Saving Time and Money with Audi Connect
Many drivers worry about rising fuel costs and it is easy to see why. Fuel remains a necessity for most as transportation is needed to get from one place to another. Although many cities have one or more forms of mass transportation, those who live in other areas of the country don’t have the option of taking public transport. Audi understands the need for great fuel economy in vehicles and dedicates itself to providing these savings in every way possible. Not only are they working to build new cars which save on fuel, they are now offering an online service which shows fuel prices with just the touch of a button.
This new Audi Fuel Savings online service begins operation in May 2013 and will initially be offered for the A3 and A3 Sportback models. The service is built into the Mobile Phone Preparation-High with Audi Connect feature and will slowly be added to other Audi models during 2013. The only two models not receiving the online service this year are the R8 and TT as both will adopt the technology at a future date. How does the system go about saving drivers money on fuel prices?
When the driver pushes the button to activate the service, an online database is consulted to find the cheapest filling stations in close proximity to the vehicle, where the driver is heading or at his or her selected location. The type of fuel needed for the vehicle is also considered as the system provides this list of fueling stations. When the list appears, drivers have the option of sorting it by distance or by price and, after a filling station has been selected, another push of the button pulls the directions to this fueling station up for the driver. Saving money on fuel becomes much easier as a result.
The enhanced Audi connect option needs to be combined with the hard-disk based Satellite Navigation Plus system to make use of this and many other features. When these two optional items are selected, the drive will not only see fuel savings, but will also receive various other informative and useful components which make the driving experience more pleasurable in many ways. The A3 allows drivers to purchase both as part of their cost-effective Technology Pack High with Audi connect to save on these features. What exactly is Audi connect and how does it benefit drivers?
Audi Connect
Audi connect is a series of technologies offered by the company. All are designed to connect the driver to his or her car and the Internet as well as the infrastructure. With the newest version of Audi connect, not only will drivers get current fuel prices, they continue to have access to Google Street View, Google Maps, Audi Music Stream, Audi online traffic information and much more. Picturebook Navigation provides access to Twitter, Facebook and other social media services along with transportation information, a current events guide for certain cities and towns and news updates. Drivers have the information they want and need right at their fingertips.
Picturebook Navigation is sure to attract many drivers to Audi. With this feature, drivers can store photos of destinations in the system. Each destination may be linked using geopositioning data in a picture book stored on the server. Drivers have the option of using their personal photos, they may choose photos from the Internet community or they can take images from Google Maps Street View. Once these images have been stored, the driver uses them to plot out a trip. Photos may be added to this feature using either their myAudi account which they have linked to their vehicle or through the use of an SD card.
For those who wish to communicate using Facebook or Twitter while in their car, preconfigured text modules are used. These modules may be sent to anyone the driver wishes to share them with, including business partners, friends, family and customers. Each module can be customized to include data the driver wishes to share with others. With many constantly on the go thanks to work and family commitments, being able to stay connected while in the car makes life easier in every way which is why drivers are sure to love the many features of the Audi connect system.
To get started using this system, drivers need to set up a myAudi account at www.audi.co.uk. The link to this feature may be found at the bottom of the homepage. For those who don’t wish to use a computer or laptop to set up this account, a free MMI connect app is offered for smart phones and devices making use of Android 4 and Apple iOS6 operating systems.
With Audi connect, drivers can do more than they ever dreamed of. If you are in the market for a new vehicle, be sure to request the Satellite Navigation plus and Mobile Phone Preparation-High with Audi connect options. Doing so allows you to accomplish more in a shorter period of time. Although the online service offering fuel prices is only available for the A3 family at this time, most models will have this function by the end of the year with other models to follow.
Audi continues to be known for its technologies. From engines and transmissions to e-tron and quattro, Audi remains a leader in many fields. The Audi connect system will take this to a whole new level in terms of driver safety, automotive enjoyment and comfort. You are sure to fall in love.
A Look at the Audi TT Ultra Quattro Concept Car is One You Won’t Forget
Audi engineers lead the way in terms of innovation. The main focus of the design team lately has been to reduce the weight of their vehicles and the TT 2.0 TFSI Coupe is an outstanding example of this. Engineers reduced the weight of the Audi TT Ultra Quattro Concept by 300kg while upgrading the power to 310PS. This vehicle races from 0-62mph in only 4.2 seconds while topping out at more than 170mph. Audi enthusiasts are sure to be impressed with this machine and drivers new to Audi will be also. The intelligent material mix allows for considerable weight savings across the board, even in series-production versions. The deployment of these materials in the future could benefit all Audi models.
