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| UK spec confirmed for new Audi RS 6 Quattro Avant |
Successor to the acclaimed V8-powered Audi RS flagship upgrades to ten cylinders, two turbochargers and 580PS
- New RS 6 quattro available first in Avant estate form with saloon to follow in mid-2008
- UK OTR price confirmed at £77,625 OTR - first deliveries in May 2008
- V10 engine is boosted by two turbo chargers, streamlined by FSI direct petrol injection and linked to six-speed tiptronic automatic transmission
- 580PS @ 6,250rpm, 650Nm from 1,500-6,250rpm, 0-62mph in 4.6 seconds, top speed limited to 155mph, 20.1mpg combined
- Latest generation quattro system with 40:60 front-to-rear torque split
- New development of hydraulically controlled Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) system from RS 4 with selectable damper settings
- Sports interior boasting up to 1,660 litres of luggage space
The most powerful production Audi of all time - the new RS 6 quattro Avant - will offer UK Audi customers a remarkable combination of 1,660 litres of load-engulfing space and 580PS-worth of blistering V10-fuelled performance when it becomes available next month priced at £77,625 OTR.
Deliveries of the new biturbo, ten-cylinder super Avant - the eagerly awaited successor to the revered original RS 6 quattro of 2002 - will begin in May, and the first year allocation of 380 examples has already been accounted for by customers who have formally registered their interest in the car with Audi Centres.
At the heart of the latest RS flagship is a heavily modified, 5.0-litre version of the exceptionally compact, naturally aspirated 5.2-litre V10 FSI petrol engine powering the 435PS S6 quattro. Two turbo chargers and extensive component refinements boost the output of this acclaimed unit to 580PS at 6,250rpm, and increase torque from 540Nm to 650Nm, available from just 1,500rpm right through to 6,250rpm.
As a result, the RS 6 quattro with optimised six-speed tiptronic automatic transmission can blast to 62mph from rest in 4.6 seconds and to 124mph in just 14.9 seconds, only relenting when the electronic governor cuts in at 155mph.
Yet despite the considerable exertions of its two newly adopted turbo chargers, the mighty V10 nevertheless retains surprisingly 'real world' fuel economy, with up to 20.1mpg possible on the combined cycle, only slightly behind the naturally aspirated V10 powering the S6 quattro. FSI direct petrol injection - which minimises the amount of fuel used in each combustion cycle through injection directly into the combustion chamber rather than via the intake manifold - can be thanked for this impressive efficiency.
Latest generation quattro and Dynamic Ride Control
To reach the tarmac via the suitably imposing 20-inch alloy wheels fitted as standard to UK RS 6 models, the barrage of power passes through the latest generation quattro four-wheel-drive system with standard 40:60 front-to-rear torque split, ensuring that it translates seamlessly into smooth, safely contained and uninterrupted performance. The feeling of unflappable composure is emphasised further by a new version of the Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) system that won plenty of praise in the original RS 6 quattro and has since been used in the RS 4 quattro.
DRC connects shock absorbers on each side of the car diagonally to their counterparts by way of a central valve, which directs a flow of oil to provide additional damping force whenever a shock absorber is compressed, making for impressive gains in handling precision and stability. New to this latest RS 6 quattro is a three-stage selectable control for this system, which will be fitted as standard to UK versions and allows the driver to choose from three damper settings - comfort, dynamic and sport - according to preference and conditions
Also overseeing proceedings in the most powerful Audi in the range is a specially reconfigured version of the Electronic Stability Programme which has been programmed to intervene as late as possible, maximising driving pleasure without compromising ultimate safety. If required, the ESP system can be completely deactivated.
The most crucial safety feature, namely the ventilated all-disc braking system, is of course more than up to the task of reining in this most extreme of Audi Avants, and an upgrade to ultra high performance ceramic brakes with even more exceptional performance and fade resistance will also be available at extra cost.
The incredibly assured handling this advanced set-up permits can be enjoyed from the comfort and support of the cabin's sculpted and ultra-grippy leather and alcantara-upholstered RS sports seats, the driver's positioned perfectly in relation to the flat-bottomed RS sports steering wheel with multifunction controls and transmission shift paddles. Additional RS features in the much praised interior also include boost pressure and oil temperature readouts, milled finish door handles and aluminium-look pedals. The familiar A6 Avant virtues, not least its potential 1,660-litre load capacity, are of course very much in evidence.
The new Audi RS 6 quattro Avant - Standard Specification February 2008
Wheels, Tyres and Suspension
9.5Jx20 '5-segment-spoke' design alloy wheels with 275/35R20 tyres
Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) sports suspension system with 3 level control
High performance braking system
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
RS specific quattro sports chassis
Safety and Security
Audi Parking System Plus with front and rear sensors
Front and rear ISOFIX seats with front passenger airbag de-activation switch
Front and rear side airbags with Sideguard curtain airbags
Electromechanical parking brake
Cruise control
Light and rain sensor for automatic activation of lights and windscreen wipers
Seats
Front and rear seat heating
Satin Nappa leather with contrast stitching and RS embossing
RS specific front sports seats, electrically adjustable, driver's side with memory
Electric lumbar support
Through load facility
Audio and Communication
Audi Music Interface (AMI)
Bluetooth mobile phone connection
BOSE surround sound
6 disc CD changer - .mp3 and .wma file compatible
MMI Multi Media Interface with 7" high resolution screen
DVD Navigation with TMC functionality
DAB digital radio
Interior Equipment
Front and rear floor mats
Instrument surround in high-gloss Piano Black finish
Carbon inlays
Interior lighting package
Auto dimming interior mirror
RS flat bottom multi-function steering wheel with gearshift paddles
Drivers Information System (DIS) in colour
Luggage compartment net
Headlining in black cloth
Exterior Equipment
Rear lights using LED technology
Adaptive Light including Xenon headlights and LED daytime-driving lights
Coming home and leaving home lighting function selectable through MMI
Auto dimming, heated, folding door mirrors with memory function
Paint finish in metallic or pearl effect
Twin oval exhausts
Matt finish aluminium wing mirror housings, roof rails, window trims and grille
Automatically actuated electric tailgate |
| All-new turbo FSI engine for Audi A5 |
Replacement for highly successful 1.8-litre Turbo engine brings yet more FSI efficiency to A5 coupé
- New four-cylinder FSI engine for A5 combines turbo charging with direct petrol injection for excellent all-round performance
- A5 1.8 TFSI available to order now with six-speed manual transmission for £26,190 OTR or £27,140 with Sport specification - first UK deliveries in late November
- 170PS @ 4,800-6,200rpm, 250Nm @1,500-4,800rpm, 0-62mph in 8.4 seconds, 140mph, 39.8mpg, CO2 169g/km
The first four-cylinder engine to power the all-new Audi A5 coupé joins the UK range this week, and fittingly it too is also a completely new design. The advanced, directly injected successor to the familiar 1.8-litre Turbo petrol unit that has powered A3, A4, A6 and TT models in the past creates the A5 1.8 TFSI, which is available to order now for an OTR price of £26,190. First UK deliveries are expected in late November.
Performance-enhancing turbo charging and fuel-rationing FSI direct petrol injection combine in the new unit to deliver 170PS at 4,800rpm and a healthy 250Nm torque peak that remains available from 1,500rpm through to 4,800rpm. As a result, the front-wheel-driven A5 1.8 TFSI with six-speed manual transmission passes the 62mph yardstick 8.4 seconds after take off, and can continue to a top speed of 140mph, all the while demonstrating a healthy dislike for petrol, with up to 39.8mpg possible according to the combined cycle test.
The extensive equipment list from which the first phase of V6-powered A5 models benefits is carried over largely unchanged to the four-cylinder version. It includes luxuries such as Milano leather-upholstery, advanced three-zone climate control and rear acoustic parking sensors, as well as sophisticated features like a space-liberating electromechanical parking brake which are more commonly to be found only in larger luxury cars.
