Veteran Audi racing driver takes delivery of first TT RS in America

Audi USA has announced today that the first Audi TT RS sold in the U.S. has been delivered to its owner. Taking delivery at Fort Worth Audi, veteran Audi race car driver and enthusiast, Don Istook can now call himself the first TT RS owner in America. "Having raced at almost every major track in the U.S. and Canada, I've pushed the limits in many cars in my 34 years as a race car driver,” Istook said. “I like my street car to give me some of that thrill. With my new Audi TT RS, I not only get that thrill, but I also get that 'race car' sound.” Press release after the jump.

Check out the photo gallery of Don's new TT RS at Fort Worth Audi's Facebook page.

HERNDON, Va., Jul 26, 2011 - The return of the heralded Audi RS line to the American performance car scene officially launched when Forth Worth Audi in Texas delivered the first 2012 Audi TT RS in the U.S. to veteran race car driver Don Istook.

Last year, Istook was one of more than 11,500 fans to sign the Audi TT RS Facebook petition drive, which helped convince Audi to introduce the 360-hp coupe in the U.S. But Istook’s connection to Audi and to the TT performance car line runs far deeper. The Fort Worth native was one of the first drivers to race an Audi Quattro in the U.S. in 1985 and he drove Audi S4 models in the Motorola Cup, which became the Grand-Am Cup. More recently he has raced Audi TT quattro coupes.

"Having raced at almost every major track in the U.S. and Canada, I've pushed the limits in many cars in my 34 years as a race car driver,” Istook said. “I like my street car to give me some of that thrill. With my new Audi TT RS, I not only get that thrill, but I also get that 'race car' sound.”

The 2012 Audi TT RS stands as the pinnacle of the TT model line, representative of the highest performance category for Audi vehicles. The Audi TT RS, powered by the award-winning 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder TFSI engine, generates 360 hp between 5,500 and 6,700 rpm, and 343 lb-ft of torque between 1,650 and 5,400 rpm for power on demand. With aluminum and steel hybrid ASF® technology and standard quattro® all-wheel drive, the TT RS offers excellent aerodynamics and increased rigidity and safety.

The 2012 Audi TT RS is priced at $56,850 (excluding $875 destination charges, taxes, title, options and dealer charges).

The newest Audi for the U.S. market truly showcases the performance engineering of the RS line of sports cars produced by quattro GmbH in Neckarsulm, Germany. The RS line has given Audi a special element of sports appeal, individuality and exclusivity.

“The technical capabilities of the Audi brand are perfectly distilled in the RS models developed by quattro GmbH,” said Johan de Nysschen, President, Audi of America. “For the past few years, American sports car enthusiasts have pleaded with us to make the marquee available here. With the TT RS we are now furthering the Audi performance story that includes models from the Audi S4 to the new Audi R8 GT.”

Audi has announced plans to follow up with the U.S. introduction of the Audi RS 5 coupe next year. Audi dealers expect keen interest in the RS line.

“Interest in the return of the RS marquee has been so strong that Mr. Istook is allowing us to keep his TT RS at the dealership longer to show Audi fans and customers,” said Bobby Baillargeon, owner of Forth Worth Audi.

The Audi TT RS features exclusive design elements denoting its special place at the top of the TT model line, including high gloss black diamond-patterned Singleframe® grille and large front air inlets, fixed rear wing spoiler, oval exhaust pipes, rear diffuser, unique 19-inch rotor wheels and more. It comes exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission, and available adaptive headlights. The interior also features RS-exclusive appointments, such as the contoured three-spoke sport multifunction steering wheel, aluminum door sills with the RS logo, and RS-specific interior door handles.

The Audi TT RS offers electronic features one expects from Audi, including Audi concert radio with single CD player and MP3 reading capability, and a complimentary three-month subscription to SiriusXM® Satellite Radio. Available advanced electronics offer an increased level of sophistication for the premium sports car, including technologies like Audi navigation plus with real time traffic, MMI® inspired controls, a BOSE® sound system, and Audi music interface.

But the specific appeal of the Audi TT RS – and the rest of the Audi RS line – is performance and handling.

“Superb brakes and handling go right along with the magnificent power from the 2.5-liter turbo, especially the low end torque,” Istook noted. “It reminds me of the mid 80's when we raced the original 5 cylinder turbo Audi Quattro. What is great, though, is that I get all of that, yet I have the refinement, sophistication and technology of a truly modern sports car."

