Audi has added start-stop technology to its automatic transmission cars. Normally other than in a hybrid paired to some kind of CVT or e-CVT, auto start-stop systems have traditionally only been available with manuals, as they are so far with cars from manufacturers like BMW.

It’s abit of a grey area here as the A3’s auto start-stop system is technically not mated to an automatic transmission in the traditional sense. It’s not a proper slushbox but is instead an S-Tronic (DSG) twin clutch transmission, which is sort of like a manual but with two computer controlled clutches.

The auto start-stop system helps the 105 horsepower 1.6 liter TDI engine deliver a fuel consumption of just 4.2 liters per 100km. With the 1.4 TSI with 125 horsepower, consumption is rated at just 5.3 liters per 100km.

These figures also include a brake energy recovery system that is used to assist the alternator. Mind you, these are real figures on a combined driving cycle, not some highway-only kind of mileage! Impressive stuff!

© 2009 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 15:30:33 +0800.

Audi will be using the Playstation Home “gaming social media” service as part of its Audi e-tron concept’s marketing campaign. I’m not sure if motoring and gaming go together so I think some explanation on what exactly Playstation Home must come first. Essentially its a community that you can access on your PS3, and membership is free.

Users can travel throughout the Home world within their region, and the world is constantly updated by Sony and partners. Each part of the world is known as a space. Public spaces can just be for display, fun, or for meeting people.

Audi has set up its own space, quite generically but aptly called the Audi Space. Basically you can head onto the Audi Space to check out the e-tron concept. The Playstation Home world also includes free minigames within the world, so Audi has also come up with a game called Vertical Run. It will only be launched in December though.

The goal of Vertical Run is to beat the competition in a multiplayer challenge by collecting enough electrical energy and avoiding driving errors in the e-tron, in order to reach the highest possible speed. The best drivers in the Vertical Run game will be able to access special spaces around the world called “Audi apartments”, though I’m not sure what exactly are in the apartments.

© 2009 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 15:30:33 +0800.

Four motors – two on each axle – take the Audi e-tron from 0 to 100km/h in 4.8 seconds. Collectively, the motors put out 313 horsepower but check out the torque figures – 4,500Nm! That looks like a seriously insane number but remember that the concept of gearing for an electric car is totally different (most only have one gear) so you don’t exactly have multipliers like the first few low gears on a regular stepped transmission.

The torque that each electric motor produces can vary as required to create a torque vectoring effect. Perhaps you can call this e-quattro or something, but Audi doesn’t have a name for it. The car’s water-cooled lithium ion battery pack will allow a maximum range of about 248km but don’t expect that kind of range if you’re really gunning it on the B-roads. The rated range is for the NECD driving cycle.

Yes, it’s an electric R8 and all, that is very interesting. But I feel the most interesting part about this e-tron concept is the car-to-x communications system. It’s basically a wireless communication system where the Audi and various other data feed providers (traffic lights, other cars, etc) around the car are able to help the car make intelligent decisions on various systems. For this to really work, such a system really needs a standardised protocol but it’s very very interesting to hear what can be achieved.

For example – a car has spun out on a slippery road in a blind curve. Other vehicles are approaching quickly. The stuck vehicle uses car-to-x to send out a warning signal reporting the precise location of the hazard (itself). A corresponding warning then appears on the navigation system display of the approaching cars.

Look after the jump for a full press release with full details on the e-tron as well as some very hi-res images which you can use as wallpapers etc.

© 2009 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 15:30:33 +0800.

Official details and photos of the new Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro have been released. The R8 Spyder will only come with the top of the line 525 horsepower 530Nm V10 engine and uses a cloth top instead of one of those new hard tops. The roof folds into a Z-shape and is stored in a compartment over the V10 engine.

The soft top opens and closes in 19 seconds and weighs just 30kg, but don’t think that’s the only weight penalty the Spyder body will pay as there has to be extra chassis reinforcements to make up for not having a roof. But even then, the extra reinforcements to the body have been remarkably light. According to Audi, the reinforcements n the area of the sills, the center tunnel, the rear wall, the floor pan and the A- and B-pillars result in the body (not the whole car) weighing a total of 216kg – that’s just 6kg heavier than the version with the roof.

Lighting for the R8 is all about LED technology. Both the daytime running lights and the headlamps are LED-powered. The lights have a 6000K temperature which means it’s going to be more of a whitish hue instead of the whitish-yellow colour that most factory Xenon headlamps have.

Look after the jump for a very hi-res gallery of the R8 Spyder.