Key optional features for this new lead-in model include Xenon head lamps with LED daytime running lights (£775), a Sport upgrade bringing larger 18-inch wheels, sports seats and further lowered sports suspension (£950), a 505-watt, 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system (£525), the Audi Parking System Advanced with rear-mounted camera (£650) and Adaptive Light swivelling headlights (£325). |
| New sports spec for open air Audi A4 |
Upgrades inside and out for new A4 Cabriolet 2.0 TFSI S line Special Edition
- Special version of sought-after A4 Cabriolet powered by 2.0 Turbo FSI 200PS engine and priced from £29,990 OTR - available to order now for first deliveries in December
- Exceptional specification includes S line exterior styling, Pearl Nappa leather upholstery, BOSE sound system with CD autochanger, acoustic parking and xenon headlamps
- 200PS @ 5,100-6,000rpm, 280Nm @ 1,800-5,000rpm, 0-62mph in 8.2 seconds (multitronic 8.1), top speed 146mph (multitronic 144), combined mpg 34.0 (multitronic 33.6), CO2 199g/km (multitronic 199g/km)
A new version of the sought-after Audi A4 Cabriolet featuring a particularly impressive sports-oriented specification joins the UK range this week. Priced from £29,990 OTR, and available to order now, the new A4 2.0 TFSI S line Special Edition combines styling enhancements with extra interior luxuries to create one of the most covetable Cabriolets this side of the RS 4.
To do justice to its strong performing 200PS, 2.0-litre Turbo FSI petrol engine, the A4 Cabriolet S line Special Edition rides on exclusive 18-inch 7-arm double spoke design alloy wheels with 235/40 R18 tyres and lowered sports suspension. At no extra cost, visual impact can be added by an S line exterior styling pack, which brings a highly polished black painted grille and unique front and rear bumper design with rear diffuser. Xenon head lamps also add to the visual impact, as well as of course providing major benefits in visibility and safety.
Inside, the S line specification, which normally includes trimmings such as Pearl Nappa leather-upholstered sports seats, a perforated leather trimmed S line sports steering wheel and brushed aluminium inlays, is enhanced by an upgraded Symphony audio system with six CD changer, a BOSE speaker system, rear acoustic parking sensors and aluminium foot pedals. Combined, the extra equipment fitted inside and out would normally cost an additional £2,035.
The upgraded Special Edition specification supplements range-wide features such as fully automatic soft-top operation, electric front and rear windows and electronic climate control.
Helped by a healthy 280Nm of torque, available from 1,800rpm, the A4 Cabriolet 2.0 TFSI S line Special Edition with six-speed manual transmission is good for a 0-62mph time of 8.2 seconds and a top speed of 146mph. Combined cycle fuel consumption is an impressive 34.0mpg. True to form, the optional, and still unique-in-class, multitronic continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) permits performance and fuel economy that run the manual version incredibly close, in stark contrast to the majority of conventional 'stepped' automatics.
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| Audi Cross Coupé quattro |
At the Shanghai Motor Show (20 - 28 April 2007) Audi will present a study that defines a new segment in the field of crossover vehicles. The Audi Cross Coupé quattro combines the design and dynamism of a compact premium sports car with the spaciousness and versatility of a four-seat sport utility vehicle (SUV). Innovative technical solutions show new ways of achieving efficiency, driving pleasure and comfort in a manner that is typical of Audi. The Audi Cross Coupé quattro: a car whose visual appearance clearly tells you what it is capable of and whose engineering matches this standard - on all roads, under all conditions.
The silhouette is typical Audi; the design of the study, painted in Liquid Silver, is highly reminiscent of the sporty models produced by the Ingolstadt brand. The proportions and the large 20" wheels point clearly towards the offroad potential of the Cross Coupé quattro. A new element is the fabric folding roof, which, when it is open, gives optimum levels of headroom and fresh air. The hood is opened and closed electrically.
The transversely installed four-cylinder inline TDI engine with common-rail fuel injection and piezo injectors is a completely new development. With power output of 204 bhp and 400 Nm of torque, it gives the vehicle a sporty performance and a surprising degree of efficiency. On average the ultra-modern 2.0 TDI needs just 5.9 litres of diesel per 100 km. The diesel particulate filter and Bluetec system reduce soot and nitric oxide emissions effectively. Even today, the Audi Cross Coupé quattro satisfies the emissions standards of the future.
The quattro permanent four-wheel drive system is a matter of course on an Audi with offroad potential. A Haldex clutch ensures that traction is precisely distributed according to the situation. The sporty Audi S tronic dual-clutch gearbox executes gearshifts in a matter of milliseconds.
The running gear, featuring a McPherson-strut front axle and a four-link rear axle is perfect for sporty and agile handling that retains a high degree of stability and makes cornering distinctly fun. As an additional quality, the driving comfort of the running gear impresses on all types of road and in rough terrain, meeting even the standards expected of a vehicle in a higher class. Ceramic brake discs promise excellent, non-fading deceleration. 20" wheels give the Cross Coupé quattro the ground clearance required.
Numerous electronic systems support the driver. The Audi drive select system makes it possible to preselect three highly individual configurations for the engine, gearbox, steering and adaptive shock absorbers. The result: a car that can be enjoyed in three completely different ways.
Besides the standard "dynamic" drive select mode and the "sport" setting, the Audi Cross Coupé also has the "efficiency" driving program. Here, the engine map and the shift points are modified to support a particularly economical driving style. In addition, the system deactivates components that are particularly energy-hungry, for example the air-conditioning compressor.
Another innovation is the MMI control panel, which is operated by a touch pad. The monitor of the system employs, for the first time, dual-view technology. The system can produce different images for the driver and front-seat passenger. These images are only visible when viewed from a specific angle. This allows the driver to read data from the on-board computer while the front passenger watches a TV programme, listening to the sound through headphones.
The sound system with the prominent extending tweeters sets a new infotainment standard in the class. The ambient lighting with numerous light sources gives the interior a stylish ambience, even at night. |
| Audi challenges 3-series Coupe with new A5 |
Audi is taking the fight to arch-rival BMW with the launch of its new A5 and S5 four-seater coupes. The cars are pitched squarely against BMW's 3-series coupe - and its M3 performance derivative - as Audi continues its bid to become the number one luxury car maker in the world.
Audi's strategy involves broadening its range into every imaginable niche - A5 is the third new coupe to be launched in the past 6 months, following the all-new TT and R8 models. Audi's UK dealers have already taken more than 1,000 orders for the £77,000 R8, which is pitched against another German performance icon, the Porsche 911.
When A5 and S5 go on sale in July, only the upper-range models will be available: 3.2-litre V6 FSI petrol with 265PS featuring new valve-lift technology; 4.2-litre V8 FSI petrol with 354PS, revised 2.7 TDI with 190PS, revised 3.0 TDI with 240PS.
Pricing will range from £30,175 OTR for the A5 2.7 TDI to £40,025 OTR for the S5 quattro. Smaller-engined models, including the base 1.8 version, will follow in 2008. An ultra-high performance RS5 is also under development - and this could have a version of Audi's V10 engine.
The A5's design was inspired by the Nuvolari concept study shown at Geneva four years ago. It is the first model to be built on the new A4 platform - the new A4 will follow at Frankfurt in September and could reach UK showrooms by the end of the year. The third model to be built on the A4 platform will be the Q5 SUV, expected to make its debut at Geneva in 12 months' time.
Run-out of the old A4 is likely to prevent Audi UK sales from hitting 100,000 this year - though they are expected to be up on 2006's 87,000 sales. Indeed, Audi can't make enough right-hand drive cars to satisfy UK demand, said Audi spokesman Jon Zammett. We have an order bank of 26,000 cars, and a six-month waiting list for the TT, he said.
Ten years ago, Audi had six models in its range. Now it has 25. One of the final pieces of the jigsaw is the A1 small car, which is scheduled for a 2009 debut, finally offering a serious rival to BMW's Mini. The design has yet to be signed off, but Audi has confirmed the car will be built in Brussels. It's expected to resemble the Shooting Brake concept of two years ago. |
| Prized Top Gear award for Audi TT Coupe |
Jeremy Clarkson and his colleagues at the BBC's Top Gear Magazine have chosen the all new Audi TT to receive the 'Best Coupe' trophy in the 2006 Top Gear Awards, almost exactly five years after the team bestowed a similar honour on the original TT Coupe.
Jeremy and Top Gear editor Michael Harvey presented the prestigious award to AUDI AG's Head of Steering Systems, Georg Middelhauve, at a ceremony held last week in London. According to the magazine's editorial, the TT deserved to win through because: it's a properly entertaining and engaging thing to throw down the road. Just like the original, you'll remember the new TT. Now not just for the way it looks, but also for the way it goes too.
