Monstrous 1,000HP Jeep Grand Cherokee Takes on Audi R8 V10, Nissan GT-R and BMW X6M

Ah Russia, the land of great artists, endless distances, dashboard mounted cameras and 1,000-horsepower Jeep Grand Cherokees challenging some of the fastest cars around.

In this match, we see the previous generation Grand Cherokee SRT-8 that's powered by a Stroker 7.2-liter supercharged V8 engine competing against a completely stock Audi R8 V10 5.2 with 525-horses, a Switzer-prepped Nissan GT-R R850 with 850-ponies and a BMW X6M by Evotech with 620-horsepower.

Race through the break to watch the one mile runs.

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ABT Wastes No Time in Preparing a Tune for the 2013 Audi A3

It's only been ten days since the world premiere of the third-generation Audi A3 at the Geneva Motor Show, yet amazingly, we already have an announcement on the first tuning project, courtesy of ABT.

The German tuning brand said it is preparing a comprehensive package for the new Audi hatchback marketed under the name AS3 and which will be available for order later this year.

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Senner Tuning Muscles up the Facelifted Audi S5 Coupe

It's been roughly two years since Senner Tuning presented its own version of the Audi S5 Coupe called the "White Beast".

In the meantime, Audi presented the facelifted S5 Coupe, which received a styling makeover but more importantly, a new 3.0-liter supercharged V6 with 328bhp (333PS) that replaced the previous model's 349bhp (354PS) 4.0-liter V8.

In tune with Audi's current portfolio, Senner Tuning has unveiled a new package for the 2012 S5 Coupe.

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Spied: 2013 Audi Q5 to Receive a Trivial Makeover

The next generation Q7 isn't the only crossover model Audi is working on these days as our eagle-eyed scoop photographers filtered through the cleverly placed camouflage and spotted this facelifted Q5 while testing in Europe.

If you take closer look at the pictures that follow in the gallery below, you'll see that Audi has tapped off the corners of the Q5's grille to make it look like the current model.

What the Germans don't won't you to see is the redesigned, hexagonal front grille, which is present on all new Audi models including the 2013 A3 hatchback.

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Scoop: Audi Spotted Testing Next Generation Q7 Mule

Audi's first attempt in the full-size luxury SUV segment, the Q7, has been in the market since 2005 having received a rather subtle facelift in 2009. This means it's almost time for the Ingolstadt-based automaker to present the second generation model.

The brand with the four rings has already started work on the new Q7 with a test mule that uses a modified version of current model's body shell to hide its new and lighter platform architecture.

As you can see in these photos, the test mule's fenders are wider while it appears that the front overhang may be shorter.

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Audi Poised to Buy Ducati, Mercedes and AMG Left Out in the Cold

Four rings, four wheels and more often than not, four-wheel drive: the description fits Audi to a T. Yet the VW Group's premium brand is about to expand in the world of two wheels by acquiring a motorcycle manufacturer.

Mind you, not just any manufacturer, but Ducati, Italy’s closest thing to a Ferrari on two wheels. That comes to a surprise as since 2010, the Italian motorcycle maker formed a marketing partnership with Mercedes-owned AMG, which included AMG sponsoring the Ducati MotoGP team and the latter rolling out an AMG-branded Diavell motorbike.

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Audi Homologates A5 2012 DTM Racer Two Months Before First Event

Ever since Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz revealed their brand-new racers at the Frankfurt Motor Show, we knew that the 2012 DTM season was going to be very promising. These cars, however, were billed as concepts – and with good reason as the final versions were still under development.

Now, Audi Motorsport has revealed that the A5 DTM has been homologated and therefore, the car shown above is the one that will battle the M3 and the C-Class Coupe racers starting with this season's premiere at Hockenheimring on April 29.

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2013 Audi A3 is Newer than it Looks: Live Photos and First Videos

Audi’s Chairman of the Board Rupert Stadler formally unveiled the new three-door A3 on the opening day of the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. Of course, we already know everything there is to know about the third generation of the A3 thanks to Audi revealing full details of its brand-new premium C-segment model yesterday.

To refresh your memory, the new A3 is the first model to be based on the modular (and cost-saving) MQB platform. It sports the same length and height as the car it replaces, but is 12mm wider and has a 23mm longer wheelbase.

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New 2013 Audi A3 Makes its Official Appearance Prior to the Geneva Motor Show

Audi’s brand new A3, which will make its first public appearance at the 82nd Geneva Motor Show, seems to be following the Porsche 911's lead. Just like the 991, at a first glance, it doesn't look radically different from its predecessor, yet it is a completely new design with different proportions.

