and retracts. Thanks to a drag coefficient of just 0.3, the 2+2-seat coupé and the two-seat roadster glide effortlessly through the wind. Audi offers the TT RS in eight colors. Among them are four exclusive options: Daytona Gray, pearl effect; Mugello Blue, pearl effect; Sepang Blue, pearl effect; and Suzuka Gray, metallic. The Roadster’s soft top comes in black or dark gray.

Exclusive Character: Interior and Equipment Packages
The dynamic exterior of the Audi TT RS is matched by the interior. The leather multifunction sports steering wheel has an especially thick rim, is flat-bottomed, and is covered with perforated leather. Integrated in the instrument panel, the driver information system can display boost pressure and oil temperature as well as a lap timer for chronicling feats at the racetrack. The door handles consist of two slim strips – typical of Audi RS models. An automatic climate-control system and the concert sound system are standard, as are an electrohydraulic soft top and an electric wind deflector for the Roadster.

The entire interior is black. The heated sports seats feature an Alcantara/leather combination with silver contrasting stitching and embossed TT RS logos in the front backrests. Additional badges and logos appear on the steering wheel, in the rev counter, and on the door sill trims. The inlays are made from brushed aluminum. Floor mats feature silver piping trim; footrests and pedals are in aluminum look.

Audi offers TT RS customers a diverse range of optional equipment: variably styled wheels measuring 18, 19 or 20 inches in diameter; bucket seats with folding backrests; seat upholstery in Silk Nappa leather with perforations or Fine Nappa leather with special TT perforations; inlays with Ibis White or Phantom Black paint finish as well as matt aluminum-look inlays for the exterior. In addition, there are high-tech navigation and multimedia systems available. Sales of the Audi TT RS begin in March; deliveries are scheduled to begin this summer.

• Pricing announced for new Audi Q5 ahead of Australian launch
• Two direct-injection engines priced below $60,000rrp
• Brand new seven-speed S-tronic transmission makes its debut

The new Audi Q5 is set to arrive in Australia in the second quarter of 2009, starting at $59,900 for both the 2.0 litre TDI quattro and 2.0 litre TFSI quattro models.  The more powerful V6 3.2 litre quattro starts at $69,900, with the 3.0 litre TDI rounding out the range at $71,900.

All four variants will feature direct-injection turbo engines, and quattro permanent all-wheel-drive.

Joerg Hofmann, Audi’s managing director, believes the Q5 will be a welcome addition to the range in Australia.

“The Q5 is priced very competitively, and it is an extremely attractive package. Both diesel engines and both petrol engines combine strong performance with good fuel economy – a hallmark of our brand. It also looks good and offers typically top quality fit, finish and safety equipment,” Mr Hofmann said.

“The Q5 will undoubtedly give the Audi range a strong boost in 2009 – in image and also in sales. Our network is extremely positive about this addition to our range.”

Thanks to its low fuel consumption (7.0 l/100km), the Audi Q5 2.0 TDI quattro is exempt from the luxury car tax.

ll models across the Q5 range are equipped with Audi’s fuel-saving seven-speed S-tronic gearbox, allowing smoother power flow through quicker gear changes.  The Audi Q5 is the first model to feature the dual-clutch S-tronic transmission mounted to a longitudinal engine layout. Matched with the quattro permanent all-wheel-drive system with 40:60 torque split, Audi says the Q5 offers optimum traction and superb handling on a variety of road surfaces.

Although more compact than its larger Q7 sibling, the Audi Q5 offers 540 litres of load-carrying space – the largest in its class.

The Audi Q5 will make its Australian debut at the 2009 Melbourne International Motor Show on 27 February 2009.

Each year Wörthersee plays host to the now legendary GTI meet, at which auto enthusiasts and of course Audi fans from throughout Europe come together. AUDI AG once again has its own stand at this extraordinary event. The brand’s appearance at the 28th Wörthersee Tour (from May 20-23) in Reifnitz, Kärnten (Austria), is dedicated to the centennial celebration “100 years of Audi.” In addition to historic models from various decades, the Ingolstadt carmaker is featuring showcase vehicles such as the Audi TT RS, the Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro and the Audi A1 Sportback. As a special highlight for the event at Wörthersee, Audi has prepared a customized Audi Q5 with 21-inch wheels, wider track, lowered ride height, a special paint finish and a power-enhanced 3.0 TFSI engine: the Audi Q5 custom concept.

Prominently featured is the Audi Q5 custom concept: Audi engineers prepared this particularly sporty version of the SUV specially for the Wörthersee Tour. The test bed for Audi Genuine Accessories in the custom color Daytona Gray, matt rolls on 21-inch wheels of 7 twin-spoke design. Compared to the production model, the track was widened by 90 millimeters (3.54 in) and the ride height lowered by 60 millimeters (2.36 in). The power output of the 3.0 TFSI V6 engine has been increased from 245 kW (333 hp) to 300 kW (408 hp), allowing the Audi Q5 custom concept to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.4 seconds. Top speed is governed at 250 km/h (155 mph). (See box for technical data and equipment.)

When it was first rolled out three years ago, the Audi Q7 performance SUV immediately achieved a leadership position – as a sporty, comfortable as well as high-performance recreational and business vehicle on a grand scale. Now Audi is making it even better – more elegant and more efficient, with lower emissions: the Q7 3.0 TDI consumes only 9.1 liters per 100 kilometers (25.85 US mpg). And now it’s also available in a new version as a TDI clean diesel, with the world’s cleanest diesel technology and even lower fuel consumption of only 8.9 liters/100 km (26.43 US mpg).

The Q7 is the large Audi for sporty individualists, for people who are seeking a vehicle that will take them anywhere they want to go for sports, recreation, and business. Its dynamic proportions and distinctive lines express this character, and subtle modifications endow its styling with even more elegance.

he design: The language of dynamics

At the front end, the large single-frame radiator grille has been redesigned. Vertical chrome bars contrast with its black high-gloss finish. The bumpers too have been restyled. Their lower section is now painted in a contrasting black or gray, depending on the body color. The newly integrated underbody protection in the center section of the bumper has a distinctive ribbed design.

As alternatives to the standard halogen headlights, Audi offers a xenon plus variant and a new adaptive-light system that integrates not only low-beam, high-beam and a special superhighway beam but also turning and cornering lights. In conjunction with the xenon headlights, light-emitting diodes assembled to form U-shaped bands provide the daytime running lights. The front blinkers are also composed of LEDs as straight-line arrays, located at the upper edge of the air intakes.

The side view too, with its coupe-like roofline, low window area and tautly curved body surfaces, reinforces the dynamic look of the Q7. Door moldings have been modified to add interest. The lightweight alloy wheels are size 7.5 J x 18, the wheels size 235/60. In the V6 vehicles they have seven spokes, in the V8 versions they have six.

At the rear end, the bumper has also been given two-tone paintwork; the tailgate, which includes a portion of the rear pillars in an S-shaped contour, has been given a new and distinctively 3D shape in the vicinity of the license plate bracket. To reduce the weight of the Q7, the tailgate has been made of aluminum, as have the engine hood and the fenders. Standard LEDs in the tail lights create a distinctive lighting pattern.

Eleven paint finishes for the Audi Q7 include four new shades: Ibis White, Graphite Gray, metallic, Teak Brown, metallic, and Orca Black, metallic. An aluminum exterior package is optionally available from Audi: gleaming chrome bars in the bumpers and door moldings; the lower portion of the bumpers is painted in the body color; the center portion of the front apron and the diffuser are painted in a contrasting shade.

The interior: Room to spare

Thanks to its luxurious 300-centimeter (118.11-inch) wheelbase within an overall length of 5.09 meters (16.70 feet), the Audi Q7 has interior room to spare, and the interior flexibility is unrivalled. The seatbacks in the second row are divided into three fold-down sections to provide a level cargo floor.

This increases the luggage space from a volume of 775 liters (27.37 cubic feet) to 2,035 liters (71.87 cubic feet). With the leather upholstery option, the middle seat now has an even more comfortable contour.

Two very useful features are optionally available: either a longitudinally displaceable second seat row or individual comfort seats that are separately displaceable. Another available option is a third row for passengers no taller than 1.60 meters (5.25 feet), combined with an improved easy entry function.

A multitude of detailed improvements in the interior enhance the elegance and the sense of well-being. The instrument cluster has been redesigned: the large, round, easily readable instruments are encircled by metallic frames. Interior lights in the door linings and an inlay on the passenger side enhance the interior styling. Many details of the control elements have been restyled and also enhanced by chrome elements.

The selection of interior colors and materials is also new. Upholstery fabrics are available in black and light gray; leather upholstery additionally also in Para Brown, Savannah Beige and Cardamon Beige. Standard inlays are finished in matt black. In optional design packages, aluminum and wood finishes are used.

The power train: Performance and efficiency

The Audi Q7 is available with six powerful and highly efficient direct injection engines, two of them gasoline-powered and four diesel engines, including the world’s most powerful diesel SUV, the Audi Q7 V12 TDI. Their power is transmitted via a convenient and fast-shifting six-speed tiptronic to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive, which distributes it between the axles with slightly more than half to the rear.

The 3.0 TDI puts out 176 kW (240 bhp) and delivers as much as 550 Nm between 2,000 and 2,250 rpm, yet on the EU cycle it consumes only 9.1 liters / 100 km (25.85 US mpg). The optionally available 3.0 TDI clean diesel even consumes 0.2 liters (0.05 US gallons) less.

Despite highly complex exhaust gas recirculation and the resulting world’s cleanest diesel technology, it consumes just 8.9 liters/100 km (26.43 US mpg). It meets the strict LEV II Bin 5 US standard and already complies with the Euro 6 limits announced for 2014.

The technology of the TDI clean diesel is highly complex. An advanced version of the common rail injection system with 2,000 bars of pressure, new combustion chamber sensors and a high-performance exhaust recirculating system ensure a highly efficient combustion process. An innovative DeNOx catalytic converter reduces the remaining nitrogen oxides. Just upstream of it, a pump injects an additive named AdBlue into the hot exhaust flow, where this solution decomposes into ammonia, which splits the nitrogen oxides into harmless nitrogen and water. Audi partners replenish the additive during regular maintenance servicing.

In the Q7 4.2 TDI too, fuel consumption has been drastically reduced – from 11.1 (21.19 US mpg) to 9.9 liters per 100 km (23.76 US mpg). Yet the V8 diesel is more powerful: with an output of 250 kW (340 bhp) and a torque of 760 Nm, it develops enormous propulsive power. This maximum torque is available in the range from 1,750 to 3,000 rpm.

At Audi, efficiency and dynamics go hand in hand. That’s also the case in gasoline engines. The 3.6 FSI, a V6 with a small cylinder angle, has a power output of 206 kW (280 bhp) and delivers 360 Nm between 2,500 and 5,000 rpm. Its average fuel consumption is 12.1 liters per 100 km (19.44 US mpg). The 4.2 FSI, a V8, delivers 257 kW (350 bhp) and 440 Nm at 3,500 rpm. Its fuel consumption is 12.7 liters/100 km (18.52 US mpg).

A novel technology from the Modular Efficiency Platform further improves fuel efficiency in all the engines: the recovery system, which during braking and coasting phases converts mechanical energy into electric energy and buffer-stores it in the battery. It reduces CO2 emissions by up to 5 g/km (8.05 g/mile).

The chassis: Safe and sporty

In its suspension technology too the Audi Q7 is exceptional. As a customer option, Audi equips the Q7 with adaptive air suspension – a pneumatic suspension system that operates in conjunction with an electronic shock absorber control, varies the ground clearance at five different levels, and lets the driver select three driving modes: comfort, automatic and dynamic. In its road handling the Q7 excels in its sporty, highly responsive precision. Off-road, it provides a superior ride on widely varying terrains.

The choice of wheels ranges from 18 inches to the 10 J x 21 top version with 295/35 tires. Ten different designs are available, including two very elegant, high-luster, bicolor versions. Large brake discs provide superb deceleration – with 18-inch diameters front and rear.

Optionally available in the eight-cylinder models are carbon-fiber ceramic disk brakes which further enhance the dynamic character of this performance SUV: they are lighter than their steel equivalents, extremely abrasion-resistant and virtually fading-free. They achieve high driving performance and ensure short braking distances. The diameters of the ceramic discs are 420 millimeters (16.54 inches) in front and 370 millimeters (14.57 inches) at the rear. The calipers are black and adorned with the wording “Audi ceramic”. A total of 24 pistons are used on the front and rear axles.

The equipment: Luxury and high-tech

The Q7 comes with a splendid range of standard equipment. The speed-dependent servotronic steering system is standard, as is a double floor in the cargo area complete with a storage compartment and a dirt tray; there is also a roof rack, an automatic air conditioning system, and an MMI radio operating system complete with a CD audio player and eight loudspeakers.

The option program includes luxury features such as the remote key and four-zone automatic air conditioning. Another high-end option is the climate-controlled comfort seat, which can keep the body warm or cool it by means of small fans.

Particularly dynamic Q7 drivers may wish to consider one of two other quality option packages. The S line exterior package enhances the styling with details such as distinctive bumpers and a solid paint finish. The S line sports package includes a black interior, sport seats with Alcantara leather or Verano leather upholstery, aluminum trim (optionally in piano lacquer finish or birch grain wood), special exterior colors, 20-inch wheels, and a firmer setup for the steel spring suspension or the adaptive air suspension.

The Q7 also offers many intelligent solutions for the practical needs of everyday use – such as an electric luggage space cover, a reversible floor mat, a set of luggage rails, a removable ski bag, and a moveable storage box. The options program includes separation grids, an interior bicycle stand, various roof-mounted carriers, a distinctive off-road styling package, and a pivoting trailer hitch: this powerful SUV can tow up to 3.5 metric tons.

In the infotainment field, Audi provides a carefully differentiated selection of modules. The three optional systems are part of the new generation of Audi devices. The top-of-the-line version integrates a hard drive for navigation, music and telephone data, a high-resolution color monitor and 3D map graphics, a DVD player as well as voice control. It can be expanded into a luxury media center with features such as a Bluetooth telephone, a TV tuner, a digital radio tuner, plus rear seat entertainment. A very special highlight is the advanced sound system from Bang & Olufsen with its ten channels, 505 watts of power and 14 loudspeakers.

The range of optional equipment is rounded off by technologies from the luxury class. The radar-supported adaptive cruise control regulates the speed and the distance to the preceding vehicle in a range from 30 to 200 km/h (18.64 to 124.27 mph) by acceleration and deceleration. If a threat is detected, the integrated Audi braking guard warns the driver at two levels.

From a speed of 60 km/h (37.28 mph), Audi lane assist helps the driver stay in lane by means of a camera that recognizes the lane lines. Audi side assist ensures safe lane changes above 30 km/h (18.64 mph) with the aid of a radar system that monitors the traffic pattern within 70 meters (229.66 feet) behind the vehicle. Finally, the Audi parking system advanced assists parking by means of a rearview camera and reference lines on the onboard monitor.

The world’s strongest diesel SUV: The Audi Q7 V12 TDI

Even when it was first rolled out, the Audi Q7 V12 TDI, the world’s strongest diesel SUV, had a uniquely distinctive look resulting from its large air intakes. The new version features modifications to the interior and the rear end.

The V12 diesel, with a 6-liter (6,000 cc) engine closely related to that of the R10 TDI racing car – a triple Le Mans winner – delivers 368 kW (500 bhp) and develops a torque of 1,000 Nm between 1,750 and 3,250 rpm.

Acceleration from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 5.5 seconds and a capped top speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph) equal the driving performance of a powerful sports car. Despite these impressive performance data, the V12 diesel gets by on an average of 11.3 liters of fuel per 100 km (20.82 US mpg). Its luxurious standard equipment includes 20-inch wheels, a Bose sound system, and many additional features.

A car that knows no boundaries: Audi is launching the A4 allroad quattro. With its quattro permanent all-wheel drive and increased ground clearance, this vehicle can handle any road or trail. Starting in early summer, the Audi A4 allroad quattro will be available with one of three powerful and energy-efficient engines, the high-tech S tronic transmission, and a broad range of assistance and communication systems. Its basic price will be 37,100 euros.

A relative of the A4 Avant, the A4 allroad quattro is a clever companion during everyday driving as well as for sports and leisure. The luggage compartment has a capacity of 490 liters (17.3 cubic feet), which extends up to 1,430 liters (50.5 cubic feet) when the split folding rear seat backs are fully folded down. A light touch triggers the standard load-area cover to retract upward. And the reversible loadliner’s underside has been designed as a dirt-resistant tray. Audi offers optional extras such as a load-securing set and an electromechanical assembly for the tailgate.

The Audi A4 allroad quattro is somewhat larger than the A4 Avant. It measures 4.72 meters in length (15.49 ft) and 1.84 meters in width (6.04 ft). At a height of 1.50 meters (4.92 ft), it is taller than its A4 Avant sibling: ground clearance has risen to 180 millimeters (7.09 inches). A series of design flourishes underscores the vehicle’s expressive nature and superiority on any road or trail. The fenders have become more flared; the wheel arches and the side sills bear vigorous insert strips; and underneath the front end and tail end, the vehicle has a solid stainless-steel underbody guard. 17-inch lightweight alloy wheels in 7-arm design are standard, and the roof is capped off by an offset rail.

Audi will initially offer three different powerful and highly efficient engines for the A4 allroad quattro: a gasoline engine and two diesel units. All three combine the technologies of direct fuel injection and turbocharging. The 2.0 TFSI delivers 155 kW (211 hp) and 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) of torque. The 3.0 TDI produces 176 kW (240 hp), which enables a sprint to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 6.4 seconds.