Jeremy Hicks, Managing Director of Audi UK, applauded the decision: The fact that the TT has already been highly praised in print by the Top Gear team on a number of occasions was heartening enough for us, but to win outright in the category, with endorsement from Jeremy, is real cause for celebration.
The new Audi TT - the prestige German manufacturer's iconic sports coupe - was officially unveiled in the UK just three months ago, its subtly updated skin concealing a superstructure and chassis that have undergone far more radical changes than first meet the eye.
With optimum weight distribution thanks to the hybrid body shell combining 69% aluminium content in the frontal section and 31% steel at the rear, the latest TT provides the best possible conditions in which the advanced sports suspension with optional magnetic ride and the powerful Turbo FSI four-cylinder and naturally aspirated V6 petrol engines can shine.
The original TT Coupe, launched in the UK in 1999, was itself no stranger to awards. Top Gear Magazine named it one of its Favourites of the Year in 2001, and it was voted Best Coupe for five consecutive years (1999-2003) by the team at What Car? Magazine.
The new Audi TT Coupe 2.0 TFSI is priced at £24,625 OTR, and the TT Coupe 3.2 quattro at £29,285 OTR. |
| For Audi black is the new white |
Predictions from the prestige German car maker Audi reveal that its buyers are making strong personal statements by choosing more monochrome colours to achieve exclusivity and distinction. First came all-white, which was originally prominent in America and is now widely available across the Audi range as a paint option. Now black is becoming increasingly popular, not only for paintwork but also for all the exterior trims normally in contrasting chrome or metal.
In recognition of this fact, a new version of the popular A4 2.0 TFSI S line Special Edition has been launched for the 2007 Model Year, combining a striking all-black grille treatment, black window trim strips and, for Avant versions, black roof rails.
Also new to the latest S line Special Edition models are 18-inch 7-arm double-spoke alloy wheels, aluminium pedals and a leather and Alcantara-trimmed multifunction sports steering wheel. Two-tone graphite and black Valcona leather-upholstered sports seats, S line body styling and S line suspension are also standard features.
Commenting on the move towards monochrome, Director of Audi Jeremy Hicks said: We have a very taste conscious clientele and for them detail is very important. Audi sees a very high level of bespoke ordering and Audi enthusiasts are now choosing more and more white or black specifications. This is their way of making a firm individual and personal statement.
Available to order now, the latest S line Special Edition models are available in Saloon or Avant body styles powered by either an exclusive 220PS version of the award-winning 2.0 TFSI turbo charged petrol engine or the 2.0-litre TDI diesel with 170PS, both offered in conjunction with front-wheel-drive or quattro four-wheel-drive configurations. OTR prices range from £24,570 to £27,120.
A4 range enhancements continued into 2007
Availability of the equipment enhancements originally offered across the A4 Saloon and Avant range until December 31st 2006 has been extended until March 31st 2007.
Until then, all standard A4 Saloon and Avant models will be equipped to SE specification at no extra cost, bringing upgrades such as 17-inch 16-spoke alloy wheels, a Concert II radio with single CD player and cruise control. Upgrading to an S line sports model will also carry a reduced premium of £750, and adds features including 18-inch 5-arm alloy wheels, S line body styling, sports seats, sports suspension and a sports multi-function steering wheel.
A4 SE and S line and S4 quattro models will also be fitted with a premium BOSE sound system upgrade at no extra cost until the end of March.
A4 Saloon and Avant OTR prices range from £19,900 to £29,325, and S4 quattro models from £37,415 to £38,565.
AUDI RANGE TO BE FULLY iPOD ENABLED
A6, A8 and Q7 raise the tone with new Audi music interface
A new Audi music interface will connect iPod players to A6, A8 and Q7 models via their Multi Media Interface (MMI) control systems from January 2007.
Available as an optional extra expected to cost in the region of £200, the new music interface enables iPod units to connect with the car through a storage unit mounted in the glove box in A6 and A8 models and in the rear centre armrest in the Q7. Track, artist and album information is displayed on the central MMI screen and selections can be made via the rotary and push-button MMI controls or through the multifunction steering wheel.
Once the new system comes on stream the entire Audi range will offer the convenience of digital music playback. iPod connectivity is already available for all A3, A4 and TT variants.
NEW SPECIFICATION ACROSS A3 RANGE
· Enhancements to standard, SE, Sport and S line models
· Eyecatching new colour schemes for new 265PS S3
The perennially popular Audi A3 range - which numbers 27 models priced from £14,995 to £26,975 - moves into 2007 with the benefit of specification enhancements at every level.
Standard versions have been upgraded to include a Chorus radio with single CD player, SE models move up from a 16-inch alloy wheel to a new 17-inch 16-spoke design and Sport specification now includes a change to a 17-inch 5-spoke wheel.
In the cabin, S line models, originally fitted with leather and fabric combination upholstered sports seats, will now benefit from full Vienna leather trim.
At the head of the range, the new 265PS S3 quattro gains a variety of vivid new colour schemes, including Sprint Blue, Imola Yellow and the pictured Solar Orange, which are available at an extra cost of £485. |
| Advanced new four-cylinder Piezo TDI engine |
The first four-cylinder Audi TDI engine to benefit from a performance boost courtesy of piezo injection technology from the V6 and V8 Audi diesel units is now available for A3 and A4 models. The new 170PS, 2.0-litre unit delivers power, torque and acceleration to rival a six-cylinder TDI with characteristic four-cylinder fuel economy in A3 and five-door A3 Sportback models priced from £18,930 OTR, and A4 Saloons and Avants priced from £22,965 OTR. All are available to order for first UK deliveries in July.
Slotting in alongside the existing 2.0-litre 140PS TDI engine in the A3 and A4 model ranges, the new 170PS unit is the first in the Audi range to combine 'pumpe-duse' or 'pump jet' direct diesel injection with the performance-maximising piezo crystal injector technology from the 2.7-litre V6, 3.0-litre V6 and 4.2-litre V8 TDI engines.
The 170PS power peak in the new engine is delivered at a very accessible 4,200rpm, and peak torque of 320Nm is on tap from just 1,750rpm, resulting in strong, sustained acceleration and keen response across the range. The three-door A3 2.0 TDI passes the 62mph mark from a standing start in 8.2 seconds, its quattro counterpart cutting the time down further still to 7.8 seconds, and the two versions can potentially power on to top speeds of 138mph and 136mph. In the front-drive model, this lively performance is achievable with the added benefit of up to 48.7mpg, giving a potential range of up to 750 miles per tank of diesel.
quattro drive
Also available in front-wheel-drive and quattro forms, the newly-equipped A4 2.0 TDI can accelerate from rest to 62mph in 8.6 seconds (quattro version 8.5) and reach a maximum speed of 142mph (quattro version 139mph), yet is also capable of covering up to 48.7mpg (quattro version 42.2mpg), putting up to 589 miles within reach between fuel refills.
Registering impressively low C02 outputs of 157g/km and 154g/km respectively, the new more powerful front-wheel-drive A3 and A4 models continue to make outstanding financial sense for tax-conscious company car drivers. A 40 per cent tax payer can expect a highly competitive tax liability of £1,575.59 per annum driving the A3 2.0 TDI, and £1,823.36 for the A4 2.0 TDI.
The enhancement of the four-cylinder TDI range for the A3 and A4 closely follows significant improvements to the six-cylinder A4 TDI range, which earlier this year adopted a more powerful 233PS version of the acclaimed 3.0-litre TDI engine, along with the 2.7-litre V6 TDI with 180PS from the A6, replacing the 2.5-litre TDI.
The Audi TDI family also continues to boast not only the most powerful diesel engine currently available in a production car, but also the world's first purpose built diesel racing engine. On the road the 326PS 4.2-litre V8 TDI powers the remarkable A8 4.2 TDI quattro, and on the circuit the 5.5-litre V12 TDI with 650PS is hotly tipped to rocket the Audi R10 TDI sports prototype to victory in this year's Le Mans 24-hour marathon race (June 17-18). |
| All new Audi TT Coupe now on UK sale |
Lightweight aluminium and steel hybrid construction and magnetic ride system maximise potential of all new Audi sports car
- Successor to iconic TT (launched in 1999) now available to order in the UK - first deliveries in October 2006
- Initially available with the 200PS 2.0-litre Turbo FSI petrol engine and front-wheel-drive or the 250PS 3.2-litre V6 harnessed by quattro permanent four-wheel-drive.