© 2009 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 15:30:33 +0800.

Remember those Electricity Untamed (what’s with German carmakers and the word untamed for their Frankfurt exhibits) teaser videos that Audi released earlier this month? Still don’t know anything about what kind of electric motor(s) will power the Frankfurt car but an initial set of photos of the Audi e-Tron concept have surfaced.

It’s quite clearly an R8 (though without “side blades”, making it end up looking like a large TT) but likely in the interest of aerodynamics most of the intake openings have been closed off. Perhaps electric motors run much cooler than a regular combustion engine. And check out those radical wheels!

It’s interesting how all three premium German manufacturers are exhibiting very powerful sports cars with alternative combustion engines at the Frankfurt show. Mercedes-Benz will showcase its electric-powered version of the SLS AMG while BMW has its Vision EfficientDynamics concept car.

Look after the jump for the rest of the e-Tron photos.

© 2009 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 15:30:33 +0800.

Here are an initial four photos of the drop top version of the Audi R8, a new reason for our rich southern neighbours to start taking their checkbooks out – the hard top version is already all over their roads and becoming a common sight.

It’s said that Tony Stark will also be upgrading to this baby in the sequel to the Iron Man movie. More details will only be unveiled later on what engine options the R8 Spider will come with, but its expected to at least have the flagship 5.2 V10.

© 2009 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 15:30:33 +0800.

Is Frankfurt 2009 the motorshow of the alternative energy sports car? We already have BMW’s Vision EfficientDynamics concept with its diesel-electric all-wheel drive system and Mercedes-Benz’s electric SLS AMG, but now Audi looks like they’re set to bring in an electric version of the R8 to the tables, rumoured to be called the Audi R8 ePerformance Concept. I think after watching the total of four teaser video that Audi’s just released (find it after the jump), you’ll find that this is most likely true.

VIDEO: Audi Electricity Untamed – Lawn Mover

VIDEO: Audi Electricity Untamed – Go Kart

VIDEO: Audi Electricity Untamed – Arc

VIDEO: Audi Electricity Untamed – Thunder

© 2009 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 15:30:33 +0800.

The Volkswagen Group’s new 1.2 liter TFSI engine from the Polo and the Ibiza will be installed into their C-segment Audi A3 and A3 Sportback hatches.

The 1.2 liter TSI SOHC engine produces 175Nm of torque between 1,500 to 3,500rpm and makes 105 PS. The engine is constructed with an aluminum crankcase and uses 2 valves per cylinder for a total of 8 valves. A water-cooled intercooler is integrated into the intake manifold, cooling down the air coming from the 1.6 bar turbocharger.

It’s an engine designed to be both wallet-friendly and environmentally-friendly (rated at 51.3mpg – 18.16km per liter and 127g/km of CO2) so acceleration times are very very far from blistering – 11.1 seconds for the 3-door and 11.3 seconds for the 5-door Sportback.

The new 1.2 liter A3 will make its debut at the Frankfurt show alongside two other models – the S5 Sportback powered by the company’s 333 PS 3.0 liter supercharged V6, and a 3.0 liter TDI clean diesel (with AdBlue injection) quattro Audi A4 using the engine from the Audi Q7.

© 2009 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 15:30:33 +0800.

Apparently the next generation MMI set for debut in the next generation Audi A8 will feature a system to use handwriting to input addresses for the GPS navigation function.

Currently most manufacturers implement text entry via either spinning a knob to choose letters from an on-screen alphabet list, or for those with touch screen interfaces, just touching the letters from an on-screen virtual keyboard.

One problem pops into my mind – while turning a knob is quite simple for both our hands to do, I would think that if the handwriting pad is located on the center console area that runs through the two front seats, a right-handed person writing in a right hand drive car would be a challenge as he would have to use his left hand, since the pad would be on his left. The same problem goes for left handed people writing in a left hand drive car.

© 2009 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 15:30:33 +0800.

After officially unveiling the Audi A5 Sportback a couple of days ago, the German auto maker has now released a 5 minute-long driving footage of the new 5-door coupe, that is also spiced up with some beauty shots. The Sportback is offered with three engines from the diesel family and a further three units from the petrol family. The former is topped out with the 240 horsepower 3.0 liter TDI V6 while the latter has the 265 horsepower 3.2 liter FSI V6 on top of its list. Continue reading to watch the video.

VIDEO: Audi A5 Sportback – Promo Footage

VIDEO: Audi A5 Sportback – Driving Shots

© 2009 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 15:30:33 +0800.