The TT 2.0 TFSI Coupe comes in at an impressive 1,111kg and yet the engineers didn’t have to sacrifice either the quattro all-wheel drive or the powerful petrol engine. Capable of producing 310PS and 400Nm of torque, engineers equipped the car with a six-speed transmission which results in a power-to-weight ratio of 279PS per ton. Modifications made to the four-cylinder engine lowered the weight by 25 kilograms. These changes may be seen in the flywheel, sump, crankshaft, crankcase, bolts, balancer shafts and certain ancillary units.
Audi engineers went over every area of this car with a fine tooth comb to find areas where reductions could be made. The innovative hybrid body shell weighs only 206 kilograms and this includes 98 kilograms of detachable parts. Audi wanted to ensure they get rid of every gram of weight that is not essential in this vehicle. The structure of the body accounts for another 43 kilograms of weight reduction and, combined with the detachable body parts, accounts for a 100 kilogram weight savings. Other factors which help to decrease the weight include B-pillars, the redesigned roof carbon fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP) and the centre tunnel along with floor and hinge reinforcement magnesium components.
Audi TT Ultra Quattro Concept
Audi didn’t stop here though. They also examined the braking system and found that ceramic brakes and aluminum fixed calipers would reduce the weight even more along with making the switch to a titanium exhaust system. This exhaust system features a centrally mounted tailpipe. Audi equipped this model with CFRP wheels complete with high-strength aluminum spokes which shaved off another 20 kilograms.
One reason Audi went to such lengths to achieve this weight reduction is to decrease the inertial mass of the TFSI engine during acceleration. The series-production car did have an issue with this and the 300kg weight reduction helps significantly. Drivers are sure to be impressed with how far they have come in such a short time.
What really attracts many drivers to this vehicle though is the emphatic styling. Drivers immediately notice and appreciate the large spoiler which draws the eye and shows Audi’s love of motor sports. The rear wing base is made using milled aluminum to provide support and the wing itself is constructed using visible carbon fibre. Neither detract from the overall appearance of the car. Audi wants to make sure this concept car stands out at the Worthersee festival and took steps to ensure this happens.
The Audi TT Ultra Quattro concept car sports a special crystal white colour and this colour is nicely set off by the carbon fibre-reinforced elements found in the tailgate, flanks and roof. The interior wasn’t neglected either. This same material is used on the centre console, the door trim and the cross-bracing which is used in place of the rear seat bench. Front bucket seats are now made using fibreglass-reinforced polymer, identical to those found in the R8 GT. This helps with overall weight reduction as the new seats weigh 22 kilograms less than previous versions.
Many wonder if Audi sacrificed on equipment when it came to reducing the weight of this vehicle. This is not the case though. The TT Ultra Quattro comes complete with electric window controls, air conditioning and an electromechanical parking brake. This is to be expected in an Audi though. Audi chose to take this a step further and incorporated items such as compact door cameras. These cameras take the place of exterior mirrors and transmit images to the driver in the digital cockpit.
The TT models are already popular with drivers who can choose from a coupe version, a TT roadster, a TTS roadster or a TT RS roadster. The coupe comes in three trim levels: Sport, S line and Black Edition. The TT roadster offers the same trim levels while the TTS roadster comes in TTS and Black Edition trim levels. Those who choose the TT RS roadster may select either the standard trim level or the TT RS plus model. Each driver is sure to find a model that meets their needs in every way which is why so many choose to turn to Audi when the time comes to purchase a new car.
Hopefully Audi will allow this concept car to be used in one or more of their driving experiences. Those who wish to test their speed skills at one of many exciting venues, such as Nurburgring, Silverstone or Finland ice fields, may be able to do so in the future. When drivers see what Audi has managed to do with this vehicle, they are sure to fall in love. Audi has been known for innovation for quite some time now and the TT Ultra Quattro is a good example of why this is the case. Drivers don’t have to worry though. Audi is sure to continue in this tradition and find new and exciting ways to keep improving on their cars.
Audi: The Past & Present
The German automobile manufacturer Audi makes vehicles that range from superminis to full sized SUVs. Ingolstadt, Germany has been the Audi headquarters since 1949, and before that it was Chemnitz, Germany from 1932 to 1949. Today the Audi Company is a subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group. August Horch (1868 — 1951) founded the company in Zwickau, Germany on July 16, 1909. Due to previous business dealings, he was legally banned from using his surname Horch for his company. The court system declared that the Horch name was a registered trademark for his previous partners. However, the surname Horch means listen in German, but when translated into Latin it becomes Audi. This was a clever way to use his own name for the company back in 1910. Little did August Horch know that he had just created a legend in the automotive world!
