Geneva Motor Show launch:Audi A3 hatchback pictures leaked

Yes, stop rubbing your eyes in disbelief! The car you see is indeed the all-new Audi A3 hatchback, a car that is important for India in more ways than one. You see, while Audi plans to produce the A3 as a five-door hatchback too (along with the three-door, that is), it is also planning a four-door sedan version which is definitely India-bound. This also means that the A3 sedan will be the cheapest Audi on sale in the country and we know it's only a matter of time before fellow German manufacturers BMW and Mercedes-Benz follow suit.

The new A3 is the first product in the VW Group to be based on the Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB) platform – a very crucial platform, since it is developed to accommodate everything from the Polo to the Passat and offers the thus required flexibility for VW Group to be able to do so. What the MQB platform will do is create leaner inventory and since VW Group's engines are cleverly alloted amongst cars within the group, the overall production efficiency will go up by a substantial amount while bringing about massive cost savings. The A3 sedan, when it makes its debut in India, will hence be the first (of many to come) to mark the debut of the MQB platform here as well.

Moving on to the A3 itself, well, it's got all the makings of a hot-hatch even without sporty add-ons! The A3 you see in the picture wears a TDI badge, and it is expected to house the 2.0 four-cylinder diesel powerplant that currently powers the VW Jetta and Passat and also the Skoda Yeti 4x4. VW Group's new 1.4-litre TSI (petrol) motor is also expected to make its way into the engine options list for the A3. When it arrives on Indian shores, we don't expect a much different engine line-up either, since the 2.0 TDI has proven to be a successful engine in the market although it would be fair to expect the A3 to produces more horses than its contemporaries within the group, owing to its more premium classification.

Staying true to the premium-ness of the badge are the interiors – typically new-gen Audi, elegant, sophisticated and of course, boasting of excellent quality. We like the rounded theme on the dash – the chrome-ringed air-con vents, the round steering hub and also the round-ish gear-shift lever for the auto 'box. The controls for the media interface are now positioned on the central tunnel along with an engine start/stop button and a new electro-mechanical parking brake. An LCD screen pops up in the centre of the dash and is paired to the new generation of Audi's MMI (Multi Media Interface). The MMI, we assume, will be excluded in the base variant of the A3 sedan (for India), since it will definitely be a huge cost saving option and will help price the A3 attractively. The A3 should prove to be a comfortable five-seater with a generous boot and given its specifications (and that prized four-ring badge), it's likely to bring in healthy numbers on Audi's scoreboard in the country.

The exterior is aggressive and very much in the new-age Audi design mould – we like! Now if Audi brings it to India quickly, and launches a hot-hot RS3 variant too... Watch this space for more on the A3!

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ENCO Exclusive Audi Q5

The Q5 from Audi has been available on the German market since November 2008. Since then it has extremely successfully cast a spell over the Compact SUV fans and also vehicle finishers are adding their own mark to the popular five-door model. Enco Exclusive shows probably the most impressive Q5 interpretation to date.

High resolution Audi Q5 images

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The newly developed Q5 body kit by the Chemnitz manufacture company is based optically on its big brother the Q7 or in particular here the V12 TDI. Therefore anyone who does not want to fork out 130,000 Euros for the top model or can but still loves the visual appearance of the Super SUV should directly contact the Enco Exclusive team.
The Saxons' project adds another low dominantly designed front bumper with the V12 TDI typically large blackened air inlets to the left and right of the radiator grille into which LED daytime running lights are integrated. The professionals also installed a new hood with a sublime mid-section with two chrome air outlets alongside it arranged lengthwise in the driving direction. On the Q5’s sides there are now mudguard and door extensions, which lend the elegant five-door model a sturdier appearance. The Enco Audi’s rear is dominated in turn by a new skirt, in which the well-known oval end exhaust pipes from the V12 TDI are integrated, the perfect mix of optical elegance and sportiness. The finish in terms of updated bodywork is a body-coloured spoiler above the rear windscreen.

The perfect complement to the whole package is the brand new silver monoblock set of wheels in Enco “Jura" design with its seven drawn out and vaulted spokes in imposing 10x22 inch with 285/30 Pirelli Scorpion Zeros which on request (as in the example of the vehicle shown) can of course be painted in black or other colours.

