The A9 Appears to Be a Reality in the Near Future
Audi has a new car at the top of their lineup and it is sure to impress. The A9 is a high-end four door coupe which shares a platform with driver favorites such as the Lambo Estoque and A8. Engine choices include a 6.3 W12 and many consider this to be a direct competitor to the Porsche Panamera and the Mercedes-Benz CL along with the BMW GranCoupe.
When Audi designed this car, the goal of the engineers was to create a car that symbolizes Audi’s commitment to creating a sporty sibling for the third-generation A8. They have been working toward this goal for some time now as seen by the seventh-generation A6 and the four-door A7. Audi wants to guarantee their place in the luxury car field and cars such as this are sure to help them reach this goal.
Audi A9 Concept
Although Audi has yet to say this car will become a production series, it does appear that this will be the case. Work has been moving forward on both the engineering and accountancy level, according to a company insider. Many are hoping this is the case as what has been seen of this car and what has been projected excite many.
One of the reasons many are interested in the Audi A9 is leaked information which shows Audi plans to make use of an aluminum space frame structure along with components from the MLB driveline architecture. The Modularen Langsbauksten (MLB) is a modular longitudinal architecture used in Lamborghini’s production version of their Estoque concept car. Rumors such as this attract a great deal of attention.
High end A8 Audis already make use of the air sprung chassis and lightweight structure expected to be used for the A9. The structure and chassis have their own production line at the Neckarsulm factory of the company. Audi hopes to improve efficiency by using this platform for three vehicles, both in terms of production and purchasing activities. How does this benefit drivers interested in purchasing this car?
Audi and Lamborghini hope that making use of economies of scale and production commonality, they can make these cars a reality for the average driver. They found that this worked for the Gallardo and the A8 so the hope is the same will allow the companies to offer the A9 and Estoque to those interested in owning these cars.
Lamborghini explains why they need to work together to make these concept cars production series models. When Audi and Lamborghini collaborate as they did with the R8 and Gallardo, the driver is the one who wins. Without this partnership, the companies would be unable to produce these cars due to the high cost of investment required for each model. This partnership is what is needed to make these cars a reality. ‘
Drivers don’t have to be concerned that the cars will be close in terms of style and power. Different engines are planned for the Estoque and the A9 to ensure they differ from each other. Most expect the A9 to be powered by a 4.0-litre V8 or a 6.3-litre W12, depending on the preferences of the driver. Two diesel units are expected to be offered also, a V6 and V8 version. The Estoque will be powered by the engine currently used in the Gallardo, the 5.2-litre V10.
Although the Estoque is expected to have certain things in common with the A9, the competition for this model is expected to be more along the lines of the Aston Martin Rapide, the Bentley Continental GT and act as a successor to the Ferrari 612 Scaglietti. The A9 is set to go up against the Panamera and CL as mentioned above. Lamborghini does state that the Estoque will retain all of the core values of the company.
Audi designed the A9 to be the most imposing of all models produced by the company. Dimensions of this model will be similar to those seen in Audi’s flagship saloon. The saloon comes in at 5140mm in length, 1950mm in width and sits on a wheelbase which measures 2990mm. The Estoque, in contrast, is 5148mm long, 1991mm wide and sits on a 2997mm wheelbase.
The one big unknown, when it comes to the A9, is the form to be used with this vehicle. Many look to the A5 and A7, both of which made use of a fastback design. These cars come with a large tailgate to allow for easy access to the boot. With the help of the aluminium spaceframe structure, this would be easy to accomplish with the A9 also. The big question is whether or not the public would find the fastback design to be acceptable in another car.
Lamborghini plans different things for the Estoque. Most expect it to be the classic three-box design. This design was first seen in the Paris motor show in 2008 and customers were impressed.
According to reports, the Audi A9 will be seen in 2016. Although rumors of this car have been around for years now, many believe drivers will actually be able to purchase this car. If you have been thinking of buying a luxury car, but have been putting it off, you may wish to do so for a while longer. Save your money so you can be at the head of the line when this car is released. With what this car has to offer, you are sure to be glad you waited for the A9 to be released. Experts expect this car to offer great things, ones which haven’t been seen in the past.