The boys at Ingolstadt have officially unveiled the A5 Sportback, which goes on to join A5 family that also includes the Coupe and the Cabriolet. The five-door coupe measures 4,711 mm long, 1,854 mm wide, 1,391 mm high, with a wheelbase of 2,810 mm. The front end which features Audi’s typical grille along with ellipsoidal halogen headlamps (for models below 190 horses while the rest get Xenon units as standard) and daytime LED running lights arranged in an arched strip.

The front looks alot like the outgoing Audi A4, while the gorgeous lines on the side profile, along with the ‘coupeish’ roof line and large 17-inch standard wheels gives it a very distinctive look (sizes up to 20-inches available as options). The rear also reminds you of the A4. This section of the vehicle is finished with LED taillights, a third brake light located on the upper edge of the rear window and a rear bumper that is flanked out with exhaust tailpipes at both ends (except for the 2.0 TDI model). Most importantly, the five-door coupe has a hatch, that is equipped with an electrically actuated lock.

The A5 Sportback is fitted with long doors, that open wide to facilitate entry and exit. Inside, the front and rear seats are mounted slightly lower. Again, typical Audi cabin design is apparent here, with the three-spoke leather steering wheel, two gauge instrument panel with an LCD display nestled in between, an MMI operating system and more.

Other features include a sliding center armrest with storage compartment and power outlets for the front and a another armrest for the rear seat, with an option to add two additional cup holders. As expected, the trunk space that offers 480 liters of space in standard configuration can be increased by simply folding the rear seat backs.

This brings the total storage space to a massive 980 liters. In this area, there are more features including hooks for hanging up shopping bags, lugs for securing larger loads and a fixed two-piece cover that shields the long luggage compartment from curious gazes.

The Audi A5 Sportback’s stiff chassis features a five-link axle front suspension, while the rear is treated to a trapezoidal link rear suspension, which is the same one used for both the front wheel drive and all wheel drive quattro versions.

Most of the front and rear suspensions parts are made of aluminum, to help reduce weight. More features include speed-sensitive Servotronic steering system (standard on the 211HP 2.0 liter TFSI and V6 models) and a braking system that is made up by 314 millimeter discs up front and 300 millimeter discs at the rear for the 2.0 liter TDI and the 2.0 liter TFSI (180HP) models, while the 211HP 2.0 liter TFSI and V6 models feature front discs measuring 320 millimeters in diameter, with lightweight brake calipers (made of composite material).

There is also the Audi drive select dynamic control system, that offers three driving modes, including comfort, auto and dynamic. There is a fourth mode, called individual which is only available if the potential buyer opts for the MMI system. In individual mode, drivers can customize their own settings, based on a large number of parameters.

Back to the suspension of the A5 Sportback. Audi also revealed that it can install sports suspension upon request. Three variants are available including a tauter setup with or without controlled dampers and an S line sports suspension that lowers the body by 10 millimeters. Furthermore, the electronic shock absorber control system uses CDC (continuous damping control) shock absorber with a fast controller that continuously analyzes the signals received from 14 sensors and calculates the optimal damping per wheel in extremely short intervals, by up to 1,000 times per second.

Engine wise, the A5 Sportback carries over powerplant options from the A4 and A5 range. In total, there are three TDI and three FSI engines, while three more powerplants will be launched by mid next year. The TDI family is made up by a 170HP 2.0 liter TDI with 350Nm of torque (5.2 liters of fuel per 100 km on average), a 190HP 2.7 liter V6 TDI with 400Nm of torque (6.0 liters of fuel per 100 km in the EU driving cycle) and a 240HP 3.0 liter V6 TDI with a massive 500Nm of torque (6.6 liters of fuel per 100 km on average).

This top of the line diesel accelerates the Sportback to 100 km/h in just 6.1 seconds, and will go on to reach 247 km/h. For the above diesel powerplants, all are mated to a manual transmissions, except for the 3.0 liter V6 which is offered with the 7 speed dual clucth S tronic cog box, coupled with the quattro all wheel drive system. Audi also mentioned that the quattro system for the 2.0 liter TDI and a multitronic tranny for the 2.7 liter TDI will arrive by fall, along with a manual tranny for the 3.0 liter V6. At the same time, the auto maker will also launch a 143HP 2.0 liter TDI version with 320Nm of torque. This engine will be offered with a multitronic transmission.