Enco Exclusive also updates the interior of the compact SUV on request with carbon parts which replace the original design elements mounted ex factory. This and in particular the extensive and stylish body kit turns the Q5 into a unique eye-catcher and at a clearly more favourable price than is required for the Q7 V12 TDI top model.
Prices

Complete body kit: 4,165 Euros

- front spoiler: 1,130 Euros
- rear bumper skirt with exhaust pipes: 952 Euros
- muffler right/left: 595 Euros
- mudguard, door parts: 1,130 Euros
- rear spoiler: 1,125 Euros

Hood: 1,785 Euros

Assembly/mounting: 1,190 Euros
Painting: 1,488 Euros

Lowering springs incl.
installation and measurement: 595 Euros

Set of wheels 10x22 inch silver with 4,641 Euros
285/30R22 incl. adapter tyres:
Extra charge for painting set of wheels: 476 Euros

Carbon interior: 1,428 Euros

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Audi ABT Q7 3.0 TDI Clean Diesel

The Q7 is not just any SUV, but self-confidently stands for comfort, diversity and the latest engines. This is particularly the case with the Clean Diesel technology, which makes the already efficient 3.0 TDI even more economical and therefore more environmentally-friendly. In the ABT Sportsline version the engine becomes even more sporty and dynamic – without, of course, losing its economical and ecological qualities. The Clean Diesel still remains as economic as before its power upgrade in Bavaria. Thanks to ABT POWER, however, its performance is increased from the standard 240 HP (177 kW) to 278 HP (204 kW). At the same time the torque is increased to 580 Nm (standard: 550 Nm) and the diesel engine can meet all demands and always provides sufficient reserves of power. At the world’s largest tuner of vehicles from the VW Group, SUV now also stands for “Sporty Und Versatile”. With the ABT Q7 3.0 TDI Clean Diesel the “S” also stands for “saving".

It goes without saying that ABT Sportsline also has ABT Performance Springs and ABT Sports brake systems available for this efficient and effective version of the Q7. With these components, which are calibrated to this extraordinary vehicle, safety in everyday traffic is increased. An extensive optical package is also available for the sporty and economical luxury car, which comprises side rails, rear aprons, fender extensions, 4-pipe exhaust units and exhaust tailpipe end caps. The Allgäu company recommend the dynamic BR alloys in 9x20 and 10x22 inch with it. ABT of course also offers full wheel sets with high performance tyres. All components, parts and of course the performance increases meet the highest demands on processing quality, reliability and durability – anyone who drives an ABT Q7 does not have to make any comprises.

The new ABT Q7 3.0 TDI Clean Diesel – data and facts

ABT ENGINE TECHNOLOGY
Engine: 3.0 TDI, 2967 ccm capacity
Performance tuning: ABT POWER
Performance: 278 HP/204 kW (standard: 240 HP/177 kW)

ABT AERODYNAMICS
ABT side skirts
ABT wing extension
ABT rear skirt
ABT exhaust covers

ABT WHEEL TECHNOLOGY
ABT BR; 20 and 22 inch; diamond-cut or silver
ABT BR special edition; 20 and 22 inch; diamond-cut/deep black matted
Available also as complete set of wheels with sports tyres.

ABT EXHAUST TECHNOLOGY
ABT 4-pipe rear muffler

ABT SUSPENSION TECHNOLOGY
ABT suspension springs, lowering the centre of gravity by approx. 30 mm

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Audi Q5 S-Line 2.0 TDI

You've no idea how difficult life can be for a schizophrenic. Every morning we agonise about getting up. Should we get out on the left side of the bed, or the right? Right or left? Left or right? Then we have to think about what to wear. Suit or shorts? Shorts or suit?

OK, I'm not a fully paid-up schizophrenic, just a Gemini, but that amounts to the same thing. So when Audi sent me the Q5, it suited both of us. One day I could be a macho SUV driver, and the next, the driver of a premium estate car.

Audi states that the Q5 has the nature of an SUV, yet in the same breath refers to the car as having the '....character of a performance saloon', although it in no way resembles such a thing: the styling is mid-way between that of an Avant estate car and the meaty and muscular Q7.

In configuration, the Q5 is pure estate car: five seats, a large load platform, and a raked tailgate. In other respects, it is pure SUV: high ground clearance, four-wheel drive, and a rather bluff and pugnacious 'face', with a grille inspired by ram-raiders. And the whole lot rides on a platform that delivers the same sharp, predictable handling as an A6 Avant or an All-Road quattro, the Audi stablemate it most closely resembles.