In much the same way, the third generation of Ingolstadt’s premium three-door hatchback looks familiar, but is actually an all-new design inside and out.

At 4,237mm long, 1,421mm tall and 1,777mm wide, the new A3 has about the same height and length as its predecessor but is 12mm wider and rides on a 23mm longer wheelbase that measures 2,601mm.

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2012 Audi A6 Allroad Quattro

The new Audi A6 allroad – the Avant for any kind of road

• Successful model completes the A6 model series
• Advanced powertrain technology with turbocharging and direct fuel injection
• Fuel consumption reduced by as much as 20 percent

The first two generations of the allroad quattro from the years 2000 and 2006 were winners, and Audi hopes to build on this success with the third generation. Universally talented, the new A6 allroad quattro extends the range of uses for the A6 Avant because when the asphalt ends, it just keeps on driving. Performance has improved and fuel consumption has been reduced by as much as 20 percent compared with the previous model.

Body and exterior design

The new A6 allroad quattro is 4.94 meters (16.21 ft) long, 1.90 meters (6.23 ft) wide and 1.47 (4.82 ft) meters tall, making it a few millimeters bigger than the Avant. It follows the Audi ultra lightweight construction principle familiar from the sedan, with aluminum components making up roughly 20 percent of its body. Total vehicle weight has been reduced by as much as 70 kilograms (154 lb) compared with the previous model.

The Audi A6 allroad quattro has a sportily distinctive road stance. It features balanced proportions, sharp lines delineate taut surfaces and the roof line flows into flat D-pillars. Audi offers progressive LED technology as an option for the headlights and tail lights. The xenon plus headlights can be combined with adaptive light, which ensures that the road is always properly illuminated for the situation at hand.

The body of the new A6 allroad quattro sits six centimeters (2.36 in) higher than that of the A6 Avant. Setting it apart are, in particular, the trim strips on the side sills, the more widely flared fenders and the single-frame grille with vertical slats. Stainless steel covers protect the underbody at the front and rear of the car, and the exhaust system ends in two large, flattened tailpipes. The roof rails are mounted on double bars.

The wheel well edges, the bumpers and the sills are painted in a contrasting color. Audi also offers a full paint finish in combination with the optional aluminum exterior package. The color Java Braun is available exclusively for the new A6 allroad quattro.

Interior and luggage compartment

The interior of the Audi A6 allroad quattro offers plenty of space thanks to the long wheelbase of 2.91 meters (9.55 ft). It features a lean, elegant design, exemplarily clear ergonomics and superior workmanship. A function that depicts the car’s pitch has been added to the MMI operating system, the soft keys of which are gleaming aluminum. MMI comes as standard, as does the onboard computer with efficiency program. A comprehensive package of restraint systems helps to mitigate the consequences of an accident.

Visual cues differentiating the A6 allroad quattro include the carpeting and the instrument panel, which are black throughout. Other refined details include the interior color Santos Brown and the optional aluminum inlays. The door sill trims are also made of aluminum and are emblazoned with “allroad.”

2012 JE Design Audi Q7 S-Line Widebody

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More sport for the Audi Q7 S-Line: JE DESIGN Widebody "ennobles" the sports SUV

• Aggressive body kit for the Audi Q7 S-Line
• 22-inch SUV Select and SCORPIO alloy wheels
• Performance enhancements and sports lowering available
• All components supplied with TÜV certificates

More sport, more individuality, and more overtaking prestige: Car-tuning manufacturer JE DESIGN is offering all Audi Q7 S-Line models of the Facelift generation a significant boost in exclusivity with a multipart bodywork kit and 22-inch alloy wheels.

The JE DESIGN bodywork kit, which includes door trims, merges harmoniously with the Audi Q7's contours and enhances the SUV's design. During assembly, the high-class wheel arches are glued to the bodywork, widening the vehicle by 30 millimeters per side at the front and 40 millimeters per side at the rear. Especially the fender extensions on the rear axle, with their vent holes, lend the Audi Q7 S-Line a very sporty look. Also included are front-spoiler corners, a PDC-suitable (Park Distance Control) rear-apron extension, and two JE DESIGN double-tailpipe covers, all of which are fashioned from highly polished stainless steel in an attractive diamond-shape design. A dynamic roof wing with side covers above the C pillars adds further emphasis to the sporty charisma of the JE DESIGN "Widebody". The complete styling package, including tailpipe covers, is available directly from the tuning manufacturer from 7,438 euros.

