Audi Q1

Audi is expanding its range of Q-branded SUVs with the introduction of a baby model (the Q1) in 2016.

Similar in size to the Nissan Juke and Renault Captur, but will offer the premium feel that buyers expect from the manufacturer due to hit showrooms early 2016.

Styling

It is anticipated that Audi designers will use the Q7 shape and look likely aim for a ‘baby Q7‘look for the Q1.

The new model will feature a re-designed hexagonal grille design that appears on the refreshed Q7. The metallic frame now runs out towards the headlights, which will be similarly sharp, but will include LED running lights on all models.

One can expect a sharp shoulder line cover the length of the car, with broad wheel arches for a more muscular look, with large alloy wheels and a raised chassis height to complete the look.

Engines

It is anticipated that the most likely option will be an adapted VW/Audi group’s MQB platform with cabin space closer to the A3 and not the A1.

It is anticipated that the 1.4-litre turbo petrol and 1.6-litre turbo diesel will be used. A four-wheel-drive system is also likely to be offered (one could expect a super-fast SQ1 model).

Positioned slightly below the Q3, Audi’s Q1 is expected to be the smallest premium crossover on the market. The image was released when Audi announced the Q1 would enter production.

The Audi Q1 is designed to give Audi a lead in the fast-growing small-crossover segment: “It is part of a broad Q-model strategy,” says CEO Rupert Stadler.

The New Audi Q7 3.0 TDI 218 SE

Audi’s first SUV built, the Audi Q7 has been revitalized for the first time after a successful run of almost 10 years.

The 2015 Audi Q7 is completely new from the inside out, is little different in that regard.

Audi has reduced the weight of the vehicle by 325 kg with the Q7 being quicker and more economical than its predecessor, and far better equipped.

The engine develops 215bhp from the same 3.0-litre six-cylinder diesel engine, and still manages 0-100 kmh 7.4sec with a claimed combined economy of 5.5 litres/100 kmh.

Audi is now taking aim at the BMW X6 with remarks from some saying the cabin interior being superior to that of a Bentley.

Once inside the technically superior cabin, it almost isolates the driver from the outside world- away from the noisy previous model, to be replaced an almost sound-proof interior for an easy drive experience.

The rickety, anvil-heavy presence of the previous Q7 has been totally eradicated, replaced by a quite insulated easy to manage drive experience.

The 2015 model has smaller wheels (19 inch alloys) and adaptive air suspension providing a very comfortable ride.

The engine and conjoined eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox are extremely smooth.

Audi TT Clubsport Turbo

Audi have announced their proposed next generation TT RS-the Audi TT Clubsport Turbo concept car which is a rendition on the new TT sports car which thought to be a preview of the next-generation TT RS.

The concept car was fitted with an enhanced version of the familiar turbocharged 2.5-litre five-cylinder fitted to the last TT RS.

In the new TT Clubsport Turbo Concept, the engine is aided by an electrically-driven turbocharger, helping it to deliver upwards of 600 horsepower without any turbo lag.

The TT Clubsport Turbo concept also provides a mean and aggressive look, inspired by the successful Audi 90 IMSA GTO race car of the late 1980s. To achieve this aggressive stance as well as aid mechanical grip, the concept’s track was widened to almost 2 metres wide.

The fenders painted in the new exterior color Ferro Titanium are open at the front and rear. Air from the car’s slipstream flows through them to cool the brakes. Sitting inside these are a set of 20-inch wheels. Their six twin-spoke design is finished in a two-colour look, and the tires are size 275/30. The concept also features carbon-ceramic brake discs.

On the inside sporty materials such as carbonfibre-reinforced plastic and black Alcantara define the cabin. The racing bucket seats are upholstered in coral orange Alcantara and feature contrasting stitching and piping. CFRP parts with their large surfaces create sporty accents on the doors and center console, and the doors are closed by pulling on a tube-shaped grip with an Alcantara inlay.

Audi A3

With lively turbo-charged engines, responsive handling and numerous standard features, the Audi A3 is an extremely popular in the Audi range.