The 2.0 TDI with manual shifting provides 125 kW (170 hp), yet requires just 6.4 liters of fuel per 100 km (36.75 U.S. mpg). This is partially due to the synergetic impact of new efficiency technologies by Audi: an energy-recovery system, a start-stop system, and an on-board computer with efficiency program – all standard as of summer 2009.

Whereas the 2.0 TDI links to a six-speed manual transmission, the 2.0 TFSI and the 3.0 TDI can transmit power to Audi’s optional, innovative dual-clutch transmission. The S tronic operates very efficiently, switching extremely smoothly among its seven gears at lightning speed. The driver can shift manually or allow this transmission to shift automatically.

Standard: The quattro permanent all-wheel drive system.
The quattro permanent all-wheel drive system is also standard equipment in Audi’s latest model. It slightly favors the rear, distributing power for sporty handling similar to that of the A4 Avant. The finely balanced distribution of the axle loads and the high-tech chassis play key roles in this regard.

In rough terrain, the Audi A4 allroad quattro relies on a cutting-edge feature: Offroad Detection technology identifies the type of driving surface and accordingly adjusts the control parameters of the electronic stabilization program (ESP). The optional vehicle-dynamics control system known as Audi drive select enables dynamic road handling. The system is paired with Audi dynamic steering, which varies the steering ratio in a continuously variable manner – more directly at low speeds and more indirectly at high speeds.

A wide range of optional assistance systems straight from the luxury class will appeal to customers who set great store by convenience. Audi lane assist helps the driver to remain in a given lane and Audi side assist makes it safer to change lanes. Adaptive cruise control is a radar-assisted cruise-control system which detects vehicles ahead and maintains the proper following distance by accelerating and braking automatically. In dangerous situations, this system alerts the driver via one of two alarms.

There are also appealing multimedia options for this vehicle, from the innovative, high-tech MMI navigation plus system to the Bang & Olufsen sound system. The Audi A4 allroad quattro will be available at dealerships early this summer at a basic price of 37,100 euros.

Exterior design.
The Audi A4 allroad quattro’s design recalls the A4 Avant, the most attractive standard-size station wagon. Its outer skin appears taut and eager. Crisp lines enclose tastefully curved surfaces; the starkly sloped coupé-like roof line, with its boldly slanted D-posts, brings out the dynamic contours. A nearly invisible zero-gap joint unites the side panels with the roof. This joint created via plasma brazing illustrates the great precision with which Audi designs and manufactures its vehicles.

Striking details re-interpret this model line’s sporty vigor. Underneath the engine compartment, the A4 allroad quattro has a solid stainless-steel underbody guard. This protrudes slightly upward at the front end and serves as an air inlet. The single-frame grille has a Luna Gray paint finish, and its vertical bars are in chrome. A new, striking bumper with pronounced air inlets underscores the vehicle’s unique identity; chrome rings encircle the standard halogen front fog lights.

The headlights provide an aesthetically pleasing stage for sophisticated Audi technology. The headlights’ wings (chromed plastic contours) have become one of the brand’s calling cards, and are shaped differently depending on the headlight version. Whereas incandescent bulbs comprise the halogen daytime running lights, the xenon plus version features sweeping slivers of light, each consisting of 14 white light-emitting diodes. These consume just nine watts of power, and thus play an admirable role in reducing CO2 emissions.

The A4 allroad quattro’s front fenders and rear side panels have a new and muscular look. Circumferential plastic trim protects the wheel arches and the side sills against contact; it is matt Platinum Gray or Black, depending on the vehicle’s paint finish. The roof is capped off by an offset rail with two high crosspieces. Viewed from the side, the 17-inch wheels in 7-arm V design exude enormity and strength with their overall diameter of 690 millimeters (27.17 inches). Audi also offers 18-inch wheels fitted with 245/45 tires.

Expressive: The rear view.
The rear of the Audi A4 allroad quattro is also full of character. In the version featuring xenon plus headlights, light-emitting diodes lend sparkle to the taillights and comprise a continuous sliver of light. The lights taper inward, emphasizing the horizontal lines and consequently the vehicle’s width. Narrow reflectors in the redesigned bumper and the tailgate’s prominently three-dimensional contouring enhance this effect.

The stainless-steel rear underbody guard’s ribbed structure visually mirrors the theme of the front air inlet, and also integrates the exhaust system’s tailpipes. On the 2.0 TDI, the tailpipes appear side by side on the left; on the 2.0 TFSI and 3.0 TDI, they terminate to the left and to the right.

Two exterior packages impart an individual look to the A4 allroad quattro. The aluminum look features window frames and roof rails made of aluminum as well as supplementary moldings in the sill extensions made of stainless steel. A full paint finish builds on this version: the circumferential inlay is painted the same color as the body.

A full paint finish is available in eight colors: Ibis White, Ice Silver, Condor Gray, Meteor Gray, Phantom Black, Deep Sea Blue, Teak Brown, and Dakar Beige. Audi also offers four additional options: Stratos Blue (exclusively for the A4 allroad quattro), Sphere Blue, Garnet Red, Lava Gray, and Brilliant Black.

Body.
The Audi A4 allroad quattro’s measurements are as follows: 4.72 meters in length (15.49 ft), a wheelbase of 2.81 meters (9.22 ft), 1.84 meters in width (6.04 ft), and 1.50 meters (4.92 ft) in height. When the vehicle is unloaded, its ground clearance is 180 millimeters (7.09 inches), which is 37 millimeters (1.46 inches) more than the Audi A4 Avant. The basic version’s frontal area is 2.24 m2 (24.11 ft2) and the drag coefficient is just 0.34 thanks to extensive fine-tuning and a fully clad underbody.

The body integrates a number of high-strength and ultra-high-strength steel panels which – in turn – reduce the car’s weight while enhancing its rigidity, vibrational comfort, and impact safety. At the body’s heart, however, are the hot-formed steel units – at the center tunnel, B-posts, inner sills, and bulkhead transverse member. These steel units provide exceptional tensile strength, yet comprise just 11 percent of the bodyshell’s weight.

High-tech solutions: Assembly.
In addition to resistance spot welding, Audi uses a high-quality structural adhesive while assembling the vehicle’s body to further bolster the strength of joints. In the doors and near the sills, an additional high-precision technology is used to reduce the vehicle’s weight: remote laser welding.

An array of precisely arranged metal sections protects Audi A4 allroad quattro passengers in the event of an accident. Both front airbags acknowledge the precise positions of the driver and front-seat passenger; in conjunction with the adaptive seatbelt tensioners, passengers of all sizes enjoy excellent protection. In addition, there are side airbags in the front and, optionally, in the rear, as well. Last but not least, a head-protection airbag system also stands at the ready.

In the event of a rear-end collision, a standard, integral head-restraint system for front-seat passengers diminishes the risk of whiplash by supporting the upper parts of their bodies. And the seatbelt tensioners ensure that passengers remain safely seated during a severe rear-end collision. An optional ISOFIX child-seat anchor can be integrated in the front passenger seat; an on/off switch for the airbag is also available.

Luggage compartment.
The Audi A4 allroad quattro’s luggage compartment features a load-through hatch one meter in width (3.28 feet) and can hold cargo 1.03 meters (3.38 feet) in length; its base capacity is 490 liters (17.3 cubic feet). It is lined with high-quality carpet. And thanks to the ingenious design and low loading sill covered by a stainless-steel protective molding, the luggage compartment is extremely handy. The rear seatbacks, split 40:60, can be folded down with two flicks of the wrist to increase the luggage compartment’s capacity to a length of 1.78 meters (5.84 feet) and a volume of 1,430 liters (50.5 cubic feet).

Befitting its versatile nature, the A4 allroad quattro boasts a wealth of intelligent touches. The load guard and the deluxe load-area cover are stored in separate compartments for the sake of simplicity. A mere tap of the hand actuates a spring, causing the cover to automatically retract upward between two guideways. Pulling the cover down also could not be easier. When the tailgate is fully open, people 1.89 meters (6.2 feet) in height can stand underneath it!

Intelligent touch: The reversible loadliner.
Like the roof rails, the reversible loadliner is convenient standard equipment. Located in the rear of the luggage compartment, its underside has been designed as a water-resistant and dirt-resistant tray, making it the ideal place to store wet ski equipment and the like. Two handles allow you to grip and carry the loadliner like a tray. Additional standard equipment includes four sturdy fastening rings, two elegant bag hooks, a 12-volt outlet, and a shelf to the side with a horizontally sliding net.

A series of optional features makes the Audi A4 allroad quattro even more practical. There is a reversible mat with a fold-out cover for the bumper, an electromechanical assembly for the tailgate, and a load-securing set, which includes a telescopic rod and a spring-loaded tensioning strap. Latched to rails in the floor, the load-securing set allows the customer to divide the luggage compartment as they wish. The rear seats optionally feature a load-through hatch with a ski bag. Additional optional equipment includes a trailer hitch and special roof rack for bicycles, skis, and kayaks.

Interior.
Plenty of room, uncompromising quality, and flawless functionality: the interior of the Audi A4 allroad quattro embodies all the strengths Audi is famous for. It is tailored like a sleek-fitting suit: bright, elegant, clear. The shapes, the materials chosen and used, the haptic charm of the surfaces: the interior offers sensory bliss.
The front seats are contoured and low-slung, perfectly integrating the driver and passengers into the sporty ambience. Beyond the standard height-adjustable seats, Audi also offers electrical adjustability and a seat-heating system – optionally for the outside rear seats, as well.

The optional sports seats have pronounced side sections, pull-out thigh supports, and four-way lumbar support. And the climate-controlled comfort seats offer the utmost in luxury: not only can they be heated, they also deliver relief on hot days thanks to an integrated cooling unit with small fans. And if the temperature could become chilly, then an auxiliary heater automatically turns on.

The A4 allroad quattro’s long wheelbase ensures plenty of interior space in the rear as well as in the front. Large cup holders and spacious storage compartments hold bottles and other items. An optional storage package features additional compartments and nets. A center armrest with storage box and two 12-volt outlets are available for the front seats. The armrest can be moved toward the front or rear, is height-adjustable, and features especially soft upholstery.

Focus on the driver: The cockpit.
The cockpit is clearly aligned toward the driver. The center console is offset to the left by eight degrees; the steering wheel is adjustable for height and reach. The dashboard’s large and easy-to-read instruments constitute classic Audi styling elements. The center display is standard; its screen is between the speedometer and the tachometer.

The standard CD sound system “chorus” delivers 80 watts to eight speakers; its switches and pushbuttons are easily accessible in the center console. Underneath the sound system is the control panel for the standard automatic air conditioning system: a cutting-edge unit which is extremely efficient, strong, quiet, and luxurious. Audi also offers a deluxe automatic air conditioning system which maintains the interior temperature in three separate zones.

Another particularly luxurious feature is the high-beam assistant. Aided by a small light-sensitive detector, it automatically switches between high beams and low beams. In the version featuring xenon plus headlights, their range is dynamically adjusted. When the A4 allroad quattro reaches 120 km/h (74.56 mph), the headlights are adjusted slightly upward for highway driving.

A large on-board monitor with a 6.5-inch screen is high up and in the center of the cockpit. The screen is in color in conjunction with the concert and symphony sound systems, or with the MMI Navigation system plus. The Multi Media Interface’s control unit is housed in the center console. The large buttons around the central rotary pushbutton encourage intuitive operation. The center console also houses the button for the standard electromechanical parking brake; the optional Audi hold assist enhances the brake’s functionality.

Sporty elegance: Color and trim.
Sporty elegance also characterizes the interior’s colors and materials. Carpeting is made of velour; the headlining is star silver, linen beige, or black (optional). The air vents, the parking brake’s button, and the light switch gleam thanks to their aluminum look. And the door sill trims bear special allroad logos. Standard inlays are micrometallic platinum; options include aluminum trigon, open-pored and dark fine-grain ash, laurel nutmeg, and walnut brown.

Customers can choose one of several different trim materials: an exclusive allroad fabric, two types of leather (Milano or Valcona), or an Alcantara/leather combination. The fabric designs are available in black or pale gray, and the leather trim in seven colors – two of which feature sporty contrasting stitching. The Audi exclusive program offers additional exquisite leather options for individualists.

Engines.
Audi will initially offer three different engines for the A4 allroad quattro: a gasoline unit and two diesel engines. All three are turbocharged with direct fuel-injection as per the TFSI or TDI principle. They are impressive for their excellent performance, impressive pulling power, smooth running, and high fuel efficiency.

The 2.0 TFSI – voted “Engine of the Year” on four consecutive occasions by an international panel of experts – incorporates three high-end technologies in this latest stage of its evolution: FSI direct gasoline injection, turbocharging, and the Audi valvelift system, which boosts pulling power by variably controlling the exhaust valves’ lift. Direct fuel injection and turbocharging have been a successful combination at Audi for years, as the R8 racing car has demonstrated with its triumphs at the Le Mans 24 Hours and many other events.

High compression ratio: Ensuring excellent efficiency.
In the high-volume engine as well, this technological twosome is a perfect solution. Injected at a pressure of 150 bar in the 2.0 TFSI and then swirled by flaps, the gasoline vaporizes and thus removes heat from the combustion chambers – this in turn solves the conventional turbocharging problem of engine knock. This facilitates a compression ratio of 9.6:1 for excellent efficiency.

The 2.0 TFSI, which delivers power from a displacement of 1,984 cm3, provides additional high-tech features. All components have been designed to minimize friction and the oil pump works very efficiently. The crankcase weighs just over 30 kilograms (66 pounds). Two balance shafts contribute to excellent refinement, and the intake camshaft can be adjusted by 60 degrees.

The turbocharger and its intercooler have been optimized for sporty responsiveness and a high efficiency ratio. Between 1,500 and 4,200 rpm, the four-cylinder engine delivers 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) of torque to the crankshaft. Peak output is 155 kW (211 hp). In conjunction with the S tronic dual-clutch transmission, the 2.0 TFSI propels the Audi A4 allroad quattro to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in just 6.9 seconds, and to a top speed of 230 km/h (142.92 mph). On average, it consumes a mere 8.1 liters of fuel per 100 km (29.04 U.S. mpg).

TDI, the world’s most successful efficiency technology, also stands for modern and smart sportiness: terrific torque, powerful performance, excellent refinement, and outstanding fuel efficiency. It was back in 1989 that Audi introduced TDI. And the brand with the four rings has been continuously consolidating its technological superiority ever since. The R10 TDI racing car proved with its victories at Le Mans just how muscular diesel can be.

Top of the engine range is the 3.0 TDI, featuring six cylinders in a 90-degree V configuration. The cylinder block is made of vermicular-graphite cast iron, a high-tech material which unites high rigidity with low weight. Intensive finishing grinding reduces internal friction. The cylinder barrels, for example, are illuminated by a laser beam, which reduces the tension forces at piston rings and further increases service life.

A common-rail system providing injection pressure of 1,800 bar and lightning-fast piezo injectors precisely prepare the mixture. A speedy electric motor adjusts the turbocharger’s vanes and the intercooler attains especially high thermal efficiency. The V6 diesel also excels via clean exhaust with a low proportion of nitrogen oxides.

Robust crankshaft: 500 Nm of torque starting at 1,500 rpm.
The 3.0 TDI, which delivers 176 kW (240 hp) from a displacement of 2,967 cm3, transmits – at 1,500 to 3,000 rpm – 500 Nm (368.78 lb-ft) of torque to the crankshaft, which remains unperturbed by such a blast of power.

The Audi A4 allroad quattro 3.0 TDI, aided by the high-tech S tronic transmission, reaches 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in just 6.4 seconds, and tops out at 236 km/h(146.64 mph). On average, the three-liter engine sips only 7.1 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (33.13 U.S. mpg). Like all engines in this portfolio, it already meets the Euro 5 emission standard; as in the case of the 2.0 TDI, a particulate filter is standard.

As for the 2.0 TDI, the successor to the world’s most-built diesel engine ever, a common-rail system with four piezo injectors provides injection pressure of 1,800 bar and ensures excellent refinement. Up to five precisely modulated injection processes take place during every power stroke. Two balance shafts counteract the second-order inertial forces. Adjustable vanes in the turbocharger, swirl flaps in the intake manifold, and specialized dimensional characteristics of the pistons collectively optimize charging efficiency in the combustion chambers. The four-cylinder engine can operate on a high proportion of cooled exhaust gas, which removes a significant amount of nitrogen oxides from untreated emissions.

From a displacement of 1,968 cm3, the two-liter diesel engine delivers 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) of torque to the crankshaft between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm. A respectable 125 kW (170 hp) provides good output: the Audi A4 allroad quattro 2.0 TDI reaches 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 8.9 seconds and a top speed of 213 km/h (132.35 mph). It nevertheless requires just 6.4 liters of fuel per 100 km (36.75 U.S. mpg) on average.

New efficiency technology: The start-stop system.
This high fuel efficiency is largely due to the synergetic impact of new technologies from Audi’s modular efficiency platform. The 2.0 TDI and the 2.0 TFSI will incorporate three such technologies as standard equipment starting in summer 2009. First among them is a high-performance start-stop system. It reduces fuel consumption by some 0.2 liters/100 km, which equates to 5 grams of CO2/km (8.05 g/mile).

The start-stop system achieves especially impressive fuel savings regarding city driving. As soon as the vehicle comes to a stop, the shift lever is in neutral, and the driver removes their foot from the clutch pedal, the system turns the engine off. It then turns the engine back on as soon as the clutch pedal is depressed.

The start-stop system functions quietly, conveniently, and quickly. When the driver puts the vehicle in gear, the engine instantaneously returns to its idle speed. A mighty battery ensures flawless operation even at low temperatures; it is deactivated only during the engine’s warm-up period. The driver can turn the system on or off at the touch of a button at any time.