For ultimate performance you would need to specify a 3.2 FSI petrol model, or the 3.0-litre TDI. But I drove the 2.0-litre TDI model, which trades outright performance for a modest thirst and fewer nasty niffs. This ubiquitous Volkswagen-Audi unit (in its Q5 application) develops 350 Newton-metres across a comparatively narrow torque band: just 750 rpm separates the extremities of the peak output. But the engine reaches the peak threshold at just 1750 rpm, so it pulls well from low speeds, which also benefits off-road driving.

Pushed hard the 1968 cc engine will achieve a rated 0-62 time of 9.5 seconds; but in the hands of someone who isn't a test driver, and with a realistic load, think more like 11 seconds. The trick is to keep the revs in the narrow peak-torque band and change gears accordingly, but most drivers would regard 'short-changing' as counter-intuitive. A peak power of 170 PS is sufficient to sustain a top speed of 126 mph.

Kept to sensible (and legal) limits, the 2.0 TDI ought to deliver an average consumption quite close to the theoretical combined figure of 42.1 mpg. Think around 38 mpg, and you shouldn't be far out. But you would need to keep one eye on the tacho and be prepared to make full use of the six-speed manual 'box, which is standard on the 2.0 TDI model.

With a CO2 rating of 175 g/km, the engine just scrapes into VED Band H, at £175 per annum, making it one of the lowest-footprint models in the Q5 line-up.

The test car was an S-Line model, which at £31,430 places it roughly mid-way in the Q5 price scale. But there is nothing mid-way in the S-Line specification, which is the highest trim level, enhanced on the test car by some £10,000-worth of extras, resulting in a bottom line that exceeded by quite a margin the price of a Q7 with a 3.6 FSI petrol engine.

One of the most significant extras on the test car was the £1,665 'Drive Select' programme, which enables the driver, via an array of controls on the fascia, to adjust the various dynamic parameters that affect the performance and handling of the car, namely suspension, steering and throttle response. Roughly speaking, the settings range from softly-softly to tarmac stage, and further contribute to the Gemini-like nature of the car.

On-road stability is underwritten by the quattro all-wheel-drive system, which defaults to 40:60 front-rear drive, but which will automatically bias-drive either the front or rear wheels in conditions of varying traction.

You might think of the Q5 as a 'soft-roader', and admittedly the quattro system lacks a low-ratio transfer 'box, but the ESP system has reached yet another generation in the Q5, and has been specially fettled to promote safe and secure off-road driving however unfamiliar might be the driver with mucky motoring.

In short, the system has been developed to optimise off-road traction, which it does by recognising the consistency of the road surface and trimming the ABS response to suit. It can distinguish between sand, gravel and loose rocks, and, of course, the resumption of tarmac. Hill-descent-control is built in as well as a sensor that detects the presence of a roof rack (and therefore a shift in the centre of gravity).

SUVs were once characterised by short wheelbases, which almost always resulted in a choppy ride. The Q5 is the polar opposite. A long wheelbase and short overhangs (which also improve ramp and departure angles in off-road driving) have been achieved by placing the differential in front of the clutch, which, in turn, enables the front axle to be moved forward. The result is a 2.81-metre wheelbase, which makes a major contribution to the Audi's excellent ride quality, which resembles that expected of a premium estate car, which sometimes it is, and sometimes it isn't.

Among the many other extras appended to the test car was a £1,075 panoramic glass sunroof. Even closed, it floods the interior with light, and apparent extra space, and when fully open, even the rear-seat occupants get to enjoy a degree of al fresco motoring.

eedless to say, the Q5's interior is archetypal Audi. The DNA is as distinctive now as it was 20 years ago, when we first began to see the red lighting, the rectilinear layout, the geometric blend of form and function, and the sheer neatness of it all: epitomising what we imagine is the German mind-set. Art has never featured much in Audi dashboards; it all seems to be the work of a process-control engineer. And the latest-generation MMI interface and advanced satellite navigation screen (part of a £1,955 'Technology' pack) are integrated into the Q5 dashboard without disturbing the intuitive functionality of the whole layout. In fact, it's not so much a dashboard as a command module.

The test car had a powered tailgate, which could be made to rise seemingly of its own accord by blipping a button the on key fob. To close it, you press a button on the inner rim of the tailgate. You are supposed to operate it nonchalantly, as if you are too modest and too cultured to be impressed by such novelty, but I couldn't resist glancing around to see if anyone had noticed what a superior person I was: too posh to lift or close a tailgate. You can also open the 'gate with a button in the door, and this proved extremely practicable during heavy rain, as it provided a kind of ready-erected shelter.