Source: Audi USA
Photo: Fort Worth Audi (Facebook)

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Video: Audi 90 quattro with snow plow becomes "The Plaudi"

As most of you know, throughout the winter, YouTube becomes ripe with videos of quattro-driven Audis performing all sorts of acrobatics in the snow. But this video, oddly uploaded during the dog days of summer, really raises the bar. Using what they call "The Plaudi," check out how the crew at New Hampshire's Bavarian Turbo Tecnics plow their driveway.



Source: YouTube

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Spied: B8 Audi RS4 Avant caught testing in Austria

As possibly the most exciting spotting this year, the new B8-bodied Audi RS4 Avant caused quite a stir when we posted our first spy shots back in March. Since then though, the elusive test mule seemed to completely drop off of our radar - that is, until now. Caught high altitude testing at the Großglockner in the Austrian Alps, this test mule's unmistakable flared fenders, aggressive front fascia, big brakes and 20" wheels all give away its true RS4 identity. More photos and intel after the jump.

As we mentioned in our last spy report, the next generation RS4 will most likely debut next year, in-step with the A4/S4's mid-cycle face lift. And under the hood, we expect the new RS4 to share the same high-revving, 4.2-liter V8 as the RS5. While its still too early to know for sure, we desperately hope to see the next-gen RS4 (specifically the Avant) reach North American shores. Check out the full photo gallery below.





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MTM Audi A1 breaks 200 MPH at Nardo Ring

For Auto Motor und Sport's annual high speed test at the Nardo Ring last month, MTM fielded perhaps the least likely candidate to join the 200+ mph club. Surrounded by the likes of a 900-hp 9ff Porsche 911 GT3 and 1028-hp MKB Mercedes SLR McLaren, MTM's tiny A1 "Nardo Edition" managed to chug its way around the Italian test track to an amazing top speed of 324 km/h (201.32 mph). More after the jump.

To create the "Nardo Edition," MTM shoehorned a 500-hp variant of the TT RS's 2.5 TFSI five cylinder under the A1's hood, added 19" Bimoto wheels, eight-piston brakes, an upgraded adjustable suspension and plenty more to help crack the 200 mph barrier. Surprisingly though, the A1 retained it's front-wheel drive layout, using a Drexler limited-slip differential over a heavier quattro system.

While certainly not the fastest, you can't help but be impressed by how the MTM A1 Nardo Edition stacked up against the competition. Check out the results below:

1. 9ff Porsche 911 GT3: 391.2 km/h
2. MKB Mercedes SLR McLaren: 349.99 km/h
3. G-Power BMW M3: 333.3 km/h
4. MTM Audi A1: 324 km/h
5. Mathilda VW Scirocco R: 293.7 km/h
6. Speedart Porsche Cayenne Turbo: 284 km/h





Source: Auto Motor und Sport
Photos: MTM

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Audi coverage of Waterfest 17 (2011)

Last weekend marked our second annual pilgrimage to Waterfest. Set at Raceway Park in Englishtown, NJ, and now in its 17th year, Waterfest is the largest VW/Audi event of its kind in North America. While the show started as - and predominantly still is - a Volkswagen-centric event, the presence of Audi enthusiasts and show cars has been steadily growing with each new year. That said, this year's show saw perhaps more four-ringed grilles than ever before.

Last year, when quattroholic.com was still relatively in its infancy, we were - more or less - vagabonds; roaming the blacktopped isles with neither a booth nor show car to our credit. This year however, much has changed. First off, thanks to some prescient timing, we just happened to be testing a 2012 Audi A7 at the same time; which in turn became a very popular addition to Waterfest's exhibition field. Secondly, thanks to our recent collaboration with Audizine, we were able to roll to the show, park and chill with our new found friends in Audizine's famed "tent city."

As for the show itself, many four ringed rides made an indelible mark on us (not to mention 20k+ other fans in attendance). From vendor booths to the show car and exhibition lots, Ingolstadt's finest were on hand in force - rivaled perhaps only by those at a *little* show near Austria's Lake Wörthersee.

As Waterfest's Audi scene grows, so with it comes many new tuning styles and models of which the show cars are based. Although the A4 and S4 are still tried and true favorites, we couldn't help but notice how strong an appearance other models are starting to make, specifically that of the S5. On top of which, vendors were especially keen to bring out more than a handful of R8s - most being tuned, V10-powered variants of Audi's pinnacle supercar.