The second of the three efficiency technologies is the energy-recovery system. During a vehicle’s braking and coasting phases, it converts kinetic energy to electrical energy, which is temporarily stored in the electrical system’s battery. When the vehicle resumes acceleration, the battery supplies this stored energy to the engine – thus reducing the load on the alternator.

The third new module from the modular efficiency platform is the new on-board computer with efficiency program. Via the instrument panel’s display screen, it portrays all data regarding fuel efficiency. The efficiency program continuously monitors energy consumption by various components in the car and, if desired, displays the key sources of consumption. In some cases, it provides advice to the driver – to close the windows if the air conditioning is turned on, for example. This new system makes driving even more fun, yet also reminds drivers of their own responsibility. After all, some 30 percent of fuel consumption depends on the driver’s decisions.

Driveline.
Each of the transmissions for the A4 allroad quattro has been integrated into the innovative basic layout of the A4 family. The differential is in front of the clutch and immediately behind the engine. This technical stroke of genius made it possible to reposition the front axle much closer to the vehicle’s front end, in turn allowing for a longer wheelbase and an ideal distribution of the axle loads. This modification was simplified by relocating the battery to the luggage compartment. The benefits include excellent dynamism, steady straight-line stability, and superb ride comfort.

All the engines transmit their power to a six-speed manual transmission. Short gearshift travel makes ultraprecise shifting child’s play and the intelligent placement of the shift forks protects the shift lever against vibrations. The manual transmission also excels thanks to its low weight and a high efficiency ratio; a broad array of measures reduces internal friction. A redesigned gearshift indicator – the on-board computer with efficiency program integrated in the driver information system – unmistakably notifies the driver via different sizes and colors as soon as it becomes sensible to shift gears to conserve fuel.

High-tech excellence from Audi: Seven-speed S tronic.
Audi includes a high-tech transmission as optional equipment for the 3.0 TDI and 2.0 TFSI. The highly efficient, seven-speed S tronic distinguishes itself by precise control management, a high efficiency ratio, and a broad spread of the gear ratios. First gear is sporty, seventh fuel-sipping.

The seven-speed S tronic consists of two sub-transmissions, which are alternately actuated by two clutches. This dual-clutch transmission can thus shift extremely smoothly within a few hundredths of a second – cutting-edge technology in motion! The electronic control management has a fully automatic mode at the ready, with two types of operation: D (Drive) and S (Sport). The driver can use the selector lever to shift whenever they wish, even via optional shift paddles on the steering wheel.

Regardless of the engine type underneath an A4 allroad quattro’s hood, quattro permanent all-wheel drive is standard. It ensures those superior properties which long ago became bywords for the Audi brand: outstanding driving dynamics, traction, driving safety, and straight-line stability all symbolize Audi’s renowned Vorsprung durch Technik. Regardless of conditions, the Audi A4 allroad quattro offers excellent stability and is an ideal towcar.

The classic heart of the quattro drivetrain is a self-locking center differential, which operates by purely mechanical means and therefore instantaneously. Under typical driving conditions, it distributes 40 percent of the torque input to the front axle and 60 percent to the rear axle for sportiness. In the event of axle slippage, the differential transfers a majority of the power to the other axle. Should a wheel somehow nevertheless slip, then the electronic differential lock (EDL) brakes that wheel to improve traction. EDL also promotes smooth starts.

Chassis.
The Audi A4 allroad quattro is a close relative of the A4 Avant, and its chassis retains all the advantages which distinguish the A4 model line. The chassis spontaneously adapts when the vehicle enters a curve; it is also superbly stable and nearly neutral at the A4 allroad quattro’s impressive cornering limit. The vehicle’s width lays the foundation for these remarkable attributes. The car’s track is 1,583 mm (62.32 in.) at the front and 1,574 mm (61.97 in.) at the rear – some 20 mm (0.79 in.) wider, respectively, than the A4 Avant.

At a ratio of 16.1 : 1, steering is straightforward. The low-mounted steering gear conveys the driver’s input directly to the wheels. Feedback from the road is responsive: traction forces and disruptive forces are practically imperceptible. Exact centering when driving in a straight line facilitates precise steering from the central position. The steering box’s power-steering pump conveys just the required amount of oil, conserving some 0.1 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers. The 3.0 TDI and the 2.0 TFSI roll off the assembly line with servotronic, which adjusts its power-steering assistance to the current speed of travel.

Key components of the front suspension are made of lightweight aluminum: a support for the engine and axle, firmly bolted to the front end to boost rigidity; a mounting bracket connecting the upper trailing arm with the body; a pivot bearing; and five trailing arms per wheel. A tubular anti-roll bar also cuts down on weight. A five-link suspension can handle longitudinal and lateral forces separately. Their bearings are rigid when crosswise, fostering sporty precision; on the other hand, the bearings are remarkably pliable when lengthwise.

The design of the rear axle on the A4 allroad quattro is based on Audi’s principle of the self-tracking trapezoidal link, which unites compact construction with top-notch comfort and drivability. A steel subframe connected to the body via hydraulic bearings constitutes the ultrastrong backbone. The trapezoidal link, the wheel carriers, the overhead control arms, and the tie rods are made of aluminum; the anti-roll bar is a hollow tube. The springs are supported directly by the wheel carriers, and are housed separately from the shock absorbers to facilitate ideal performance.

The body is higher than that of the Audi A4 Avant by 37 millimeters (1.46 inches) thanks to correspondingly modified shock absorbers. The Audi A4 allroad quattro standard, 17-inch lightweight alloy wheels in 7-arm V design are fitted with 225/55 tires. 17-inch winter wheels are also optionally available. Audi also offers 18-inch wheels in 5-arm and 10-spoke designs, fitted with 245/45 tires. A tire-pressure monitoring display for all wheels is standard.

Strong stopper: The wheel brakes.
Like every Audi, the A4 allroad quattro boasts powerful brakes. The brake disks have a diameter of 314 millimeters (12.36 inches) at the front (320 millimeters (12.60 inches) for the 3.0 TDI) and 300 millimeters (11.81 inches) at the rear. The high-performance brake pads generate a high coefficient of friction and are practically impervious to brake fade. The ventilated front disks have been designed to maximize heat dissipation. In lieu of conventional cooling ducts, hundreds of tiny metal cubes connect the two disk halves – thus allowing a large volume of air to escape. The wheel brakes are very low in weight. The 3.0 TDI has floating calipers at the front; their composite construction consists of high-strength nodular cast iron and aluminum.

The electronic stabilization program (ESP) provides precise and unobtrusive assistance. In rough terrain, a cutting-edge standard feature is put into play: Offroad Detection technology automatically identifies the type of driving surface and accordingly adjusts the ESP’s control parameters. When the driver depresses the gas pedal, ESP increases propulsive power by tolerating more wheel spin than otherwise. If necessary, it will brake for a long time in the interest of safety.

On paved roads, the optional Audi drive select system further enhances the joys of driving. It is always paired with Audi dynamic steering in the A4 allroad quattro. Consisting of a superposition gear system integrated in the steering column, Audi drive select varies the steering ratio in a continuously variable manner by nearly 100 percent. It functions directly at low speeds and indirectly at high speeds; the power steering adjusts correspondingly.

If the A4 allroad quattro is at the limits of handling – oversteering, understeering, or during braking maneuvers where one side of the car could skid – Audi dynamic steering keeps the car on course via minor split-second corrective actions. It thus eliminates the necessity for extensive ESP intervention, making driving even safer and smoother.

Equipment..
The Audi A4 allroad quattro will be available at dealerships early this summer at a basic price of 37,100 euros. It is generously equipped with 17-inch lightweight alloy wheels, front fog lights, a headlight washer system, roof rails, a deluxe load-area cover, a reversible loadliner, an automatic air conditioning system, an electromechanical parking brake, and a sound system with CD player.

Optional equipment also includes a multitude of attractive features. The two-part panoramic glass roof with an electrically operated interior shade suffuses the interior with sunlight and fresh air. The optional steering wheels bear three or four spokes and multifunction pushbuttons. For the 2.0 TFSI and the 3.0 TDI, shift paddles are available. The lights package provides small spotlights for the interior. Complementary to the light and rain sensors, the high-beam assistant automatically switches between high beams and low beams.

You never need to remove the advanced key from your pocket: it communicates remotely with the car and you simply push a button on the center tunnel to start the engine. Additional luxurious options include the electromechanical tailgate, the deluxe automatic air conditioning plus, the xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights and LED taillights, the cornering light system known as adaptive light, climate-controlled comfort seats, sun shades for the rear side windows, Audi drive select, both exterior packages, and the alarm system.

If a customer so desires, they can take delivery of an A4 allroad quattro with innovative assistance systems straight from the luxury class. Audi lane assist helps the driver to remain in a given lane via a small camera; Audi side assist employs radar to help drivers change lanes more safely.

Adaptive cruise control is a radar-assisted cruise control system which detects vehicles ahead and maintains the proper following distance by briefly decelerating or accelerating on its own. Should the rate of deceleration not suffice, the system alerts the driver via one of two alarms based on the extent of danger. The Audi parking system advanced features a rear-view camera; its images are displayed via the on-board monitor.

Multimedia by Audi: The very best in infotainment.
Audi also offers an intelligent array of multimedia modules, and a navigation system is available. The MMI navigation plus system belongs to Audi’s cutting-edge generation of new high-tech devices. It integrates a color screen with three-dimensional maps, a DVD player, a voice-activated unit facilitating whole-word commands, and a large hard disk drive which stores data for navigation, music, and phoning. A joystick-like cap on the MMI terminal makes it simple to use the navigation plus system.

Various cell-phone solutions enable convenient phoning. The premium option is the Bluetooth car phone with cordless handset, which uploads data from the driver’s personal cell phone via the SIM Access Profile. Signals are processed digitally and the vehicle’s sound system transmits the voices. A voice control system is required for the Bluetooth car phone as well as the audio and navigation functions.

Component concept: The sound systems.
Audi also offers sophisticated audio-system packages, either as part of a navigation system or individually. The concert sound system has a color screen and a memory card reader; the symphony sound system adds to that a six-disk CD changer. The Audi music interface seamlessly incorporates the customer’s iPod into the system; the Audi sound system integrates a 180-watt six-channel amplifier and ten speakers.

But the sound system by Danish hi-fi specialists Bang & Olufsen is the top-of-the-range solution. Its ten-channel amplifier delivers 505 watts of breathtaking surround sound via 14 high-performance speakers concealed behind aluminum-inlay covers. Both sound systems can be rendered even more sophisticated by means of tuner modules for digital TV/radio reception. Audi also offers a rear-seat entertainment system.

The equipment, data, and prices specified in this article refer to the model range offered in Germany.

AUDI AG is the world’s first automobile manufacturer to develop a “second” generation diesel racing sports car. Audi aims to underline its supremacy and consolidate its expertise in car technology once more at the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans with the all-new Audi R15 TDI.

The 24 Hours of Le Mans is particularly suited for this: Efficient and economical cars are especially required for the French endurance classic. Lightweight construction, environmentally friendly drive concepts and well-thought out aerodynamics are the focus of attention at Le Mans just as they are during the development of production cars. For this purpose the regulations intentionally give the engineers plenty of freedom.

Audi Sport fully exploited this creative freedom and put a new LMP1 race car on the track that differs significantly from all previous Le Mans sports cars. “The R15 TDI has many detailed technical solutions never seen before on a sports prototype,” explains Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich. “To a certain extent we followed entirely new routes.”

Highly efficient TDI engine

The heart of the R15 TDI is a newly developed V10 TDI engine producing more than 600 hp, with a maximum torque output in excess of 1,050 Newton meters and which reflects the latest version of the TDI Technology invented by Audi. The power unit is more compact and lighter than the twelve-cylinder engine used in the preceding R10 TDI model. The specific fuel consumption and associated CO2 emissions could also be reduced. Innovations in the turbo-charging and fuel injection areas simultaneously ensure improved engine response. The R15 TDI is also equipped with a new generation of even lighter diesel particle filters.

The new sports car’s aerodynamics, which play a particularly important role at Le Mans, are extremely refined. Like the DTM 2008 championship winning Audi A4, the airflow around and through the car was optimized with CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics). Included among the many innovative detail solutions which can be spotted at first glance are a rear wing suspended from the top and a high nose.

Innovative vehicle electrical system concept

The vehicle electrical system in the Le Mans sports car is entirely new: A lithium- ion battery, as found in some hybrid vehicles, is used for the first time. It is lighter than the conventional battery and supplies a higher voltage.

The headlights fitted to the R15 TDI also benefit from the higher power. At Le Mans, Audi competes for the first time with a low beam unit comprised entirely of light emitting diodes, which represents the next generation of Audi LED technology for road cars.

Innovative approaches

Numerous innovative approaches are also hidden in the chassis and suspension of the diesel sports car. Due to the aerodynamic concept the front and rear suspension have been raised. Thanks to a longer wheelbase and the optimized vehicle weight the R15 TDI is significantly more agile than its predecessor.

Audi is the only automobile manufacturer to have won the famous 24 Hours of Le Mans with a diesel car. “With the R15 TDI we have created the base to be in a position to win also in 2009,” says Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich.

The Audi R15 TDI celebrates its race debut in the 12-hour race in Sebring, Florida in the USA on March 21. Audi Sport Team Joest plans to field three cars at the 24 Hours of Le Mans on June 13/14.

Driving like a high-performance sports car, the 2009 Audi RS6 cuts a truly awesome image. Its V10 biturbo engine powers it from zero to 100 km/h(62.14 mph) in just 4.5 seconds. On request, Audi can increase the electronically limited top speed from 250 to 280 km/h (155.34 to 173.98 mph). The six-speed tiptronic transmission in the new RS6 is a member of Audi’s new generation of sporty automatic transmissions. These feed the enormous power onto a quattro drive system, which is configured to transmit slightly more power to the rear axle so that it too responds with great dynamism.

A powerful partner: the sports suspension

The sports suspension handles the power of the V10 FSI superbly. A fluid-mechanical system with the designation Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) controls the work of the shock absorbers. On request, Audi is able to fit the sports suspension plus, which allows the driver to adjust the damping characteristics in three levels using the MMI operating and multimedia system. Powerful lightweight aluminum wheels with a 19-inch diameter are standard. 20-inch wheels are available as an option. Behind them, mighty wheel brakes are fitted. Alternatively, the new RS6 can also be braked with ceramic brake disks.

Like all Audi RS models, which are jointly developed and built by quattro GmbH and AUDI AG, the new RS6 is impressive for its powerful characteristics – uncompromising sportiness, a dynamic and elegant design, great individuality in its equipment and superb quality. The 2009 Audi RS6 Sedan will be on the market in Germany from mid-October. Prices start at 105,550 Euros.

The engine

High performance in the business class – the new RS6, together with its sister, the RS6 Avant, is the most powerful series-production Audi ever. With an output of 426 kW (580 hp) and 650 Nm (479.42 lb-ft) of torque, it easily beats its competitors. The V10, which generates its output from 4,991 cc of displacement, is based on the engines fitted in the Audi S6 and S8, but it has been newly developed in virtually every detail. It is a conglomeration of glorious technologies that are taken directly from the world of motor sports – the ten-cylinder concept, FSI gasoline direct injection, the twin turbochargers and the dry-sump lubrication.

The two turbochargers – one for each cylinder bank – provide for extremely powerful, homogenous thrust, which is available across almost the entire engine speed range. The peak torque of 650 Nm (479.42 lb-ft) is available across a broad and high range from 1,500 to 6,250 rpm, while maximum output is generated in the range from 6,250 rpm to the maximum engine speed of 6,700 rpm.

The V10 biturbo engine gives a performance on a par with a high-performance sports car. It sprints from a standstill to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 4.5 seconds. After 14.5 seconds it breaks through the 200 km/h (124.27 mph) barrier. Not until a speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph) has been reached is the acceleration ended by the electronic limiter – although Audi will raise this top speed on request to 280 km/h (173.98 mph). The power-to-weight ratio of the new RS6 is also comparable to a high-performance sports car at just 3.4 kilograms (7.50 lb) per horsepower.

The ten-cylinder engine is a fascinating unit. Hanging closely and excitingly on the throttle, it spontaneously converts even the slightest pedal movement into powerful forward propulsion. The V10 is highly refined. When it is accelerating, its dual-branch exhaust system with its large oval tailpipes produces a striking, sporty sound that perfectly rounds out the profile of the RS6 high-performance sedan.

The V10: The epitome of a sports car engine

A ten-cylinder engine is the ideal engine for maximum dynamism. Compared to a V8 unit with the same displacement, the V10 has shorter and lighter connecting rods, which give it refinement at high revs. On the other hand, it has fewer components than a comparable V12 engine, giving it a lower moving mass and lower internal friction. And it is far lighter and more compact in its construction – with all its ancillaries, the V10 is a mere 670 millimeters (26.38 in) long, 790 millimeters (31.10 in) wide and 655 millimeters (25.79 in) high. The basic engine block has a length of just 560 millimeters (22.05 in).

The V10 belongs to Audi’s family of V engines, all of which have a 90 degree cylinder angle and 90 millimeters (3.54 in) cylinder spacing. The two banks are offset by 18.5 millimeters (0.73 in). The bore is 84.5 millimeters (3.33 in), the stroke 89.0 millimeters (3.50 in). The crankcase is especially complex in its construction. It is produced from over-eutectic aluminum alloy using the low-pressure die-casting method. This is a material that combines low weight with very high strength. The cylinder lines are honed by extracting the hard silicon crystals from the material. The complete engine weighs just 278 kilograms (612.89 lb).

An intermediate frame – a bedplate construction – gives the crankcase maximum torsional rigidity and further improves its vibrational characteristics. This incorporates bearing brackets made of gray cast iron. These reduce the expansion of the aluminum housing due to heat and keep the play in the main bearings of the crankshaft within tight limits. The configuration of the crankcase, with cross-flow cooling and without ventilation cross-sections between the crank chambers, boosts output and increases fuel efficiency.