The boot is enormous: some 19 cubic feet with a large load-platform area close to waist height. With the rear seats folded, the capacity increases to 55 cubic feet, and once again reinforces the Q5's alter ego as a sizeable estate car.

I used the Q5 for a short touring holiday during which time I covered in excess of 1,000 miles, up hill and down dale, mainly on minor roads, but with occasional town and motorway stints. Such concentrated driving tends to eclipse the value of all the sophisticated extras, and added value is measured through the seat of your pants rather than by the number of buttons with which to play.

Thus measured merely in terms of day-to-day driveability, the Q5 is subject to its toughest scrutiny, from which two things emerge: firstly, that the two-litre TDI engine would benefit from greater flexibility - the torque is adequate but the band too narrow; and, secondly (and consequently), that fifth gear is too 'long' for all but high-speed cruising. For safe and responsive cross-country driving, fourth is a much better option, and although an overdrive ratio, its frequent (and necessary) use rather compromises the otherwise commendable fuel consumption.

In terms of long-haul comfort, the Q5 scores very favourably, especially when compared with the BMW X3. The same goes for mild off-road use: the Audi is in a different class from its nearest rival. Aside from ride-quality, the excellent (and expected) Audi ergonomics do much to relieve the strain of long hours behind the wheel. The driving position is perfect, and adjustable to the nearest and most comfortable millimetre. Rear-seat occupants are equally well catered for, and with the optional 3-zone climate control (£440) as fitted to the test car, everyone can choose an ambient atmosphere to their liking.

Given my comments regarding the slight mis-match of the engine and transmission, I would be inclined to trade off some the less vital extras (climate cupholder, reversible load mat, etc., etc.,) for the optional and excellent 7-speed twin-clutch transmission, which would then elevate the Q5 into a class of its own. I have consulted my other half, and he agrees.

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Audi announces plans for electric car

FRANKFURT -- German carmaker Audi AG unveiled plans for an electric car and a convertible version of its R8 Spyder sports car, among others, at the Frankfurt Auto Show on Tuesday.

Audi, a unit of Volkswagen AG ( VLKAF.PK - news - people ), said it planned to build the e-tron, a fully electric high-performance sports car, which is currently in the development phase.

The company said it will be a four-motor drive - one for each wheel - and deliver 313 horsepower. The e-tron's two-seat design looks somewhat similar to the style of the Audi R8.

"The first vehicles of this type took to the roads around 1900, yet in 2009, no volume car manufacturer has a car powered exclusively by batteries in its lineup," Audi said in a statement. Fewer than 1,500 electric cars are now registered in Germany, Audi said.

To fix that, the company said it was also launching the E-Performance Support Project in October with German universities and the government to develop an integrated concept for electronic drives in cars. Audi plans to hire another 100 engineers for the project.

Audi also said it planned to build a new convertible version of its legendary R8 sports car. The new mid-engine V-10 sports car will have 525 horsepower and quattro all-wheel drive technology.

"The R8 Spyder forms the new top model out of the Audi program, with technologies like the Audi space-frame building style, and permanent all-wheel drive quattro," Audi said.

Shares of Audi closed down 1.5 percent at euro408 ($596) in Frankfurt trading.

Copyright 2009 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed

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Audi posts 62 percent growth in sales

Audi, the German luxury car manufacturer, has registered a 62 per cent growth by selling 1,128 cars in the first eight months of 2009, thereby surpassing last year’s annual sales of 1,050 cars, said Anil Reddy, head of sales, Audi India.

He was interacting with the media during the launch of Audi Q7, the latest version of the largest selling performance luxury SUV, in Chennai on Sunday.

Anil Reddy said that the new Audi Q7, priced at Rs 50 lakh and above, would be available in three engine options - 3.0 TDI quattro, 3.6 FSI quattro and 4.2 FSI quattro - at Audi dealerships across the country as the company enjoyed 18 to 20 per cent market share in the luxury car segment.

Every two months, Audi had been launching new models to the discerning customers, he said and added that the exclusive Audi showrooms would come up in Chennai by March 2010.

The launch of the new Audi Q7 comes close on the heels of Audi’s Centennial Celebrations and spells exciting times for Audi in India.

On the global front, Audi continues to win awards and laurels - for the fifth time in a row, a jury of 64 leading motoring journalists from over 30 countries voted the 2.0 litre TFSI the International Engine of the Year in the 1.8 to 2.0 litre category.

