German tuning firm, AVUS Performance created quite a buzz today with regards to their latest super-tuned Audi. Named "White Power," this Audi RS6 Avant garnered a lot of attention and not because of the car's impressive power and performance.
Jalopnik, the car blog for "cool kids," was on AVUS like white on rice (oops, is that racial too?) after reading the model name, "White Power." Making sure to write a blog post catchy enough to rake in the hits and cause plenty of discussion, though purposely not reporting any of the car's specifications or accolades. Though mentioning this may have been a translation issue, Jalopnik still was eager to point blame making this German tuner look like a racist car firm bursting with white supremacy.
Truth is, this was a case of details (albeit very important details) being lost in translation. Following the outcry over the car's "racist" nameplate, AVUS issued this response and apology.Dear visitors, readers and customers,
We at Quattroholic like Audis. Especially Audis that go above and beyond the limits of factory horsepower and performance. This AVUS tuned RS6 is one such Audi, no matter what you call it. Obviously the car is white and powerful. The name reflects just that.
We are very sorry and unfortunate for what has actually happened and is currently happening to our first press report. Due to a mistranslation of our latest project car - the Audi RS6 V10 biturbo - there were lots of radical right-wing rumors on all different blogs and pages that received our first press report. We distance ourselves from the project title - it was done by our press agency which obviously mistranslated our German project name into English. Furthermore we distance ourselves from anything that has to do with that group synonym and we would also like to say sorry if anyone got personally touched.
Deepest Regards
The AVUS PERFORMANCE Team
So how powerful is the now-named AVUS RS6 V10 biturbo? Well, featuring a twin-turbocharged V10 with upgraded ECU, high performance exhaust and racing cats, this RS6 pumps out 700 horsepower and 590 lb/ft of torque. That's enough to send the RS6 biturbo from 0-62 mph in 3.9 seconds, topping out at 211 mph!
As for the over reaction of blame put on AVUS, we look at it this way. Positive or negative, the car got a lot of press and attention today, which is always a good thing.
UPDATE: Jalopnik take back their previous comments
Sources: AVUS Performance, Jalopnik, Carscoop
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Thursday, April 30, 2009
AVUS Performance Creates Buzz with "White Power" RS6 Avant
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Spy Shots: Audi A5 Sportback Spied in Germany
The elusive Audi A5 Sportback was caught in the wild recently. Not since the Detroit Auto Show have we seen anything regarding the A5 Sportback. Considering the car on display in Detroit was just a concept, this is first glimpse of what the A5 Sportback may look like in production form.
Word is, the A5 Sportback may carry a 2010 model year designation, along with a fairly predictable line of powerplants. Look for engines ranging from a 2.0T 4 cylinder, to a stout supercharged V6. Also, a few diesel variants are expected (most likely not for the US). Rumors are also swirling of an S or RS variant to sport the 4.2 liter V8.
If the rumors are true, this would lead us to believe the Audi A5 Sportback will debut in production form at this fall's Frankfurt Motor Show.
Source: Wheels24.co.za
Audi Q3 Concept to Appear at Barcelona Motor Show
Audi has announced today that the Q3 concept will be on display at next month's Barcelona Motor Show. It's only fitting that Audi tease the crowd in Barcelona, considering the 2011 Audi Q3 will be produced at the SEAT facility in Martorell, Spain.
If you're in Spain (or going to be), look for the Q3 concept on display at the Barcelona Motor Show between May 9th and May 17th.
Source: 4wheelsnews
Monday, April 27, 2009
Video: Audi Q7 V12 TDI vs. BMW M5 Drag Race
This may be the mostly oddly matched Audi versus BMW test we've ever seen. Leave it to the crew at Autocar to pit these two unlikely competitors against one another. Before you chalk this video up to rubbish, both vehicles do have one thing in common, nearly 500 horsepower. So who wins? You'll have to watch the video to find out.