The forged crankshaft with common pin – a crank pin spanning the full length –increases strength while reducing weight. The same thing applies to the high-strength connecting rods made of forged steel. The pistons, which bear newly developed ring packs, are cast from an aluminum alloy.

In order to satisfy the maximum demands with respect to driving dynamics, the oil supply for the V10 comes from a dry sump, a feature that is typical in motor sports. The external oil reservoir and the pump module, which operates with varying suction levels for the sake of efficiency, are extremely sophisticated in their configuration. This ensures that all components, including the two turbochargers, are reliably lubricated at all times – even during extreme lateral acceleration exceeding 1.2 g, which the new RS6 is capable of.

Four adjustable camshafts: the valve drive

A hydraulic mechanism is used to allow all four camshafts to be continually adjusted by up to 42 crankshaft degrees to vary the valve overlap – improving charge level and combustion. The camshafts, the oil pump module and the ancillaries are driven via maintenance-free chains, which are located at the rear of the engine. The valves, which are actuated by roller cam followers with hydraulic valve-play compensation, have a diameter of 33.9 millimeters (1.33 in) on the inlet side and 28.0 millimeters (1.10 in) on the exhaust side. The exhaust valves, which are subjected to very high thermal loads, are filled with sodium for better cooling.

Like most of Audi’s gasoline engines, the V10 in the new RS6 also employs the FSI gasoline direct injection system. A common rail system – another standard for the brand – injects the fuel into the combustion chambers with a pressure of up to 120 bar.

Vacuum-controlled charge-movement flaps in the flange of the intake manifold, which is made of pressure-cast aluminum, set the drawn-in air into a “tumble” at up to 3,500 rpm. This rotational movement vertical to the cylinder axis improves combustion efficiency.

FSI is combined with turbochargers to make TFSI – both technologies harmonize perfectly. The swirl of the fuel draws heat from the walls of the combustion chambers, which resolves the old problem of turbocharger technology: excessive heat development. At 10.5:1, the compression ratio of the V10 in the new RS6 is greater than in most naturally aspirated engines. This results in highly efficient combustion. The V10 biturbo consumes on average 13.9 liters of fuel per 100 km (16.92 US mpg) – a very respectable figure considering the potency of the vehicle. In motor sports, Audi’s TFSI technology has enjoyed an astounding series of victories. It has powered the R8 racing car to five overall victories in the Le Mans 24 Hours and to 63 other successes in 80 starts.

In the 2009 Audi RS6 , the V10 TFSI is controlled by an advanced Motronic engine management system with the designation MED 9.1.2. This works with ten single-core ignition coils and two control units operating according to the master-slave concept. Here, for the first time in this class, the load is monitored using a pressure sensor in the intake manifold. Two primary and two main catalytic converters assume the task of cleaning the exhaust gases. Because they are located close to the engine, they reach their operating temperature, and thus their full efficiency, very quickly after the engine is started.

The two large turbochargers are also high-performance components. They build up a charge pressure of up to 0.7 bar. At full load they are theoretically able to compress up to 2,200 cubic meters (77,692.26 cu ft) of air per hour. The chargers, and the complete air ducting, are optimized for a spontaneous, practically lag-free response. Air flows to the two large intercoolers, which reduce the temperature of the compressed air, through large inlet openings in the front apron.

The powertrain

The superior output of 426 kW (580 hp) requires a powertrain that is just as potent. On the 2009 Audi RS6 , a sportily configured six-speed tiptronic transmission feeds the torque to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system, which is also configured for maximum dynamism.

The tiptronic six-speed automatic transmission is one of the new generation of transmission units that is currently being introduced to the Audi model range. Its extremely compact and lightweight layout means that it harmonizes perfectly with the dynamic character of the new RS6. Its torque converter usually works with the lockup clutch closed. The electronic transmission management system, which orientates itself toward the driver’s style, has been optimized with new, powerful software that links it directly to the engine.

Improved routing of the oil ducts makes the gearshifts even faster. The response time has been cut to one tenth of a second and the gearshift time has been halved – shifting down with kickdown now takes less than a second. The transmission ratios have been systematically shortened. When the throttle is opened, the most powerful series-production Audi ever can still pick up speed impressively even in sixth gear.

The driver can select sport mode (“S”) at the selector lever. The tiptronic then executes upshifts later, and the gears can also be changed manually, either with the selector lever or with the shift paddles. The aluminum-look shift paddles are located on the back of the steering wheel rim and are turned along with the wheel.

Grip and safety: the quattro drive system

The 2009 Audi RS6 also transfers its power to the road via the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system – the superior traction and the greater sense of driving enjoyment that it conveys are classic strengths of the brand. The quattro drive system is another winning technology that Audi has taken from motor sports. Its current generation with asymmetric/dynamic torque distribution highlights yet again the philosophy behind the brand motto “Vorsprung durch Technik”.

A Torsen center differential (Torsen = torque-sensing), located longitudinally in the drive train, distributes the torque to the front and rear axle. In normal situations, 40 percent of the force is fed to the front axle and 60 percent to the rear – a slightly rear-driven emphasis. This further underscores the dynamism of the RS6.

If road conditions change, for example if a wheel moves onto slippery asphalt, the differential, which works on a purely mechanical basis, instantaneously changes the distribution in favor of the axle with the better traction. It is possible for up to 85 percent of the force to be fed to the rear axle and up to 65 percent to the front axle. If one wheel on an axle should start to spin, it is braked by the electronic differential lock (EDL). However, this situation is very rare.

For the driver, quattro permanent all-wheel drive means maximum agility, extremely stable handling and uncompromising grip at the end of the bend, even on wet roads, while the competitors look on helplessly with their two driven wheels. The relatively low weight of the engine means a well balanced distribution of the axle loads. The battery and energy management system are accommodated in the luggage compartment, which supports this effect even further.

The suspension

You cannot afford to have weaknesses if you want to dominate the competition. This motto also bears true for the suspension of the new RS6. The advanced suspension, the high-tech Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) damping system and the mighty braking system form a package that perfectly controls the enormous power of the drive system. The suspension of the new RS6 combines a high standard of long-distance comfort and relaxed straight-line driving with impressive performance. Dynamic steering characteristics, an exact response, uncompromising precision and supreme stability forge links between the race circuit and the freeway.

Most of the wheel suspension components are made of lightweight aluminum – a construction style that reduces unsprung masses and gives the handling a reflex-like spontaneity. On the front axle, each wheel is guided by four aluminum links. The elastokinematics have been configured to be especially dynamic.

The track width is an impressive 1,614 millimeters (63.54 in). The track-controlled trapezoidal link rear axle even has a track width of 1,637 millimeters (64.45 in). Here, the kinematics have also been modified in favor of sportiness.

The maps of the servotronic speed-dependent steering system have also been reconfigured. The steering gear has a dynamic and direct transmission ratio of 12.5:1. With its sensitive workings, the steering links the driver closely and precisely with the road.

The 2009 Audi RS6 assumes an unrivaled position on the global sedan market. A major factor in this is the Dynamic Ride Control (DRC), fitted as standard, a similar form of which was also found in the predecessor model. The advanced DRC reduces pitching and rolling movements around the lateral and longitudinal axes. It is purely mechanical in its operation and so completely lag-free. It is compact and lightweight in its construction.

The operating principle of the DRC is simple. The diagonally opposite shock absorbers are linked by two oil lines and a central valve. If the RS6 takes a corner at high speed, the valves react instantaneously to the oil flow at the compressed shock absorber for the front wheel on the outside of the bend. They strengthen the support provided, reduce lateral tilt and so increase dynamism.

If requested, Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) can be supplemented by three-stage variable damping characteristics. The so-called sports suspension plus allows the driver to customize his driving experience at the MMI control terminal according to the route profile and his own wants and desires. In the “comfort” setting, the sports suspension plus provides for a good level of ride comfort. The “dynamic” mode allows a highly active driving style, while “sport” mode provides for maximum driving precision.

The electronic stabilization program (ESP) rounds off the dynamic performance. It only intervenes at a very late point to provide maximum driving enjoyment with full driving safety. The driver selects sport mode by briefly pressing a button. Engine intervention – ASR, a subfunction of ESP – is then largely deactivated, and brake intervention is triggered at a later point.

This enables expert drivers to execute superb drifts in the new RS6 on road surfaces with a very low coefficient of friction. Furthermore, this setting helps when pulling away in deep snow. Both functions can be fully deactivated by pressing and holding the ESP button.

The 2009 Audi RS6 runs on cast alloy wheels of 10-spoke design and of size 9 J x 19. Size 255/40 R 19 tires are fitted, and these are monitored as standard by an indirect, maintenance-free tire pressure monitoring system. On request, Audi will supply the RS6 on 20-inch cast wheels in size 9.5 J x 20. These are of 5 segment-spoke design and available in either aluminum or titanium look. Alternatively, there are also cast aluminum wheels of 7 twin-spoke design available in the same size. The tires are of the thoroughly impressive 275/35 R 20 format and also feature a pressure monitoring system.

For any exceptional athlete, slowing down is at least as important as sprinting ability. The 2009 Audi RS6 is equipped with a high-performance brake system that is built to withstand extreme loads. Even the standard steel disks are designed to withstand maximum loads. Their aluminum brake disk chamber is linked to the cast iron friction ring with metal pins – a floating mount that boosts performance at high loads while reducing weight. The cooling ducts and the axial perforation of the disks fulfill the same tasks.

The front brake disks have a diameter of 390 millimeters (15.35 in) and are actuated by fixed six-piston aluminum calipers. The rear disks have a diameter of 365 millimeters (14.37 in) and single-piston floating calipers. The calipers are painted black and adorned with the RS logo at the front.

In conjunction with the 20-inch wheels, Audi can also fit a ceramic brake system. This also has ventilated and perforated disks that are made from a composite material in which high-strength carbon fibers are embedded in hard, abrasion-resistant silicon carbide. They have an impressive diameter of 420 millimeters (16.54 in) at the front and 356 millimeters (14.02 in) at the rear, yet they weigh 12.2 kilograms (26.90 lb) less than the steel disks, reducing unsprung masses in favor of driving dynamics.

The ceramic brakes give an uncompromising performance. They withstand the most extreme loads without any problem, remain free of corrosion and as a rule achieve a service life covering some 300,000 km (190,000 miles). The brake calipers – with eight pistons at the front – are painted in anthracite and bear the lettering “Audi ceramic” at the front.

The design

Dynamic elegance – the design of the 2009 Audi RS6 is characteristic for an Audi. The high-performance V10 engine and its two turbochargers need a lot of air to breath and for cooling, so the inlet openings in the front had to be enlarged accordingly. They are surrounded by arched bridges. The front apron has also been redrawn. Within the single-frame radiator grille, there is a high-gloss black protective grille in a hexagonal, honeycomb design bearing the red and silver RS6 logo.

Next to the xenon plus headlights, which can optionally be complemented with the dynamic cornering light function known as adaptive light, are the front fog lights, which have been relocated to allow a greater throughput of air in the front apron. The daytime running lights strips, each comprising ten LEDs on the lower edge of the headlight, provide a powerful visual touch. A cover on the top of the headlight focuses this view.

Powerful side trims and flared fenders are the main features of the side view. To reduce weight, the front fenders are made of aluminum, as is the hood. These create space for the large wheels of the new RS6. At the same time, they are reminiscent of a milestone in the history of the automobile, the original 1980 Audi quattro (“Ur-quattro”), the pioneer of permanent all-wheel drive.

This powerful look is continued at the rear of the vehicle. The broad diffuser with its own special look, holding a large oval exhaust tail pipe on both the left and the right-hand sides. A rear spoiler harmoniously integrated into the side panels and the trunk lid is aerodynamically extremely effective, and the RS6 emblem rounds off the fine detail. The rear lights predominantly employ LED technology.

The 2009 Audi RS6 has a length of 4,928 millimeters (16.17 ft), a wheelbase of 2,846 millimeters (9.34 ft), a width of 1,889 millimeters (6.20 ft) and a height of 1,456 millimeters (4.78 ft). The drag coefficient is 0.31. The distinct elegance of the design is underlined by the standard metallic/pearl effect paint. The color Sepang Blue is exclusively reserved for the RS6. Other colors that are available are Monza Silver, Monterrey Green, Phantom Black, Mugello Blue, Misano Red and Daytona Gray.

The interior

The interior of the new RS6 is an oasis of wellness. High-grade materials such as carbon fiber, aluminum, leather and Alcantara have been selected and employed with the uncompromising, immaculate quality for which Audi and quattro GmbH are renowned. They create an ambience of cultivated dynamism and form an elegant dress for the high-tech package that can be found underneath.

A standard feature of the new RS6 is a very special steering wheel – the leather-covered RS multifunction sport steering wheel. Its rim, which can optionally be trimmed in full-grain leather, is particularly substantial and is flat-bottomed, like on a racing car. The spokes incorporate multifunction buttons for operating the telephone, navigation system and audio system. Shift paddles for the tiptronic transmission allow fast manual gear changes, while an RS6 signet provides a visual highlight. Audi is also able to fit the leather-covered multifunction sport steering wheel of three-spoke design with all-round rim at no extra cost.

As on every Audi, the instruments on the new RS6 are clearly and brightly drawn. They are supplemented by an indicator showing the charge pressure of the turbochargers. This can be called up on the driver information system, as can an oil temperature display and a lap timer. Its display and the monitor of the MMI operating and multimedia system show the RS6 logo when the ignition is switched on. The deluxe automatic air conditioning plus allows the interior to be heated or cooled in two separate zones.

The inlays in the 2009 Audi RS6 are made of carbon fiber and are precisely framed by narrow aluminum strips, and carbon fiber composite is also used for the center tunnel trim. Alternatively there are the versions Matt brushed aluminum, Fine grain myrtle nutmeg and Piano finish black. The cockpit front panel, which houses the instruments and display, is always in an extremely elegant black piano finish.

The control buttons for the MMI terminal, and the sports pedals and footrest feature the aluminum look. On the sills are sill strips with aluminum inlays bearing the RS6 logo. The headlining and the insides of the posts can optionally be dressed in high-tech Nardia fiber. The door openers are specially shaped.

Strong support: The sports seats

The prominent shape of the sports seats gives the body the best possible support. They are electrically adjusted and incorporate an integral head restraint and manually adjustable thigh support. The sports seats have Silk Nappa leather upholstery with embossed RS6 logo. Alternatively they are also available with Valcona leather. Contrasting stitching is included in both cases. Moreover, there is also a leather/Alcantara combination available as seat upholstery. The two front seats and the two outer seats in the rear are heated as standard. As an alternative for uncompromising sportiness, Audi can also fit RS bucket seats.

The 2009 Audi RS6 offers plenty of space for five passengers and their luggage. There remains a comfortable amount of space for the head, arms and legs, even on the rear bench seat. The trunk has a volume of 546 liters (19.28 cu ft), and can be increased if needed by folding the rear seat backrests forward. Another option is a trunk lid that automatically opens after it has been unlocked.

The equipment

The new RS6, which will be in German showrooms from mid-October priced 105,550 euros, is fitted with standard equipment that underlines its dynamic, exclusive character. From the outside, Audi’s most powerful series-production sedan can be recognized by a whole series of exclusive features – for example the LED daytime running lights, the flared fenders and the 19-inch cast aluminum wheels. The tires are continually monitored to ensure that they have the correct pressure. Metallic/pearl effect paint underlines the sporty, elegant lines.

On the inside, the new RS6 has electrically adjustable sports seats with Silk Nappa leather upholstery. The front and outer rear seats can be heated. Carbon inlays, a cockpit front panel in piano finish and RS6 logos are visual highlights in the interior. Safety and comfort are also of the very highest standards. An automatic anti-dazzle interior mirror, a leather-covered RS multifunction sports steering wheel with shift paddles and the deluxe automatic air conditioning plus provide a sense of luxury.

An alarm system and six airbags – two front, two side and two head airbags – enhance safety. ISOFIX mountings enable child seats to be fitted quickly and reliably in the rear. A key equipment feature is the parking aid known as Audi parking system plus – eight ultrasonic sensors transmit signals that are optically and acoustically processed with very high precision.

For the dedicated individualists among the RS6 customers, the options represent the very pinnacle of what is technologically feasible. The sports suspension plus allows the driver to adjust the damping, which is already highly precise thanks to Dynamic Ride Control technology, in three maps. The 20-inch aluminum wheels are fitted with size 275/35 tires, and behind them there is space for a high-performance brake system with powerful ceramic disks. The options also include raising the top speed to 280 km/h (173.98 mph).

For the seats, Audi offers Valcona leather with contrasting stitching and a leather/Alcantara combination. The adaptive light system, which dynamically illuminates bends in the road, helps the driver to stay relaxed.

Audi’s intelligent high-tech assistance systems make driving even easier. Audi lane assist makes it easier to stay in lane. If the driver approaches a lane marking without activating the turn signal, the system will warn him by vibrating the steering wheel. Audi side assist monitors the area to the rear of the new RS6. When changing lanes, it warns of a potentially critical situation with a bright yellow LED in the exterior mirror.

The adaptive cruise control (ACC) system is another ultra-modern assistance system. It maintains a set speed between 30 and 200 km/h (18.64 – 124.27 mph), depending on the speed of the vehicle in front. The system accelerates and brakes gently as necessary. Working in two stages, the integrated braking guard function cuts in to prompt the driver to apply the brakes in dangerous situations.

MMI – the new high-end multimedia system

In the field of multimedia, the Audi RS6 has another high-end solution on board – the new third-generation MMI operating and multimedia system. Its intuitively understandable, strictly logical operating concept with a large terminal on the center tunnel has remained unchanged, giving it a decisive edge over the competition. The color monitor with its 6.5-inch or 7-inch screen is positioned high up in the instrument panel where it can easily be seen.