Coming up in the UK range is the brand new Audi A3 Saloon and the 300 PS Audi S3 Saloon. A3 deliveries will be out in the autumn of 2013 while the first S3 flagship model will be delivered in early 2014. Both models are reported to have a lot of luggage and passenger space that is quite remarkable for such compact vehicles. The A3 Saloon has more seats-up luggage and load space than the Sportback, although it has the same amount of cabin space. The increased wheelbase length helps provide increased interior passenger space and also allows for comfortable entry. The capacity may also be increased by folding down the split rear seats.
The exterior design of the A3 Saloon combines the traditional three-box concept with a conventional coupe plan. The vehicle has short overhangs with a tornado-like design feature that produces a remarkable light-refracting edge that extends down the entire side. The curves of the side surfaces are even more pronounced, plus the wheel arches are more flared. The front is also improved with new bonnet contours and a redesigned air intake and bumpers. The rear of the vehicle has incorporated broad and low lights that emphasize the horizontal lines of the vehicle. The 2014 S3 Saloon has had every exterior panel changed to broaden the stance of the vehicle making it look like a tougher car that really means business on the highway! The S3 also has modified bumpers, new side sills and air intakes, an improved singleframe grille, exterior mirror housings, and the rear spoiler. The vehicle also has four oval tailpipes embedded in the diffuser.
The new A3 interior is described as having attention to detail along with clean lines. The instrument panel is slender with a curved front, a unique three or four spoke steering wheel, and a centre console that is gently turned towards the driver. This delivers a minimalist approach in the design. The MMI radio system serves as the interior focal point with its electrically extending screen. The electromechanical parking brake is conveniently pushbutton operated from its location in the centre tunnel console. The interior of the S3 Saloon has grey dial instruments, a heavily contoured S sports seats in cloth and leather trim with an all black colour scheme that employs trim strips with a black 3D look.
There are two TFSI petrol engines that will be available for the new A3 Saloon range. TFSI stands for Turbo fuel stratified injection, and it is a kind of forced-aspiration or turbo engine which increases power and torque. TFSI engines allow regulation of injection pressure, and they also improve fuel distribution and compression ratios. Fuel combustion efficiency is increased, and higher power is attained during vehicle pick up. The 1.4 litre TFSI engine produces power of 122 – 140PS or 120hp and 200 Nm or 148.00 lb-ft of torque, while the 1.8 litre TFSI engine produces power of 180PS or 178hp with 250 Nm or 184.39 lb-ft of torque. The diesel 2.0 litre TDI version produces 150PS or 148hp with 320 Nm or 236.02 lb-ft of torque. The S3 Saloon uses a 2.0 litre TFSI engine that can produce power of 300PS and 380 Nm or 280.27 lb-ft of torque. It takes advantage of advanced efficiency technologies such as an exhaust manifold that is integrated in the cylinder head, dual fuel injection, the unique Audi valvelift system, and thermal management using a rotary valve module.
The 1.4 TFSI 140PS version uses Cylinder-on-Demand (CoD) technology for increased fuel efficiency. Two cylinders are deactivated at low engine loads which reduces fuel consumption, so the combined economy may reach a great 60.1 mpg with CO2 emissions of 109 g/km. The A3 1.4 TFSI Saloon can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 8.4 seconds with a top speed of 132 mph. The 1.8 litre TFSI version can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 7.3 seconds with a top speed of 144 mph. The average fuel economy is 49.6 mpg with CO2 emissions of 135 g/km. The diesel version can help the A3 Saloon accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 8.4 seconds with a top speed of 132 mph. Fuel economy is rated at 67.3 mpg with CO2 emissions of 108 g/km. The S3 uses an S tronic transmission with a quattro AWD system to aid in acceleration from 0 to 62 mph in just 4.9 seconds. If a standard manual transmission is used, it will take 5.3 seconds. For both, the top speed is limited to 155 mph electronically, and the average fuel economy is just over 40 mpg with CO2 emissions of 159 to 162 g/km.
Audi S3
Safety is always a big concern for the A3 and S3 models. The body of the A3 is very rigid, so the passengers are protected by strong steel if there is an accident. The A3 is expected to have multiple safety features such as a lane-departure warning system, an active cruise control to keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front, blind spot detection, and cameras that face forward and rearward so you can see any obstacles in your way.
Audi A1 & A3 – The New ‘Cylinder On Demand’ Models
Audi continues to improve on their lineup of vehicles to meet customer needs. The latest example of this is the introduction of Audi Cylinder On Demand Engines to two popular line-ups. Now both the A1 and A3 Audi vehicles come with this option. Under light throttle loads, the engine shuts down two of the four cylinders to save on fuel.