22 inches of exclusivity

For an even more exclusive look than with the standard Audi S-Line on international boulevards and streets such as "Fifth Avenue" in New York, "Kensington Palace Gardens" in London, "Avenue Montaigne" in Paris, "Avenue Princess Grace" in Monaco, "Via Suvretta" in St. Moritz, "Maximilian-Straße" in Munich, "Ostozhenka" in Moscow, or "Severn Road" in Hong Kong, the wheel arches beneath the broad fenders are filled out by single-part 10 x 22 inch SUV Select alloy wheel rims. The timeless five-spoke design wheels are available in three different color schemes (matte-black, front silver matte / shadow silver, front polished / graphite matte, polished lip) and are fitted 295/30R22 tires.

Audi’s 2012 R18 Le Mans Challenger Comes in AWD Hybrid and RWD Flavors

Ten-time winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans race Audi revealed its new contender for this year’s event in the Audi Training Center at the Munich Airport.

Named the R18 e-tron quattro, the four-wheel drive LMP1 racer combines a diesel engine, which has worked brilliantly for Audi in the past, with hybrid technology.

While the 510HP 3.7-liter V6 TDI diesel engine continues to drive the rear wheels like before, the R18 e-tron quattro also features a kinetic energy recovery system up front that captures energy during braking and feeds it to a flywheel accumulator.

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MTM's Colorful Geneva Motor Show Debuts Include 306hp Audi Q3 and $215k, 466hp VW T5

German-based tuning company MTM has shared photos and details of the vehicles it plans to debut at the 82nd Geneva International Auto Salon in a just a few days' time.

We'll start with the Audi Q3 crossover with the 2.0-liter TFSI engine. MTM's tune includes a power kit that lifts output from 170PS (168hp) to 310PS (307hp) allowing for the improvement of its 0-100km/h (62mph) sprint time by two seconds to 6.1 seconds, its top speed from 212km/h (132mph) to 250km/h (155mph).

The tuning house also adds a custom exhaust kit, a rear diffuser, a sports suspension kit, 20-inch Bimoto lightweight alloy wheels shod in 255/35 ZR20 tires and the optional black-red-gold foil wrap seen on this car.

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2012 Audi A1 Quattro

Production 333, Engine 2 liter inline-4, Aspiration turbocharged, Torque 258 lb-ft @ 2500-4500 rpm, HP 256 hp @ 6000 rpm, HP/Liter 128 hp per liter, 0-62 mph 5.7 seconds, Top Speed 152 mph.

The new head of the compact class: The Audi A1 quattro
Limited-production (333 units) A1 quattro beginning 2012 188 kW (256 hp), quattro drive, 0 – 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds Dynamic look inside and out, thoroughly equipped
Audi is crowning its successful A1 model series with an exclusive top-of-the-line model. The dynamic A1 quattro, limited to just 333 units, moves to the head of the compact class. Its two-liter, turbocharged engine produces 188 kW (256 hp) and 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) of torque, which is delivered to all four wheels. The Audi A1 quattro sprints from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 5.7 seconds and has a top speed of 245 km/h (152.24 mph).
The A1 quattro is powered by the 2.0 TFSI engine. The 1,984 cc, four-cylinder engine combines gasoline direct injection with turbocharging in the classic Audi manner. Among its highlights are the adjustable intake cam shaft and the two balance shafts, which ensure smooth operation. Maximum torque of 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) is continuously available between 2,500 and 4,500 rpm, and peak power (188 kW/256 hp) is developed at 6,000 rpm.
Every detail of the sporty, sonorous four-cylinder engine has been optimized for high performance and low fuel consumption. Common rail injection, a turbocharger with intercooler and a regulated oil pump are just a few examples. The Audi A1 quattro is expected to consume on average 8.6 liters of fuel per 100 km (27.67 US mpg). Yet it performs like a top-notch sports car: The standard sprint takes just 5.7 seconds, and top speed is 245 km/h (152.24 mph).

The 2.0 TFSI delivers its power to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system via a precisely shifting six-speed transmission, bringing Vorsprung durch Technik to the small-car class. The heart of this system is an electronically controlled, hydraulically actuated multi-plate clutch whose package of plates rotates in an oil bath.