In addition to those originally bred on North American pavement, Waterfest 17 set the stage for a few unicorn, "euro only" Audis. Cars such as a factory B7 RS4 Avant at the APR booth, a first-gen S3 hatch at Forge's display and a second generation S3 Sportback at the Unitronic stand all were a very cool departure from vehicles we are used to seeing on this side of the pond.

On top of the acres of show cars present, Waterfest also boasts an autocross track, full drag strip and burnout competition. All of which provide more than enough opportunity for owners to pit their cars against one another in a professional, organized arena; helping quell that irresistible urge for some to "light 'em up" in a less appropriate forum.

Overall, we couldn't think of a better way to spend a hot summer weekend. From great cars to an even better camaraderie with those sharing our same Addiction to Audi, Waterfest is definitely a can't-miss event of the year. Anyway, enough talk, it's time to head over to our photo gallery and check out the eye candy.

Click here for our full Waterfest 17 photo gallery.

Words: Adam Bush
Photos: Matt Richards

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Audi to race A5 DTM starting in 2012

After eight years and four series championships, Audi will be replacing the venerable A4 DTM. Taking to track next year, Audi's replacement is this, the A5 DTM (internally know as 'R17'). While the drawings depict only a concept of the new A5 DTM, the first R17 prototype is currently being built by Audi Sport in Ingolstadt and will be unveiled to the public at the Frankfurt Motorshow in September. It's a good thing BMW is returning to DTM next season, we've heard this A5 has an appetite for M3's. Video, press release and more photos after the jump.



Ingolstadt, July 15, 2011 – Model change in the DTM: From 2012 on, Audi will bank on the A5 in the most popular international touring car racing series. The coupe, which is internally named "R17,” will replace the four-door A4 DTM with which Audi has won the prestigious DTM title four times since 2004.

The technically and visually upgraded A5 that is will be arriving at dealerships shortly provides the basis for the new DTM car. "In 2012 new Technical Regulations will come into effect in the DTM,” says Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich. "We’ve got exactly the right model for that in the A5. We’re convinced that we’ll be able to continue Audi’s success story with it in the DTM.”

The new technical specifications have been worked out by the German Motorsport Association (DMSB) and the DTM umbrella organization ITR in close cooperation with the automobile manufacturers and are setting new standards particularly in terms of safety. "Our engineers have been involved in bringing up safety in the DTM, which had already been high before, to the highest possible level,” explains Dr. Ullrich. "At Le Mans this year we learned again that our concept of designing safety structures is a very good and appropriate one. This is exactly what we’ve been trying to feed into the DTM’s safety concept together with our colleagues from BMW and Mercedes-Benz. This new principle is an outstanding example of what is possible when employees of three premium manufacturers try to achieve a common aim: to get the best possible, lowest-cost and safest vehicle – and a fantastic car in general – off the ground.”

Like all new DTM cars, the new Audi A5 DTM has a high-strength carbon-fiber monocoque that is combined with a steel tube cage. In addition to the A- and C-pillars the new regulations prescribe a B-pillar in front of the driver’s head to be installed in the future. The sidewalls of the vehicles feature a hybrid design with a carbon, Zylon and Rohacell construction that is structurally reinforced by pegs. In case of a side impact the walls have to be able to withstand a static load that is about four times higher than before. "The sidewall has been reinforced so that the new DTM vehicle can be exposed to a side impact (T-bone crash) without the wall failing,” explains Dr. Mühlmeier, Head of Technology at Audi Sport. "Up to now, a bearable side force of 80 kN at a specified point has been required whereas for the 2012-specification vehicles 360 kN across the whole length of the sidewall is now required. This means that the monocoque has not only been reinforced at a certain point but across the entire length.”

The requirements for the front and rear crash absorbers have been increased as well. "At higher speed lower deceleration is specified in order to protect the driver even better than before,” says Dr. Mühlmeier. "To achieve this, a crash test with the whole vehicle is now prescribed for the first time as well – according to FIA standards with 14 meters per second forward and backward against a rigid wall. In the past, ‘only’ the front and rear crash elements had to be driven against a wall with a sled.”