- TT Coupe 2.0 T priced at £24,625 OTR and TT Coupe 3.2 quattro at £29,285 OTR
- Advanced Audi Space Frame construction blending 69% aluminium and 31% steel for outstanding weight distribution benefiting dynamics
- Optional Magnetic Ride system for optimum handling composure
- Retractable spoiler increases downforce to maximise stability
The unenviable challenge of creating a successor to the iconic Audi TT Coupe has just been met - the new Audi TT Coupe is now open for UK order with prices starting from £24,625 OTR. First deliveries of UK TT models are scheduled for early October.
The now even more focused Audi sports car innovates with revolutionary Audi Space Frame aluminium and steel hybrid construction that minimises weight, maximises dynamic potential and allows full exploitation of the two powerful petrol engines available at launch. Its already exceptional agility and response can also be boosted by a futuristic new magnetic ride system.
Power for the dramatically styled new coupe is provided by either the 2.0-litre Turbo FSI petrol engine with 200PS or the 3.2-litre V6 petrol engine with 250PS. 2.0 T FSI versions will be front-wheel-driven, and the 3.2-litre models will be harnessed by the acclaimed quattro four-wheel-drive system. Six-speed manual transmission will be a standard feature of both versions, with the Stronic twin-clutch automatic transmission (formerly known as DSG) available as a cost option at £1,400. |
| Audi A6 Allroad Quattro ready to tackle British soil |
A rugged new sport utility version of the Audi A6 Avant joins the UK Audi range this week priced from £33,530 OTR. The all-terrain A6 allroad quattro will initially be powered by 2.7-litre TDI and 3.0-litre TDI engines, and will reach its first UK customers in July.
The understated elegance of the A6 Avant takes on a harder edge for the new A6 allroad quattro through an exclusive grille and front and rear bumper design, flared wheel arches, extended sills and stainless steel under-body protection panels. The wheel arches and sills are particularly prominent in their contrasting colour, but can be painted to match the body if preferred.
The go-anywhere appearance is justified, because the new A6 allroad quattro combines powerful, torque-rich engines with quattro four-wheel-drive incorporating a mechanical self-locking centre differential, plus five-level height adjustable air suspension giving maximum ground clearance of up to 185mm for negotiation of difficult gradients.
At launch, the new A6 allroad quattro will offer the option of either a 2.7 TDI engine with 180PS and 380Nm of torque or a 3.0 TDI with 233PS and 450Nm, both of which will initially be available exclusively in conjunction with six-speed tiptronic automatic transmission. These advanced engines feature the latest common rail fuel injection system with piezo injectors, and minimise pollution through the use of diesel particulate filters.
A six-speed manual version of the A6 allroad 3.0 TDI quattro is expected to become available in late summer 2006, followed in early 2007 by new petrol derivatives.
The A6 allroad quattro 2.7 TDI is capable of accelerating from rest to 62mph in 9.3 seconds, can reach a 134mph maximum speed and yet also manages to cover up to 32.5mpg (combined cycle). Its larger relative reduces the 0-62mph time to 7.8 seconds and increases the maximum speed to 143mph, yet almost matches the 2.7 TDI for fuel economy, offering the potential for up to 32.1mpg (combined cycle).
Advanced height adjustable air suspension
When the going gets rough the four-link front and trapezoidal link rear suspension comes into its own, its weight pared back through the extensive use of aluminium and its compliance, agility and refinement maximised by the addition of electronically controlled adaptive air springs.
The adaptive system offers five modes, the on-road options ranging from Dynamic, which lowers the body to a ground clearance of 125mm for minimal drag at motorway speeds, to Comfort, which positions the car 140mm above ground level for optimum cruising refinement. The allroad mode for off-road use increases ground clearance to 175mm, and for particularly tricky manoeuvres at speeds of up to 22mph a Lift mode is also available giving total clearance of 185mm. To achieve the best possible performance away from the Tarmac, the new A6 allroad quattro features a specially revised version of the Audi Electronic Stabilisation Programme (ESP) with off-road settings. Pressing the ESP button once activates an off-road mode that primes the system to intervene in a manner which better suits the lower speeds and the different hazards this kind of driving generally entails.
Customers wanting to take the off-road capabilities of the new A6 allroad quattro to even greater extremes can opt at extra cost for purpose-built all-terrain tyres and a reinforced engine under-guard.
In contrast to the uncompromising exterior of the new A6 allroad quattro, the cabin is a haven of comfort, but even here the fact that this A6 variant may have to work harder than the others hasn't been forgotten. Special monoPur upholstery combining cloth with a special hard-wearing man-made fibre has been designed to look good while at the same time taking the knocks without tarnishing for years to come. Also evident inside is the full complement of luxuries and in-car technology, including the acclaimed Multi Media Interface (MMI) system that centrally controls many of the car's functions, plus a vast load bay providing up to 1,660 litres of capacity.
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| Audi takes pole position in TDI diesel development |
The remarkable achievement by Audi of the first ever race victory by a diesel-powered sports prototype in this month's gruelling 12 hours of Sebring marathon race is likely to have major repercussions for the road-going Audi TDI models of the future.
The history-making 650PS Audi R10 TDI sports prototype, driven by Allan McNish, Tom Kristensen and Rinaldo Capello, provided conclusive proof of the Vorsprung durch Technik brand's talent for TDI by outrunning an otherwise all petrol-powered field to take first place in the arduous American endurance race on March 18th. McNish and his Audi Sport North America team-mates follow in the tyre tracks of luminaries such as Sir Stirling Moss, who won at Sebring in 1954.
Historically, Audi road cars have benefited greatly from advances made in the pursuit of race and rally victory - quattro four-wheel-drive, the Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) and Turbo FSI direct petrol injection being among the most notable - so the many lessons learned through intensifying TDI development for circuit use will undoubtedly herald numerous major advances for all Audi TDI engines.
With regard to fuel consumption, environmental friendliness, the combustion process and other new technologies we expect an enormous push in the coming years, says Ulrich Baretzky, Head of Engine Technology at Audi Sport. We are still relatively close to the findings of our colleagues from production since we are breaking completely new ground in motorsport. However, this will change. I believe to be able to share the things that we developed specifically for motorsport with production in the future.
The 5.5-litre V12 powering the R10 TDI is the world's first
purpose-built diesel racing engine and the first Audi TDI to be built around an all-aluminium block - a new departure that could very easily become a production reality. It features common rail fuel injection technology developed from the system used by V6 and V8 TDI engines in road-going A4, A6 and A8 models, and with the help of two Garrett turbochargers delivers 650PS and an even more formidable 1,100Nm of torque. This prodigious output actually exerts more force on the five-speed sequential transmission than even a Formula 1 car has to contend with.
Regulations set by the Automobile Club de l'Ouest - organisers of the annual Le Mans 24-hour endurance race for which the R10 TDI has been principally created - stipulate that engine speeds must remain within the realms of production car performance, so the V12 TDI has a power band set between 3,000 and 5,000rpm. As a result power delivery is far more 'real world' than in many high-revving, highly strung race engines, meaning that there is far more scope for transferral of the technology needed to achieve it into a production TDI.
Audi is already no stranger to innovation in the field of diesel technology. The brand was instrumental in sparking the transformation of diesel engines from sluggish, agricultural workhorses to today's responsive powerhouses when it launched the first direct diesel injection engine with full electronic engine management at the 1989 Frankfurt Motor Show.
With decades of painstaking TDI research and development behind it, the V12 TDI engine has every chance of continuing the totally unblemished engine reliability record set by the R8 and its V8 petrol engines, none of which recorded a single failure in the 77 races this sports prototype contested during its illustrious career. The R8 won 61 of those 77 races, making it the most successful sports prototype of all time.
Road-going Audi TDI models, which already account for 50 per cent of total Audi sales worldwide, already reap the benefits of the brand's longstanding dedication to diesel. The 2006 Audi range features five advanced engines from 1.9-litres to 4.2-litres, the majority of which feature the latest common rail fuel injection technology with advanced Piezo injectors. With 326PS, the 4.2-litre unit powering the remarkable A8 4.2 TDI quattro can lay claim to the title of the world's most powerful diesel engine for a production car.