The petrol family starts off with the 180HP 2.0 liter TFSI with 320Nm of torque, paired with a multitronic transmission while a manual version will come next year. There is also a 211HP version of the same engine, with 350Nm of pulling power that is mated to a 7 speed S tronic transmission and the quattro permanent all wheel drive system. It has an average fuel consumption figure of 7.4 liters of fuel per 100 km. Three additional variants will be introduced during the course of the year including a quattro all-wheel drive with manual transmission and front-wheel drive with multitronic or 6 speed manual transmissions.

Lastly, there is the 265HP 3.2-liter V6 FSI, that is also good for 330Nm of torque. It is couple with an S tronic cog box, with the quattro system. It sips 9.3 liters of fuel for every 100 km, on average. 0 – 100 km/h takes 6.6 seconds, and will go to deliver a top speed of 250 km/h.

All engine options benefit from Audi’s energy regeneration system that makes use of the kinetic energy during deceleration. The alternator will then convert the kinetic energy into electrical energy that is stored temporarily in the battery. There is also the engine start-stop system that is offered with any of the three 2.0-liter engines with the manual transmission. According to the auto maker, it can help to reduce fuel consumption by 0.2 liters per 100 km.

There are also two S Line packages to choose from, including the S Line sport package and the S Line exterior package. The former features a tauter suspension setup and lowered body with larger wheels. Interior extras include sport seats covered in cloth and leather, a special leather sport steering wheel, a leather shift lever knob, inlays in brushed aluminum and color-coordinated floor mats. S line badges adorn the fenders, the door sill trims and many interior parts.

The latter on the other hand comes with unique bumpers and distinctive features on the side air intakes, on the diffuser and on the tailpipes, side sill trims painted in the body color and S line badges on the door sill trims and the front fenders.

In Germany, the Audi A5 Sportback is priced at:

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 (132 kW / 180 hp) with 6-speed manual transmission: 33,650 euros
2.0 TFSI (155 kW / 211 hp) quattro with 7-speed S tronic: 42,150 euros
3.2 FSI quattro with S tronic: 47,000 euros

The Audi A5 Sportback will hit dealerships by September, and Audi has also announced that an entry-level model will arrive in 2010. Look after the jump for a full photo gallery of the A5.

© 2009 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 15:30:33 +0800.

The Caractere kit for the Audi Q5 is now out. No doubt there will be many Q5 owners here in Malaysia who’ll opt for an Abt kit because of the presence and marketing of Cartrade-Abt but for those who want something a little more different (as if having a Q5 is not different already), you can look for the Caractere kit. Caractere kits are generally quite good looking and I think the one for the Q5 looks less overdone compared to the Abt version. Look after the jump for 4 different shots of the Caractere Audi Q5, and also check out the Caractere kit for the Audi A4 and the VW Tiguan.

© 2009 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 15:30:33 +0800.

Abt has unveiled a new engine tuning kit for the V12-powered turbodiesel Audi Q7. The standard 500 horsepower and 1000Nm of torque that the 6.0 liter turbodiesel V12 produces is pumped up to 560 horses and 1,200Nm of torque. That must be one really strongly-built 6-speed automatic that’s mated to the V12, having to handle so much twisting power. Abt also has upgrade kits for the other engines that come with the Q7:

• Audi Q7 4.2 FSI 350hp – up to 500hp and 550Nm via chip tuning and a supercharger.
• Audi Q7 4.2 TDI 326hp – up to 365hp and 780Nm of torque via chip tuning.
• Audi Q7 3.0 TDI 240hp – up to 282hp and 560Nm via chip tuning with the Abt Power kit, or 310hp and 610Nm via chip tuning and an uprated turbocharger with the Abt Power S Kit.

The Q7 has started becoming popular in the parallel import scene. It’s big, hulking, looks impressive and most importantly looks expensive. Those that want a little more out of their 4.2 liter V8 given the amount of road tax that they’re paying each year may take a look at slapping on the 500hp kit.

© 2009 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 15:30:33 +0800.

Audi have released a teaser image and a sketch of the upcoming Audi A5 Sportback, a 4-door version of the A4/A5 with a coupe-like roofline. This brings Audi’s C-segment contender bodystyle count up to a total of 5 – sedan and touring for the A4, and coupe, convertible and now this new 4-door sportsback for the A5.

The A5 Sportsback is referred to by Audi as a large hatchback. Audi’s interpretation of the 4-door coupe form is executed pretty well in my opinion, but we’ve already seen a preview of what such an Audi would look like with the Sportback concept early this year. It differs from the A4 – a roofline that is lower by 36mm, frameless doors, but the hatch looks to be conventional with no funky twindoor-like design.