Source: Autocar via Autoblog and YouTube
New Audi A4 2.0 TDI "e" Boasts 51 MPG
Audi has officially introduced the world to their latest TDI "e" models. Notably, the new A4 2.0 TDI "e" which boasts 51 mpg! We have only one thing to say to the hybrid-crazed media; "how do you like them apples?"
The press release notes that the new A4 TDI "e" will go on sale in Europe in June, however there is no mention of what to expect in the US. Many other auto blogs and websites are stating that the new A4 TDI will not make it to American shores, however we haven't given up hope. The release never says that the car will not reach the US. Plus, it converts the European fuel consumption figures into American MPG, which is a good sign.
Look for the new A4 2.0 TDI e to feature 136 bhp with a 0-62 mph time of 9.5 seconds and topping out at 133 mph. In addition to the sedan, the new A4 TDI e will also be available in Avant form, though managing 'just' 49 MPG. Also, the A4 is not the only TDI e to be released. Look for an A3 1.9 TDI e (52 MPG) and A6 2.0 TDI e (44 MPG) to also join the line up.
Press Release:
The new diesel-powered Audi A4 consumes a mere 4.6 l/100 km (51.13 US mpg) * Emissions of just 119 grams of CO2 per kilometer (191.51 g/mile) * Market launch in early June at a price of 30,800 euros * A4 Avant also available as an ‘e' model
Audi will soon launch the most efficient standard-size sedan. The Audi A4 2.0 TDI e will be available at dealerships starting in early June. Equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission, this sedan sips 4.6 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers (51.13 miles per U.S. gallon). It consequently emits a mere 119 grams of CO2 per kilometer (191.51 grams per mile): the best value of any vehicle in its class. "Efficiency is standard in every Audi. The A4 2.0 TDI e is particularly persuasive proof that efficiency, outstanding performance, comfort and driving enjoyment are not mutually exclusive," says Michael Dick, Board of Management Member for Technical Development at AUDI AG. This ‘e' model develops an output of 136 bhp (100 kW); it reaches 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 9.5 seconds and swiftly tops out at 215 km/h (133.59 mph). The sedan can be ordered now and costs 30,800 euros. This remarkably efficient A4 is also available as an Avant.
The combined impact of several features facilitates the vehicle's increased efficiency. The standard start-stop system is especially effective during city driving. As soon as the vehicle comes to a stop, the shift lever is in neutral, and the driver removes his or her foot from the clutch pedal, the system turns the engine off. The engine then turns back on as soon as the clutch pedal is depressed.
The start-stop system functions extremely quietly, smoothly, and quickly. While the driver is stepping on the clutch pedal to shift into first gear, the engine instantaneously returns to its idle speed. In the standardized driving cycle, the start-stop system reduces fuel consumption by some 0.2 liters/100 km, which equates to about 5 grams CO2/km (8.05 g/mile).
Furthermore, this ‘e' model features a 6-speed manual transmission with a final-drive ratio higher by five percent - enabling a reduction in engine speed in each of the six gears. The engine-management system has also been modified for maximum efficiency. The fuel-saving low-resistance tires (205/60 R 16) improve rolling resistance and are exclusive to the A4 model line's ‘e' model. Standard equipment also includes the recovery of braking energy. Aided by intelligent alternator regulation, this system converts surplus kinetic energy to electrical energy during a vehicle's braking phases. This electrical energy is temporarily stored in the electrical system's battery. When the vehicle resumes acceleration, the battery supplies this stored energy to the vehicle's network - reducing the load on the alternator and thus saving fuel.
An on-board computer with efficiency program is also part of the standard-equipment package. The driver information system with gearshift indicator and efficiency-data display notifies the driver when it is sensible to shift gears to conserve fuel. The on-board computer displays all fuel-efficiency data on the center screen. These recommendations enable drivers to conserve fuel to the tune of 30 percent - simply by modifying their particular driving habits. Audi's efficiency program continuously analyzes the vehicle's energy consumption and gives the driver situation-specific advice on how to optimize fuel efficiency based on the given driving situation or driving style.