The Bose Surround Sound system is standard in the new RS6. It generates its powerful, clear sound pattern with a 270 watt amplifier and 13 speakers. Its algorithm analyzes driving and exterior noises and adjusts its frequency response accordingly to compensate. A six-disk CD changer comes as standard with the system.

On request, RS6 customers can also order the new MMI navigation plus. The user is treated to a dazzling array of functions – a three-dimensional road map, a drive for navigation, audio and video DVDs, a twin tuner for radio reception and full-word voice input for the telephone book, which can store up to 2,000 entries, each with five numbers.

Like the navigation data and the Owner’s Manual, the telephone book entries are stored on a hard drive with a memory capacity of 40 GB. This can also be used as a jukebox, perfectly recording and sorting up to 4,000 music tracks. This version of the MMI also incorporates a large, extremely high-resolution display with a brilliantly bright image. The central control knob incorporates a cap-shaped joystick, which makes operation even easier.

Optional technical modules make the MMI even more attractive. The Audi music interface perfectly integrates external MP3 players, for example the customer’s iPod. Another highlight is DAB digital radio reception (Digital Audio Broadcasting), which is qualitatively far superior to the analog standard. A TV tuner for analog and digital reception (DVB-T) is also available.

On request, maximum convenience can even be provided making a phone call. The Audi Bluetooth car phone integrates the customer’s cell phone via a Bluetooth chip, providing it supports the SIM access profile. The car phone is activated whenever the ignition key is in the lock. It takes the data from the SIM card and from the memory in the cell phone, and then switches the cell phone off completely.

The RS models

The RS models have been at the top of the Audi range since 1994. In the upper midsize class, the RS 2 and RS 4 defined the standards in terms of power and performance, in the full-size class the RS6 advanced into a new dimension. All RS models combine emotion and perfection to form a fascinating overall concept.

The Audi RS 2 was the result of a cooperation with Porsche in 1994. Its five-cylinder turbocharged engine with four-valve technology generated an output of 232 kW (315 hp), which the quattro drive transformed superbly into forward propulsion. Its performance placed it in the league of powerful sports cars, as did its brake system. With the RS 2, Audi created a concept that was picked up and continued by the first Audi RS 4 in 2000. This was powered by a 2.7-liter V6 engine with twin turbochargers, generating 279 kW (380 hp).

The Audi RS 4 presented in 2005 followed another technical path – using a naturally aspirated, high-revving V8 engine. FSI gasoline direct injection enabled the 4.2-liter engine to generate 309 kW (420 hp). Its torque was 430 Nm (317.15 lb-ft) at 5,500 rpm. The RS 4 was available as a sedan, Avant and convertible. Its predecessors had only been available as Avant models.

In the A6 model series, the Audi RS6 made its debut in 2002. This model was powered by an early version of the 4.2-liter V8. Charged up with two turbochargers, the five-cylinder engine with manifold fuel injection generated 331 kW (450 hp). Audi offered the first RS6 as a sedan and as an Avant. The pinnacle of the model range was the special limited edition RS6 plus with 353 kW (480 hp).

Audi convertible models generally sport a classic fabric top – and in the case of the Audi A3 Cabriolet this feature lends its profile a note of harmonious elegance and coupé-like sportiness. Its soft top is notable for its light weight and excellent fit. It can be opened hydraulically in just nine seconds; when open, it takes up very little space. The hood is available in semi-automatic and fully automatic versions, in the latter instance as a specially soundproofed acoustic hood.

The body structure of this premium convertible from Audi contains a high proportion of high-strength, ultra-high-strength and hot-formed steels, as well as a large number of reinforcing measures that provide maximum rigidity and crash safety. Inside, the accustomed uncompromising build quality, attractive design and exemplary ergonomics create an atmosphere of sporting elegance. There is ample space here for four occupants. The rear seat backs can be folded down, increasing the luggage capacity from 260 to 674 litres – whether the hood is up or down!

The A3 Cabriolet is being built in four engine versions – two petrol and two TDI. They combine ample power with impressive efficiency. All of them are direct injection units with turbocharging. The performance range extends from 77 kW (105 bhp) to 147 kW (200 bhp). As an option, the innovative S tronic dual-clutch gearbox takes charge of applying the engine’s power to the wheels.

The Audi dynamic suspension lends the A3 Cabriolet superior agility. It comes complete with responsive electromechanical power steering, which consumes very little energy. The four-link rear suspension combines superb comfort with sporty handling properties. As well as the standard suspension, there is also the option of sports suspension.

Audi is offering the Audi A3 Cabriolet in the Attraction and Ambition equipment lines. In both cases its equipment specification is extensive and the Ambition line includes 17-inch aluminium wheels, sports suspension and sports seats, among other features. An S line exterior package and S line sports package are available from quattro GmbH.

The Exterior Design

Audi’s decision in favor of the classic soft top brings with it many advantages. The most obvious is evident at first glance – in the design. Thanks to the top’s compact folding design, the Audi designers were able to create a four-seater whose sleek harmonious lines stand out.

With its top down, the Audi A3 Cabriolet is lean and light; with a closed top, it radiates the elegance of a coupe. Measuring 4,238 millimeters (13.90 ft) in lengt , 1,765 mm (5.79 ft) in width and 1,424 mm (4.67 ft) in height, the A3 Cabriolet ranks among the sporty compact convertible models in its competitive field. With a closed top and depending on the engine and tires fitted, it has a low drag coefficient of 0.33 or 0.34.

The strong presence of the A3 Cabriolet sets the scene in typical Audi fashion. The interplay between the curved surfaces gives the body the character of a sculpted athlete. Striking, forward-penetrating lines embrace these surfaces. The horizontal dynamic line above the sill and the rising shoulder line visually elongate the car body.

The engine hood and the front fenders together with their exciting curves form an intricate image. In typical Audi style, the large single-frame grill encased by a chrome bar dominates the self-assured face of the A3 Cabriolet. The air slots under the grill and the large grill openings in which the optional front fog lights are located hint at the power of the engine.

Craftsmanship: the headlights

Even the headlights attract the attention of passers-by. Their precise design puts them in the ranks of technical craftsmanship and embodies Audi’s vision of perfection. The A3 comes with the choice of powerful H7 lights or with xenon plus lights; the latter can be integrated to operate with adaptive light, the dynamic cornering light technology. The “wing” – a chrome vapor-coated plastic contour – has become a typical Audi feature. With the halogen headlights, the wing borders both lights while keeping them separate; with the xenon plus headlights, it emphasizes the upper line.

Daytime running lights – an important safety innovation from Audi – are integrated in both headlight designs as light strips. With the H7 lights, the daytime running lights are powered by long-lasting bulbs in the lower area of the headlights; with the xenon plus lights, the daytime running light comprises seven white light-emitting diodes that are positioned above the wings.

Audi has also developed a new, unmistakable look for the rear lights. They have a flat, broad design and wrap from the side of the car around to the tailgate. Fiber optic rods – plastic rods that are powered by LEDs – generate a sweeping band of light in the dark, similar to the A6 Avant. At the same time, this technology provides a particularly exact light pattern.

A distinctive trailing edge increases its stability and, together with a diffuser panel, adds a strikingly dynamic touch to the rear view.

When viewed from the side, the athletic body of the Audi A3 Cabriolet is especially apparent. Prominent wheel arches house the large wheels. In the Attraction equipment line, the car is equipped with 16-inch wheels; in the Ambition version, the wheels measure 17 inches in diameter and are made of cast aluminum. 18-inch wheels are available as an option from quattro GmbH. The front-angled roll bar and the exterior mirrors, in whose housing the side indicators are integrated, provide eye-catching features. All four side windows go down all the way so as not to disturb the lines when the top is down.

Audi manufactures the A3 Cabriolet in 15 colors: three solid paint finishes and twelve metallic/pearl effect shades. The solid paint finishes are Ibis White, Brilliant Red and Brilliant Black, the metallic colors are Ice Silver, Amethyst Gray, Liquid Blue and Dakar Beige, and the pearl effect paint finishes are Condor Gray, Meteor Gray, Phantom Black, Garnet Red, Glass Blue, Aruba Blue, Deep Sea Blue and Deep Green. The colors Glass Blue and Amethyst Gray are new. The latter is available exclusively for the A3 Cabriolet.

The 15 paint finishes can be combined with three hood colors: black, blue and red. On request, Audi also offers the aluminum look in the form of radiant aluminumlook roll bars and decorative strips on the door handles. The surrounding window molding as well as the hood end strip are made of aluminum.

The Convertible Top

Audi has remained true to its successful line: The new A3 Cabriolet also has a classic fabric top. It perfectly harmonizes the original, authentic notion of open-air driving with the feeling of carefree lightness. The top has an intricate design. At 218 cm (7.15 ft) long, it exceeds the soft top of the Audi A4 Cabriolet – which is 199 cm (6.53 ft) long – considerably in length.

The top keeps its shape thanks to the mechanically movable metal frame that gives an excellent, close fit and the silhouette of a coupe. A large heated rear window ensures excellent rear visibility.

The Audi convertible top comes in two versions: a semi-automatic soft top with two layers and fully automatic, three-layered acoustic top. The semi-automatic version has a central handle for locking and unlocking; in the fully automatic version an electric motor performs this task.

In both versions, a high-pressure pump and two hydraulic cylinders move the top. They open the soft top extremely quickly in nine seconds and close it in eleven – a short stop at a traffic light is sufficient for this process to be completed. The acoustic top can be opened and closed while driving up to 30 km/h (18.64 mph) – very convenient when driving in city traffic.

The Z fold saves space

When the top is opened, the soft top folds down into a Z-shape, thus taking up very little space. When folded down, the header at the front of the top – which is a board – rests flush with the car body and is hydraulically locked in place. It forms a sturdy cover for the soft top, which is why the car comes without a tonneau cover and without a soft top box cover. The folded-down top rests in a compact steel metal compartment with a slanted floor, which takes up very little space in the trunk.

A switch for opening and closing the top is located on the center console. All four power windows can be individually operated as usual, but they can also be opened and closed simultaneously via a central switch. The top can be conveniently opened and closed from the outside by actuating the door lock with the ignition key; if opened and closed, the side windows automatically drop down a bit. The fully automatic soft top is designed as an acoustic top. Between the outer skin and the inner lining, which completely covers the metal frame, there is a mat six millimeters (0.24 inches) thick that is made up of three layers. It further improves the thermal insulation and soundproofing. At a speed of 140 km/h (86.99 mph) with 71 dB (A), it is just one dB (A) louder in the Audi A3 Cabriolet interior than in the hardtop A3. The interior headlining comes in black or silver.

In the Ambition line, Audi provides as standard a wind deflector that can be mounted above the back seats. Thanks to its intelligent design, it can be opened up in just a few steps and easily used from one side. The fabric selection guarantees maximum freedom from drafts with the largest possible view to the back. Unused and folded down, the wind deflector can be packed into a bag that takes up very little space in the trunk.

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The body

Audi has made no compromises in the design of its car when it comes to safety and torsional rigidity. A comprehensive package of design features provides the body of the A3 Cabriolet with its rigidity. These features ensure that the convertible Audi operates precisely, agilely and comfortably like the three or fivedoor A3 models. 54 percent of the body consists of high-strength and ultra-highstrength steels, which combine low weight with maximum rigidity and are integrated as reinforcing profiles in the A-post, side sills, floor, doors and back wall. V-shaped braces arranged in the subfloor as well as an aluminum frame additionally brace the front and rear ends.

A box-shaped steel structure separates the passenger compartment and the trunk. The roll bars made of high-strength, hot-formed steel tubing are bolted into this structure. Optimal rollover protection is achieved with the aid of the reinforced Apost. The A3 Cabriolet also is well-equipped in terms of passive safety. Longitudinal supports with defined deformation absorb energy in the front and rear of the car. Strong profiles in the doors protect passengers in case of a side collision. Sensors that respond to changes in the air pressure activate the head-thorax side airbags that are integrated into the backs of the front seats. The full-size airbags receive their signals from the early responding upfront sensors in the front of the car. In the event of a rear-end collision, the integrated head support system ensures that the rebounding head is effectively cushioned early.

Four three-point belts – the front ones with tighteners and seat-belt load limiters – round out the package of occupant restraint systems. In case of a collision, pedestrians are protected by the flexible design of the front bumper and engine hood. For small passengers in the A3 Cabriolet, Audi has included Isofix child seat mountings for the back seats as part of the standard specification. Front Isofix mountings can optionally be supplied along with a front passenger airbag that can be deactivated.

Audi has remained faithful to its successful line: the new A3 Cabriolet likewise has a classic fabric top. This blends in perfectly with the original, authentic idea of open-top driving and the feeling of carefree agility. The hood keeps its shape thanks to the mechanically moved metal linkage, which assures an excellent close fit, perfect tightness and the silhouette of a coupé. A large, heated glass rear window affords a good view to the rear.

Audi can supply the fabric top in two versions – the semi-automatic soft top and the fully automatic acoustic hood. In both cases the hood is moved by a high-pressure pump with two hydraulic cylinders. They open the large soft top in an extremely rapid nine seconds. This means that even a short stop at traffic lights is long enough to complete the process.

When lowered, the hood is folded up in a Z-pattern so that it takes up a minimum amount of space. The header – a board at its front edge – comes to rest on top, basically flush with the body, with the result that the structure needs neither a tonneau cover nor a cover flap. The folded hood is set down in a compact sheet steel compartment that reduces the luggage compartment capacity only very slightly. The high-performance kinematics mean that the acoustic hood can also be opened and closed at speeds of up to 30 km/h – a big advantage in terms of convenience when driving in urban traffic. The process is controlled by a switch on the centre console; the hood can also be opened and closed conveniently from outside the car, via the ignition key in the door lock.

The fully automatic soft top takes the form of an acoustic hood. Between the outer skin and the inner lining there is a synthetic fibre mat that further improves thermal insulation and soundproofing – at a speed of 140 km/h it is only 1 dB (A) louder inside the Audi A3 Cabriolet than in the A3. If only the front seats are occupied, a wind deflector can be erected above the rear bench seat in a few simple steps from one side of the vehicle.

Few days ago Audi has lifted the veil on the 2009 A4. However, this is not enough for us. 2009 Audi A6 upgraded and will be soon on the market this summer. The new Audi A6 vehicle features a very big list with innovative technologies like other Audis, an improved suspension, a new-generation MMI control system as well as cutting fuel consumption with over 15%. What can we ask more.

Other important features: the new design of the 2009 Audi A6 consists within a new single-frame grill, brand new design bumpers, air vents and cool fog lights, upgraded new LED daytime running lights, a new gentle lip on the trunk, not only integrated chrome strip on the bumper, also broad diffuser and straight exhaust pipes are part and partial of the revamped rear end”. Further more, the car comes with 13 exterior colors to choose from, including five new colors.

Just expect from most Audis, the interior of the 2009 Audi A6 its clean and elegant, with new higher-resolution graphics for the instrument panels, with new materials like the Valcona leather available for the sport seats and integrated headrest system reduces the danger of whiplash. That’s the luxury class A6 mode from this upgraded.

Features we like: The new 2009 Audi A6 received engines like the 2.0 TFSI, a 125 kW (170 hp), two new 2.8-liter FSI engines: the 140 kW (190 hp) or the 162 kW (220 hp), 3.0 TFSI with 213 kW (290 hp) and the astonishing 4.2 FSI, a 257 kW (350 hp) V8 engine. Pricing starts at 34,200 Euros or $50,985 for the A6 2.0 TFSI sedan. This new Audi A6 2009 at 4.93 meters (16.17 ft) long, 1.86 meters (6.10 ft) wide, and 1.46 meters (4.79 ft) high, we can see that little has been changed in the sedan’s generous proportions.

The new Audi A6 3.0 TFSI will comes with tiptronic and also quattro drive train version like before. The 2009 Audi A6 sedan can speeds up from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in just 5.9 seconds and also continue on accelerating as it presses to its electronically-regulated maximum speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph). This is the kind of great performance that only an eight-cylinder engine car would had been able to deliver a few years ago. Further more, at 9.5 liters per 100 kilometers (24.76 US mpg) on the EU cycle, the supercharged V6 engine is amazingly economical. The 2009 Audi A6 3.0 TFSI’s combination of dynamic performance and low consumption is one more example of Audi’s successful efficiency strategy.

Audi set the base price for its all-new and segment-redefining 2009 Audi Q5 crossover vehicle at $37,200.

The Audi Q5 will begin to arrive in U.S. dealerships next week and will be offered in three equipment levels. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price for the 2009 model-year Audi Q5 Premium starts at $37,200. Pricing for the Audi Q5 Premium Plus starts at $41,500, and the Audi Q5 Prestige starts at $48,200. Prices do not include a destination charge of $825, taxes, title or dealer charges.

With the new Q5, Audi will have its first crossover vehicle for luxury car buyers who otherwise might have considered buying the Lexus RX, the BMW X3 or the Mercedes-Benz GLK.

The launch of this new vehicle allows Audi its first opportunity to surpass those, and other, contenders in the popular luxury crossover vehicle segment. The new Audi Q5, with its combination of head-turning exterior and interior design, comprehensive safety features expected of a premium luxury vehicle, technological innovation and responsive Audi performance, more than achieves that goal.

“Luxury crossover vehicles appeal to a wide audience seeking both practicality and performance,” said Johan de Nysschen, President, Audi of America. “But monotony has developed in that segment – sameness we’re certain the Audi Q5 now disrupts with its array of distinctive styling cues and forward-thinking features.”