Enhanced 2.0-litre TDI engine with Piezo injection destined for A3
The 'pumpe-duse' or pump injector technology that is now synonymous with the four-cylinder Audi TDI engines has just been enhanced in the 2.0-litre unit by efficiency-boosting Piezo inline injectors adopted from the larger V6 and V8 TDI units. The end result made its debut at the 2006 International Auto Show in Geneva in the new A3 2.0-litre TDI quattro, featuring an increased output up from 140PS to 170PS, and an impressive peak torque figure of 350Nm available between 1,750 and 2,500rpm.
The A3 2.0 TDI quattro can cover the sprint to 62mph in 7.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 136mph, yet at the same time can return excellent combined fuel economy of up to 44.1mpg. The addition of two balancer shafts ensures that this performance is delivered with enhanced refinement, while a diesel particulate filter also helps to minimise environmental impact.
The A3 2.0 TDI quattro 170PS is expected to open for UK order in three-door and five-door Sportback body styles in the summer of 2006. |
| Audi S6 Quattro released for UK ordering |
The latest addition to the acclaimed Audi S quattro Series - the formidable 435PS, V10 FSI S6 quattro - is released for UK ordering this week at an OTR price of £55,330 in Saloon form or £56,600 as an Avant. The first examples will reach UK customers in July.
Developed with technical input from Lamborghini, the quattro four-wheel-driven Audi super saloon and its even more accommodating Avant estate counterpart combine a lavish specification with the capacity for pure exhilaration courtesy of the FSI directly injected 5.2-litre V10 petrol engine and its 435PS charge.
With its family ties to the 5.0-litre V10 powering the Lamborghini Gallardo evident in its sonorous engine note, the ten-cylinder Audi FSI unit delivers slingshot acceleration through a bespoke six-speed tiptronic automatic transmission whose rapid fire changes help to maximise its potential. The sprint to 62mph is possible in 5.2 seconds (Avant 5.3 seconds) on the way to a top speed limited electronically to 155mph, yet this doesn't rule out a respectable 21.0mpg economy figure (combined cycle), thanks in part to the efficiency of the Audi FSI direct fuel injection system.
As befits an Audi S quattro model, extensively modified lightweight sports suspension incorporating a high proportion of aluminium strikes the best possible balance between ride comfort and handling balance. The reassurance of scrabble-free acceleration and outstanding grip in all conditions comes courtesy of the latest generation quattro permanent four-wheel-drive system with a standard 40:60 (front / rear) torque split.
Visually, the new S6 quattro is marked out by a unique front end design incorporating a restyled single frame grille and an additional central air intake flanked by larger side intakes containing distinctive LED daytime running strip lights. Front wheel arches flared by 14mm, aluminium look door mirrors and larger body-coloured side rubbing strips enhance the profile in conjunction with 19-inch 5-arm Wing design alloy wheels. At the rear, an integrated boot or tailgate spoiler, a built-in diffuser in a contrasting colour and four ellipsoidal exhaust tailpipes subtly complete the look.
Inside, S quattro distinguishing features include new electrically adjustable Alcantara and leather-upholstered sports seats with integral head restraints and pronounced lateral supports, an 'S quattro' three-spoke leather-trimmed sports steering wheel with contrasting double seam stitching and aluminium look tiptronic gear shift paddles, plus an exclusive S quattro design for the gear knob and dials.
Also included in the UK S6 quattro specification is DVD satellite navigation built into the much praised Multi Media Interface (MMI High), a 6 CD autochanger and an upgraded Driver's Information System (DIS) with a built-in digital speedometer. |
| Prices just confirmed for new Audi models |
UK prices have just been finalised for the first ever Audi RS sun trap - the new RS 4 quattro Cabriolet - and also for the eagerly awaited Avant estate version with which it is currently sharing the limelight at the International Auto Show in Geneva. The RS 4 quattro Avant is now available to order for an OTR price of £51,780 OTR, and the RS 4 quattro Cabriolet becomes available on March 16th at £59,580 OTR. UK deliveries of both variants are set to begin in late summer.
Now at full strength, the first RS range in any segment in Audi history to offer a choice of three body styles is also notable for containing the world's fastest and most powerful compact executive saloon, medium-size four-seater cabriolet and medium-size estate car.
Specification for the new models is broadly similar to the RS 4 quattro Saloon that reaches its first UK customers this month, with the addition of matt aluminium roof rails for the Avant, and for the Cabriolet a 6 CD changer, DVD satellite navigation and a change from Valcona leather upholstery to Silk Nappa leather with contrast piping.
The naturally aspirated 4.2-litre V8 petrol engine seen first in the RS 4 quattro Saloon provides the new Avant and Cabriolet versions with a maximum of 420PS at 7,800rpm and a torque peak of 430Nm at 5,500rpm, 90 per cent of which is available from 2,250rpm all the way to 7,600rpm.
Revving exceptionally freely to its 8,250rpm limit through the manual transmission's six ratios, this acclaimed unit gives all three versions breathtaking acceleration, the Avant and Cabriolet posting 0-62mph times just one tenth of a second down on the Saloon model at 4.9 seconds. All three versions are electronically limited to a 155mph maximum speed.
Throttle response can be maximised at the touch of a special Sports Button mounted within the steering wheel that adjusts the throttle control mapping when particularly sporting driving is required. At the same time, the Sports button also automatically inflates the driver's seat bolsters in Saloon and Avant models fitted with manually adjustable RS 4 bucket seats for optimum support.
The RS 4 quattro Cabriolet features electrically adjustable Recaro front sports seats in a more compact design that facilitates entry to the rear seats, helped by an 'easy entry function' that tilts the backrest and slides the base forward simultaneously for maximum accessibility. RS bucket seats with adaptive bolsters are available for the Cabriolet model as a no cost option.
Sitting 30mm lower than their standard A4 relatives, and with a wider front and rear track, the new RS 4 quattro models combine the latest generation quattro four-wheel-drive system featuring a torque split of 40:60 (front / rear) with a new lighter version of the Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) adaptive damping technology first seen in the RS 6 quattro. Together with exclusive RS sports suspension these systems permit exceptional handling precision and stability.
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| Audi A6 allroad quattro |
The very first generation of the allroad quattro proved to be a great success for Audi. Based on the A6 Avant, it has been the big Audi for any road and season since the year 2000. Now its successor is about to be launched. The new A6 allroad quattro is even more spacious, luxurious, striking and versatile. And the allroad is true to its name: it offers even more performance and dynamic handling - both on-road and off-road.
The Audi A6 allroad quattro is almost unrivalled in its international competitive environment: the concept is an independent design from Audi. It is closely related to the A6 Avant and as the basic body is identical, offers virtually the same impressive sporty performance. But whereas the Avant driver comes to a halt when the road comes to an end, the A6 allroad quattro ventures further. The A6 allroad quattro enhances the sporty Avant concept with off-road features, thus bridging the gap between sporty elegance and remarkable versatility.
The exterior design combines dynamic styling with distinctive off-road elements. Thanks to its length of 4.93 metres and wheelbase of 2.83 m, there is room for five passengers to sit very comfortably; they can bring along up to 1,660 litres of luggage. The load area impresses with a variety of intelligent stowage ideas. The body - made largely of high-strength steels and aluminium - is extremely rigid and crash-resistant.
The interior conveys an ambience of elegant sportiness. In terms of ergonomic comfort, the MMI operating concept is a focal element. The electromechanical parking brake also enhances comfort and convenience. New colours, inlays and fabrics lend a refined and luxurious touch.
To power the vehicle, four direct-injection engines are available, two petrol and two diesel. The 3.2 FSI is a V6, developing 188 kW (255 bhp); the 4.2 FSI is a
V8 developing 257 kW (350 bhp).
FSI technology increases the power and efficiency of both power plants. Both high-torque, cultivated diesels with common rail injection are six-cylinder engines with a displacement of 2.7 and 3.0 litres respectively. Key data here: 132 kW (180 bhp) and 171 kW (233 bhp). Power is transmitted by a six-speed manual transmission or tiptronic, also with six speeds. As standard, quattro permanent four-wheel drive distributes power to all four wheels.
The elaborate suspension, made primarily of aluminium, provides the highest levels of agility and safety on the road. The standard adaptive air suspension offers five modes for the body, including two settings for off-road driving. Here the ESP stabilisation program, which has been further developed especially for the A6 allroad quattro, ensures additional traction off the beaten track.