During normal driving, the clutch sends most of the engine’s power to the front wheels. If traction decreases there, the clutch can transfer torque steplessly to the rear axle in just a few milliseconds by forcing the packages of plates together by a defined amount. A pressure reservoir helps the electric pump to develop the oil pressure. If a wheel on one of the axles should slip, it is braked by the electronic differential lock (EDL).
The placement of the multi-plate clutch at the rear axle provides for a harmonious distribution of the axle loads, and the chassis of the Audi A1 quattro has been adapted to the dynamics of the drivetrain. It is much more tautly tuned than that of the production model. The front suspension is a McPherson construction; a four-link axle is used at the rear. The sensitive and efficient electrohydraulic power steering has a sporty, direct 14.8:1 steering ratio.

The Audi A1 quattro rolls on 8.0 J x 18 cast alloy wheels. They are Glacier White, feature an exclusive turbine design and are fitted with 225/35-series tires. The internally vented front brake discs measure 312 millimeters (12.28 in) in diameter and are gripped by black calipers. The ESP stabilization program includes a sport mode and can be switched off entirely for a trip to the race track, for example.
One look is all it takes to see that the Audi A1 quattro is a very special vehicle. It is available only in Glacier White metallic, and its roof is painted high-gloss black. The front bumper is muscular, the frame and grate of the single-frame grille are high-gloss black. The curved bars in the headlights – the wings – are red. The grille, the roof arch and the rear hatch sport quattro badges.

The rear windows are tinted; the roof flows into a large, two-color wing. The color black accentuates the rear hatch and the diffuser. The LED rear lights are tinted; the rear bumper sports a distinctive look. The exhaust system terminates in two polished dual tailpipes on the left and the right, each measuring 100 millimeters (3.94 in) in diameter. The A1 quattro is 3,987 millimeters (13.08 ft) long, 1,740 millimeters (5.71 ft) wide and 1,416 millimeters (4.65 ft) tall, making it somewhat longer than the model on which it is based. Luggage capacity is 210 liters (7.42 cu ft); folding down the rear seats increases this to 860 liters (30.37 cu ft).
Cool, sporty black dominates the interior of the Audi A1 quattro. The seats and the armrests on the doors are covered in Silk Nappa leather with contrasting red seams. The S sport seats up front have pronounced bolsters, integrated head restraints and a quattro badge on the backrest covers. The seats feature multi-way adjustment. The lower section of the center console shines in high-gloss black; the footrest and the pedal caps are made of brushed stainless steel. Red seams frame the floor mats, and the door sill trims bear A1 quattro badges.

The instrument cluster has a number of eye-catching features, including white needles, a red tachometer, the quattro logo and the color display for the driver information system. The multifunction sport steering wheel is flattened at the bottom, wrapped in leather with contrasting red stitching and sports the car’s serial number. The shift lever knob is made of aluminum. Many control elements have an aluminum-look finish.
The Audi A1 quattro will be available from the second half of 2012 and will be supplied to customers with a full range of equipment. It includes many features taken directly from the luxury class, including xenon plus headlights, high-beam assistant, adaptive brake lights, LED interior lighting package, light and rain sensor, automatically dimming interior mirror, rear parking system, automatic air conditioning, alarm system, storage package, convenience key and cruise control.

The infotainment equipment likewise leaves nothing to be desired. It includes a CD changer, a digital radio tuner, the Audi music interface and MMI navigation plus. The Bose sound system drives 14 speakers with 465 watts of power; the woofers in the doors are indirectly lit with light guide LEDs. Audi connect uses the Bluetooth online car phone to connect to the Internet and deliver special web services, including Google Earth, to the car. Passengers can also connect their mobile devices to the integrated WLAN hotspot.

The Audi A7 Sportback will hit the market with four direct-injection V6 engines

Engine 3 liter V6, Aspiration supercharger, HP 300 hp @ 5250 - 6500 rpm, HP/Liter 100 hp per liter, Torque 325 lb-ft @ 2900 - 4500 rpm

Elegance on a grand scale – the Audi A7 Sportback

Audi is targeting a new vehicle class with the A7 Sportback. The large, elegant five-door model combines the emotional character of a grand coupe, the comfort and prestige of a sedan and the active practicality of a station wagon. With its lightweight body, the powerful and efficient V6 engines, the sporty chassis and the advanced assistance and multimedia systems, it sets standards in many fields of technology. The Audi A7 Sportback will roll into dealerships in the fall, with prices starting at €51,650.