The A4 2.0 TDI e also consumes less fuel thanks to enhanced aerodynamics made possible by additional aerodynamic-drag optimizations such as an underbody trim panel, the partially enclosed radiator grille, and the reduction in ride height of 20 millimeters (0.79 inches) facilitated by the sports chassis.
The A4 2.0 TDI e is also available as an Avant. Its combined fuel consumption amounts to just 4.9 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers (48.00 miles per U.S. gallon). This Avant consequently emits 129 grams of CO2 per kilometer (207.61 grams per mile). The basic price for the Avant is 32,800 euros.
The Most Efficient Audi Models
The A4 2.0 TDI e is the fourth Audi ‘e' model. Another ‘e' model is the Audi A3 1.9 TDI e, available as a three-door hatchback or a five-door Sportback. It consumes 4.5 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (52.27 miles per U.S. gallon) and emits 119 grams of CO2 per kilometer (191.51 grams per mile). As a three-door model, the Audi A3 1.4 TFSI with start-stop system also achieves outstanding values, with fuel consumption at 5.7 l/100 km (41.27 miles per U.S. gallon) and CO2 emissions of 132 g/km (212.43 grams per mile). In the business sedan segment, the Audi A6 2.0 TDI e, available as a sedan and Avant, emits just 139 grams of CO2 per kilometer (223.70 grams per mile) while consuming just 5.3 l/100 km (44.38 miles per U.S. gallon). The Audi A8 2.8 FSI e was the first luxury sedan to remain under the threshold of 200 grams of CO2: 199 g/km (320.26 g/mile) at 8.3 l/100 km (28.34 miles per U.S. gallon). Although there is no ‘e' in the model designation of the Audi TT 2.0 TDI quattro, it has attracted a lot of attention as a diesel sports car. The coupé's fuel efficiency of 5.3 l/100 km (139 g/km CO2) [44.38 miles per U.S. gallon (223.70 g/mile CO2)] sets a benchmark in the sports-car segment. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in just 7.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 226 km/h (140.43 mph).
Audi RS5 Shows a Retractable Spoiler
New spy shots of the Audi RS5 have hit the web and it's the same car we've seen before, again testing at the Nurburgring. This time however, it's clearly showing a retractable rear spoiler!
For the full set of spoiler-equipped spy photos, head on over to Autoblog.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Imola Yellow Audi Exclusive S5 Spotted in Scottsdale
We haven't had a chance to see any Audi Exclusive made cars yet, so this was a pleasant find. Audi North Scottsdale just received this Imola Yellow S5 and were kind enough to send a couple photos to Fourtitude. Though "arrest me yellow" may not be my choice, it sure does look nice.
For those of you who don't know, the Audi Exclusive program allows Audi buyers to personalize their new car in any exclusive color combination they choose. For more information about the Audi Exclusive program, head over to Audi's exclusive website.
Source: Fourtitude Forums
Audi Q3 Production Confirmed For Spain, Maybe USA
News from Ingolstadt today regarding the Q3, formerly known as the Cross Coupe Quattro Project (pictured). Word is, the Q3 will be produced in Spain as of 2011. As for US production? Well, it's been "postponed" as of now. Full press release after the jump!
Press Release:
Ingolstadt/Wolfsburg/Martorell, 2009-04-22
AUDI AG: New Q3 SUV generation to be produced in Martorell, Spain as of 2011
* Audi CEO Rupert Stadler: "Consistent strategy of growth and internationalization through this product and production decision"
* Investments of around €300 million, production capacity of up to 80,000 units yearly
A production site for the Audi Q3 was chosen today: the SEAT site in Martorell, Spain. Manufacture will begin in 2011 with an annual production capacity of up to 80,000 units. The total investment will amount to around €300 million.