The entire Audi model range com prising Audi Q5, Audi A6, Audi A8, Audi Q7, Audi A4, Audi TT and the super sports car Audi R8 is available at 11 dealerships across the country - Delhi, Gurgaon,Chandigarh, Ludhiana, Mumbai, Pune, Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai and Kochi.

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Frankfurt 2009: Audi A5 Sportback earns believers

2010 Audi A5 Sportback - Click above for high-res image gallery

Although the U.S. market won't be getting the Audi A5 Sportback, based on the reaction here on the floor in Frankfurt, Audi won't have any problem moving them in Europe. It took us longer to get clear shots of the A5 than any other car at Audi (even the R8 Spyder), and when we returned at the end of the day there were still numerous fascinated Euro types examining the car like it was CSI evidence.

The A5 is so beautiful on its own we weren't sure how the Sportback appellation might distort, but like the BMW 5 Series GT, it makes friends with the eyes in person -- and in fact, it's better. The S5 is the top of the heap model, and it will sport a supercharged, 3.0-liter V6 with 333 hp and 325 lb-ft. Just 5.4 seconds takes you to the 60, but whatever speed you travel, you shouldn't be disappointed with how you look doing it. At least, if you're not in the U.S...

Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: 2010 Audi A5 Sportback

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AUTOSHOW-Audi sees '09 unit sales at 900,000, solid profits

FRANKFURT, Sept 15 (Reuters) - Volkswagen's (VOWG.DE) premium unit Audi (NSUG.DE) expects this year's unit sales to reach 900,000, with profits at "very solid" levels, Audi Chief Executive Rupert Stadler said on Tuesday.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the Frankfurt Motor Show, Stadler also said the market would likely return to pre-crisis levels only in 2012-2013.

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Audi Q7 : The Choice Of The Elite

With the growing SUV segment in India, the latest automobile giant to launch its SUV cars in the country is the German luxury car manufacturer, Audi, who with their latest beast are bound to give the other manufacturers a stiff competition.

Audi Q7 has it all, the class, the style, the elegance and the power, a choice of the elite and was recently launched in Bangalore. Its sporty and its comfortable, while boasts of graceful design such as in the side view with the low window area, the arched roof line and the tautly curved body surface that brings-forth a coupé-like silhouette.

The new Audi Q7 is unmatched in terms of style,performance, safety, comfort and driving dynamics providing customers, the complete driving experience which Audi is known for”, said Mr.Benoit Tiers, Managing Director, Audi India.

Its new accents at the front and rear contribute to even more elegant styling and visual impact. New single-frame radiator grill in-high gloss black with vertical chrome bars adds robustness to the car in-conjunction with new Xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights.

The Audi Q7 is 5,089 mm long and has a 3,002 mm wheelbase. It provides generous interior comfort, a cargo volume of up to 2,035 litres, and unsurpassed variability. The customer can order an interior with six or seven seats.

The new Audi Q7 is powered by highly efficient direct-injection engines and is available in a 3.0TDI 176 kW (240 hp), 550 Nm torque option, a 3.6 FSI 206 kW (280 hp),360 Nm torque option and a 4.2 FSI 257 kW (350 hp), 440 Nm torque option. While is priced at Rs 53,40,000 (ex-showroom Mumbai starting price) and is available in Ibis White, Teak Brown, Orca Black and Graphite Grey as well as the existing colors which include Deep Black, Bahia Beige, Cobalt Blue, Condor Grey, Ice Silver, Garnet Red and Lava Grey.

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Audi 4.2-liter V8 could continue in S5 through 2011 and beyond

2009 Audi S5 – Click above for high-res image gallery

With the introduction of the supercharged 3.0-liter V6 in the all-new S5 Cabrio, S4 and A6, it was assumed Audi would be dropping the FSI 4.2-liter V8 as an option on its hotter sedans and coupes. However, Audi is actively considering keeping the FSI V8 into the 2011 model year and possibly beyond.

According to our sources inside Audi, the reason for the decision is the 4.2-liter's continued popularity, both with enthusiasts and everyday consumers who enjoy its output and entertaining audio. If Audi decides to keep the V8 around, expect it to be used primarily in the S5 coupe, with the S5 cabrio using the all-new supercharged six.