At a glance

Design and body
Elegant coupe design with four doors and a large, wide-opening luggage compartment hatch that opens and closes electrically (standard)
4.97 meters (16.31 ft) long; variable luggage compartment with up to 1,390 liters (49.09 cu ft) of capacity
LED headlights optional; bi-xenon headlights and LED tail lights standard
Lightweight body, large percentage of aluminum and high-strength steels

Interior and controls
-- Elegant, modern lines, a craftsman’s level of workmanship, elegant colors and materials, novel layered wood inserts
-- Start-stop button standard
-- Front seats optionally with ventilation and massage function
-- MMI radio operating system standard; head-up display available as an option
-- Optional MMI navigation plus system with touchpad and large 8-inch display, Internet services from Google, Audi music interface and Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound
System
-- Optional ambient lighting package with LED technology in the roof module, in the center console ringed with lights and the illuminated door sill trims
-- Advanced safety and assistance systems such as Audi pre sense, adaptive cruise control with stop & go function, Audi active lane assist, night vision assistant, speed limit display and park assist system
-- Highly efficient, fuel-saving climate control system

Engines
-- Four V6 engines – two powerful and highly efficient gasoline and TDI units each with power ranging from 150 kW (204 hp) to 220 kW (300 hp)
-- All engines with thermal management, start-stop system and energy recovery
-- 3.0 TDI with 150 kW (204 hp) and multitronic (front-wheel drive) with just 139 g CO2/km (223.70 g/mile

Drivetrain
-- Front-wheel drive with multitronic; quattro all-wheel drive combined with seven-speed S tronic
-- quattro with crown-gear center differential and torque vectoring
-- quattro with sport differential for the active distribution of power at the rear axle available as an option

Chassis
-- Sophisticated chassis construction, aluminum control arms
-- Newly developed, high-efficiency electromechanical power steering
-- Audi drive select assistance system comes standard
-- Optionally available adaptive air suspension with controlled damping
18-inch to 20-inch wheels, powerful brakes

Engines

The Audi A7 Sportback will hit the market with four direct-injection V6 engines: two gasoline units and two diesels. Ranging from 150 to 220 kW (204 to 300 hp), the engines propel the large five-door coupe smoothly and powerfully, with astonishing efficiency. The 3.0 TDI multitronic with front-wheel drive and 150 kW (204 hp) consumes on average just 5.3 liters of fuel per 100 km (44.38 US mpg), corresponding to CO2 emissions of just 139 g per km (223.70 g/mile). No competitor in this class can boast figures this low. All engines use Audi’s innovative thermal management system, a recuperation system and a start-stop system.

Audi has thoroughly revised the two gasoline engines, the 2.8 FSI and the 3.0 TFSI, with respect to internal friction and thermal management. The engines quickly come up to operating temperature following a cold start. A separate heat exchanger is used to also bring the transmission up to temperature. The 2.8 FSI has an additional efficiency technology on board – the Audi valvelift system varies the stroke of the intake valves as needed. This enables the engine to breathe with significantly reduced throttle losses in many partial-load ranges, boosting torque and reducing fuel consumption.

The 2.8 FSI produces 150 kW (204 hp) and 280 Nm (206.52 lb-ft) of torque at 5,250 rpm. The torque is available from 3,000 to 5,000 rpm. Audi pairs this engine with the S tronic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive. The A7 Sportback 2.8 FSI quattro sprints from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 8.3 seconds and has a top speed of 235 km/h (146.02 mph). It consumes just 8.0 liters of fuel per 100 km (29.40 US mpg) on average, which corresponds to only 187 grams of CO2/km (300.95 g/mile).

With the top gasoline engine, the 3.0 TFSI, a supercharger compresses the intake air for improved efficiency and performance. The three-liter V6 produces 220 kW (300 hp) between 5,250 and 6,500 rpm, and delivers 440 Nm (324.53 lb-ft) of torque between 2,900 and 4,500 rpm. The supercharged engine, which in Europe is mated to the S tronic and the quattro powertrain, gives the five-door coupe the performance of a sports car.

The standard sprint takes just 5.6 seconds, and top speed is limited to 250 km/h (155.34 mph). Standard fuel consumption is just 8.2 liters per 100 km (28.68 US mpg), corresponding to 190 grams CO2 per km (305.78 g/mile).
The 3.0 TDI is available in two versions. The more powerful version of the big diesel, which has been completely redesigned, produces 180 kW (245 hp) between 4,000 and 4,500 rpm and 500 Nm (368.78 lb-ft) of torque between 1,400 and 3,250 rpm. The S tronic and quattro all-wheel drive are also standard here. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) takes 6.5 seconds and top speed is limited to 250 km/h (155.34 mph). Efficiency is impressive: just 6.0 liters of fuel per 100 km (39.20 US mpg) on average, which corresponds to only 158 grams of CO2/km (254.28 g/mile).