At launch time, 5 engines will be offered, with 3 of them oil burners. The petrol engines will be either the 2.0 TFSI putting out 211hp and 350Nm, or a 3.2 liter V6 with quattro putting out 265hp. Both have Audi valvelift. The oil burners range from a 2.0 TDI to a 2.7 TDI V6 and finally a 3.0 TDI V6 which churns out the most torque – 500Nm to complement the 240 horses it produces.

The A5 Sportback has 480 liters of storage volume and interestingly this is just 10 liters less than the A4 Avant’s 490 liters. This can be increased to 980 liters with the rear seatbacks folded down.

Look after the jump for a video of Audi Group Head of Design Wolfgang Egger explaining and sketching the Audi A5 Sportback.

VIDEO: Wolfgang Egger explains the Audi A5

VIDEO: Audi A5 Full Sketch

GALLERY: Audi Sportback Concept

© 2009 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 15:30:33 +0800.

Audi has prepared a really tuned up Audi Q5 called the Audi Q5 custom concept, what handy timing for them to showcase this car right after the launch of the Q5 in Malaysia. Lucky owners with deep pockets even after shelling out RM300k or more for the SUV can head on right to shops like Next Level Customz with photos of this new Q5 concept in hand.

But the Audi Q5 custom concept is really more than just a Q5 with an aggressive bodykit. Under the hood is the supercharged 3.0 TFSI V6 from the Audi S4, but tuned up from the standard levels of 333 horses and 440Nm of torque up to 408 PS between 6k to 7k rpm and 500Nm of torque from 3k rpm up to 5.5k rpm.

0 to 100km/h in this body takes only 4.4 seconds. If a future new RS4 is ever going to dump its delicious-sounding V8 for a supercharged V6, expect this kind of power levels. In fact we could actually be looking at a future Q5-S if Audi wants to take it up a notch, but there is no plans for a GLK AMG or X3-M so far. Power is channeled to all wheels via quattro and a quick-shifting 7-speed S-tronic twin clutch transmission.

The aesthetic modifications have also widened the modded Q5’s track by 90mm and ride height lowered by 60mm. Those wheels that look like 7 spokes of steel stained with blood are 21 inches in size.

Look after the jump for a full photo gallery.

© 2009 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 15:30:33 +0800.

An all-new Audi A8 is set to be unveiled in November this year for the 2010 model year, something that I am quite eagerly awaiting to see, as most car manufacturers put most of their best stuff in their flagship models.

The current A8 has been soldiering on since 2003 and a full model change is quite timely with German luxo-marque’s typical 7 year model lifecycles. The S-Class received a mid-life facelift this year and Munich’s offering got an all-new model change last year, with the flagship just announced, chock full of 12 cylinders, 2 turbochargers and 8 forward ratios.

It’ll be interesting to see what the flagship motor of the Audi A8 will be this time – in the last installment it was the massive 6.0 liter W12, putting out 443 PS and 580Nm, taking the monster up to 100km/h in just 5.1 seconds. I won’t be surprised if the flagship is a diesel this time!

Look after the jump to check our a previously posted trailer of the movie Transporter 3, which features the Audi A8 that we will be soon saying goodbye to.

VIDEO: The Transporter 3 Trailer

© 2009 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 15:30:33 +0800.

The new Audi Q5 is here in Malaysia, available in two models – the regular version priced at RM299,000 or the S-Line priced at RM325,000, both prices without insurance. Both models come with the very nice 2.0 liter TFSI engine with Valvelift putting out 211 horses and 350Nm of torque between 1,500 to 4,200rpm, and is mated to a 7-speed S-Tronic twin clutch transmission.

The S-Line package includes an S-Line exterior bodykit, Milano leather for the front seats and black headlining. On top of that you can also spec some other niceties including a B&O sound system for RM6k, a panoramic glass roof for RM10k and an electrical tailgate for RM6.5k. This should mean a fully loaded up Q5 should cost you RM347.5k!

Although there are plenty of platform sharing going on between Volkswagen and Audi and the Q7 has many technical and platform similiarities to the Cayenne and the Touareg, the Q5 is no rebadged Tiguan. The Q5 is more of a SUV-ized Audi A4 and uses the A4’s MLP architecture, which means a longitudinal engine layout instead of the Tiguan’s transverse engine layout.

Also, the Tiguan’s transverse edition of the engine puts out less power and torque – only 200 horses and 280Nm over 1,700 to 5,000rpm. The Tiguan also uses a regular torque converter 6-speed auto, while this Q5 has a DSG.