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Sportec chips the Audi TT RS to 400 horsepower

Audi TT RS – Click above for high-res image gallery

The jury's still out as to whether Audi's TT RS will ever make across the Atlantic. But for those on the other side – or for if/when it comes here – Swiss tuning firm Sportec has launched an ECU upgrade for the Four Ring's top-notch turbo terror.

A simple remap of the engine management chip has got the stock turbo five's output up from 335-bhp and 328 lb-ft of torque to 400-bhp and 401 lb-ft. The extra tug and twist is said to be enough to drop the TT RS' sprint to 60 mph down from 4.6 seconds in stock form to an R8-rivaling 4.2 seconds – while simultaneously removing the 155 mph speed limiter.

Additional mods are in the works from Sportec, but for our part, we'd just be happy to get the stock TT RS on American shores – then we can worry about chipping it all to hell. Details in the press release and output graph after the jump.

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Audi R8: The Ultimate Driving Machine?

Oligarchical Russian BMW R8 - click above image for high-res gallery

In the pantheon of automotive wrongs, the Slavic hoser behind this "BMW R8" spotted in Moscow is a god. Hang around this car blogging business long enough and you see a lot of terrible things at SEMA. But this thing is almost cake-taking. Some of y'all might remember the Bentley badged up as Hyundai from a couple years back -- but that was at least funny. This Audi/BMW is just... weird. For instance, if the guy's being serious, like, why not just buy an M6? They basically cost the exact the same amount. And also, isn't the Audi R8 somewhat more desirable? We're really at a loss as too why anyone would do this. Your thoughts? And a very special thanks to Justin for bringing this... thing to our attention. Shudder.

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Audi slaps Monroney on updated 2010 Q7

2010 Audi Q7 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Audi's 2010 Q7 rolls into showrooms with a base MSRP of $46,900 (all prices exclude the $825 destination charge). That entry-level amount will put the standard Q7 3.6 Quattro (with its 280-horsepower V6) in your driveway. If you want to bump up to the flagship, the Q7 4.2 Quattro (350-horsepower V8) will set you back at least $61,000. Lastly, those interested in Audi's diesel SUV and its 17/25 EPA ratings will find the Q7 TDI Quattro (225-horsepower V6 with a boat-load of torque) starting at $50,900.

All 2010 Q7 models boast standard all-wheel drive and refreshed exteriors with the brand's signature LED lighting used in the daytime running lights, turn signals (optional), and taillights. Interior upgrades include available ventilated front seats, upgraded interior ambient lighting and several cosmetic improvements within the cabin. Most appreciated will be the third-generation MMI infotainment system with its 3D map powered by an automotive-grade NVIDIA™ chip for graphics processing. According to Audi, the system's voice-based controls will respond to such command as "I'm hungry," "I need gas" and "I need coffee" and point the driver to the closest options. Check the new Q7 out in the gallery below and in the full press release after the jump.

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Spy Pics :Hardcore Audi R8 ‘Sport’

BMW has enjoyed some success with its CSL range of stripped out ready-to-race M3s and Mercedes-Benz has delivered several of its own lightweight Black Series model. That leaves the third major German luxury automaker, Audi, which will soon offer uprated sports versions of its regular production models. Speaking at a recent press event Audi’s quattro development chief Stefan Reil hinted that lightweight versions of the R8 supercar and TT were being considered.

Still in the works is a high-performance RS version of the R8 and possibly even an R8 V-12 TDI but according to Reil Audi could also offer a new “Sport” derivative of the R8 as well as the smaller TT. This wouldn’t be the first time Audi developed such a car. Back in 2005 Audi released a limited edition TT quattro Sport to mark the end of production of the previous generation TT. The car had a slight increase in power over the standard model as well as firmer suspension, a stripped our interior and Recaro bucket seats.

"This is the direction you can go and make business," Reil explained. "It makes sense for the TT, and maybe in the future in an R8."

This week reports have emerged claiming Audi is testing its new R8 Sport. A mysterious prototype with several race-inspired elements has been sighted in Germany, including an oversized fixed rear wing, small canards attached to the front bumper, and bigger brakes. Not much else is known but expect a modest power hike over the standard R8 V-10’s 525 horsepower output.

Such a model will likely be aimed at well-heeled racing enthusiasts as well as small privateer teams not willing to splurge on the more extreme R8 LMS race car.

Audi’s Italian cousin Lamborghini showed the way with the Gallardo LP550-2 Valentino Balboni, and we hope that the German automaker will follow suit.