"Following in-depth consideration of all relevant factors and an extensive international comparison of various sites, we selected Martorell," explained Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the Board of Management at AUDI AG. This decision enables Audi to continue its strategy of growth and internationalization. Mr. Stadler added: "We are counting on this Spanish site's efficiency, the excellent quality of the Production department, and its highly trained staff. We will use the Group's synergies to sharpen our competitive edge and help protect around 1,200 jobs. The decision furthermore safeguards workplaces at other Audi locations."
Audi Board Member for Production Frank Dreves: "Starting in 2011, the Audi Q3 will be produced to Audi quality standards at the Martorell factory. This gives us additional flexibility regarding future decisions about products. We will begin preparing at once."
Having agreed that the Q3 will be manufactured in Spain, a decision about production in the USA has been postponed. Mr. Stadler: "We will systematically explore our options in the context of the current market crisis. Audi is in a good position. There is currently no urgent need to select additional sites."
A small, sporty SUV, the Audi Q3 will join the family consisting of the Audi Q5 (produced in Ingolstadt, Germany) and the Audi Q7 (produced in Bratislava, Slovakia). Yet another compact vehicle in a new model range is thus set to join the A1 in 2011. The Q3 will further expand the Q family. A coupé-like five-door SUV with seat positions, wheel size, and ground clearance characteristic of a typical SUV, the Audi Q3 will stand out thanks to a supremely sporty driving experience. The Q3 will blend a compact car's design and driving dynamics with an SUV's spaciousness and versatility. True to Audi tradition, innovative technical solutions will blaze new trails in efficiency, driving pleasure, and comfort. The market launch of the Q3 is scheduled for 2011.
The production facility in Martorell is yet another cornerstone in AUDI AG's portfolio of sites. Audi produces its vehicles in Ingolstadt and Neckarsulm (Germany), Hungary, Belgium, Slovakia, India, and China.
Source: Audi via Autoblog - Photos depict Audi Cross Coupe Quattro Concept
Audi R8 LMS to take on the 24 Hour Race at the Nurburgring
As Audi puts it, the R8 LMS will compete in the "ultimate endurance test" at the 24 hour race at the Nurburgring, May 23rd. This will be the first 24 hour race for the new R8 LMS, and will feature four R8 GT3 racers!
Audi has been dominating endurance racing for years now. However, the new R8 LMS has yet to run with the "big dogs" for 24 straight hours. As many race fans know, they don't call the Nurburgring-Nordschleife "Green Hell" for nothing. Though this isn't the first race for the R8 LMS, it is certainly the most challenging. This is precisely what Audi's Head of Motorsport, Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich points out:
"The 24 Hours is not only one of the biggest motorsport events in Germany," says Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich. "The Nürburgring-Nordschleife is considered one of the world's toughest and most demanding race tracks. Similar to Sebring for the sports prototypes, it is superbly suited for revealing the final improvement potential of any new race car. This is exactly what we're planning to do at the 24-hour race before delivering the R8 LMS to customers, starting this fall."
Competing in the GT3 class at the Nurburgring will be the ABT Sportsline and Phoenix Racing teams each bringing 2 Audi R8 LMS racers. Piloting the #97 ABT Sportsline car will be Christian Abt, Jean-François Hemroulle, Pierre Kaffer, and Lucas Luhr. In the #97 ABT Sportsline car, Mattias Ekström, Timo Scheider, and Marco Werner will each take the wheel. Marc Basseng, Frank Stippler, and Mike Rockenfeller will be in the cockpit of the #98 Phoenix Racing car with Frank Biela, Marcel Fässler, Emanuele Pirro, and racing legend Hans-Joachim Stuck in the #99 Phoenix car.
Press Release:
Ultimate endurance test for new Audi R8 LMS
* GT3 sports car competes in Nürburgring 24-hour race
* Teams ABT Sportsline and Phoenix Racing with two cars each
* High-calibre driver line-ups featuring four DTM Champions
Ingolstadt - In the course of the further development of the Audi R8 LMS, an ultimate endurance test is on the agenda for the new GT3 sports car of AUDI AG at the end of May: On May 23/24, Teams ABT Sportsline and Phoenix Racing, with "factory" support by Audi, will field a total of four vehicles in the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring.