On A1 models, the 1.4-litre 138bhp TFSI CoD gets 60.1mpg while producing 109g/km of CO2 emissions. Power hasn’t been sacrificed on this model either as going from 0-62 takes only 7.9 seconds. Drivers can choose between the three-door model and the A1 Sportback and achieve these amazing figures. Those who opt to upgrade to the Black Edition or S line models will find fuel economy drops to 57.6mpg with CO2 emissions rising to 113g/km. All versions feature a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox at this time, but Audi will be releasing a six-speed manual version in the coming months.
Drivers who choose the standard A3 Audi with the 1.4 TFSI 120 bhp engine see fuel consumption figures in the 54.3mpg range while CO2 emissions come in at 120g/km. Upgrading to the new A3 CoD models, the driver can expect these numbers to improve. Fuel economy on the new CoD A3 models comes in at 60.1mpg and the three-door version can make the 0-62mph sprint in only 8.3 seconds while the Sportback does it in 8.4. All come with a six-speed manual gearbox. Having the Cylinder on Demand technology has only made these vehicles more popular as they already had a great deal to recommend them.
The Audi A1 comes with automatic start/stop to improve fuel and CO2 efficiency. Energy saving tips are provided in the Driver’s Information System, including a gearshift indicator. This model comes with 15″ x 6.5J ’7-arm’ design alloy wheels and 205/55 R15 tyres. Locking wheel bolts and a tyre repair kit are standard on this model.
The Audi A1 features a concert radio/single CD player with MP3 file compatibility. Six speakers in the front and rear and two tweeters ensure music sounds great at all times. Drivers also get an AUX-In socket, an SD card reader and a manually retractable 6.5″ display screen.
Driver and front passenger sets can be adjusted manually for height and the front seats are designed for easy entry. Split folding rear seats, Zeitgeist cloth upholstery and a three-spoke Sports steering wheel are just a few of the features found in this model. Drivers appreciate the electronically operated and heated exterior mirrors and the body-coloured door mirrors with integrated indicators.
To ensure the safety of occupants, Audi has equipped the A1 with a driver, front passenger and front side and head airbag system. Three-point seat belts, rear head restraints and remote central locking are other features found in all A1 models. For those who wish to have more in their car, Sport, S line, Black Edition and Amplified Edition are a few of the trim lines available.
The A1 Sport model offers mobile phone preparation with Bluetooth interface, air vent sleeves in high gloss black and a sports suspension along with many other upgrades.The S line model really stands out thanks to the S line body styling with a radiator grille in high gloss black, side skirts, a front Sports bumper and rear bumper with diffuser. This model also features an S line roof spoiler and S line badges on the front wings.
The A1 Black Edition builds on those features found in the S line. Here you get an Audi sound system with six-channel amplifier, six loudspeakers in front and rear and much more. The top-of-the-line Amplified model is a favorite with drivers everywhere. This car comes with a rear diffuser and tailpipe trims in high gloss black, Black Tornado cloth upholstery and stainless steel pedals with black rubber inserts. These are just a few of the features found in the A1 Amplified edition and all with be complemented nicely by the cylinder on demand technology.
Choose the Audi A3 Sportback and you’ll find much to love. Choose from the SE, Sport or S line trim level. All come with an efficiency program in the Driver’s Information System and the start-stop system with energy recuperation. An electromechanical parking brake, space-saving spare wheel and 16-inch “10-spoke’ design alloy wheels are standard as is the Audi Music Interface and Bluetooth interface.
Those who choose to purchase the A3 Sportback fall in love with the electrically extending 5.8-inch QVGA colour display screen and the Driver’s Information System with on-board computer. The A3 also features an MMI radio with control panel, a voice control system and preparation for an SD car based navigation system. The seats are covered in Marathon cloth and rear seats fold down for more space.
Standard exterior equipment on this model includes front fog lights, electrically adjustable and heated exterior wing mirrors and a roof spoiler painted the same colour as the body. The interior hasn’t been neglected either. A3 Sportback owners get a four-spoke leather multi-function steering wheel, a front centre armrest, manual air conditioning and micrometallic silver inlays. Upgrade to an S tronic model and gear shift paddles are included.
The Sport A3 Sportback model comes with features such as Audi Drive Select and chrome exhaust tailpipe trims. The range topping S line A3 is equipped with 18-inch X 7.5J ’5-parallel-spoke design’ partly polished alloy wheels and door sill trims with the S line logo.