The Q5 indeed offers plenty of unique features that give it a balance of functionality, luxury and performance. The Q5 will be the only vehicle in its segment with three-zone climate control, which lets drivers and passengers select their own comfort levels. It is the only vehicle in its segment with 40/20/40 rear seats that recline and offer fore-aft adjustment for the comfort of passengers and for balancing cargo-carrying capabilities.

Audi is also equipping the Q5 with its signature LED tail lights as standard equipment, including running lights, brake lights and turn signals. The Audi Q5 will offer standard hitch preparation for 4,400-pounds of towing capacity, which puts it at the head of its class. Also standard are roof rails with aluminum cross bars that sync with the Audi ESP system to adapt accordingly.

Audi has a strong reputation for outstanding automotive interiors and that tradition carries through in the Q5 with standard twelve-way power front seats, leather seating surfaces throughout and genuine wood or brushed aluminum inlays. Available exclusive luxury touches on the Audi Q5 include the Bang & Olufsen Sound System and the exclusive Audi drive select system that allows motorists to choose among four distinctive driving configurations.

The Audi Q5 will be the first model sold in the U.S. with available MMI Navigation plus, the third generation of Audi’s acclaimed MMI (Multi-Media Interface) system, which manages entertainment, communications and navigational information.

The new MMI Navigation plus offers a high-capacity hard disk with 40 gigabytes of memory (including 10 GB for media storage), DVD drive and an automotive grade NVIDIA(TM) chip for graphics processing. The added processing power allows MMI Navigation plus to render 3D maps of the entire U.S., including branded points of interest, and detailed images of buildings while offering real-time traffic information. The system also features a new, larger screen that measures seven inches from corner to corner, a vocal command recognition system that understands complete words in a variety of languages and improved joystick controls.

The Audi Q5 is derived from the same Audi-exclusive platform first developed for the A4 model range. The versatility of that vehicle platform gives the Q5 the driving comfort and performance characteristics of a luxury performance automobile and the longest wheelbase in its class. The efficient engineering and design of the Q5 also translated into shorter front and rear overhangs for better weight distribution to help stability. Audi also widened the vehicle platform to increase shoulder room inside the Q5 and to optimize the driver’s seating position for a more commanding view of the road.

The Audi Q5 will also lead the segment of AWD, gasoline-powertrain crossover vehicles in fuel economy. According to the U.S. EPA, the Audi Q5 achieves 18 mpg city mileage and 20 mpg combined – both tops in the category – along with 23 mpg highway mileage.

Note: Audi defines the segment for the 2009 Audi Q5 as luxury AWD, gasoline-powered crossover vehicles.

Audi is launching the next variant of its top-of-the-line model. With the R8, the brand has established itself at the forefront of high-end sports cars from the very start – and now comes the R8 V10. Its 5.2-liter, ten-cylinder engine churns out 386 kW (525 hp) and 530 Nm (390.91 lb-ft) of torque, which makes for breathtaking performance. With superior Audi technologies such as quattro all-wheel drive, the lightweight aluminum body, the innovative all-LED headlights, and its striking design, the R8 V10 takes pole position against the competition.

The R8 V10 is the result of cumulative know-how from Audi’s string of Le Mans victories. Its naturally aspirated engine combines racing technology such as dry sump lubrication with FSI gasoline direct injection. The ten-cylinder design is the perfect synthesis for impressive top performance, mighty pulling power, and low weight. Starting in 2009, this engine will also prove its potential on the world’s racetracks – in the new R8 racing car Audi is developing for customer teams in conformance with the GT3 rules.

The V10 engine in the production sports car will be almost identical in construction to the one in the racing version. Its displacement is 5,204 cc, at 6,500 rpm it delivers 530 Nm (390.91 lb-ft) of torque, at 8,000 rpm its power tops out at 386 kW (525 hp).

The specific power output is 100.9 hp per liter of displacement – and each hp has to propel only 3.09 kilograms (6.91 lb) of weight, because the Audi R8 V10 in the version with the six-speed manual gearshift weighs only 1,620 kilograms (3571 lb). The engine accounts for 258 of these kilograms (569 lb) – that’s only 31 kilos (68 lb) more than the V8.

The Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro rockets from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 3.9 seconds. In the version with the sequentially shifting R tronic it reaches 200 km/h (124.27 mph) in another 8.1 seconds. Even then its propulsive power hardly lessens: it’s sufficient to reach a top speed of 316 km/h (196.35 mph). The immense force, the spontaneity and the thrust of the acceleration, plus the sound of the engine – all these impressions coalesce into a breathtaking sports car experience. The V10 plays a concert with growling bass tones and powerful high notes, which grows into a grandiose fortissimo as the engine revs up. This sonorous acceleration doesn’t reach its limit until 8,700 rpm.

The 5.2-liter powerplant uses direct injection according to the FSI principle developed by Audi. A common rail system injects the fuel into the combustion chambers with up to 120 bar of pressure. Direct injection reduces the susceptibility to knocking and provides a certain amount of cooling through the evaporation of the fuel, which in turn supports a high compression ratio of 12.5:1. This in turn contributes to superior performance and improves fuel economy. The R8 V10 with R tronic gets by on an average of 13.7 liters per 100 km (17.17 US mpg).

For maximum dynamics: low center of gravity engine

The technical refinements of the long-stroke ten-cylinder engine include dry sump lubrication, which allows the engine to be mounted low within the chassis. The wide cylinder angle of 90 degrees also makes for a low center of gravity. The crankcase is a high-strength aluminum-alloy casting produced in a complex process. The connecting rods are made of forged steel, the pistons of aluminum. The four camshafts are chain-driven and each is adjustable through 42 degrees. This provides great latitude in controlling the valve timing. In combination with the straight, flow-optimized ducts of the intake manifold, this improves the charge throughout the entire speed range.

The R8 5.2 FSI quattro has a six-speed transmission. A precise and smooth-shifting manual transmission comes as standard equipment. The sequential R tronic is available as an option. The high-tech gearshift conveys an authentic racing feel – with the rocker switches at the steering wheel and the short shifting times of usually less than one-tenth of a second. When the driver actuates the Launch Control program by pressing a button, the R8 V10 takes off in a vehement quick-start with electronically controlled tire slip – both with the R tronic and with the manual transmission.

A contributing factor to the wide lead in traction and driving safety of the Audi R8 V10 over the competition is quattro all-wheel drive – it’s the superior technology especially for a high-performance sports car. Four powered wheels get more grip than two. They enable the driver to step on the gas sooner when coming out of a curve. It’s not only the traction that benefits, but also the transverse dynamics and the stability.

44 to 56 percent – the ideal axle load distribution

The Audi R8 chassis offers both dynamic performance and astonishing levels of comfort on long distances. This high-performance sports car from Audi eagerly responds to any steering action with instant ease, achieves lateral acceleration of up to 1.2 g, and handles any situation with superb driving safety. Its mid-engine design provides an ideal axle load distribution of 44 to
56 percent.

The wheel suspensions on dual aluminum wishbones front and rear – a classic racing technology – are optimized for neutral self-steering characteristics. Even more than in the eight-cylinder R8, this setup is designed for maximum performance. 19-inch wheels equipped with tire pressure monitoring display are standard equipment. Their 10-spoke Y design is exclusive to the R8 V10. Tire sizes are 235/35 front and 295/30 rear.

The car features a high-end damper technology as standard: Audi magnetic ride adapts the characteristics of the suspension in milliseconds to the nature of the road surface and to the driving style. Suspended in the oil of the shock absorbers are tiny magnetic particles which, when a voltage is applied, rearrange themselves so as to slow down the flow of oil through the valves.

In the R8 V10, deceleration is provided by an extremely muscular braking system – eight brake pistons at the front and four at the rear grasp the brake disks, which are ventilated and perforated to ensure unimpeded heat transfer. The brake disks on the front axle have a diameter of 380 millimeters (15 in); the rear discs span 356 millimeters (14 in).

The R8 5.2 FSI quattro is optionally available with a ceramic brake system whose disks are made of a composite material containing high-strength carbon fibers and abrasion-resistant silicon carbide. These are especially light: their combined weight is nine kilograms (19.84 lb) less than the weight of equivalent steel disks. The ceramic brakes can easily cope with the harsher requirements of racing, won’t corrode, and have a typical service life of 300,000 kilometers (186,400 miles). Their calipers are painted charcoal gray and emblazoned with the inscription “Audi ceramic”.

Typically Audi: Sharp lines and an elegantly curved roof

The wide, full shape of the R8 5.2 FSI quattro seems to hug the road. The brawny proportions and prominent wheel wells underscore its potential. The high-precision styling of the lines and the elegant curve of the roof are typical Audi features. A continuous contour optically connects the front, the wheel wells, the sides and the rear. Located well forward, the cab visually expresses the mid-engine design. The vertical air scoops (sideblades) on the sides are also indicative of the engine location. The massive aluminum gas cap is mounted flush within the right sideblade.

The design of the Audi R8 has already impressed experts, as evidenced by the double victory in the “World Car of the Year Awards 2008″. In the ten-cylinder model, the styling has been sharpened up even more.

The front air inlets, which feed air to the coolers, and the lip of the front apron are painted in high-gloss black. The number of cross-braces has been reduced from four to two. The vanes of the single-frame grille have a striking chrome finish.

A very distinctive highlight of the R8 V10 are the all-LED headlights as standard equipment. Audi is the world’s first automaker to use LEDs for the high beam, low beam, daytime running lights, and turn signals. Each headlight integrates 54 of these high-tech light sources. With a color temperature of 6,000 Kelvin the LED light closely resembles daylight, which is less tiring to the eyes in night driving. Further advantages of the LEDs include brilliant illumination, low energy consumption, and a virtually unlimited service life.

Special details also distinguish the body of the R8 V10. Its sideblades are more accentuated than in the eight-cylinder version. The side sills are more striking and wider; the exhaust grilles at the rear windows have a matt aluminum look. Through the large rear window, the ten-cylinder engine is clearly visible in its consummate technical beauty.

When in motion, this Audi high-performance sports car creates a downforce that keeps it in firm contact with the road – thanks to a rear spoiler which deploys automatically at 100 km/h and the fully enclosed underbody, which terminates in a sharply upward-curved diffuser. The dominant color at the rear end is high-gloss black, including the settings of the LED tail lights. The air outlets at the rear end also have only two cross-braces, and the exhaust system terminates in two large oval tailpipes.

Audi sets the example – in body weight and rigidity

The body of a sports car must be especially lightweight and rigid. Audi meets these requirements with the technology of the Audi Space Frame (ASF) and its high-tech aluminum construction. The body-in-white of the R8 V10, which includes an engine frame made of ultra-light magnesium, weighs only 210 kilograms (463 lb), and the quality of its lightweight design – the relation of weight to torsional rigidity – is the best in the sports car segment. The body is composed of profile extrusions, sheet aluminum and very complex gusset castings, all held together by 99 meters (325 ft) of welding seams, 782 rivets, and 308 special screws.

The interior of the R8 V10 provides a unique racing ambience at the luxury level. Its dominant element is the so-called monoposto – a wide arc that contains the steering wheel and the cockpit. As always in an Audi, the workmanship is of the highest quality. The surfaces of the dashboard and doors are lined with fine materials and adorned with precisely stitched decorative seams. Many customizing solutions are available: Audi supplies leather in a wide range of colors, packages with a carbon and piano-lacquer finish, or a made-to-measure luggage set. quattro GmbH, which has developed and is producing the R8 V10, also provides solutions for unconventional requirements.

The great everyday utility of the Audi R8 V10 is based in part on its spacious interior made possible by the long wheelbase of 2.65 meters (8.69 ft). Drivers and passengers of any size will always find a perfect sitting position. Visibility too is surprisingly good. Slender hinge pillars optimize the obliquely forward field of view. Another advantage for convenient everyday use is the luggage space: 100 liters (3.53 cu ft) fit under the front hood, another 90 liters (3.18 cu ft) can be stowed behind the seats. There is also room for two golf bags.

The Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro combines its colossal performance with a generous complement of standard equipment. Highlights include heatable seat covers made of Fine Nappa leather, a driver information system, the navigation system plus and the Bang & Olufsen sound system along with deluxe automatic air conditioning and an alarm system. The instruments and the gearshift knob are decorated with red rings; the footrests and the rocker switches of the R tronic have an aluminum finish.

The list of options includes other highly attractive features – such as the Audi parking system advanced with its integrated rearview camera or numerous Audi exclusive customization options. Various leather packages provide a luxurious touch, while the bucket seats from the Audi exclusive program bring a highly concentrated racing atmosphere into the R8 V10.

The Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro will be rolled out in Germany in the second quarter of 2009 at a basic price of EUR 142,400.

Engine

The R8 5.2 FSI quattro is a winner – its genes contain the cumulative experience of eight Le Mans triumphs and many other victories achieved by Audi over the past nine years. And the new top-of-the-line version retains these close links to motorsport: Starting in spring, its ten-cylinder engine in virtually unchanged form will display its potential on the racetrack – in the new R8 LMS racing car, which Audi is readying for the customer sports segment in accordance with the GT3 rules.

The V10, which is to a large extent a new development, exploits a total displacement of 5,204 cc and is designed to rev up easily. At 6,500 rpm it delivers 530 Nm (390.91 lb-ft) of torque and at 8,000 rpm it puts out 386 kW (525 hp). Its limit isn’t reached until 8,700 rpm – when each piston travels 26.9 meters (88 ft) per second. The specific power output is 100.9 hp per liter of displacement. And every hp only needs to propel 3.09 kilograms (6.81 lb) of weight, because the high-performance sports car in the version with the manual transmission only weighs 1,620 kilograms (3,571 lb).

0 – 200 km/h: 12.0 seconds

The Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro provides superior performance. It rockets from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 3.9 seconds. In the version with the sequentially shifting R tronic it passes the 200 km/h (124.27 mph) mark in another 8.1 seconds. And its powerful propulsion continues well beyond that, to a top speed of 316 km/h (196.35 mph).

The immense power, the eager response to the gas pedal, the outstanding revving ability, the palpable force of acceleration, and the thrilling sound – all these impressions combine to give a truly thrilling sports car experience. The V10 is a highly sonorous engine with growling bass tones and powerful high notes, which grows into a spectacular fortissimo as the engine revs up. Two sound baffles in the exhaust system that are controlled by underpressure modulate its volume and pitch as a function of the load and the engine speed.

The ten-cylinder layout is the ideal solution for maximum dynamism. Compared to a V8 with the same displacement, a V10 has smaller and lighter pistons and connecting rods, which makes it a free-revving engine. Compared to a V12, on the other hand, it has fewer components, resulting in lower moving masses and less internal friction. And it is very compact – even with all attached components the 10-cylinder engine is only 646 millimeters (25 in) long, 737 millimeters (29 in) wide and 696 millimeters (27 in) high.

V-angle of 90 degrees for a low center of gravity

The V10 is a member of the Audi family of V-engines with a 90 degree cylinder angle. This large cylinder angle results in a low center of gravity. The banks face each other with an offset of 18.5 millimeters (0.73 in), the bore is 84.5 millimeters (3.3 in), the stroke 92.8 millimeters (3.6 in). To achieve maximum rigidity with minimum weight, the crankshaft was designed as a common-pin shaft, which results in alternating ignition distances of 54° and 90°. This ignition sequence is one of the reasons for the racing-like sound of the V10 engine.

The crank case is produced by a low-pressure diecasting method of a hypereutectic aluminum-silicon alloy – a high-tech material that combines low weight with high strength. The high silicon content of this alloy endows the cylinder tracks with the required wear resistance to withstand the very high average piston velocity of up to 26.9 m/s. The entire engine weighs only 258 kilograms (569 lb), just 31 kilograms (68 lb) more than the V8.

The bedplate design – the lower bearing brackets for the crankshaft are integrated into a single frame – provides the crankcase with maximum rigidity and optimum vibration behavior. Integrally cast iron bearing brackets reduce the thermal expansion of the aluminum housing and minimize the play in the main crankshaft bearings. The forged crankshaft and the forged-steel con rods combine high strength with low weight. The pistons are forged of a high-strength aluminum alloy.

The V10 obtains its oil, which is temperature-controlled by dual coolers, from a dry sump – a design that allows the engine to be installed very low. The external container and the oil pump module, which is designed to work very efficiently with several suction levels and pressure levels, ensure lubrication under any conditions – even during the extreme transverse acceleration exceeding 1.2 g of which the R8 5.2 FSI quattro is capable.

The camshafts, as well as the oil pump, the water pump and parts of the accessory subsystems, are powered by maintenance-free chains located on the rear wall of the engine. All four camshafts are adjustable through 42 degrees crank angle, which provides a wide range of control times for the 40 valves, which are actuated by roller-mounted cam followers. The exhaust valves are subject to a high thermal load and are lined with sodium to assist in cooling.

High Cylinder Filling and Perfect Mixture Formation

The induction pipe is made of lightweight plastic and designed for optimized flow conditions through the ports. Integrated in the intake ports are tumble flaps that are controlled by the engine management system. During low-load conditions, these tumble flaps stroke the inducted air inward to impart motion to it, which improves the efficiency of the combustion process. At full load, the tumble flaps adapt their shape to the contour of the intake ports to optimize the flow. On the exhaust side, the dynamics of the gas exchange are supported by individual elbow joints. They are precisely attuned to the operation of the ten-cylinder engine.

The ten-cylinder engine uses direct injection as per the FSI principle developed by Audi. In the Audi R8 racing car it has impressively demonstrated its superiority in five overall victories in the Le Mans 24 Hours. A common rail system injects the fuel with up to 120 bar of pressure into the combustion chambers through valves placed laterally on the cylinder. This injection strategy causes internal cooling and consequently allows a very high compression ratio of 12.5:1. It contributes both to the high power output and to high efficiency. The engine gets by on an average 13.7 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers
(17.17 US mpg).