"The 24 Hours is not only one of the biggest motorsport events in Germany," says Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich. "The Nürburgring-Nordschleife is considered one of the world's toughest and most demanding race tracks. Similar to Sebring for the sports prototypes, it is superbly suited for revealing the final improvement potential of any new race car. This is exactly what we're planning to do at the 24-hour race before delivering the R8 LMS to customers, starting this fall."
The Audi R8 LMS delivering some 500 hp has so far completed two "test" races as part of the BFGoodrich Endurance Championship on the Nürburgring-Nordschleife and already clinched a podium result in the process. Another "test" race is planned for May 2. On that day, the 14 drivers scheduled to contest the 24-hour race will be at the wheel of the four vehicles.
Teams ABT Sportsline and Phoenix Racing managed to form high-calibre driver squads consisting of five current Audi "factory" drivers, four DTM Champions, four Le Mans winners and five drivers who have won the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring at least once. All 14 drivers are regarded as outstanding endurance racers who are intimately familiar with the Nürburgring-Nordschleife.
They include the reigning DTM Champion Timo Scheider, who - together with his DTM teammate Mattias Ekström and three-time Le Mans winner Marco Werner - will compete for Team ABT Sportsline. On the occasion of the Audi brand's 100th anniversary, their Audi R8 LMS will contest the event as car number 100. The second ABT Sportsline R8 will be driven by Christian Abt, Jean-François Hemroulle, Pierre Kaffer and Lucas Luhr.
Marc Basseng, Mike Rockenfeller and Frank Stippler will drive one of the two cars of Team Phoenix Racing. With the multiple Le Mans winners Frank Biela, Emanuele Pirro and Hans-Joachim Stuck as well as Marcel Fässler at the wheel, the second R8 LMS fielded by Phoenix Racing has a particularly prominent cockpit crew.
With three overall victories under his belt so far, Hans-Joachim Stuck, who has been the Motorsport Representative of the Volkswagen Group since January 2008, is one of most successful drivers of the 24-hour race. Lucas Luhr, Emanuele Pirro, Timo Scheider and Mike Rockenfeller have entered their names on the winners' list of the endurance classic as well.
Also Team Phoenix Racing has already won the Nürburgring 24 hours. It triumphed at its home race in the Eifel region in 2003. The best result (second place) achieved by ABT Sportsline so far dates back to 2003 as well.
The 37th edition of the ADAC Zurich 24-Hour Race will start on Saturday, May 23, at 4 p.m. (local time). Practice sessions will be held on Thursday and Friday. The sports channel DSF will air extensive live coverage from the Nürburgring.
The Audi teams at the 24-hour race on the Nürburgring:
Audi R8 LMS #97 (ABT Sportsline)
Christian Abt (D)
Jean-François Hemroulle (B)
Pierre Kaffer (D)
Lucas Luhr (D)
Audi R8 LMS #98 (Phoenix Racing)
Marc Basseng (D)
Frank Stippler (D)
Mike Rockenfeller (D)
Audi R8 LMS #99 (Phoenix Racing)
Frank Biela (D)
Marcel Fässler (CH)
Emanuele Pirro (I)
Hans-Joachim Stuck (A)
Audi R8 LMS #100 (ABT Sportsline)
Mattias Ekström (S)
Timo Scheider (D)
Marco Werner (D)
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Return of the Audi Ur-Quattro?
The original or "Ur" Audi Quattro has a special place in any Quattroholic's heart. As one of the most spectacular, timeless Audis ever produced, the Ur-Quattro has been a tough act to follow. Now, after nearly 20 years, the Ur-Quattro may return.
According to the German auto magazine, Autobild, the Urquattro resurection may carry the name "A5 Quattro Sport." Powered by a reported 425 horsepower, twin-turbo V6, the Quattro Sport would fall between the S5 and RS5 models in the already crowded A5 model line. If the A5 Quattro Sport becomes a reality, look for the car to debut in 2012.