The Audi A6 allroad quattro offers a range of equipment that does justice to its premium character. Standard items, along with the MMI basic operating system, include deluxe automatic air conditioner and 17-inch light-alloy wheels. Extras available include the adaptive light dynamic cornering light, the advanced key keyless access system, and the parking aid, Audi parking system advanced, which employs a rear-view camera.
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| McNish bids to make history in diesel Audi at Le Mans |
Allan McNish will aim to become the first Briton to win the Le Mans 24 Hour race driving a diesel-powered sportscar.
Dumfries-born McNish, 36, is one of six drivers entrusted to debut two diesel-powered Audi R10 sports-prototypes in the gruelling French marathon on 17-18 June.
McNish, who won the annual twice-around-the clock race in 1998, joins Frank Biela (Germany), Rinaldo Capello (Italy), Tom Kristensen (Denmark), Emanuele Pirro (Italy) and Marco Werner (Germany) in the two-car Joest-run works Audi Sport team.
I'm delighted to be driving for Audi again and especially pleased to be heading back to Le Mans as a 'factory' Audi driver, confirmed Allan who got his first opportunity to drive the Audi R10 earlier this month.
The Audi R10 felt comfortable after only a handful of laps. I could immediately feel it had the origins from the ultra-successful R8 in the way it rode the bumps and steered. It has a good balance - first impressions are very favourable.
Having won the American Le Mans Series with Audi in 2000, McNish spent three seasons in Formula One with Toyota (2001-2) and Renault (2003) before re-joining Audi. In 2004, Allan finished runner-up in the Le Mans Endurance Series for the Audi UK Veloqx sportscar team and last year was an Audi factory driver in the German Touring Car Masters (DTM).
2006 marks the seventh time McNish has contested the Le Mans 24 Hours. The Monaco-based Scotsman made his debut in 1997 (retired) and subsequently race there in 1998 (1st), 1999 (retired), 2000 (2nd), 2004 (5th) and 2005 (3rd) - the last three occasions in an Audi R8.
Allan continued: I debuted Audi's previous sportscar, the Audi R8, in the Sebring 12 Hours in 2000 which went on to win Le Mans five times in the last six years.
Having run for the first time in November, the Audi R10 is now undergoing a concerted development programme. Our aim is to race at Sebring in March which would be an ideal way for us to prepare for Le Mans.
Both Sebring and Le Mans will be tough for us - a brand new car featuring totally new technology which will require us to adapt our driving style due to the narrow torque band characteristics of a diesel engine and having tested it at Sebring, it does require a different driving style.
Audi is the first car manufacturer to fight for overall victory at Le Mans with a diesel-engined sportscar. The Audi R10 is powered by a new 5.5-litre, V12 twin-turbo TDI engine, producing over 650 hp and a colossal 1,100 Newton metres of torque which is extremely quiet and economical.
Audi first raced at Le Mans in 1999 and has won the annual sportscar classic five times (2000-02, '04 & '05) in the last six years with its Audi R8 sportscar which has scored 61 wins from 77 races around the world since 2000 but is ineligible to race at Le Mans this year due to a change in regulations.
The R10 project is the greatest challenge ever to face Audi Sport, explains Head of Audi Motorsport Dr Wolfgang Ullrich. It goes without saying that we needed drivers with experience in depth for this project, who also play an important roll during the development. I'm delighted that we have managed to form such a strong driving squad for Le Mans and for the test race at Sebring.
The Audi R10's first race is the 12 Hours of Sebring (USA) on 18 March which is seen as a test race for Le Mans. With the exception of Kristensen, all the Audi drivers have now tested the Audi R10. Kristensen was at the wheel of the R10 during the presentation in Paris in December and will get ample opportunity during the test and practice days before the Sebring race to familiarise himself with the new diesel sportscar. The two Audi R10 prototypes will be entered at Sebring and Le Mans by Reinhold Joest's team which previously supported the Audi Sport Development Team during the successful R8 project years. Both Audi R10 prototypes will race under the Audi Sport North America banner at Sebring. |
| Audi A4 range boosted by new 2.7 TDI models |
The latest Audi 2.7-litre V6 TDI engine filters down from the A6 to the A4 Saloon and Avant this month, bringing more power, even greater efficiency and enhanced refinement compared with the 2.5-litre unit it replaces. Available to order now in standard, SE and S line forms, the new A4 2.7 TDI Saloons are priced from £25,270 OTR, and their Avant counterparts from £26,420 OTR. UK deliveries start in March.
Essentially a downsized version of the acclaimed 3.0-litre V6 TDI unit that already features in the A4 range, the new 2.7 TDI engine brings increases in power and torque from 163PS at 4,000rpm in the outgoing engine to 180PS from 3,300rpm, and from 350Nm at 1,500rpm to 380Nm at 1,400rpm. Performance is also boosted, the A4 2.7 TDI saloon with six-speed manual transmission posting a 0-62mph acceleration time of 8.4 seconds (down from 8.8 seconds) and a 143mph maximum speed (up from 141mph), yet fuel economy is virtually unchanged, with 40.1mpg possible on the combined cycle.
Common rail fuel injection using sophisticated Piezo crystal technology plays a key role in improving performance and retaining impressive fuel economy, and its highly efficient operation helps to bring CO2 output down to 185g/km, despite the increased power. A Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) ensures that particulate emissions are also effectively kept in check.
Until June 30th 2006, the A4 2.7 TDI - along with the majority of A4 Saloon and Avant models - is available with an upgrade to SE specification at no extra cost. In addition to standard equipment, SE specification adds 17-inch 16-spoke alloy wheels, an Audi Concert II radio with single CD player, cruise control, electric rear windows, aluminium window trims and the Audi Driver's Information System (DIS).
Alternatively, it is also available as an S line model with a more overtly sporting bias courtesy of features such as 18-inch five-arm alloy wheels, exclusive S line body styling, sports suspension and sports seats and steering wheel. The full S line package is currently available at a reduced premium of £750. |
| Audi Roadjet Concept at the NAIAS Detroit |
Star of the Audi stand at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit (Jan 8-10) is the Roadjet Concept, a distinctive 'fastback saloon' design study which may possibly signal the shape of things to come from Audi in the compact executive class. Blending familiar Audi styling hallmarks with striking architecture that maximises passenger space and practicality, the Roadjet Concept is not only a variation on the compact executive theme that could see the production green light, but also bristles with new technology, much of which is likely to begin filtering down across the Audi range in the near future.
Highlights include a new 300PS, 3.2-litre V6 FSI petrol engine, a new seven-speed evolution of the widely acclaimed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) and Audi drive select - a system enabling engine, transmission, suspension damping and steering settings to be tailored at the touch of a button to suit the driver's preference or the prevailing conditions. New car-to-car communication technology also enables the Roadjet Concept to exchange data directly with other vehicles while on the move, potentially improving numerous aspects of driving, most notably the reduction of congestion, accidents and parking problems.
The interior of the Roadjet Concept also features innovations such as an enhanced version of the Multi Media Interface (MMI) with individual monitors for front and rear passengers, a Digital Voice Support (DVS) in-car communication system and even luxuries such as a built-in espresso machine.
At 4.70 m long and 1.85 m wide, the Audi Roadjet Concept respects the standard dimensions of a B-segment vehicle, yet its height of 1.55 m and wheelbase of 2.85 m result in substantially more effective space for occupants. A higher seat position and ample legroom, shoulder room and head room in all four individual seats represent a new class best.
The new 300PS 3.2-litre V6 FSI
The latest development of the familiar 3.2-litre V6 FSI engine develops 300PS at 7,000 rpm and 330Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm in the Audi Roadjet Concept, thanks largely to the addition of a fixed intake manifold and the innovative Audi valvelift system for valve control. This unit is impressive not merely in terms of absolute performance, but also thanks to its pulling power and response, coupled with a linear increase in power all the way through the range.
The Roadjet Concept 3.2 FSI accelerates to 62mph in 6.4 seconds, reaches an electronically governed top speed of 155mph and records an impressive 27.1mpg combined consumption figure - an improvement over its production counterpart in the A4 3.2 quattro, which develops 45PS less!.
The underlying technology behind the combination of FSI injection and the Audi valvelift system is already so far advanced in development that it could start finding its way into production in a few months' time.