The second version of the 3.0 TDI, which will follow somewhat later, does even better in this discipline. It produces 150 kW (204 hp) between 3,750 and 4,500 rpm. With front-wheel drive and the stepless multitronic automatic transmission, it really flaunts its efficiency: 139 grams CO2 per km (223.70 g/mile) and an average fuel consumption of 5.3 liters per 100 km (44.38 US mpg) are groundbreaking figures. With the new Efficiency TDI, the front-wheel drive A7 Sportback accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 8.1 seconds and reaches a top speed of 234 km/h (145.40 mph).

With the 3.0 TDI with 150 kW (204 hp), the timing of the cam shafts, the turbocharger and the common rail system with an injection pressure of 2,000 bar have been designed specifically for low fuel consumption. With front-wheel drive, the V6 diesel produces 400 Nm (295.02 lb-ft) of torque. The power is continuously available between 1,250 and 3,500 rpm. With quattro all-wheel drive, it is 450 Nm (331.90 lb-ft) of torque that is available between 1,250 and 3,500 rpm.

2012 The Audi R8 GT Spyder delivers breathtaking performance

The Audi ultra lightweight technology is the key to the R8 GT Spyder’s weight of just 1,640 kilograms (3,615.58 lb). That’s 85 kilograms (187.39 lb) less than its technical basis, the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro. The Audi Space Frame (ASF) body, consisting of cast nodes, extruded sections and aluminum panels, accounts for just 214 kilograms (471.79 lb) of the total weight. The body is assembled predominantly by hand in the R8 workshop at the Neckarsulm plant. Final assembly of the car takes place in the same way.

The engine frame is made of ultra-light magnesium; the long cover over the soft-top compartment and the large side panels at the rear are made of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP). CFRP is also used for the modified front spoiler, the fixed rear spoiler and the new rear bumper. Together, these components provide a weight saving of 5.5 kilograms (12.13 lb).

Visual modifications accentuate the styling of the R8 GT Spyder. These include add-on parts in contrasting titanium gray, a front splitter with a dual lip, flics at the sides of the front bumper, red GT badges, round exhaust tailpipes, an enlarged diffuser and dark LED tail lights in a clear-glass design. Audi offers an optional windshield frame in matt CFRP.

Audi engineers also trimmed weight from the technical components in the area of the transmission, wheels and brakes. In the interior, the bucket seats alone, with their chassis of glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP), saved 31.5 kilograms (69.45 lb) of weight.
Prodigious power: the drivetrain
The performance offered by the new top-of-the-line model in the R8 family is formidable. The 5.2-liter V10 with an aluminum crankcase draws its fuel from an FSI direct injection system. Dry-sump lubrication ensures a reliable supply of oil even under maximum lateral or straight-line acceleration.

With its modified electronic management, the long-stroke engine produces 540 Nm (398.28 lb-ft) of torque at 6,500 rpm, and its peak output is 412 kW (560 hp). Each unit of horsepower has only 2.93 kilograms (6.46 lb) to move. The R8 GT Spyder catapults from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 3.8 seconds and reaches a top speed of 317 km/h (196.97 mph). In every situation, the engine impresses with its thrust and bite – and that unmistakable sound of an Audi ten-cylinder.
The R8 GT Spyder comes standard with an automated six-speed R tronic transmission with two fully automatic modes. In the additional manual mode, the driver can shift gears using the paddles on the steering wheel or by flicking the joystick. At high load and revs, gear changes take only one-tenth of a second. The launch control program manages the starting sprint with high engine speed and precision-control of the tire slip.

All-new Audi A7 2012

While the coupe design of the Audi A7 attracts the eye, the aluminum-hybrid lightweight construction, with aluminum body panels and a steel frame, provides excellent handling, safety and fuel economy. The 3.0L TFSI V6 supercharged engine generates 310 horsepower and is paired with an 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission yielding impressive fuel economy ratings (18 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, according to the U.S. EPA, for a combined fuel economy rating of 22 mpg) with quattro all-wheel drive standard.

The A7 introduces an available Audi-first headup Display with a high-resolution, full-color display, as well as many innovative technologies which were recently introduced in the Audi A8 flagship, including available full LED headlights, Night vision assistant, Audi pre sense plus and the unmatched Bang & Olufsen® Advanced Audio System, which delivers 1,300 watts of audio bliss through 15 perfectly tuned speakers.

U.S. pricing for all-new Audi A7 starts at $59,250.