Although fire accidents have almost never occurred in the DTM the safety standard in this respect has been raised even further as well. In the new generation of DTM cars the fuel tank, similar to the Le Mans winning Audi R18 TDI, is integrated into the carbon fiber monocoque. This further reduces the fire hazard in case of a side impact crash.

For Audi the new DTM regulations mark a consistent continuation of the work done over the past three decades. The rally cars already had a high level of safety. For the supertouring cars Audi Sport developed a completely new side impact protection of carbon fiber and energy-absorbing foam in the middle of the nineteen-nineties. Ever since Audi has had sports prototype commitments crash tests and work with high-strength carbon composite materials have been part of its routine business. And for the R8 LMS GT3 sports car Audi introduced a pioneering safety concept for this category in 2011. "We’ve continuously improved in this area and will do so in the future as well,” stresses Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich. "The new DTM vehicles are the best piece of proof that you can make something that is already very safe even saver. This is another thing we mean by ‘Vorsprung durch Technik.’”

The first prototype of the R17 is currently being built up at Audi Sport in Ingolstadt. The roll-out is just around the corner. The new Audi A5 DTM will be unveiled to the public at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt.

The V8 engine with a power output of about 460 hp (340 kW) will be adopted from the successful A4 DTM nearly unchanged. The proven six-speed transmission will continue to be used as well. Characteristic features of the 2012-generation of DTM vehicles are a larger rear wing and a reduction of the permitted aerodynamics components. The concept studies of the Audi A5 DTM by the Audi Design Team merely suggest the looks of the new Audi race touring car.



Source: Audi Motorsport
Video: Audi TV

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Sponsored: Waterfest 17 20% off special from Detailer's Domain

Our friends (and sponsors) at Detailer's Domain are offering a very special discount in celebration of Waterfest 17. Head over to their website and use the PROMO CODE - WF17 at checkout and save 20% off the total of the shopping cart! Sale ends July 18, 2011 12 am (eastern time).

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2013 Audi A5 / S5 officially revealed

To help match the updated A6, A7 and A8, Audi is now refreshing the A5 model line. This mid-cycle facelift subtly revises styling and adds a few changes to powerplants, drivetrain and technology. The most noticeable (and perhaps most controversial) styling change can be seen at the face of the A5 and S5; now sporting a design very reminiscent to that of the 2012 A6, specifically noting the grille and lighting. More info, photo gallery and press release after the jump.

Outside, the A5 model line receives new headlights (optionally available in xenon plus technology with homogenous LED daytime running lights), fog lights, beveled grille, chiseled hood, revised lower front air intakes and taillights. As Audi explains, the new front-end styling makes "the entire front end appears even flatter and wider." As always, S-Line styling gives the new A5/S5 a more "dynamic" look, though appears slightly less aggressive than that of the current model.

Inside, the refresh includes the addition of new multifunction steering wheels (including an optional 'flat bottom' design), ignition key, gear lever, the button for the optional Audi drive select system, air conditioning controls and displays are now illuminated in white. Lastly, a new selection of upholstery colors and inlays are available; including aluminum trigon, walnut or natural fine grain ash.

Under the hood, the only major change for U.S. buyers pertains to the S5. Like the Cabriolet did, the S5 Coupe says goodbye to the venerable 4.2-liter V8 and will now sport the 333 hp, 3.0 TFSI supercharged V6. As for the A5, U.S. buyers will again be limited to only the 2.0 TFSI 4-cylinder which remains unchanged at 211 hp. Other parts of the world get to enjoy a wide range of new powerplants; including two gas engines (a 177-hp 1.8T to a 272-hp 3.0 TFSI) and a choice of four diesels (one 177-hp 2.0T and three, 3.0-liter V-6s ranging from 204-245 hp).

Also new for A5/S5 vehicles equipped with quattro and a S-tronic transmission, is the addition of the RS5's coveted torque vectoring crown-gear center differential and optional sport rear differential. The S5 will also receive electromechanical power steering and a special "S" sport suspension mated to standard 18-inch wheels for optimal handling.

Currently there's no word on U.S. pricing. However, in Germany, the A5 2.0 TFSI Coupe sees only a subtle €200 price increase. Look for the new 2013 Audi A5 and S5 to reach U.S. showrooms next year (A5/S5 Sportback not available in North America). Full press release can be found following the photo gallery below.

