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Audi S7 spied testing

With the new Audi A7 four door coupe ready to be revealed sometime in 2010, the German automaker is also preparing a factory tuned S7 version of the luxury limousine, and this high performance hot rod is busy testing.

Even if it seems like you are looking at an Audi A6, the German engineers made a few modifications to the full size sedan. The rear bumper has been slightly adjusted fitting in larger air intakes and a set of widened wheel arches. The production A7 will also feature the company’s signature fast back C-pillar that was introduced on the Audi A5 Sportback.

Under the hood of the future A7, Audi will use three different direct gasoline injection engines including a 2.8 Liter FSI and 3.0 Liter TFSI V6s as well as a 4.0 Liter TFSI V8. The alternatively fueled diesel options include a 2.7 Liter V6 and both turbocharged and twin-turbocharged versions of the existing 3.0 Liter TDI V6.

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Audi announces U.S. pricing for 2010 R8, including R8 V10

Audi's R8 - often referred to as a detuned Gallardo - recently got a step closer to its Lamborghini cousin with the addition of a 5.2L V10 engine, and today Audi has released U.S. pricing for the 2010 model.

The 2010 Audi R8 V10 starts at $146,000 for the manual-equipped version, while the dual-clutch R tronic transmission bumps the price to $155,100. That's a considerably better bargain than the first R8 V10 sold in the U.S., which went for $500,000 at auction back in February. A second also sold for $350,000.

To be fair, however, the money from those cars went to charity. The winning bidders, Tom Gonzales and George and Sue Levin, took possession of their new R8 V10s today as well.

"Plenty of people have been waiting to get behind the wheel of these remarkable sports cars, so it’s great to give these generous donors – Mr. Gonzales and the Levins – the first opportunities to enjoy the Audi R8 V10 experience," said Jon Kolody, Area Sales Manager, Audi of America.

Shipment of the rest of the R8 V10 fleet will begin now that the first buyers have their cars.

The standard R8 with the 4.2L V8 engine starts from $114,200 this year, with the R tronic raising the price by the same $9,100 interval to $123,300.

With the addition of the V10 engine, Audi moves the R8's performance into the supercar category, with 0-60mph ticking past in 3.7 seconds - a hair quicker than the 638hp Corvette ZR1.

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New Car 2009 ABT AS3 Audi A3

ABT AS3 Audi A3 2009 - Front Side View

ABT Sportsline has unveiled the new ABT AS3 aerodynamic kits and power upgrades for the Audi A3. 2009 ABT AS3 Audi A3 comes with modified bonnet, grill, bumpers, fenders and LED light line from their product range the car has an even greater presence. It stands there as if it’s ready to attack, even more so with the ABT bodywork kit signalizing extra power and sportiness: its front spoiler insert, side skirts, fender inserts as well as a rear apron have been tailor made for the cool body of the ABT AS3. Even the typical ABT 4-pipe exhaust unit blends into the sporty design perfectly. The Allgaeu company recommends mounting model AR or BR ABT Sports alloys, which are available in 18 and 19 inch, as an extravagant supplement to the optical package.

ABT AS3 Audi A3 also comes with the 1.4 TSI, brings a brisk 160HP (118kW) to the road instead of the series-standard 125HP (92kW). With the next largest unit, the 1.8 TSI 160HP (118kW) achieves an everyday 210HP (154kW). And the largest petrol engine, the 2.0 TSI, provides 240HP (177kW) with ABT as opposed to 200HP (147kW) in the basic version. In spite of the HP boost the fuel consumption does not increase and the reliability of the engines remains the same. ABT also offers performance increases for the two-liter turbo diesel: depending on the starting power output either 170HP (125kW) or 190HP (140kW) is achieved – and both bring plenty of torque with them.

Wallpaper: 2009 ABT AS3 Audi A3

Audi A3 ABT AS3 2009 - Side View

Audi A3 ABT AS3 2009 - Rear Side View

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New Car 2009 Senner Audi A5 Black and White

2009 Senner Audi A5 Black and White - Front Side View

Senner Tuning has released a new styling package for the 2009 Audi A5 with various options which includes both exterior and interior enhancements. The Senner Audi A5 Black and White sits on 20″ ASA GT1 alloy wheels that come in Shiny Silver or Matt Black with high performance tires. The Senner Audi A5 Black and White sits package also includes a Bilstein B16 PSS10 coilover suspension which is fully adjustable with individual height adjustment and a new stainless steel exhaust system with 4 tailpipes. The aerodynamics package of the Senner Audi A5 Black and White includes a carbon fiber front spoiler apron, carbon-fiber mirror housings, a rear spoiler and spoiler lip and a carbon fiber rear bumper.