Its competitors in Malaysia is the new Land Rover Freelander 2 which goes for RM272k with a 2.2 liter turbodiesel engine, the Tiguan 2.0 TFSI which goes for about RM250k, the X3 which goes for RM320k (this model has even disappeared from bmw.com.my) and the RAV4 which comes in the cheapest at RM204k. Internationally there is also the Mercedes-Benz GLK but Malaysia will not see this model offered officially as Stuttgart has decided to build it in left hand drive only.

Look after the jump for a full gallery and video of the Q5.

© 2009 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 15:30:33 +0800.

© 2009 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 15:30:33 +0800.

It seems that Audi will be unveiling a new model to celebrate its 100th birthday on the 16th of July 2009. There has been completely no details released on this model, and it’s probably not likely to be some of the other more “normal” cars that Audi are scheduled to release either, with the new Q3 being one.

The fact that the Q3 is only scheduled for a 2011 production start makes it a little too early to showcase it this year, perhaps only next year. What else could it be? A new Audi A7 (previewed in concept form as the 2009 Audi Sportback Concept) would definitely be a feast for the eyes, but there’s over 2 months to go so we’ll watch out for any other indicators coming in the future.

© 2009 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 15:30:33 +0800.

The Audi Q3, a third addition to the Audi Q range of SUVs will begin manufacturing in Spain in 2011. Currently none of the Q range share a plant – the Q7 is built in Slovakia while the Q5 is built in Audi’s homeland of Ingolstadt.

The new compact Audi Q3 has yet to be revealed in production or close to production form yet, but Audi has given us some teasers in the form of the Audi Cross Coupe and Cross Cabriolet concepts last year, with the Cross Coupe being a 4-door SUV with a fastback roofline, and the latter being a 2-door cabriolet with SUV styling and ride height. In fact Audi has said the new Q3 will have a coupe-like roofline, which points to the aforementioned concepts.

© 2009 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 15:30:33 +0800.

We’ve been talking about budget 7-seater family MPVs the whole of last week, time to get back to dreamworld and have a look at another type of 7-seater vehicle! Audi’s mammoth of an SUV the Q7 has been updated with a facelift. It gets a new grille, new bumpers, a more distinctive underbody protection design, new side sills, more aggressive fender flares, optional LED daytime running lights, air-intake mounted LED signal lamps, and new LED lighting for the tail lamps. There is also a chrome package for more chrome trim on the exterior.

On the interior you get a new instrument cluster with larger displays, including Audi’s latest MMI system with hard drive storage, 3D map graphics, a DVD player, voice control, Bluetooth telephony, TV tuner, and even optional rear seat entertainment. The top of the line specs that can be specified is a Bang & Olufsen sound system with 505 watts of power through 14 speakers and 10 channels.

The Q7 is beginning to get quite popular here in Malaysia (perhaps too many X5, Touareg and Cayennes around) as reconditioned units are beginning to come in to pique the interest of those who want a cheaper deal than the official distributor. It looks absolutely menacing coming up your back through the rear view mirror and now with the new LED daytime running lights it’s going to be an even scarier sight.

© 2009 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 15:30:33 +0800.

Rumor has it that a member of Audi’s board of management for technical development has revealed that the auto maker is considering to produce a new Audi RS3. Most importantly, the new RS3 is expected to be powered by the same 2.5 liter 5 cylinder engine which is under the hood of the recently launched Audi TT RS.

If the new RS3 features the same weight as the TT RS, the turbocharged powerplant with 340HP and 450Nm of torque will be able to propel the RS3 to the 100 km/h mark in 4.6 seconds, and all the way to a top speed of 288 km/h.

However, the next Audi A3 is scheduled to debut in 2011, so the RS3 will most probably follow suit at least a year or two later. We will bring you the latest updates. Stay tuned!

© 2009 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 15:30:33 +0800.

According to German-based Automobilwoche, Audi has revealed that the next generation Audi A8 luxury sedan is set to arrive sometime in 2010. More than just the approximate launch schedule, we also know that Audi’s flagship model is also expected to feature two diesel and two petrol powerplants.

To help Audi keep up in the “fuel efficiency” bandwagon, the auto maker will also add an engine start-stop system while the super-fast S8 model is expected to carry a 5.0 liter V10 FSI that is good for 620HP.

Another improvement that we might see in the new Audi A8 is the utilization of the Audi’s second generation Alluminium Space Frame (ASF 2) which features an aluminum passenger cell with steel and foam built in to reinforce certain vulnerable areas. Expect a preview of the Audi A8 at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show which is set to kick start in September this year.