Press Release:

Beauty, power and efficiency – the new Audi A5

Audi is refreshing the A5 model series. Advanced technologies are being added to the Sportback, Coupé, Cabriolet and S5 models in the areas of the engine, quattro drive and infotainment for even more efficiency, sportiness and intelligence. The updated design visually underscores the technical expertise involved in these versions.

The A5 models are now more distinctive than ever. The rear lights and the headlights have been redesigned and are optionally available in xenon plus technology with homogenous LED daytime running lights. New colors and materials accentuate the interior, and many details of the operating concept have been fine-tuned.

Each of the four TDI diesel and three TFSI gasoline units in the new engine lineup include forced induction and direct fuel injection. The new 1.8 TFSI features a number of groundbreaking innovations. Fuel consumption has been reduced by 11 percent on average. The start-stop system and the recuperation system come standard with all engine-transmission configurations.

Each engine is matched with the ideal drivetrain – six-speed manual, multitronic, seven-speed S tronic, front-wheel drive or quattro drive. When combined with S tronic, the quattro drivetrain uses the crown-gear center differential and torque vectoring; the sport differential is the perfect complement. The chassis has been more finely tuned, with the optional Audi drive select system and dynamic steering making the A5 even more fun to drive. The electromechanical power steering is new to the A5 family.

The new A5 is a highly intelligent car. Its driver assistance systems have undergone intensive further development. The range of infotainment options now includes the Bluetooth online car phone, which delivers a number of special services and connects the A5 to the Internet.

The Audi A5 – A winner is now even more attractive
A successful family is now even more attractive: Audi is refreshing the A5 model series. New solutions for the engines, quattro drive and infotainment are being added to the Sportback, Coupé, Cabriolet and S5 models, making them even more sporty and efficient. The design is now even more dynamic.

Exterior design and body
Ever since their debut, the models of the A5 family – the Sportback, Coupé and Cabriolet – have impressed with their elegance. The flowing silhouettes, the sharp lines and the muscular surfaces make strong statements. The product improvement adds sharp new accents to the design.

The upper corners of the single-frame grille in high-gloss black are beveled. The grille’s lateral bars and the Audi rings appear to be sculpted. The new bumper features pronounced air inlets with massive struts, revamped grilles and flat fog lights. Sharply chiseled edges give the engine hood a three-dimensional look; the entire front end appears even flatter and wider.

The headlights have also been updated. Their lower edge forms a wave; their interior has been restructured. With the optional xenon plus headlights, the LED daytime running lights form a narrow, homogenous clasp framing the headlight. Audi also offers the adaptive light system with dynamic cornering light and turning light. The rear lights have also been redesigned and are optionally available with continuous LED light strips. The bumper includes a number of additional details.

The product improvement has added a millimeter (0.04 in) to each of the exterior dimensions. The A5 Sportback is 4.71 meters (15.45 ft) long; the Coupé and the Cabriolet 4.63 meters (15.19 ft). The range of colors has been reshuffled and now comprises 16 colors. The fully automatic acoustic top of the A5 Cabriolet is available in four colors. The S line exterior package is available for those who appreciate an even more dynamic look.

The vehicle bodies impress with high rigidity, outstanding crash safety, high vibrational comfort and low weight. The front fenders are made of aluminum for improved axial load distribution. Aerodynamic fine-tuning measures include a lined underbody.

Interior design
A harmonious balance of proportions and surfaces, fine materials and top-quality fit and finish: The interior of the A5 models reflects the Audi brand culture. It is now more elegant than ever – with new steering wheels, including an option for a flattened ring, new steering column stalks and with narrow chrome clasps framing the control elements.

A button is used to directly adjust the optional seat heating and seat ventilation in three stages. Also updated were the ignition key, the selector lever for the automatic transmission, the button for the optional Audi drive select system and the controls of the high-efficiency air conditioning and multifunction steering wheel. All displays are now illuminated in white.

New paint covers the bezels on the instrument cluster and the center console, and there is also a new selection of upholstery and inlays. The latter are available in Aluminium Trigon or in walnut or natural fine grain ash. Almost all of the interior colors are new. Fine Nappa leather replaces Valcona in the Sportback, and the armrests can also be covered in leather, if desired. The A5 Sportback is also now optionally available as a five-seater.