With so much to love when it comes to the A1 and A3 Audi models, it’s no wonder drivers flock to these cars. Thanks to Cylinder on Demand technology, drivers are sure to be even more impressed. If you have yet to check out the A1 and A3 now is the time to do so. You just may fall in love.
The New Audi S8 – An Amazing Car in Every Way
Powered by a 4.0-litre 512HP engine and an eight-speed Tiptronic transmission with paddle shifts, the Audi S8 comes equipped with the Quattro permanent all-wheel drive system that Audi is known for. The interior isn’t lacking either. Standard features on this model include ten airbags, an Alcantara headliner, standard leather upholstery and power memory front seats.
Audi wanted drivers to be able to distinguish the S8 from the A8. To make this easy, the S8 comes with more aggressive looks. Larger air intakes, quad exhaust tips, larger rocker sills and silver mirrors are just a few features of this model. The vehicle also comes with 21-inch wheels and black painted brake callipers.
Audi outfitted the interior with a three-spoke steering wheel with contrast stitching, gray instruments, Carbon atlas trim and aluminium shift paddles and pedals. Drivers may upgrade the vehicle also to better meet their needs. Adaptive cruise control, lane change assist and night vision are three upgrades drivers may wish to consider. Others include a 1400 watt, 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen Advanced system and a solar sunroof.
2013 Audi S8
Key Facts and Figures:
Engine: 4.0L Turbo V8
Power: 512HP/479 LB-FT
Transmission: 8-speed automatic with overdrive
Drivetrain: Quattro All-Wheel Drive
0-6-mph: 7.7 seconds
Drivers, on the open road, will find this car provides a wonderful experience in either Dynamic or Efficiency modes. Even with snow tires on the car, drivers won’t be distracted by road noise and the Bang and Olufsen sound system negates any natural noises that may be heard. It does so by producing varying counter frequencies.
The interior isn’t lacking in any way. Audi is known for precise workmanship and surfaces that are pleasant and the S8 is no exception. The front seats can be adjusted in 22 ways so every driver and passenger can find the perfect position. The MMI infotainment console dial is easy to use and lets drivers stay connected no matter where they are thanks to the voice recognition and finger-touch writing features.
Audi managed to boost fuel efficiency in the S8 by 23 percent while increasing power by 15 percent. This is due in large part to Audi making use of the 4.0-litre bi-turbo V8 engine with cylinder on-demand technology. When the car is traveling at speeds less than 111 mph, the V8 operates on four cylinders to save on fuel and yet drivers don’t even notice the change. Drivers never experience a turbocharging lag and the car is a pleasure to drive whether one is taking off at the line or making his or her way down a windy, country road.
Drivers find this car to be the perfect choice when taking on various weather conditions. In Dynamic mode, drivers will appreciate how the car handles on dry roads while snow is never an issue in Efficiency mode. As other drivers are struggling to make their way out of a parking space in six inches of snow, you’ll be out of yours and cruising down the road in no time at all.
Audi outfitted the S8 with the safety features drivers most want and need. Anti-lock brakes, under extreme braking, sense when the tire stops and modulates brake pressure so the tire can rotate to increase the ability of the vehicle to turn while braking. Stability controls automatically determine when the vehicle has exceeded its handling limits. When it does, engine power is reduced and/or the brakes are selectively applied so the driver doesn’t lose control of the car.
Airbags on this model are found in the front and side. Audi has also equipped the S8 with overhead and knee bags along with pretensioners. Anti-whiplash head restraints react when the S8 is hit from behind. The restraints cradle the occupant’s head so he or she is less likely to suffer from whiplash as a result of the accident. This vehicle also comes with a security system to prevent unwanted intrusion. When someone tries to start the car with a key other than the original manufacturer key, the ignition disables to prevent theft.
Standard features on this car include ABS and driveline traction control, power front height adjustable safety belts and LED low/high beam headlights. Drivers appreciate that Audi has equipped all models of this car with delay off headlamps, cornering lights, headlight washer, daytime running lights, LED brake lights and directionally adaptive headlights. Other features include four door curb lights, illuminated entry and parking assist.
Remote keyless entry is standard on the Audi S8 and the same is true of a keyless access system and panic alarm. All cars come with rear child safety door lock, a content theft-deterrent alarm system and Immobilizer III ignition disable. Lane departure and the blind spot sensor are optional while a first aid kit, low tire pressure warning and theft deterrent radio are standard.
Drivers will be very impressed with what Audi has done with the 2013 S8. Those considering the Porsche Panamera Turbo S will find this car has much more to offer and at a much lower price. Compared to the BMW Alpina B7, the S8 also wins hands down.