Audi Q7 2011

Q7 family. The Q7 3.0 TDI offers 150 kW (204 hp) while consuming an average of just 7.2 liters of diesel per 100 km (32.67 miles per U.S.gallon) – better than all direct competitors. At the same time, a 3.0 liter V6 drives this large SUV powerfully and smoothly. An eight-speed tiptronic and quattro permanent all-wheel drive round out the luxurious drivetrain.

The new V6 TDI in the Q7 is a high-tech engine. It weighs far less than 200 kilograms (440.92 lb) and extensive measures minimize internal friction. Innovative thermal management – a new feature of many Audi engines – is particularly complex in the 3.0 TDI. The crankcase and the cylinder heads have separate cooling water circuits; coolant is not circulated within the block while the engine is warming up.

The EU 5 classification for this new entry model in the Q7 family will come as no surprise, just like its high fuel efficiency. On average, it needs 7.2 liters per 100 km (32.67 miles per U.S. gallon). And its CO2 equivalent is just 189 grams per km (304.17 grams per mile) – no other large SUV from a European brand boasts such a low value. The efficient TDI delivers 150 kW (204 hp). Its maximum torque becomes available just above the idling point: 450 Nm (331.90 lb-ft) remain constant between 1,250 and 2,750 rpm.

This large SUV accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 9.1 seconds. In the version with an optional air suspension, it reaches a top speed of 205 km/h (127.38 mph); with steel suspension, 202 km/h (125.52 mph).

The Q7 3.0 TDI with 150 kW (204 hp) offers the same power transmission as all other models in this line. The new and efficient eight-speed tiptronic – with its high overall gear ratio – delivers torque to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive, which has a sporty rear-end bias. Double wishbones made of aluminum guide all four wheels; the chassis delivers great agility and stability. An off-road mode and a hill-descent assistant aid off-road driving.

With a wheelbase measuring 3.00 meters (9.84 feet) and an overall length of 5.09 meters (16.70 feet), the interior offers plenty of room. Audi offers the Q7 with five, six or seven seats. The luggage compartment offers as much as 2,035 liters of capacity (71.87 cubic ft). This new entry model’s standard equipment package includes two-zone deluxe automatic air conditioning, a high-beam assistant, and an MMI radio multimedia interface.

Despite a generous equipment package, this model line’s new entry model costs just 51,800 euros in Germany. This basic price makes the Q7 more affordable than all of its direct competitors.

Audi R8 Spark Eight Eisenmann 2011

Eisenmann has long been the acme of superior performance exhaust systems. For the first time the exhaust specialist has transformed an entire vehicle. The highest standards, which are hallmarks of Eisenmann, also apply to the carbon aerodynamic package, the alloy wheels, the chassis, and of course the exhaust system. This converts the Audi R8 into the Spark Eight by Eisenmann.

Not only does the aerodynamic package contribute to its ultimate visual effect, it also improves the functionality of the super sports car from Ingolstadt. The components significantly improve the driving dynamics and the load distribution between front and rear axle. The new carbon outfit includes the spoiler with grille and fins (7800 Euro including VAT), the brake cooling chambers (1260 Euro), the front splitter (1800 Euro), the rear spoiler with grille (4800 Euro), and the rear diffuser (3800 Euro).
It goes without saying that exhaust systems are the domain of Eisenmann. The Spark Eight by Eisenmann is fitted with a performance stainless steal system, with a gigantic tailpipe exit in the center of the rear spoiler (4600 Euro). This warrants a one-of-a-kind visual effect. Thanks to the flap control system, sound and optimal performance can be controlled with the push of a button. As an alternative Eisenmann offers an exhaust system with four stainless steel tailpipes (3800 Euro) that can be combined with the standard rear spoiler. The retro-classic intake funnel (1200 Euro) and the two oval tailpipes (1000 Euro) provide the look of the R10.

Eisenmann also ensures that the improved chassis matches the upgrade of visual effect and sound. The new shock absorbers with four performance springs (3850 Euro) increase the driving dynamic for even more agile handling characteristics. The 235/35 (front) and 315/30 (rear) tyres mounted on 8.5×19 inch alloy wheels ensure a solid grip (complete set available for 7300 Euro).

For the Spark Eight by Eisenmann, visual appearance, sound and performance enter into a perfect symbiosis. All of the above is based on experience Eisenmann has amassed in motoring. Many years of research and development for racetracks and motorways alike have merged into an unrivaled project.

Audi A8 2010 Review

2010 Audi A8 Review
MSRP: From $74,550

Although it may lack the snob appeal of some of its fellow Germans, the 2010 Audi A8 gives up nothing when it comes to luxury, performance and craftsmanship.

Luxurious and handsome cabin, excellent driving dynamics, standard all-wheel drive.