Comments from Critics

• The turbo-charged four-cylinder engine generates more than adequate highway-merging power
  front-wheel drive are standard in the 2015 A3 1.8T.
• A larger turbo-charged four-cylinder engine and all-wheel drive are standard in the A3 2.0T as well as the high-performance S3.
• The Audi A3 TDI performs similarly to the 1.8T’s engine.
• All A3 variants come standard with a six-speed automated manual transmission.
• The base 2015 Audi A3 produces 10.2/7.12 litres/100 kms /highway driving which is considered good for its class, and the TDI gets 7.6 /5.5 litres/100 kms which is excellent.
• Reviewers generally agree that the base model A3 provides a very smooth ride, responsive and agile steering, while the ‘all-wheel drive models’ are considered to be more suitable and dynamic thanks to their additional grip.

The A3’s boot is small for its class, with most automotive journalists reporting limited head- and legroom in the rear seating area.

What other Motoring Websites say:

1. “The 2015 Audi A3 is the benchmark for a new, smaller segment of entry-level luxury sedans. It’s definitely small, which may be an issue for some, but it’s no less luxurious or rewarding to drive than pricier Audis.” — Edmunds
2. “Mercedes-Benz broke new ground with the CLA. Audi walked the same path, with more commitment, and made a better car. The A3 feels like it has more interior space, an airier cabin, more comfort, and fewer blind spots for the driver. It’s also a sharper handler.” — Road and Track
3. “Audi has caught on to America’s aversion to hatchbacks. The result of this realization is a quick course correction, a proper sedan that is also a blast to drive. With a wide array of powertrain, luxury and technology options, the A3 offers something for everyone at an attractive entry price.” — Left Lane News
4. “Both sporty and welcoming, the A3 may be small but it’s a pleasure to live with – its standard panoramic sunroof, bi-xenon headlights and leather seating only sweeten the deal.” — Kelley Blue Book

AUDI R8

The Audi R8 is an attractive do-it-all, every day comfortable super sports car.

The entry R8 is a 4.2-litre V-8-powered Coupe, paired with a convertible, or Spyder.

The 5.2-litre V-10 Coupe and Spyder shares the same appearance and interior features which collectively provide a stunning look.

Comfort and convenience items are minimal, but at the same time, more than merely adequate. The seats and space in the cabin are extremely driver orientated thus encouraging drivers to enjoy the drive whether short or long.

The only negative is limited luggage space, but it is still one of the most practical supercars or super sports cars around today.

The R8 ‘s safety features include dual-stage airbags, knee airbags, head and thorax airbags, stability control, rearview camera, which are more than adequate to assist in the event of a major impact.

Fuel consumption is rated as high as 16.8/10.2 litres/100 kms city/highway with the 4.2-liter V-8 and dual-clutch transmission, or as low as 19.6/12.4 litres/100 kms with the 5.2-liter V-10 and manual transmission.

A recent change was the replacement of the previous S-Tronic transmission with a new dual-clutch unit is now a must-have for all but the purists. For the purists, there’s still a six-speed manual.

Also new in V10 Plus model raising the R8 V10’s 525 horsepower to 550 horsepower and it is as nimble as the V-8-powered R8. Combined with the extra power and lightness it makes it an outstanding performer, particularly with the new dual-clutch transmission.

Audi TT

The TTS comes with a more powerful version of the TT’s turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine. Test drivers say that it provides a responsive performance but lacks the power of its competitors.

TTS variant is fitted with a more powerful engine, which the majority of reviewers say is their preferred choice due to its stronger and responsive acceleration.

Both the TT and the TTS models come standard with a six-speed automated manual transmission which auto reviewers say provides a combination of a quick-shifting fun of a manual and the convenience of an automatic.

The 2015 TT gets an EPA-estimated 10.7/7.6 litres/100 kms city/highway driving.

Reviewers write that the TT drives very smoothly with the ‘all-wheel drive’ Quattro feataure providing excellent traction.