© 2009 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 15:30:33 +0800.

The Audi RS6 Sedan you see above looks barely touched but it is in fact the very sleeper Sportec RS700. Despite its design which is far from being the typically outrageous type of look that some tuners like Wald like, its 5.0 liter twin turbo V10 gets a power boost from the standard 580 PS up to a mind-blowing 700 PS, with truly massive 800Nm of twisting torque! 0 to 100km/h takes only 4 seconds while 200km/h is hit in 12 seconds, on to a top speed of 310km/h. Other changes include a suspension that’s lowered by 30mm and a rear diffuser for additional downforce. The original exhaust can be replaced by the Sportec quad tailpipe unit you see above featuring 76mm tailpipes.

Bear in mind all of this are achieved with just minor rechipping, imagine what could be possible with a full overhaul of the internals with stronger parts, bigger turbos, better cooling, etc, this is one truly massive engine!

© 2009 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 15:30:33 +0800.

As expected, the Audi TT RS Coupe and Cabriolet was launched in Geneva, and also as expected, both high performance versions of the beautiful Audi TT feature the 2.5 liter TFSI turbocharged 5-cylinder power plant with direct injection that is capable of 340HP and 450Nm of torque. Both all wheel drive models also offer excellent power to weight ratios thanks to the implementation of Audi’s Space Frame design. The Coupe weighs 1,450 kilograms which means it offers 4.3 kilograms per HP while the Cabriolet weighs 1,510 kilograms which translates into 4.4 kilograms per HP.

Thanks to those figures, plus the fact that the engine only weighs 183 kilograms, the Coupe hits the 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds while the Cabriolet does it in 4.7 seconds, and top speed figures for both models are rated at 250 km/h, although Audi revealed that buyers have the option to increase the top speed to 280 km/h. Both models also offer reasonable fuel consumption figures; 9.2 liters per 100 kilometers for the Coupe and 9.5 liters 100 kilometers for the Cabriolet. The power plant is coupled with a revised 6 speed manual transmission.

With 18-inch 5-spoke wheels, the exterior is treated to a number of face lifts that make the new TT worthy of the RS badge including large and squared air inlets with diamond-shaped inserts, a spoiler that tapers downward into a splitter, high-gloss black single frame grille with a frame in matt aluminum look and Xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights up front. With vigorous side sills and exterior-mirror casings in matt aluminum look on the side profile, the rear is finished with two large oval exhaust tailpipes which are encircled by a diffuser insert and a fixed rear wing, instead of fold able type with the more modest TT.

In the black interior, you will find your self surrounded by a leather multifunction sports steering wheel, Alcantara/leather combination with silver contrasting stitching and embossed TT RS logos in the front backrests, more badges and logos on the steering wheel, in the rev counter, and on the door sill trims, brushed aluminium inlays, floor mats with silver piping trim, as well as footrests and pedals in aluminum look.

Other features on the inside include a driver information system that displays boost pressure and oil temperature as well as lap timing, heated seats, an automatic climate-control system, a concert sound system and an electrohydraulic soft top and an electric wind deflector for the Cabriolet.

Other fitments that are standard with TT RS include 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), tightly tuned springs and shock absorbers as well as high performance brakes (370 millimeters ventilated discs with a four piston brake caliper up front and 310 millimeters ventilated discs with a four-piston brake caliper at the back).

Potential buyers can also opt for Audi’s magnetic ride adaptive damping system that allows the driver to select one of two modes including Dynamic and Comfort for the shock absorbers by simply pushing the Sport button. The Sport button can also activate a flap installed in the left exhaust tailpipe that produces exhaust noise that is even more robust and intense while boosting engine responsiveness. An optional sport exhaust system is available with matt black tailpipe trims and sound flap. The same Sport mode button is also used to fully or partially deactivate the Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP).

Available in eight body colour options including colours with pearl effects such as Mugello Blue, Sepang Blue, and Suzuka Gray, potential owners can expect deliveries by summer. Continue reading to view an image gallery and a video of both bodytypes.

© 2009 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 15:30:33 +0800.

Ingolstadt’s favorite tuner; ABT has revealed its latest “four-ring” project. Based on the sexy Audi S5 coupe, the tuner has performed a number of improvements on the S5 including upgrades on the engine management system and the addition of an ABT compressor which help increase engine power output by 156HP, to a grand total of 510HP.

Called the AS5-R, the V8-powered coupe is also treated to a high performance braking system with 380 millimeter disc diameter, an ABT Coil-over suspension system and a set of 20-inch 5-spoke BR alloy wheels.