The sporty 7-gear Direct Shift Gearbox
The Audi Roadjet Concept is the first Audi model to combine the acclaimed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) with twin clutch in conjunction with a longitudinally installed engine. DSG combines the advantages of a manual gearbox - with 7-speeds in this latest version - with the qualities of a modern automatic transmission. The driver benefits from strong and smooth acceleration without interruptions to the flow of power from the engine, coupled with impressive fuel economy.
The basis for this new development is a three-shaft 7-speed manual gearbox which offers considerable variability in the selection of the transmission ratio. Thanks to the use of a twin multi-plate clutch with electro-hydraulic control, two gears can be engaged at the same time.
During dynamic operation of the car, one gear is engaged. When the next gearshift point is approached, the appropriate gear is pre-selected but its clutch kept disengaged. The gearshift process opens the clutch of the activated gear and closes the other clutch at the same time with a certain overlap. The gear change consequently takes place under load, with the result that a permanent flow of power is maintained.
Incorporating optimum gearshift strategies, the control logic integrated in the transmission provides exceptionally rapid gearshifts that are virtually free of any jolts or judder. And by moving the gearshift lever in the manual gate or operating the standard-fit paddles behind the steering wheel, the driver can actively influence the choice of gears and the gearshift point at any time.
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| Audi UK ends 2005 on its best high to date |
For the sixth year in succession, Audi UK is to set another new annual sales record following the delivery of over 81,000 new Audi models to UK customers in 2005, up from a total of 77,882 in 2004.
Final data has yet to be collated, but 2005 draws to a close with well in excess of 81,000 sales already confirmed, equating to an increase of approximately 5 per cent on 2004's record figure, and a rise of around 100 per cent in just six years from 1999's total of 40,615 cars.
This exceptional result augurs extremely well for 2006, during which the Audi range will expand to include both new models campaigning in new market sectors and new variants within existing ranges. The hotly tipped new Audi Q7 seven-seat SUV, for example, has only just opened for UK order ahead of first deliveries in the summer of 2006, and will begin to make its presence felt in Audi Centres next year.
2006 will herald another new departure for Audi as the brand ventures into thoroughbred sports car territory for the first time with the new R8. The dramatic new mid-engined, quattro permanently four-wheel-driven super car will also be joined next year by the rugged new allroad quattro, and by new derivatives of the A3 hatchback, A4 Saloon and Avant and A6 Saloon and Avant, all likely to contribute to a substantial boost to Audi UK performance in the premium sector in 2006 and beyond.
Director of Audi UK Jeremy Hicks broke the extremely encouraging news to Audi staff earlier this week, and is confident that the best is very definitely yet to come for the brand in the UK. I am delighted and greatly encouraged by what Audi UK and its sales network have achieved this year, especially as we are enjoying this success just before we embark on a period of intense new model launch activity and diversification. We have some incredible new cars waiting in the wings that will take us into new territories and also strengthen our core, and I am confident that with their help we will see quite a few more comprehensively shattered Audi UK sales records in years to come.
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| Audi to compete with diesel sports car at Le Mans |
Audi will become the world's first car manufacturer to fight for overall victory with a diesel-engined sportscar in the famous Le Mans 24 Hours. The Audi R10 was unveiled in Paris on 13 December with the German prestige car maker aiming for its new open-top sportscar to continue in the wheeltracks of its ultra-successful predecessor.
The all-new Audi R10 is powered by a totally new 5.5-litre, 12-cylinder twin-turbo TDI engine, which is extremely quiet and economical. Scheduled to make its race debut in the Sebring 12 Hours (USA) next March before contesting the gruelling twice-around-the-clock Le Mans race in France (17-18 June), the Audi R10 produces over 650 hp and a colossal 1,100 Newton metres of torque.
Audi first raced at Le Mans in 1999 and has won the annual sportscar classic five times in the last six years with its Audi R8 sportscar which has scored 61 wins from 77 races around the world. But Audi ventures into previously unexplored diesel-engine terrain with the V12 power plant manufactured completely from aluminium.
As with the TFSI (turbo petrol direct injection) technology, which triumphed initially at Le Mans before being adopted for mass-production, Audi customers should benefit once again from the lessons learnt in motorsport.
With the A8 4.2 TDI quattro, Audi already builds one of the most powerful diesel cars in the world, explained Prof Dr Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG, at the R10 presentation in Paris.
The Le Mans project will help our technicians to extract even more from TDI technology. Nowadays, every second Audi is delivered with a TDI engine. We expect that the percentage of diesel engines will be even larger in the future.
The R10 prototype's V12 power unit, which is equipped with two diesel particle filters, is hardly recognisable as a diesel thanks to the engine's smooth running. The TDI engine's specialities presented the Audi Sport engineers with many new challenges.
The injection pressure easily exceeds the 1,600 bar achieved in production cars. The usable power band lies between 3,000 and 5,000 revs per minute - an unusually low rev range for a racing engine. The driver can change gear in the R10 far less often than in the R8 because of the TDI engine's favourable torque curve.
Radical changes to the chassis were also necessary. The Audi R10 has a significantly longer wheel base than the R8. The overly wide front tyres are, up until now, unique for a Le Mans Prototype. New technologies were also implemented during the development of the carbon-fibre monocoque. Chassis, engine and gearbox form an extremely rigid, fully stressed unit.
The R10 project is the biggest challenge ever to have been handed to Audi Sport, said Head of Audi Motorsport Dr Wolfgang Ullrich. TDI technology has not been pushed to its limits in motorsport yet. We are the first to confront the challenge. The demands of such a project are accordingly high. Long-term technology partners such as Bosch, Michelin and Shell support us in our quest. Together we have the chance to write new chapters in the history books of motorsport and diesel technology.
The new Audi R10 successfully completed its first test at the end of November while an extensive test programme is scheduled prior to the car's race debut at Sebring. The development team from Audi Sport is supported by Reinhold Joest's squad which also performed this task during the R8 project. |
| Enhanced specs for 2006 Audi A4 and A6 ranges |
Travelling in the Audi A4 or A6 will in future be an even more civilised experience as both model ranges enter 2006 with more on-board luxuries and enhancements to exterior styling. The revised A4 and A6 Saloon and Avant models are available to order now for delivery early in the New Year.
SE Special Equipment versions of the redesigned and dynamically transformed Audi A4 have just become even more desirable following the removal of their price premium over standard models until June 30th 2006. Prices for A4 SE models are now equal to their standard equivalents, starting at £19,200 OTR and rising to £28,865 OTR.
Until June 30th 2006, the no cost SE option includes an upgrade from the 16-inch Trapez design alloy wheels normally included in the SE specification to 17-inch 16-spoke alloy wheels. It also adds welcome features such as an Audi Concert II radio with single CD player, cruise control, electric rear windows, aluminium window trims and the Audi Driver's Information System (DIS).
Standard versions of the A6 Saloon and Avant have also been improved inside and out. Visuals have been boosted by an alloy wheel upgrade from a 16-inch 9-arm design to a 17-inch 5-spoke 'Star' wheel and a High Gloss Pack that adds aluminium window trim strips, door handle surrounds and sill inserts.
Inside, the standard A6 climate control has been replaced by the even more sophisticated Comfort Air Conditioning System Plus that until now has been fitted only to 4.2 V8 quattro models. Until December 2006, four-cylinder A6 2.0 T FSI and 2.0 TDI versions will also be equipped as standard with a 6 CD autochanger and CD ROM satellite navigation - a combined feature previously available at an extra cost of £1,250. The option to upgrade to DVD-based satellite navigation, including a higher grade of MMI system with a 7-inch colour monitor replacing the standard monochrome screen, has also been reduced in price to £500. |
| Audi S Line Sports range raises it's game |
The New Year will see S line sports versions of the Audi A3, A4 and A6 making an even bolder statement of Vorsprung durch Technik through styling upgrades for the A3 and A6, specification improvements for the A4 and the introduction of new S line Special Edition models. All the newcomers in the now even more desirable Audi S line range are available to order now for delivery in early 2006.
Three-door A3 and five-door A3 Sportback S line models are now more visibly distinct from their standard, SE and Sport counterparts thanks to a unique S line front and rear bumper design, an S line-specific front grille and a rear roof spoiler. Previously available as an option for A3 S line models, the exterior styling upgrade is now a standard S line feature, along with 18-inch 5 Arm alloy wheels, S line badging, combination leather and Speed cloth upholstered sports seats and a perforated leather-trimmed S line sports steering wheel.