Prestige factor not quite equal to chief rivals, limited engine choice, outdated MMI interface.

What's New for 2010
For the 2010 A8, Audi has discontinued the 12-cylinder engine, making the V8 the only one offered. The standard wheelbase version gets 19-inch wheels and a revised trunk lid with integral spoiler. The long-wheelbase L version now has massaging front seats as standard as well as contrasting stitching and piping for the upholstery.

2010 Audi A8 Vehicle Overview

Introduction
For many of the wealthy among us, a full-size luxury sedan is more than a way of getting to soirees, art gallery openings and the cottage in the Hamptons. In addition to providing sumptuous, speedy transport, a luxury sedan must also provide prestige. And there are plenty of obvious choices that trumpet that message to the masses loud and clear. But for those who prefer a more understated aesthetic, the 2010 Audi A8 is a compelling proposition, even if it won't necessarily raise as many eyebrows in the country club parking lot.

As it always has, Audi's flagship features an impeccably finished cabin, powerful yet refined performance and polished road manners. Audi's adaptive air suspension handles interstate cruises and serpentine mountain roads with equal ease, while the standard all-wheel drive provides an extra measure of confidence when the weather turns nasty on the way to the ski lodge. Even now, in its last year of this generation (next year brings a redesigned A8), this Audi's timeless styling manages to look muscular and elegant at the same time.

And yet, despite its many charms, including a price tag thousands lower than its rivals, the 2010 Audi A8 trails the BMW 7 Series, Lexus LS 460 and Mercedes-Benz S-Class in the sales chart race. This seemingly illogical situation can likely be attributed to the A8's slight but undeniable lack of cachet compared with its chief German rivals, as well as its inability to compete with the LS 460's sterling reputation for quality. But if one can set aside these mostly perceived deficiencies, the A8 is certainly worth a close look.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The 2010 Audi A8 comes in two trims: standard and long-wheelbase L (which provides more room for rear seat passengers).

Both A8 models come standard with alloy wheels (19-inch on standard A8, 18-inch on L trim), xenon headlights, a sunroof, Audi's Multi Media Interface (MMI) system, a navigation system, cruise control, leather upholstery, 16-way power front seats, heated front and rear seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, a parking system with a rearview camera, keyless ignition/entry, a power trunk opener, power door closers, Bluetooth and a 12-speaker Bose surround-sound audio system with satellite radio, iPod connectivity and a CD changer.

The L adds four-zone climate control, ventilated/massaging front seats, contrasting stitching and piping on the upholstery and lumbar adjustment for all passengers.

Options include 20-inch wheels, carbon-fiber interior trim (standard A8), massaging front seats (standard A8), a solar-powered venting sunroof, upgraded leather interior trim, a 1,000-watt Bang & Olufsen audio system and a Technology package that adds adaptive cruise control, a lane departure warning system and a blind-spot warning system.

Powertrains and Performance

Both the standard and L models come with a 4.2-liter V8 that makes 350 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. It comes matched to a six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission that drives all four wheels through Audi's Quattro AWD system.

Despite its substantial size, this is a quick luxury sedan. Either version can hit 60 mph in the low 6-second range and cover the quarter-mile in the low 14s. Fuel economy ratings are the same for both at 16 mpg city/23 mpg highway and 18 mpg combined.

Safety

Standard on all 2010 Audi A8s are antilock brakes, stability and traction control, full-length side curtain airbags, front- and rear-seat side airbags and active front headrests.

Interior Design and Special Features

The interior of the A8 provides first-class comfort, especially in the L version, which boasts a limolike 42 inches of rear legroom. In typical Audi fashion, the fit and finish is superb, with generous amounts of wood, Alcantara and aluminum accents lending a luxurious ambience.

With a 16-way power-adjustable driver seat (including upper seatback angle) and a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, finding a comfortable driving position is easy for folks of all body types. The dash is uncluttered by buttons thanks to Audi's MMI, which handles everything from the navigation and audio systems to the adjustment of the driver-selectable air suspension. Though it is intuitive for the most part, the A8 uses the older version of MMI, and cycling through the network of menus remains a labor-intensive process.

Driving Impressions

Whether taking off from a stoplight or jetting up to cruising speed on the freeway, the 2010 Audi A8 always puts a solid rush of power on tap. Moreover, the powerful and easily modulated brakes have no problem reining in this luxury liner. While the air suspension works just fine in automatic mode, the "Dynamic" setting tightens up body control considerably, making the A8 feel more like a sport sedan than a large flagship luxury car.