Source: Autobild via Autoblog
Monday, April 20, 2009
Auto Shanghai 2009 - Audi Q7 Facelift Makes World Debut
Following it's official internet reveal last week, the newly facelifted Audi Q7 has made it's official world debut today in Shanghai. Here are a few pictures from the event. Click here for the full set of press photos and details.
Source: World Car Fans
Friday, April 17, 2009
Video: Audi R15 TDI Promotional Video
Audi has already shown the racing world, that their new R15 TDI is a formidable competitor by winning the 12 hours at Sebring. Just to make sure everyone knows how awesome this race car is, Audi has released this promotional video. See you at Le Mans.
Source: YouTube
Video: Audi RS5 Tears up the Nurburgring
Recently, spy shots of the new Audi RS5 were taken as it tested at the Nurburgring. Spy shots are nice, but spy videos are even better. Thanks to Edmunds Inside Line, we now get a chance to see and hear this beast as it tears across the tarmac of the Nordschleife.
Source: Inside Line
Audi Responds to BMW Billboard War
You may have thought the Audi/BMW billboard chess game (war) was over. You'd be mistaken. As a response to BMW's "checkmate" billboard, Audi recently launched a new ad titled "Time to check your luxury badge. It may have expired." Featuring the formidable Audi R8. Apparently BMW's ad space expired, as a Barney's advertisement now stands in it's place.
Source: Autoblog
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Audi and BMW Play "Chess" via Santa Monica Billboards
It's no surprise that BMWblog.com was the first to post these photos. As BMW "one-upped" Audi in a Santa Monica, California billboard war.
A marketing chess game ensued on the corner of Santa Monica Blvd. and Beverly Glen Blvd when Audi raised a taunting billboard featuring the new A4 saying "Your move BMW." BMW of Santa Monica clearly took the challenge with their comeback of "checkmate." The only problem here is that the BMW billboard features a new M3 rather than a more comparable 3-series. Perhaps Audi has an S4 billboard in the works... Rematch anyone?
Source: BMWblog.com
First Official Photos and Specs of Facelifted 2010 Audi Q7
Finally, we get an opportunity to see the 2010 Q7 in production form. Though we've had some pretty nice spy shots to give us an idea of what to expect, nothing beats the real thing. Follow the jump for the full details and 29 hi-res photos!Exterior upgrades include an updated single piece grille, bumpers, aluminum skid plates, updated LED head and tail lamps, side mouldings and new wheels packages. Inside, there's not much new to look at. However the new Q7 does boast some new "infotainment" in the form of an upgraded MMI navigation system featuring 3D navigation and joystick control.
The facelifted Q7 will be available in 11 exterior finishes. Four of the new colors include Ibis White, Graphite Gray metallic, Teak Brown metallic, and Orca Black metallic. Inside, the Q7 will feature a few new color choices. Black and gray will be available for cloth trim and Para Brown, Savannah Beige and Cardamon Beige are new shades for the leather.
As for powerplants, the standard lineup will carry over to the facelift. Engines include a 240 hp 3.0 TDI, 340 hp 4.2 TDI, 280 hp 3.6 FSI and the 350 hp 4.2 FSI.
PRESS RELEASE
2010 Audi Q7 Product Improvement Quick Reference: USA Data
VERSION DATE: April 14, 2009
INFO IS SUBJECT TO CHANGES AND UPDATES PRIOR TO LAUNCH
Product Improvement Summary
Exterior updates:
New front lighting design and LED daytime running lights
New full LED rear lights (LED running lights, brake lights, and turn signals)
Added chrome finishes on bumpers, door panels, and door handles
Two-tone exterior mirrors
New wheel designs
Updated front/rear bumpers
New paint colors (Teak Brown, Graphite Gray)
Rear tailgate has new shape for worldwide license plate acceptance
Interior updates:
Ventilated Premium Cricket leather front seats
Ambient interior door lighting and additional chrome enhancements on switchgear
Additional wood decorative inlay on passenger side dash
Infotainment:
New MMI navigation system – third generation MMI shows latest evolution of 3D navigation, joystick control for navigation map destination finding, updated graphical clarity, SIRIUS artist/title preview, SIRIUS traffic-based navigation, voice-based destination input control, and voice inputs such as "I'm hungry," "I need money," "I need gas" and "I need coffee" that will point to closest options within current vicinity.