The Audi RS5 Is an Outstanding Car in Every Way
Many have been anticipating the release of the 2013 Audi RS5 and its arrival won’t disappoint. This 4.2L V8 powered machine provides 450 HP and 317 LB-FT of torque which is sure to please even the most demanding of drivers. Equipped with a seven-speed DCT transmission, the RS5 goes from 0-60 in 4.5 seconds on its way to 174 MPH. Drivers are sure to fall in love the first time they get behind the wheel.
Based on the popular A5 model, the RS5 makes use of the same chassis and many cabin components. Under the bonnet is where the differences will be found. Each vehicle offers something new in terms of performance and the RS5 is no exception to this rule.
The entry level A5 model comes with a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine capable of producing 211 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Many consider this to be a coupé that demands respect wherever it goes. For those who want a car with more to offer, the S5 is the next model in the lineup and this vehicle features a supercharged 3.0L engine rated at 333 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. Although the price does go up significantly when this model is chosen, the performance offered makes it worth every bit of the added cost.
The RS5 boosts the top spot in this line-up due in part to its direct-injected all-aluminium engine. This 4.2-litre naturally aspirated eight-cylinder engine receives a 450 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque rating. With most models in this line-up drivers have a choice between an automatic or manual gearbox. With the RS5, Audi paired the engine with the seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission to ensure this car offers the performance drivers are looking for.
One thing Audi is known for is its Quattro all-wheel drive system and the RS5 features this technology as do the A5 and the S5. With this system, all four wheels receive power, but 60% is directed to the rear of the car to improve overall driving dynamics. Audi did make changes to this system in the RS5 though. This model comes with a rear sport differential so traction isn’t lost no matter how hard the driver chooses to push the car.
Audi made changes to the RS5 to distinguish it from other models in the lineup. One glance at the vehicle and drivers will see that it sports more aggressive looks than seen in other models. No part of the vehicle was overlooked during the exterior design process and drivers may choose from various options, including a Sport Exhaust system. The RS5 is the only vehicle with a retractable rear spoiler also and these upgrades gives this car a whole new look, one that hasn’t been seen from Audi before when it comes to the A5 lineup.
There are some similarities between the RS5 and the A5 and S5. All have the same independent trapezoidal-link rear suspension and five-link front suspension. In the RS5 though, springs and dampers have been upgraded to ensure the car offers the desired performance while body roll has been reduced thanks to a lower ride height. Brakes have been upgraded to eight-piston mono-bloc front calipers and single-piston rear calipers, all of which are placed over drilled and vented rotors. Nineteen-inch alloys are standard on this model although drivers have the option of upgrading to other choices.
2013 Audi RS5
First introduced at the 2010 Geneva motor show, the Audi RS5 became available in America in 2013. There were advantages to those living in Europe. Other changes have been made for the American version of this machine, including a revised transmission to make shifts faster and electric power steering to improve fuel economy. The dynamic suspension found on European models is lacking in American versions.
The cabin hasn’t been overlooked either. In the RS5, you’ll find RS design carbon fibre inlays, upgraded Nappa leather, a black head-liner and a flat-bottom, three-spoke, multi-function steering wheel. The front sport bucket seats can be adjusted 12 ways and come embossed with the RS5 logo.
Drivers are sure to find a comfortable driving position and the passenger will too thanks to bucket seats which are deeply bolstered. The steering wheel offers comfort in perforated leather and paddle controls are mounted on the steering wheel. The black leather interior and carbon fiber trim provide a classy look to the interior and real aluminium outlines the window switches, buttons and vents and provides a nice contrast.
As with the A5 and S5, the RS5 comes with the Multi-Media Interface which, once the driver learns to operate it, is much appreciated. Features of this interface include cloud-based mapping offered by Google, WiFi connectivity for a number of devices and a subscription based data plan. Although a four passenger vehicle, most won’t enjoy riding in the back unless they are small and even children may find it to be cramped.
The engine starts right up with a push of the aluminium start-stop button and begins idling right away. Experts say the Sport Exhaust, an option on this vehicle, is necessary to provide the sounds expected from a car of this type and the Drive Select System is appreciated as it provides the driver with more control over the engine response, differential and transmission.
Overall, this car has a great deal to offer drivers. There are a few drawbacks, such as under-steer in the car, but most don’t care. Audi should definitely be on the list of models to consider as many will find it is exactly what they want and need in their car.
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.