Critics say the TT’s steering is very responsive but competitive sport car’s like the Porsche Boxster provide a sharper steering, more responsive handling and a more engaging ride.

The Audi TT’s cabin interior is finished with superior materials, with an excellent build finish and driver design appeal.

The TT’s front seat is most suitable for taller people, and the front seats hold both driver and passenger securely in place,

Cargo space in both variants is fair.

Standard features include heated front seats, 12-way power-adjustable front seats, Bluetooth, satellite radio, a 12-speaker Bose audio system, automatic climate control and a built-in lap timer.

Comments from International Motoring Websites:

1. “The Audi TT doesn’t have the sharp driving feel of the Porsche Boxster/Cayman twins, and the BMW Z4 and Mercedes-Benz SLK offer a more refined experience thanks to the added quiet of their hard-top convertible designs.” — Kelley Blue Book
2. “The 2015 Audi TT is still a fine choice in the personal, sporty car realm thanks to its peppy personality, premium feel and avant-garde styling.” — Edmunds
3. “Fans will point to the TT’s energetic turbocharged engine, standard all-wheel drive and nimble handling. Foes will retort that the TT’s platform is closely related to that of the Volkswagen Golf, so it’s not a real sports car (whatever that means). We can see both sides, but there’s no doubt that the 2015 Audi TT looks good enough to clinch a sale on appearance alone. Add some solid fun-to-drive points to that equation, and we’d say that the 2015 TT is sitting pretty despite its advancing age.” — AutoTrader

Audi Range to be dominated by SUVs by 2020

Audi Chairman Rupert Stadler says that up to 50 % of Audi sales by 2020 will be dominated by SUV’s.

“We are working hard on our SUV strategy. In five to ten years, 40-45%, possibly even 50%, of our sales will be SUVs. I prefer to react to what the customer wants and they’re asking for SUVs.” Audi’s current SUV line-up consists of the Q3, Q5 and Q7 with the Q1 in 2016 followed by the in 2017. He also confirmed that Audi is exploring at an even smaller SUV in the range.

He also confirmed that Audi will take the lead on autonomous driving. ‘We are at the very forefront of piloted driving – the Audi A8 we will launch in 2017 will have fully autonomous capability at up to 80km/h”

Audi could possibly build something similar to the Google car without traditional controls and with urban mobility at its heart. “We will see – it could happen,” he said. “People’s mobility needs will change a lot………….”

Car sharing is also something that Audi is investigating and it’s already running leasing programmes that enable groups of people to lease cars like the R8 together giving them access to cars they might not otherwise be able to afford .

He also predicted the growth of battery electric vehicles within Audi’s range with a model capable of a range of 500 kms by 2018. “And range will increase dramatically and we will try to bring down prices [of electric cars], too,” he said

Styling is still very important to consumers despite technological no matter what technology improvements might occur.

Stadler also said “People’s purchasing choice is based on good design. We will do everything to keep our cars the sexiest around.”

THE 3RD GENERATION AUDI A3 SPORTBACK

The third-generation Audi A3 Sportback now offers additional space, improved fuel economy and more equipment.

The wheelbase has been increased by 58mm (without increasing the footprint) and offers adequate rear seat space and easy access for three adults, with increased leg and head-room.

What has helped in reduction of fuel consumption is a weight cut of 90kg compared to the previous models.

Audi now offers the new A3 Sportback with a choice of a diesel and two petrol engines and on average fuel consumption has now been reduced by around 10% compared with the previous models.

The 2.0 TDI is available in two versions – the first being the 148bhp three-door model, which produces 320Nm of pulling power, capable of achieving 0-100 kmh in 8.4 seconds with a top speed of 215 kmh with a combined fuel economy of 4.2 litres/100 kmh.

The ultimate in fuel economy is the 1.6 litre diesel model with a claimed combined return of 3.8 litres/ 100kms

However in 2015 the range will be augmented by the e-tron model, combining a 1.4-litre petrol engine and electric motor to offer up to 1.6 litres/100 kms.