Launch Timing and Pricing:
Audi Q7 with product improvement features launches in Fall 2009 as a 2010 model year vehicle. Pricing will be announced closer to launch.
FSI gasoline direct injection summary
Audi FSI direct injection gasoline technology was born in the R8 Le Mans-winning sports car found on racetracks from 2000-2005, with its first U.S. application in the 2005 A6 3.2 FSI V6 sedan launching in late 2004 calendar year. Using many of the same principles as TDI clean diesel technology, its high compression ratios allow for more power and torque with better fuel economy, while increasing performance levels from previous engine generations. Audi Q7's 3.6 FSI V6 engine and its 4.2 FSI V8 engines complement the TDI clean diesel engine joining the Audi Q7 family in April 2009.
TDI clean diesel Summary
Audi TDI clean diesel is clean, quiet, efficient, and fast. Customers buy this technology because it saves them time and adds convenience because of its city/highway range, all in a very clean and high-tech manner.
Audi TDI clean diesel engines are held to the same emissions standards as gasoline engines in the U.S., plus offer the advantages of 30% better fuel economy than V6 gasoline engines of similar displacement. Audi recommends premium gasoline fuel for FSI direct injection engines, with similar pricing for ultra low sulfur diesel fuel available in the U.S.
With 25 mpg highway and over 600 highway miles of range, Audi has chosen the Audi Q7 to launch diesel to demonstrate the best of qualities of fuel efficiency and technology in a vehicle segment that is not known for these attributes.
Audi has been preparing the U.S. market for TDI clean diesel by racing the R10 TDI LMP1 prototype for the past three seasons within the American Le Mans series, with proven and equally consistent victories for all three competing years at the famed 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race. The 650 hp and 800 lb-ft of torque within the R10 TDI is proof of Audi endurance, reliability, performance, and high levels of technology. It has always used the futuristic and high-potential GTL (gas-to-liquid) clean diesel fuel and has experimented with BTL (biomass-to-liquid) fuel in the 2008 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race. The new R15 TDI sports car with a V10 TDI clean engine won its maiden competition at the March 2009 12 Hours of Sebring endurance race. Preparations are well under way for its first 24 Hours of Le Mans racing debut in June 2009.
Audi TDI clean diesel development since 1989: output up 100%, torque up 70%, cleaner by 95%, particulates reduced by 98%.
Market
Key competitors are BMW X5 xDrive30i, xDrive35d, and xDrive48i and Mercedes GL320 BlueTEC, GL450, and GL550.
Why TDI clean diesel in the United States in 2009 with the new Audi Q7 TDI?
Audi has achieved Bin5/ULEV (ultra low emissions vehicle) II 50-state status. Audi clean diesel is measured on the same emissions basis as gasoline-based engines, but with 30% better fuel efficiency.
Advantages include very American driving aspects such as long range with over 600 highway miles between fueling stops for a convenient lifestyle, off-the-line power/torque, smooth and quiet ride.
When comparing diesel fuel prices 1:1 to Audi-recommended Super unleaded gasoline, the price differential will pay for itself over a few years time, and even sooner if resale value, and the Alternative Motor Vehicle credit is taken into consideration.
Clean diesel is progressive, in line with Audi worldwide brand values, with its advanced technology and performance without sacrificing efficiency.
Design
Sporty coupe-like roofline and dynamic sill line divides vehicle into a sporty looking upper section and a sturdy / substantial lower section.
One-piece wraparound tailgate made of aluminum with dynamic S-joint; unique to Audi.