On the outside, it features a spoiler that accentuates the ABT grill as well as inner fender skirts and gill-shaped air inlets. At the rear end, the tuner has fitted a distinctive ABT rear skirt and a 4-pipe rear muffler.

Overall, the AS5-R reaches the 100 km/h mark in 4.5 seconds and will go on to reach a top speed of 292 km/h. Although with a power output of slightly more than half a thousand, the German tuning specialist also mentioned that the up-rated S5 maintains a fuel consumption figure that is almost similar with the stock Audi S5. All looks good for the AS5-R, but I think I will stick to a one-colour body finish.

© 2009 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 15:30:33 +0800.

Following two official teaser images of the TT RS released by Audi a couple of days ago, more images of the most powerful TT ever has emerged on the Internet. This time round, there are some images of the convertible TT RS, that will join its hard top sibling in showrooms. A turbocharged 2.5 liter inline 5 with direct injection is expected to power the TT RS, which should be good for about 340HP and 450Nm of torque.

The power plant is expected to be coupled with either a 6 speed manual or a 7 speed S-Tronic twin clutch transmission. Audi also revealed that it would take slightly less than 5 seconds for the TT RS to hit the 100 km/h mark, and that the TT RS would go on to reach speeds of up to 250 km/h. Thanks to the Audi Space Frame principle, the TT RS would also offer excellent power to weight ratio.

The TT RS with Audi’s all wheel drive Quattro setup also features a distinctive rear diffuser, apart from large air vents, a fixed boot spoiler and other upgrades and features worthy of the RS designation such as performance brakes, RS insignias, improved interior and so on. Both Coupe and Roadster models should hit European showrooms by the second quarter of this year, after its debut at the Geneva Motor Show on March 3rd.

© 2009 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 15:30:33 +0800.

The Audi A5 Cabriolet and Audi S5 Cabriolet have already been unveiled back in early December last year, but here’s a mega photo update with tons of photos of both standard and warm versions of the car. No word of the RS5 yet though, and it’s not confirmed yet if the RS5 will be available in a Cabriolet body, but since there was an RS4 Cabriolet I don’t see why.

The A5 comes with your usual bunch of Audi/Volkswagen Group engines such as the 2.0 TFSI inline-4, the 3.2 FSI V6 and your usual plethora of TDI diesel engines. The S5 gets something more exciting, the second newest engine to be introduced by Audi, a 3.0 liter supercharged V6 with 333 horsepower and 440Nm of torque mated to a 7-speed S-Tronic twin clutch transmission. The honour of the newest engine is of course the 2.5 liter inline-5 turbo set to debut with the TT-RS.

Check out the photo galleries and a video of the A5 Cab after the jump.

© 2009 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 15:30:33 +0800.

Wanna hear how Audi’s new turbocharged 2.5 liter inline-5 engine that’s set to be slotted into the Audi TT-RS sounds like? Audi has released a teaser sound clip of the TT-RS doing its thing, so you can have a listen using the embedded audio player below. Sounds much better than the inline-4 2.0 TFSI, which while is a fantastic engine, is still an inline-4 which by trait sounds a little boring, with the exception of Alfa Romeo’s TwinSpark inline-4s of course, not sure how they pull that off! After enjoying the sound clip, head on after the jump for a gallery of more released photos!

© 2009 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 15:30:33 +0800.

Audi has released a short teaser press release for the latest and most powerful variant of the Audi TT they will be unveiling at the Geneva Auto Show, the Audi TT-RS. Hot on the tail of the TT-S which featured a tuned up 2.0 TFSI engine, the new Audi TT-RS has been revealed to use a force inducted inline-5 engine, something that used to be a regular feature in the Audis of the past.

It’s likely to be a turbocharged 2.5 liter unit, basically you could consider it to be one-half of the 5.0 liter V10 turbo in the RS6. A normally aspirated version of this 2.5 liter engine is also found in the Volkswagen Rabbit (Golf) sold in the US. It will feature direct injection, quattro permanent all-wheel drive and great brakes to boot.

0 to 100km/h is said to be achieved in under 5 seconds, thanks to a good power to weight ratio allowed by its Audi Space Frame chassis. We’ll have to wait until the Geneva show for more details of this mini-R8, so stay tuned! For the moment, let us ponder upon this – Volkswagen is scrapping the V6 from its next generation R-model Golf. Instead of a high-boost version of the 2.0 TFSI, couldn’t we see this motor slotted in?

© 2009 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 15:30:33 +0800.