The majority of engines in the new Audi A3 Sportback’s are equipped with manual six-speed gearbox, with the 1.8 TFSI equipped exclusively with S-tronic transmission. S- Tronic will be available as an option for all other engines.

Audi A4

The Audi A4 range has over the years tried unsuccessfully to out-maneuver BMW’s 3-Series range and haven’t quite succeeded yet. Audi management are confident that the new Audi A4 could now finally succeed.

The Audi A4 series has a superior finish, and is priced lower if compared with premium alternatives, and from an equipment point of view is extremely generous.

The Audi A4 offers exceptional interior space, great comfort for the driver and passengers and improved driving features. Audi provides a choice of engines offering from economy and low emissions to high performance options. The Audi A4 is one of Audi’s best sellers both with private buyers and company.

The new Audi 2-litre diesel engine is capable of achieving 4.2 litres/100 kmh and CO2 emissions as low as 109g/km.

The new Audi A4 has a slightly longer wheelbase, offering rear passengers more room. Boot space has been increased to 480 litres of boot space on offer, and when rear seats are dropped the space increases to 962 litres – matched only by the BMW 3 Series.

Comments from Overseas Motoring Media:

1. “For those seeking luxury, it has a plush interior and a comfortable ride; for tech-focused customers, it offers the latest connectivity and safety technologies; and for enthusiasts, it boasts well-tuned steering and tight handling, though the truly performance-minded will want to check out the more powerful S4 model.” — Left Lane News
2. “If you’re seeking a car that regularly qualifies as one of the best luxury car buys year after year, Audi’s A4 and S4 performance sedans for 2015 won’t disappoint.” — Kelley Blue Book
3. “There are plenty of choices for small luxury sedans, but the 2015 Audi A4’s sophisticated blend of attributes makes it hard to beat.” — Edmunds
4. “The seats are comfortable, the performance is exhilarating and all of the technology really does come into play and make you feel like you could drive on and on.” — Road and Track (2013)

The Audi R8

The Audi R8 ranked high in the sports car segment.

Powered by a V8 engine that according to test the two V10-powered models both have more than sufficient power.

A six-speed manual transmission is standard and a seven-speed automatic is available as well.

Motor journalists internationally are impressed with the manual and say that the automatic provides quick and responsive shifts. Test drivers agree that the Audi R8 is incredibly nimble and also rides comfortably. Several remark that its standard all-wheel drive and predictable handling make it easy to drive quickly.

Fuel economy on the base R8 is an estimated 6.8/10.2 kms/100kms city/highway, which is low for its class.

Reviewers agree that the Audi R8’s interior is stylishly designed and finished with high quality materials and also find the interior to be spacious with the two bucket seats being supportive and comfortable on long journeys.

The R8 has 0.1 cubic meters of luggage space in a front-mounted boot, with limited storage space behind the seats which is not practical terms of cargo-carrying capacity.

Standard features include:

Bluetooth, satellite radio, navigation and Audi’s MMI infotainment system.

Major options include a rearview camera, a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system, front and rear parking sensors and an iPod connection.

Comments from International Motoring Websites

1. “Though it’s beginning to get on in years, the R8 remains one of more appealing supercars on the market due to a mix of stirring driving dynamics, surprising practicality and, of course, double take-inducing good looks.” — Left Lane News
2. “Highlighted by its iconic styling and unusually accessible performance, the 2015 Audi R8 maintains its special status as a midengine exotic sports car that you can drive every day of the week.” — Edmunds
3. “But in the case of the R8, it’s genuinely hard to find anything that needs improvement. The styling is still admirable, the exquisite V8 and V10 engines sound better than anything this side of Maranello, and the Lamborghini-derived all-wheel-drive chassis provides exceptional handling. It may be an old-timer by automotive standards, but the R8 remains one of the best sports cars in the world.” — AutoTrader
4. “What all of this means is that now more than ever, the R8 is a proper soup-to-nuts flagship, offering marrow-deep excellence in everything from a daily-use supercar to a stylish droptop to a track day hero.” — Autoblog (2014)