Striking single-frame grille is a symbol of power and presence.
Typical Audi interior design is modern and sophisticated, with clear attention to detail; 14 cupholders, including 1 liter bottle holders in each door; up to 28 rear seat configurations possible.
5-star crash test ratings from NHTSA NCAP, "Top Safety Pick" from IIHS
Interior design was developed with the U.S. in mind, with ample storage room, numerous cupholders, and overall spaciousness.
3.0 TDI V6 clean diesel advantages include superior packaging over competitors, with AdBlue filling area secured next to fuel filling area within exterior fuel door (not in the interior).
Dynamics
S line package option provides up to 21 inch wheels with 295/35 tires
Six-piston front and four-piston rear brakes provide ample stopping power
Turbocharger optimized for US market, with torque peak arriving sooner than current EU model.
Clean, fun-to-drive, responsible, with excellent range fits U.S. Audi customer profile
Powertrain
3.6 FSI V6 specifications:
FSI direct injection technology
280 hp / 266 lb-ft
0-60 in 8.2 seconds
Fuel economy: 14/20 city/highway, 16 mpg combined
3.0 TDI V6 clean diesel with 50-state specifications joins the U.S. Audi Q7 lineup in April 2009:
TDI clean diesel technology and Bin 5 federal and ULEV II California emissions rating
U.S. version: 225 hp / 406 lb-ft
0-60 mph in 8.5 seconds (USA estimated)
Range: over 600 miles per tank (25mpg x 26.4 gal tank = 660 miles)
Common rail engine design for smooth and quiet operation, injection pressure up to 2,000 BAR / 29,001 psi = the weight of an SUV within the size of a fingernail.
Piezo injectors can be varied and optimized almost at will, reducing emissions, and acoustic benefits of the engine (especially at low engine speeds).
Variable turbine geometry generates 23.2 lbs of boost (1.6 BAR), with its vanes powered by an electric servo motor to improve propulsive power at low speeds.
Engine block made from a high strength vermicular graphite iron. Cylinder heads made from aluminum, which weighs 15% less than traditional cast iron.
Quickstart heater plugs are adapted to extremely cold temperatures, heating up to 1800°F within 2 seconds of ignition.
AdBlue tanks can be refilled under normal Audi U.S. maintenance cycles.
AdBlue tanks do not compromise the ability to carry a collapsible spare wheel (same as Audi Q7 gasoline models).
Fuel economy: 17/25 city/highway, 20 mpg combined
4.2 FSI V8 specifications
FSI direct injection technology
350 hp / 325 lb-ft
0-60 in 7.1 seconds
Fuel economy: 13/18 city/highway; 15 mpg combined
quattro® AWD – latest generation with asymmetric rear-biased torque split (42% front / 58% rear under normal conditions)
Innovations and available features
Advanced key keyless entry and starting
Bluetooth hands-free telephone interface
Audi music interface – iPod adapter
Audi parking system advanced w/ rearview camera (includes front & rear acoustic sensors)
6,600 lbs towing capacity with available towing package
Audi side assist blind spot detection system (activates at 19 mph)
Bang and Olufsen 1001 watts / 14 speaker Advanced sound system
Four zone climate control
Heated front & rear seats, and steering wheel
Audi adaptive air suspension (height & damping adjustment)
Audi adaptive cruise control (0-90 mph, can bring car to a complete stop)
Dimensions
(inches)
LENGTH
WIDTH
HEIGHT
WHEELBASE
AUDI Q7
200.2"
78.1"
68.4"
118.2"
BMW X5
191.1"
76.1"
69.5"
115.5"
MB GL
200.6"
75.6"
72.4"
121.1"
Acura MDX
190.7"
78.5"
68.2"
108.3"
Porsche Cayenne
188.9"
75.9"
66.9"
112.4"
Volvo XC90
189.3"
74.7"
70.2"
112.6"
VW Touareg
187.2"
75.9"
68.0"
112.4"