The V10 is managed by a highly advanced control system that employs two computers in a master-slave arrangement.

Audi is once again setting standards, this time with the new Audi TT and its TDI engine—a model that combines pure sportiness and powerful performance with sensational efficiency. The Audi TT 2.0 TDI Coupe quattro and Audi TT Roadster 2.0 TDI quattro are the first series- production sports cars to feature diesel engines. It’s a compelling union: The two-liter engine generates dynamic propulsion with 125 kW (170 hp) and 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) of torque, yet the TT Coupe and TT Roadster consume an average of only 5.3 liters and 5.5 liters of fuel per 100 km (44.38 mpg and 42.77 mpg) respectively—unparalleled in the sports car segment.

Audi is setting the pace with this synthesis of excellent dynamism and low fuel consumption, as it has done for many years: Since debuting in 1989 the TDI engines from the brand with the four rings have been paving the way for the world’s most successful efficiency technology and acting as trendsetters for the entire automobile industry. Today, these powerful, refined and highly fuel- efficient engines represent a modern, smart take on sportiness. The run of victories achieved by the Audi R10 TDI diesel race car at the Le Mans 24 Hours and in the American Le Mans Series are impressive evidence of the tremendous potential of this technology.
The dynamic diesel engines from Audi exert an exciting impact not just in racing but also in series-production models—and now indeed in a sports car. The TT Coupe quattro with the 2.0 TDI sprints from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 7.5 seconds and achieves a top speed of 226 km/h (140.43 mph). The Audi TT Roadster, likewise equipped with quattro permanent all-wheel drive, requires only an extra tenth of a second for the standard sprint, and continues up to a top speed of 223 km/h (138.57 mph).Both versions serve as outstanding examples of the success of the Audi efficiency strategy, thanks to their fuel efficiency ratings of 5.5 liters per 100 km (42.77 mpg), a figure that corresponds to CO2 emissions of only 145 grams/km.Powerful, refined and efficient: The 2.0 TDI.The new four-cylinder TDI engine (engine displacement = 1,968 cc) represents a fresh take on the all-round compelling qualities of the TDI concept. Designers of the dual-camshaft, two-liter model looked to its predecessor—the most- produced diesel engine in the world—and expanded upon its major strengths: driving pleasure, efficiency and refinement.

Audi is setting the pace with this synthesis of excellent dynamism and low fuel consumption, as it has done for many years: Since debuting in 1989 the TDI engines from the brand with the four rings have been paving the way for the world’s most successful efficiency technology and acting as trendsetters for the entire automobile industry. Today, these powerful, refined and highly fuel- efficient engines represent a modern, smart take on sportiness. The run of victories achieved by the Audi R10 TDI diesel race car at the Le Mans 24 Hours and in the American Le Mans Series are impressive evidence of the tremendous potential of this technology.
The dynamic diesel engines from Audi exert an exciting impact not just in racing but also in series-production models—and now indeed in a sports car. The TT Coupe quattro with the 2.0 TDI sprints from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 7.5 seconds and achieves a top speed of 226 km/h (140.43 mph). The Audi TT Roadster, likewise equipped with quattro permanent all-wheel drive, requires only an extra tenth of a second for the standard sprint, and continues up to a top speed of 223 km/h (138.57 mph).Both versions serve as outstanding examples of the success of the Audi efficiency strategy, thanks to their fuel efficiency ratings of 5.5 liters per 100 km (42.77 mpg), a figure that corresponds to CO2 emissions of only 145 grams/km.Powerful, refined and efficient: The 2.0 TDI.The new four-cylinder TDI engine (engine displacement = 1,968 cc) represents a fresh take on the all-round compelling qualities of the TDI concept. Designers of the dual-camshaft, two-liter model looked to its predecessor—the most- produced diesel engine in the world—and expanded upon its major strengths: driving pleasure, efficiency and refinement.

The new common rail injection system is equipped with highly modern piezo injectors, whose eight-hole injection nozzles can perform up to five distinct injection sequences per cycle. This fine degree of modulation creates a modest pressure increase in the combustion chambers, resulting in a significantly reduced noise level. The system pressure of 1,800 bar allows fuel to form a fine dispersion, enabling precise, highly efficient combustion.The turbocharger is also part of a new generation and operates with adjustable vanes that allow torque to build up rapidly. The positions of swirl flaps on the intake manifold are controlled by electric motors in order to adapt the flow of air to the current load and engine speed. The geometry of the engine’s pistons has been modified, and the acoustics of the camshaft drive belt have been overhauled. Just as they did in the preceding model, two balancing shafts reduce the vibrations arising in the crankshaft drive.The cumulative result of this progress is a high maximum engine speed of 5,000 rpm and, most importantly, improved thermodynamics in the combustion chambers. What this means is that the engine can run on up to 60 percent recycled exhaust that has been thoroughly cooled by the radiator. This results in a drastic reduction in untreated NOx emissions, with the 2.0 TDI already meeting the threshold values of the upcoming Euro 5 standard.The 2.0 TDI in the Audi TT Coupe and the Audi TT Roadster delivers 125 kW (170 hp) at 4,200 rpm and sends a full 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) of torque to the crankshaft at engine speeds between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm. Operating quietly and generating little in the way of vibration, this model delivers a hefty amount of power at the lowest rpm levels and is highly responsive to input from the gas pedal. Its supreme power development lends this engine its own unique, fascinating character—that of a muscular, smart sports engine.The Audi TT Coupe 2.0 TDI quattro easily leaves the gasoline-powered competition behind when accelerating from a standstill. It sprints from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in just 7.5 seconds and never looks back until it reaches 226 km/h (140.43 mph). The TT Roadster accelerates to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 7.7 seconds and keeps going up to 223 km/h (138.57 mph).These models—the world’s first diesel sports cars—consume an average of only 5.3 liters and 5.5 liters of fuel per 100 km (44.38 mpg and 42.77 mpg) respectively, which corresponds to CO2 emissions of a mere 140 g/km and 145 g/km. In so doing, they are setting a benchmark that represents a veritable quantum leap in the sports car segment. With the TDI engine in the TT series, Audi once again establishes its leading role on the diesel market. The brand with the four rings is advancing progress and starting at the top.In keeping with the theme of sporty performance, Audi has combined its two diesel-engine sports cars with highly effective manual six-speed transmissions whose short lever travel allows the driver to shift quickly, easily and precisely. The housings for these transmissions are made of lightweight, high-tech magnesium materials. Relatively long final transmission ratios have been employed to bring the drivetrain in line with the character of the TDI engine.In light of their high torque values, Audi is equipping both of its new TT models with quattro permanent all-wheel drive. The heart of this system is an electronically controlled, hydraulically activated multi-plate clutch, which is located in the rear of the vehicle for improved weight distribution. This clutch generally distributes up to 85 percent of the engine power to the front axle and 15 percent to the rear axle; in extreme situations it can divert up to 100 percent of the power to either axle.Consistent efforts to reduce vehicle weight are also part of the efficiency strategy pursued by the brand with the four rings. Both sports cars are very lightweight: the 2 + 2-seater TT Coupe weighs only about 1,370 kilograms (3020.33 lbs) when empty, while the two-seater TT Roadster with soft top weighs roughly 1,415 kilograms (3119.54 lbs). Underlying these low weights is an innovative hybrid body construction developed by Audi. Front components are made of aluminum and utilize Space Frame technology; rear components are made of steel. This solution guarantees that the frame is as rigid as possible and optimizes load distribution between the axles.

The Audi TT Coupe and TT Roadster are dynamic, emotion-packed sports cars. As was the case with preceding models, these cars are impressive for their powerful design, whose dynamic flow continues on into the interior. The cockpit contains multiple nods to the circle motif, and the sports steering wheel with its flat-bottomed rim fits the driver’s hand like a glove. The sport seats are deep-set, providing a sporty seated position and firm lateral support. The backs of both rear seats fold down in the TT Coupe, making the trunk space grow from 290 to 700 cubic liters (10.24 – 24.72 cubic ft). The Roadster (250 liters, 8.83 cubic ft) comes with a practical load-through hatch upon request.The sports suspension likewise offers extraordinarily dynamic features. The front suspension is pivoted on an aluminum subframe and has a wide track measuring 1,572 millimeters (61.89 inches). A highly precise rack-and-pinion steering system with a direct steering ratio provides an intimate link between the driver and the road. Power steering with servo assist, which decreases as speed increases, is generated by an electromechanical drive that is even more efficient than a hydraulic pump.The coil springs and shock absorbers in the four-link rear axle are situated in separate areas. The links are also finely differentiated: The layout of the trailing links, which absorb the propulsive and braking forces, is relatively soft to promote a comfortable ride. The connections to the three transverse links per wheel, on the other hand, are rigid in order to direct transverse forces into the body with precision.The Audi TT Coupe 2.0 TDI quattro and Audi TT Roadster 2.0 TDI quattro roll on 16-inch, cast aluminum wheels fitted with 255/55 R16 tires. Behind the wheels are large disk brakes with pads that develop large coefficients of friction. The ESP stabilization program supports the neutral to slight understeering feel of the TT—the finishing touch on an overall portrait of exciting dynamics, exhilarating driving pleasure and stability you can count on.Audi magnetic ride, a high-tech shock-absorber system available as an option, is an adaptive system that resolves the traditional conflict of interests between comfort and handling. A magneto-rheological fluid circulating in the shock absorbers changes the direction of the magnetic particles within milliseconds when electricity is applied; this alters the overall characteristics of the fluid and, in turn, modifies the damping characteristic. The driver can choose between “Normal” and “Sport” programs by flipping a switch.Standard equipment for both of the new TT models reflects the sporty character and refined style of the series. Faux aluminum accents add a shine to gray inlays and various other components in the interior. The sports steering wheel comes with a Nappa leather cover. The climate control system (standard for the TT Coupe) regulates heating and ventilation in response to the level of sunlight.The driver information system and chorus audio system round out the standard equipment. A wide array of high-tech equipment is available as options, including a highly modern generation of audio devices, electrically adjustable front seats, the adaptive light dynamic cornering light system and two navigation systems with a user interface based on the Audi MMI concept—a cut above the competition.

• The Audi Q5 builds on the foundation established by the Audi Q7, and strengthens the brand’s presence in the SUV segment.
• The Audi Q5 will be offered in the USA in March 2009 (2009 model year) with a 3.2 V6 FSI direct injection engine, quattro® all wheel drive, and a six speed Tiptronic transmission.
• The Audi Q5 will be the first Audi offering with Generation 3 MMI, and navigation with real-time traffic information.

Competitive Advantage Summary
• Best-in-class city fuel economy of 18 mpg with 23 mpg highway (amongst AWD traditional powertrain competitors).
• Best-in-class 4,400 pound towing capacity (most have 3,500 lbs or less).
• Longest wheelbase in its class.
• Audi drive select option (unique to segment) helps the driver customize engine/throttle mapping, transmission shift characteristics, steering, and suspension.
• 3-zone climate control standard (the only competitor in the segment w/ rear zone climate control).
• Standard reclining / sliding rear seats.
• 40/60 split rear seats fold from levers located inside cargo area.
• Ski/snowboard pass-through within the split fold rear seats (unique amongst German luxury competitors).
• Clamshell shape trunk opening allows low and wide rear cargo entry point, and a very clean design execution for exterior rear lighting area.
• Standard 12-way power front seats with leather seating surfaces throughout.
• Innovative ESP system recognizes when roof rail cross bars are in place and adjusts accordingly.
• Electronic dipstick allows customers to check the oil from inside the cabin.
• 3G MMI shows latest evolution of 3D navigation.

Market
• The Audi Q5 belongs to the IHG Small SUV segment, which is forecasted to grow dramatically over the next few years as new entrants arrive and customers replace their luxury sedans for luxury crossovers.
• Key competitors are the Acura RDX, BMW X3, Infiniti EX35, Land Rover LR2 HSE, current generation Lexus RX350, Mercedes Benz GLK350, and the upcoming Volvo XC60.

Design
• Based on the current Audi A4 platform.
• Sporty proportions and muscular stance due to long wheelbase and wide body design.
• Reduced front overhang adds to visual sportiness.
• Elimination of roof joint strip, which lends to a high visual quality and minimized airflow noises.
• Typical Audi interior design is modern and sophisticated, with clear attention to detail
• Standard 18” wheels (235/60 all-season tires), full body monochromatic paint, LED taillights, and aluminum exterior trim.

Dynamics
• New modular chassis architecture with longer wheelbase and wider track
• Blending four cars into one, Audi drive select adapts the dynamics of the Audi Q5 to suit the driving experience you desire. The system controls the adaptive suspension, the dynamic steering, the transmission shift characteristics, and the engine response. Four operating modes are available: Comfort, Automatic, Dynamic, and Individual, which allows a custom response profile.
• Consistent use of high-strength and ultra-high strength steel grades for a highly rigid occupant cell with optimized deformation properties.
• Hood and tailgate made from aluminum for lower weight and reduced opening and closing forces.
• Extensive aluminum suspension componentry to reduce unsprung weight and enhance steering feel.
• Compact trapezoidal-link rear suspension which enables a low cargo load floor and high luggage capacity.

Powertrain
• 3.2L V6 specifications:
o FSI direct injection
o Audi Valvelift System (AVS) variable intake valve lift
o 270hp @ 6500 rpm
o 243 lb-ft @3000 rpm
o Track: front – 63.7 inches / rear – 63.5 inches
o 0-60 mph in 6.7 seconds (USA estimated)
• quattro® AWD – latest generation with asymmetric rear-biased torque split (40/60)
• Tiptronic fast-shifting six-speed automatic transmission
• Towing preparation standard; available through dealer

Towing
• All U.S. cars have towing preparation standard, which includes trailer brake controller wiring for use with trailers over 1500 lbs.
• A trailer hitch receiver for the Audi Q5 is available through all authorized Audi dealers with a total capacity of 4,400 lbs.
• Audi Q5 is best-in-class regarding towing capacity.
o Acura RDX = 1500 lbs
o BMW X3 = 3500 lbs
o Land Rover LR2 = 3500 lbs
o Lexus RX = 3500 lbs
o Mercedes GLK = 3500 lbs
o Infiniti EX = towing not recommended
o Volvo XC60 = n/a

Innovations and available features
• MMI operating logic standard (with central display screen)
• Audi side assist
• Dynamic ESP configuration (on road, off road, and roof cargo configurations)
• Power tailgate
• Audi Intelligent Key – stores service information in the key
• Audi advanced key keyless entry and starting
• Audi music interface – world renowned iPod connectivity
• Bluetooth hands-free telephone interface
• Mercury-free Audi xenon plus headlamps with LED daytime running lights
• LED tail lamps
• Audi parking system advanced with rearview camera
• Electromechanical parking brake
• HDD-based Navigation system with real-time traffic information
• Generation 3 MMI system
• Thermo heated/cooled cupholder
• Bang & Olufsen 505W 14-speaker sound system

The name, Sportback, isn’t one with much meaning for Americans, but at Audi it will soon assume greater significance than Avant. Already, the company refers to the A3 four-door hatchback as a Sportback and at the Paris auto show last fall it unveiled the subcompact A1 Sportback concept. Here, Audi wants to show that the Sportback idea isn’t just for small cars.

Indeed, this Sportback concept is a preview of the upcoming Audi A7, essentially a premium, four-door coupe variant of the A6, much in the same way the Mercedes-Benz CLS is positioned above the E-class on which it’s based.

So this Sportback (nee A7) is not a small car. It’s just a shade longer (0.6 inch) than the A6 Avant, but more than three inches narrower and lower than the A6. The design of the large hatchback, however, is supposed to mimic the A5 notchback coupe. The front end gets a more squat version of Audi’s large, vertical grille, and the exterior is dressed up with LED lights front and rear, and 21-inch wheels. As befits a show car, the interior is over-the-top plush, with leather everywhere (and a Bentley-esque, diamond sew pattern on the seats), a huge glass roof panel, oak “blockboard” wood trim, and filigreed aluminum.

Mechanically, this concept showcases all the latest Audi goodies. That means a turbocharged, direct-injection diesel, specifically the 3.0-liter V-6 that will be offered in the Q7 SUV starting this April. Here it makes 225 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, and it’s mated to an 8-speed tiptronic automatic. The powertrain uses Audi’s revised layout, seen already in the A4- and A5-series cars, that reduces the front overhang. Audi claims that this engine can hustle the 3968-pound concept from 0 to 62 mph in less than 7 seconds, and can also achieve nearly 37 mpg in the European test cycle. The Sportback also features a multilink suspension, active dampers (similar to those in the Q7), and ceramic disc brakes.

Although this concept gives a good indication of what the upcoming A7, it’s only part of the story. The A7 likely will also offer a second body style, a swoopy sedan with a conventional trunk. That car should break cover next fall, not as a concept tease but in full production form.

Audi Sportback concept
For real: Yes, as the A7
Powertrain: 3.0-liter V-6 TDI, 225 hp, 406 lb-ft, 8-speed automatic, AWD
Our take: Hatchbacks could lose their stigma at last.

Audi of America today released pricing for the updated 2009 model-year Audi A6 sedan, A6 Avant and S6 sedan, which are scheduled to arrive in U.S. dealerships by the beginning of January.

Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price for the Audi A6 3.2 sedan Premium will start at $45,100. The Audi A6 3.0T quattro sedan Premium will start at $50,100. The Audi A6 3.0T quattro Avant Premium will start at $53,310. The Audi A6 4.2 quattro sedan will start at $60,950, and the Audi S6 will start at $75,900. Prices do not include a destination charge of $825, taxes, title or dealer charges.