For the 3.0 TDI engine, the Senner Audi A5 Black and White can be fitted with a power pack which takes the numbers up to 300 hp and 600 Nm of torque. The Senner Audi A5 Black and White 3.0 TDI has a top speed of 280 km/h and the tuner offers an engine warranty.

Senner Audi A5 Black and White 2009 - Side View

Audi A5 2009 Senner Black and White - Rear Side View

2009 Senner Audi A5 Black and White - Dashboard View

Source: Lincah

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New Car 2010 Audi A5 Sportback

Audi A5 Sportback 2010 - Front Side View

Audi A5 Sportback comes with an exciting design and powerful TFSI, FSI and TDI engines, the Audi A5 Sportback will arrive at Audi dealerships in September 2009. The car will be open for ordering with an entry price of EUR 36,050 for the 2.0 TDI version. A version with an even more attractive price will follow in the middle of 2010. This will make the Audi A5 Sportback the entry model for the A5 model range.

The Audi A5 Sportback excels in its elegant, elongated, sporty profile. The large hatchback fits perfectly into the tail-end styling. The spoiler lip and the diffuser insert provide contrast and emphasize the athletic tautness of the elongated contour. The coupe-like silhouette is the result of a roof section with a long, tapering roofline that is moderately lower by 36 mm (1.42 inches) than the Audi A4 Sedan and of the short overhangs at the front and rear as well as the long wheelbase of 2,810 mm (9.22 feet) and the four frameless doors with their slim, dynamic window styling.

The Audi A5 Sportback provides a full measure of comfort on all four seats and convenient entry and exit through every door. Despite the fact that its exterior height is less than that of the A4 Sedan and that its roof tapers at the rear, the Sportback has comparable headroom and legroom.

All Audi A5 Sportback engines are of the direct injection type – the diesel versions are sophisticated common rail TDI units while the gasoline engines are based on the FSI concept. All engines meet the EU5 exhaust emission standard. The diesel versions are equipped with particulate filters.

Initially the Audi A5 Sportback will be available with a choice of two gasoline and three diesel engines. The two gasoline versions, the 2.0 TFSI quattro with an output of 155 kW (211 hp) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque and the 3.2-liter V6 quattro generating 195 kW (265 hp) are both equipped with the Audi valvelift system.

The following engines are also available right from the start: the 2.0 TDI with 125 kW (170 hp), 350 Nm (258 lb-ft), a 6-speed manual gearbox and start/stop system, the 2.7 TDI with 140 kW (190 hp) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft), and the three-liter V6 TDI with 176 kW (240 hp) plus an enormous 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) of maximum torque and quattro all-wheel drive.

2010 Audi A5 Sportback - Front Angle Top View

Audi A5 Sportback 2010 - Rear Angle Top View

2010 Audi A5 Sportback - Side View

Audi A5 Sportback 2010 - Front Side View

2010 Audi A5 Sportback - Rear Side View

Audi A5 Sportback 2010 - Front Angle View

2010 Audi A5 Sportback - Dashboard View

Audi A5 Sportback 2010 - Seats View

Source : Lincah

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New Car 2009 ABT Audi S4

ABT Sportsline has released the ABT Audi S4 performance upgrade program. The ABT Sportsline Audi S4 is powered by the 3.0 TFSI V6 engine that outputs in standard form 333 HP (245kW) and 440 Nm of torque. With the ABT Audi S4 power pack takes these numbers up to 435 hp / 320 kW and 520 Nm of torque. the top speed of the ABT Sportsline Audi S4 is 282 km/h and the 0 to 100 km/h acceleration time is 0.5 seconds faster than the standard car which means the custom S4 can reach the mark in 4.6 seconds.

The Allgäu tuner recommends the 4-pipe sports exhaust unit and the ABT AR or BR wheels as fitting supplements to the power image of the car. The smart “round pieces” are available in sizes from 18 to 20 inches and can be supplied with fitting sports tyres.

2009 ABT Audi S4 Wallpaper

ABT Sportsline Audi S4 2009 - Front Side View

2009 ABT Audi S4 - Rear Angle View

ABT Audi S4 2009 - Rear Side View

2009 ABT Audi S4 - Side View

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