The new all-encompassing S line specification is available for all A3 and A3 Sportback Sport models, with the exception of 1.6 102PS petrol and 1.9 TDI 105PS versions, at an extra cost of £1,550 - a reduction of £450 compared with the original combined cost of the S line and S line exterior upgrade options. As a result, A3 S line prices now start at £19,730 OTR, rising to £26,690 OTR.
Taking the S line concept even further, new S line Special Edition versions of the responsive 200PS A3 and A3 Sportback 2.0 T FSI are also now available with either front-wheel-drive or quattro four-wheel-drive and a choice of manual transmission or the unique-in-class Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG). Priced from £21,795 OTR, the six S line Special Edition 2.0 T FSI models offer full Vienna leather upholstery in place of the regular part leather and Speed cloth S line combination, and in each case offer a customer saving of around £2,000 compared with an equivalent S line model with options specified separately.
Even greater presence for A4 S line models
S line specification for A4 Saloon and Avant models has not only been enhanced for the 2006 Model Year, but is also now available at a reduced price of £750 for all versions. A4 S line range prices now start at £19,950 OTR and rise to £29,565 OTR.
Visual impact has been boosted by an upgrade from 17-inch Parallel Twin Spoke to 18-inch 5-arm alloy wheels, which fit snugly in their arches thanks to the lowered S line sports suspension, and perfectly complement the S line body styling. Also included are Strato cloth-upholstered front sports seats with electric lumbar adjustment, a Concert II audio system with single CD, electric rear windows and a 3-spoke leather-rimmed S line steering wheel.
The acclaimed turbo charged 2.0-litre FSI petrol engine is also at the heart of the new A4 S line Special Edition, which is available as a front-wheel-drive Saloon or Avant model for £23,995 OTR and £25,145 OTR, or with quattro four-wheel-drive for £25,395 OTR and £26,545 OTR.
Powered by the upgraded 220PS version of the 2.0 T FSI engine first seen in the limited run A4 DTM Edition, and adopting its striking 18-inch 15-spoke alloy wheels, the A4 S line Special Edition has an even harder edge for keen drivers, yet is also more comfortable for passengers, thanks to the addition of Volterra leather upholstery. Distinguishing S line Special Edition features also include black exhaust tail pipes and ventilated cross-drilled front disc brakes.
S line shifts up a gear for A6 Saloon and Avant
From now on, drivers of A6 S line models will stand even further out from the crowd thanks to an exclusive new S line look that is now a standard feature included in the S line premium for Saloon and Avant models. Previously an option at an extra cost of £1,100, the S line styling upgrade now forms part of the new more comprehensive S line package available for four-cylinder models at £3,040, for V6 petrol and TDIs at £2,890 and for the 4.2 V8 quattro at £1,780. A6 S line range prices now start at £28,380 OTR, rising to £47,170 OTR.
The new S line exterior identifiers include a more sporting design for the front bumper, which also gains automatic headlamp washers, a unique S line front grille design inset with a discreet S line emblem and a special rear bumper treatment incorporating a body-coloured lower diffuser. 18-inch 5-arm alloy wheels, lowered S line sports suspension and S line insignias also mark out the most driver-oriented A6 models.
Inside, S line models gain front sports seats with electrically adjustable lumbar support, S line emblems embossed in the back rests and black 'Speed' cloth upholstery with leather side sections. These are complemented by S line decorative facia inlays in brushed aluminium, a three-spoke sports steering wheel trimmed in perforated leather and perforated leather covering for the gear knob. A black cloth headlining completes the look.
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| Audi sports car to go into production - Audi R8 |
It is now official: the new Audi sports car will be called the Audi R8. Presented as the Le Mans quattro concept study two years ago at the IAA Frankfurt Motor Show, Audi has now taken the decision to build its new sports car.
Everything is already being prepared for the series production of the R8 at Audi's plant in Neckarsulm, due to commence in the fourth quarter of 2006. The market launch is scheduled for the second quarter of 2007.
28 million euros are being invested in the R8 production line. The Audi subsidiary quattro GmbH will be responsible for production. Development and test construction at quattro GmbH and technical development at AUDI AG are currently in full swing. 250 employees will work on the production of the R8.
Through the R8 we are looking to build on our successes in motorsport and carry them over to series production. This model represents Audi's very own interpretation of sportiness, says Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of AUDI AG, about the new member of the Audi model range.
Audi is relying on intelligent lightweight design for its R8, a core area of expertise in Neckarsulm. The Audi A2, A6 and A8 were all developed at the Aluminium Centre there using lightweight design technology.
Car-news.co.uk will keep you up to date with all developments on the Audi R8 as they are announced.
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| Audi A4 Cabriolet Range |
An enhanced specification ensures that greater desirability is more than merely skin deep in this new generation. Pricing for the new S4 quattro Cabriolet has just been confirmed at £42,980 OTR, while the A4 Cabriolet range runs from £25,730 OTR to £32,735 OTR. First UK deliveries will begin in March 2006.
In common with the outgoing model, the new A4 Cabriolet is available as a standard model or with an optional Sport or S line specification. Standard equipment for all A4 Cabriolet models includes 16-inch 7-arm alloy wheels, electric operation for the roof, windows and mirrors, electronic climate control, a Concert II radio with front loading single CD player and a four-spoke leather-rimmed multifunction steering wheel with paddle shift controls (where applicable).
All six-cylinder petrol and TDI A4 Cabriolet models go a step further with an especially comprehensive standard equipment list that now includes a six-CD autochanger and the latest generation Audi CD satellite navigation technology built into a Driver's Information System with colour screen.
At an extra cost of £750, the Sport upgrade is available for all models (except the S4 quattro). It replaces the standard car's 16-inch alloy wheels with 17-inch Parallel Twin Spoke wheels and wider tyres, and adds front sports seats with electric lumbar support and a three-spoke leather-rimmed sports steering wheel with paddle shift controls (where applicable).
The even more overtly sporting S line specification, costing an additional £2,400, is more comprehensive than before, supplementing the original A4 Cabriolet S line's part-leather upholstery with full Black Pearl Nappa leather. S line equipment also includes 18-inch 5-arm alloy wheels, S line sports suspension, front sports seats with electric lumbar adjustment, a 3-spoke leather-rimmed multifunction S line steering wheel, matt silver aluminium fascia inlays and S line exterior badging.
A new departure for the latest generation A4 Cabriolet S line models is an exclusive optional S line exterior look achieved by a unique S line radiator grille design, a remodelled front bumper and a special S line diffuser within the rear bumper. All A4 Cabriolet versions can be ordered with the £2,400 S line specification, to which this exterior upgrade can be added for a £750 premium.
S4 quattro models naturally feature the ultimate Cabriolet specification, including 18-inch Avus III alloy wheels, xenon head lamps, CD satellite navigation, fully electrically adjustable front sports seats with Alcantara and Pearl Nappa leather combination upholstery, polished aluminium door mirrors and carbon fibre fascia inlays.
Styling enhancements and the incorporation of the single frame front grille that symbolises the new Audi family look bring the new A4 Cabriolet into line with its fixed roof relatives, and under the surface a range of advanced new engines offer even greater power and responsiveness. Four engines are new to the A4 Cabriolet - the acclaimed four-cylinder turbo petrol 2.0 T FSI with 200PS, the super-refined 3.2 V6 FSI with 255PS, the 2.0-litre TDI with 140PS and the exceptional 3.0 V6 TDI, now upgraded from 204PS to 233PS. The proven 1.8-litre turbocharged petrol with 163PS also features in the initial line-up.
A compact 4.2-litre V8 petrol engine is reserved for the S4 quattro Cabriolet, boasting 344PS at 7,000 rpm and peak torque of 410Nm at 3500 rpm, and giving truly exhilarating performance. 0-62mph in the six-speed manual transmission version is covered in just 5.9 seconds, and the six-speed tiptronic (automatic transmission optional at £1,400) runs close at 6.2 seconds. Both versions can, where permissible, reach an electronically governed maximum speed of 155mph.
Extensive modifications have also been made to the foundations of the latest generation A4 Cabriolet. Its four-link front and self-tracking trapezoidal-link rear suspension has adopted new elements such as shock absorbers, mountings, trapezoidal links and track rods from the new A6 and the S4 quattro, and it also benefits from revisions to spring, shock absorber and steering settings. The end result is even more polished road manners combined with keener responses that complement the new A4 Cabriolet's sharper performance.
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