”The A6 model range gains a far more progressive look with this makeover,” said Johan de Nysschen, executive vice president of Audi of America. “Of particular note is the addition of the new supercharged drivetrain that will give drivers of these cars plenty of responsive power without sacrificing fuel efficiency. These updates will show why the Audi A6 is the best-selling luxury sedan worldwide.”

The 2009 model-year Audi A6 3.0T quattro rewards motorists with the best fuel economy of any mid-sized luxury sedan sold in the U.S. featuring all-wheel drive. With an energy-recuperating alternator and efficiency-optimized gear ratios, the new model achieves 26 mpg highway and 18 mpg in city driving for a combined EPA fuel economy rating of 21 mpg.

New for 2009 models are three equipment levels – Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige – aimed at improving vehicle value and reducing complexity by combining the features demanded by many luxury car buyers. The new A6 will also come packed with additional standard equipment, including a sunroof, Bluetooth, Homelink, heated front seats on quattro models, three months of free SIRIUS satellite radio service and Audi music interface with iPod connectivity.

Also new for 2009, the 3.0 TFSI V6 engine will deliver 300 horsepower and a powerful 310 lb.-ft of torque. It marries the benefits of direct fuel injection and a compressor supercharger to record a 0-to-60 mph time of 5.9 seconds. The new engine will be packaged with a Tiptronic automatic transmission and the new 40/60 asymmetric rear-biased quattro all wheel drive. The 3.0 TFSI supercharged engine will be available on Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige versions of the Audi A6 sedan and Avant.

The 3.2 FSI V6 engine, which produces 255 horsepower and 243 lb.-ft of torque, will be available in the Audi A6 Premium and Premium Plus equipment levels. The 3.2 FSI will be paired with front-wheel drive and multitronic transmission. The Audi A6 4.2 comes fully loaded with a 350-hp 4.2 FSI V8 engine, Tiptronic automatic transmission, quattro all-wheel drive, S-line exterior and the Prestige equipment level as standard.

The 2009 Audi S6 features a 5.2 FSI V10 engine mated to the Audi Tiptronic automatic transmission, which kicks up 435 horsepower at 6,800 rpm and 398 lb.-ft of torque.

The design of the Audi A6 gets several enhancements led by the high-gloss, single-frame grille as well as bold new bumpers, air vents and fog lights. Chrome accents are added features on the doors and trunk. Available xenon plus headlights now include LED daytime running lights. All-new LED tail lights provide an exclamation point to the new look of the A6.

The world-class interior of the Audi A6 features leather seating, wood trim, intuitive Multi Media Interface, a driver-oriented design and now the added touch of sleek aluminum trim accents on the steering wheel, switches and the parking brake. The interiors also get new instrument cluster graphics and will feature Engine Start/Engine Stop buttons that are new to the A6 models.

The improvements to the A6 should bolster its standing as the best-selling model in the mid-size luxury car market. Worldwide, the Audi A6 claimed a 37% share of the luxury mid-size segment, ahead of its primary competitors, the BMW 5-Series and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The new 2009 Audi A6 will begin shipping to dealers next week in time for the holidays.

Audi announced an expansion of its 2009 A4 lineup with two new models, one featuring front-wheel drive and one featuring a six-speed manual transmission. The newest 2009 Audi A4 models offer exceptional value and the best fuel economy ratings in their individual segments.

The 2009 Audi A4 2.0T FrontTrak combines the advantages of the Audi 2.0 TFSI engine, which recently earned a spot on the 2009 Ward’s 10 Best Engines list, and the efficient multitronic continuously variable transmission, or CVT.

The A4 sedan now available with a six-speed manual transmission, offers a sporty driving experience for those who prefer to shift for themselves. The manual transmission is also paired with Audi’s efficient 2.0 TFSI engine along with Audi’s latest generation of quattro all-wheel drive featuring a rear torque bias for sporty handling.

The result of the new front-wheel drive A4 powertrain combination is the best fuel efficiency in its class with an EPA rating of 23 mpg in city driving conditions and 30 mpg in highway driving. Those fuel economy figures represent a 4 percent fuel-efficiency gain over the previous-generation A4 powered with earlier versions of the 2.0 TFSI engine and the multitronic transmission. The 2009 A4 2.0T quattro manual sedan achieves the best efficiency of any all-wheel drive car in its luxury segment with EPA fuel economy ratings of 22 mpg in city driving and 30 mpg on highways.

The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price on the front-wheel drive 2009 Audi A4 2.0T FrontTrak sedan with multitronic CVT transmission starts at $31,000. The MSRP on the 2009 Audi A4 2.0T quattro manual is $31,850. Both models come with a rich list of standard equipment such as sunroof, leather seating, SIRIUS satellite radio, and quattro all-wheel drive.

“Offering exceptional efficiency without sacrificing the comforts that luxury car buyers expect is Audi’s hallmark,” said Johan de Nysschen, executive vice president, Audi of America. “These two new A4 models are no exception. Their addition to the Audi lineup allows us to meet a broader array of consumer tastes with our highly acclaimed, best-selling car.”

Audi is a pioneer in continuously variable transmission technology. The multitronic transmission was significantly revamped and first appears in the 2009 Audi A4. With the redesign, the multitronic transmission offers greater sportiness and agility along with reduced fuel consumption. The first Audi A4 2.0T FrontTrak multitronic model will begin arriving at dealers this month, with Audi A4 2.0T quattro manual models expected to arrive in dealerships by early 2009.

Dynamic, confident and stunning – the new A5 Cabriolet from Audi is emotionally evocative. The four-seater with the fabric top combines a distinctly sporty character with the fascination of open-top driving, refined comfort and a great everyday utility. Five efficient engines, an agile suspension and a wide range of high-end options make the new Audi the most attractive convertible in the mid-sized segment.

Delivery will begin in the second quarter of 2009. Prices start at 37,300 euros for the entry-level 1.8 TFSI model with 118 kW (160 hp), which will follow somewhat later.

Crowning the new model series is the S5 Cabriolet. The letter “S” traditionally stands for supreme sportiness – for dynamics, performance and power, but also for amazing efficiency. Powering the S5 Cabriolet is a newly developed, supercharged three-liter V6 that pumps out 245 kW (333 hp) for superior performance.

Like all Audi convertibles, the open-top A5 also has a lightweight fabric top that endows it with a silhouette of dynamic elegance. The fully automatic top opens in just 15 seconds. Audi also offers an optional acoustic top with an intermediate layer of insulating foam that reduces wind noise almost to the sedan level. When opened, the Audi A5 Cabriolet top folds down so effectively that very little trunk space is used up – leaving 320 liters (11.30 cubic ft) of unused storage volume, clearly the best value in its field of competitors. The soft top compartment lowers automatically when the top is opened. Equally useful is the fold-down rear seat backrest and the large pass-through between the luggage compartment and the interior, which increases the storage volume to a generous 750 liters (26.49 cubic ft).

Rounding out the comfortable character of the four-seater’s interior are automatic seatbelt extenders for the front seats and the optionally available head-level heating. A special coating on the optional leather seats reduces solar heating. The A5 Cabriolet seats four comfortably. The refined ambience combines with perfect ergonomics to convey an atmosphere of sporty elegance. Ultra-high-strength steels and selective reinforcements of the body ensure high rigidity and crash safety.

The A5 Cabriolet is being launched with three gasoline engines and two diesel engines ranging between 132 kW (180 hp) and 195 kW (265 hp). All five power plants are fueled via direct fuel injection; four of them use turbocharging. Available powertrains include a six-speed manual, the continuously variable multitronic and the new, lightning-fast seven-speed S tronic. In addition to frontwheel drive, Audi also offers quattro permanent all-wheel drive for the higherpower engines. The innovative sport differential, which variably distributes power between the rear wheels, is optionally available for even greater dynamics and driving pleasure.

Fascinating dynamics: Audi drive select

The perfect addition to this technology package is the Audi drive select vehicle dynamics system, which enables the driver to chose among three different engine maps controlling the characteristics of the fuel feed, the shifting points of the seven-speed S tronic or the multitronic, and the boost provided by the servotronic steering system. If the car is equipped with the MMI operating interface, a fourth, freely programmable map is available. Additional technologies available include adaptive control of the shock absorbers and variable-ratio dynamic steering.

The new Audi A5 Cabriolet features a rich array of equipment in addition to the fully automatic top, including an automatic climate-control system and a CD audio system. Highlights from the long list of options include the innovative driver assist systems and the latest generation MMI operating interface, which offers many attractive navigation and entertainment features.

As the dynamic top-of-the-line model of the new production series, the S5 Cabriolet occupies a very special position. Its three-liter TFSI – a V6 with mechanical supercharger – unfolds its 245 kW (333 hp) and 440 Nm (324.53 lb-ft) of torque with impressive results: It responds tenaciously to the throttle and delivers excellent driving performance. The quattro drivetrain, a sport suspension with 18-inch wheels and a number of special equipment details underscore the athletic character of the Audi S5 Cabriolet.

Large trunk: 320 liters (11.30 cubic ft) with the top open

When opened, the top is retracted under a fixed cover, where it is folded down into an extremely compact, trifold configuration. Its storage compartment, which is made of a robust textile mat and adorned with aluminum trim, takes up just a
few centimeters of height and only 60 liters (2.12 cubic ft) of the 380 liters (13.42 cubic ft) of luggage space. The remaining 320 liters (11.30 cubic ft) with the top open are by far best in class. Rivals equipped with a folding steel roof offer at least 100 liters (3.53 cubic ft) less.

A number of clever solutions bring even more convenience to the Audi A5 Cabriolet. The driver does not have to do anything before opening the top – the top compartment lowers itself automatically into the trunk. If there isn’t enough room, a sensor annunciates an alarm and the top does not open. A master switch with one-touch function also makes it very easy to actuate the four power windows simultaneously.

The 50:50 split folding rear seat backrests can be easily unlocked by actuating two levers in the trunk. Pretensioned with springs, they drop automatically onto the seat cushions. The standard pass-through is 70 centimeters (27.56 in) wide and 30 centimeters (11.81 in) high. The loading space behind the front seatbacks is thus 1.76 meters (5.77ft) long, providing a total storage volume of 750 liters (26.49 cubic ft). A ski bag is optional; a 12-volt plug in the trunk comes standard.

he rear trunk lid with the electric lock reveals an opening large enough to stow two golf bags. The low loading lip also makes loading and unloading easier. The standard wind deflector, which is stretched over the rear seats, can be stored in the spare-wheel well when not in use, provided that the optional compact temporary spare wheel is not on board.

Seat-mounted head and thorax side airbags with a volume of 18 liters

(0.64 cubic ft) each provide protection in the event of a side impact; full-size airbags protect the driver and front-seat passenger in the event of a frontal collision. Because the control unit knows the seating position, it can adaptively trigger the belts and airbags to provide the best possible protection for passengers large and small in all types of collisions. In a rear-end collision, the integral head restraint system averts the danger of whiplash injuries.

The front fenders of the Audi A5 Cabriolet are made of lightweight aluminum to reduce weight and optimize the axle load distribution. Sophisticated details such as a fully-enclosed underbody improve the airflow and thus the acoustics and also fuel efficiency. With the top closed, the four-seater has a drag coefficient of 0.31 and a frontal surface area of 2.17 m² (23.36 sq ft).

The interior

With its long wheelbase of 2.75 meters (9.02 ft), the A5 Cabriolet offers a roomy interior; the open four-seater has plenty of room for longer trips. That’s also true for the sportily sculpted rear seats, which can be optionally supplied with a center console with a beverage holder with two cup holders and roller cover, including a storage compartment beneath the front passenger seat.

The front seats are sportily low and sculpted for perfect ergonomics, offering perfect control and support. Electric seatbelt extenders provide assistance with fastening the belts. Integrated into the B-pillars, they move forward automatically when the ignition is activated. The seatbelt extender returns to its ready position once the tab engages in the buckle.

Audi offers a broad range of optional seats for special requirements – sport seats with extendable thigh rests and electric lumbar support, all-electric adjustment and heating, including heating for the back seats as a separate option. In the highend climate-controlled comfort seats, small fans and an automatic auxiliary heater ensure luxurious comfort.

Another luxury feature integrated into the climate-controlled comfort seats is the new neck-level heating. A three-level adjustable fan blows warm air through ducts on the topside of the seatback to warm the back of the head and the neck. The neck-level heating, which is also available for sport seats, prolongs the open-air season.

Another special feature is the optional leather upholstery: a special coating inhibits solar heating while the A5 Cabriolet is parked in the sun with the top down. This heat-up resistance function reflects the warming infrared radiation and thus lowers the surface temperature by up to 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit).

Audi offers a choice of several seat coverings for the entire range of seats, from the standard Arcade fabric to a combination of leather and Alcantara to a particularly soft version of Fine Nappa leather. Seven colors are available: black, lunar silver, pale gray, luxor beige, cardamom beige, cinnamon and red. Inlays come standard in Micrometallic platinum; aluminum, burl walnut, ash and laurel are available as options. The headliner is available in three colors: black, star
silver and linen beige.

Flowing elegance – the interior design

Elegance in flowing lines, perfect ergonomics, high-grade materials and uncompromising craftsmanship characterize the interior. Like in every Audi, the interior is a treat for the senses – for the ears, nose, fingertips and of course the eyes. The teardrop-shaped surrounds of the instruments have already become modern classics. The central, high-mounted onboard monitor is standard equipment. The sculpted cockpit is oriented toward the driver. Flowing lines link it to the center tunnel and the door linings.

If the customer has ordered either one of the two navigation systems, it comes with the sophisticated MMI operating system. With its intuitive, easy-tounderstand menu system, the large buttons and the central control knob on the middle tunnel, it is the best solution on the market.

In future, the AUDI AG motorsport programme will be based on three pillars: During the 2009 season, the brand with the four rings will compete once again in the 24 Hours of Le Mans and in the DTM. Additionally, with the new Audi R8 LMS, Audi Sport offers for the first time a racing sports car specifically developed for customer use.

“We know just how important motorsport is for the success of the brand,” emphasises Michael Dick, who as Chairman of the Board for Technical Development is responsible for the AUDI AG motorsport programme. “Therefore it goes without saying that Audi must also be present on the race track in economically hard times. It is all the more important for us to enter a motorsport category in which the cost-benefit calculation is positive.”

Audi therefore continues to support sport prototypes and the DTM. With the Audi R8 LMS, Audi also offers customer teams a racing car incorporating high-quality technology and the typical Audi traits but which is, however, also easy to operate.

New diesel sports car for Le Mans

Audi aims to demonstrate “Vorsprung durch Technik” specifically in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Audi is just one victory behind Ferrari in the French endurance classic’s all time winners’ list following its eighth victory last June. Only Porsche has more wins at Le Mans.

Audi targets the ninth victory in probably the world’s toughest car race, in which the development of alternative and fuel-saving power concepts are the focus of attention, in June 2009 with a newly developed LMP1 sports car. The Audi R15 TDI differs significantly from its predecessor, the R10 TDI, at first glance and features many technically innovative details with which Audi aims to maintain its supremacy in Le Mans.

The new Le Mans prototype is equipped with a smaller, lighter and even more efficient TDI engine. During the chassis and aerodynamic development Audi Sport engineers followed similar routes to those exhibited on the current Audi A4 DTM.

“It was clear to us that we must develop a new car if we wanted to continue to be successful in Le Mans,” explains Head of Audi Motorsport Dr Wolfgang Ullrich. “The Audi R15 TDI is the result. The step from R10 to R15 is significantly larger than it was from the R8 to the R10.”

Only the basic concept was carried over from the predecessor model: The R15 TDI is also powered by a TDI engine and is an open-topped roadster. Audi does not wish to release any further details at this time.

The first private tests with the new Le Mans sports car are scheduled for later this year. The R15 TDI will only be presented to the public immediately before its race debut in the 12-hour race in Sebring (USA) on 21 March 2009.

Audi Sport Team Joest will field three new R15 TDI prototypes in the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Development of the 2008 championship winning DTM car

Audi competes in the DTM as defending champions with a development of the 2008 championship winning car and with an ambitious target: Audi aims to be the first automobile manufacturer in the history of the “new” DTM to win the title three times in succession.

The DTM version of the new A4, which set the standards during the 2008 season with eight pole positions and six victories, is optimised in every area and carries the project name “R14 plus” internally.

Four new A4 cars and up to five 2008 cars will be fielded by the proven teams Abt Sportsline, Phoenix and Rosberg. Audi also relies on known quantities for its driver squad: Every driver will be recruited from the driver line-up seen in action during the 2008 season in the DTM and R10 TDI.

GT3 race version of the Audi R8

With the GT3 race version of the R8, Audi has specifically developed a racing sports car for customer use for the first time. The Audi R8 LMS is powered by a 500 hp plus V10 engine and is available from autumn 2009 for a proposed price of 262,000 Euro plus VAT.

The new Audi R8 LMS will be seen in action on the race track during the 2009 season: Up to eight customer cars will compete in different European race series and in the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring, for which Audi Sport develops an endurance version of the R8 LMS. The factory itself does not plan to enter any races with the new GT3 car.

The experienced drivers Christian Abt, Frank Biela and Frank Stippler are involved in the Audi R8 LMS development.

Audi adds another pillar to its existing motorsport programme with the customer programme, which should be self-financing in the medium term. The new customer sport centre in Ingolstadt is conceived as a profit centre.

Motorsport represents huge value for Audi

“2008 was the largest and most successful motorsport programme in AUDI AG history,” explains Head of Audi Motorsport Dr Wolfgang Ullrich. “We want to continue this in 2009. In view of the international economic and financial crisis, it is clear that motorsport must also make a contribution to reduce costs further. It is all the more pleasing that we have found a way to continue our two large projects, the new Le Mans sports car and the DTM, and added another string to our bow with the GT3 customer sport programme. This demonstrates just how valuable motorsport is for Audi