Another attractive option is the S line sport package. It drapes the interior in black and accentuates it with elegant applications. A sport suspension lowers the vehicle body by 10 millimeters (0.39 in), and 18-inch wheels round out the package. Buyers looking for that special something will find many more customization options in the Audi exclusive range, including the stylish Audi exclusive line with two-tone seat coverings.

Engines
The A5 family sets new standards for sportiness and efficiency. All engines feature forced induction and direct injection for tremendous pulling power. Even the entry-level engine produces 320 Nm (236.02 lb-ft) of torque. The start-stop system and the recuperation system are standard with all engines – no other manufacturer takes such a rigorous approach. The lineup comprises three gasoline engines and four TDI units. CO2 emissions have been reduced by as much as 22 percent.

The completely redesigned 1.8 TFSI showcases the full extent of Audi’s expertise. Groundbreaking innovations can be found in the control of the valves and their lift, the thermal management concept, the injection system, the turbocharger and the integration of the exhaust manifold. In the A5 Coupé, the high-end four-cylinder unit consumes on average just 5.7 liters of fuel per 100 km (41.27 US mpg). This best-in-class value corresponds to 134 grams CO2 per km (215.65 g/mile) and is 21 percent lower than before. With 125 kW (170 hp), the 1.8 TFSI accelerates the A5 powerfully.

The output of the 2.0 TFSI remains unchanged at 155 kW (211 hp). New to the Audi A5 lineup is the 3.0 TFSI, a supercharged V6 producing 200 kW (272 hp).

The diesel engines are also impressively efficient, and the four-cylinder units feature modifications in numerous areas. Equipped with the 130 kW (177 hp) 2.0 TDI and a manual transmission, the A5 Coupé consumes on average just 4.7 liters of fuel per 100 km (50.05 US mpg) – a CO2 equivalent of 122 g per km (196.34 g/mile) and a milestone in the coupe segment.

Three V6 diesel units round out the lineup on the top end. The 3.0 TDI with 150 kW (204 hp) is the most fuel-efficient six-cylinder unit in its class worldwide. In the A5 Coupé with multitronic, it consumes on average 4.9 liters (48 US mpg) of fuel and emits just 129 grams CO2 per km (207.61 g/mile). The second variant of the 3.0 TDI produces 180 kW (245 hp). Arriving somewhat later is a particularly low-emissions clean diesel model that will make the A5 the first coupe on the market to meet the Euro 6 diesel standard.

Drivetrain
Audi offers the ideal drivetrain for each engine. A manual six-speed transmission and the continuously variable multitronic are available for models with front-wheel drive. The quattro models come with a manual transmission or the lightning-fast, seven-speed S tronic. All of the transmissions shine with their convenience and precision, high efficiency and wide gear spread. The long ratios in the upper gears reduce fuel consumption.

Members of the A5 family equipped with quattro permanent all-wheel drive and the S tronic transmission also feature the crown-gear center differential with torque vectoring. During normal driving, the mechanical component sends the engine’s power primarily to the rear wheels. If necessary, it redistributes the power lightning-fast and smoothly. Up to 70 percent can flow to the front axle, 85 percent to the rear axle. Torque vectoring uses targeted, minor braking interventions to make the handling even more precise.

Available as an option in all A5 quattro models, the sport differential provides for maximum precision and high traction. It uses two superposition stages engaged via multi-plate clutches to actively distribute the torque between the rear wheels as needed.

Chassis
The A5 models set standards for sporty dynamics, luxurious ride comfort and excellent driving safety. Most of the components of the five-link front suspension and the trapezoidal-link rear suspension are made of aluminum. The rear suspension bearings and the damper tuning have been updated for more precise handling and even greater comfort.

The ESP stabilization program with electronic limited slip differential is standard in all front-wheel drive versions of the A5. ESP uses minimal braking interventions at the inside front wheel for even more agility during dynamic driving. The large brakes – with ventilated front and rear discs in many variants – offer excellent stopping power and are very easy to modulate.

17-inch wheels with 225/50 tires are standard. Options include wheels up to 20 inches and 265/30 tires as well as four new wheel designs.

Among the high-end features in the model series is Audi drive select. In the basic configuration, it adjusts the power steering boost, the accelerator characteristic, the shift points of the automatic transmission and the automatic air conditioning. Using a button in the cockpit, the driver can determine whether these components should work in “comfort,” “auto,” “dynamic” or “efficiency” mode. The latter helps to drive the A5 particularly efficiently. If the car is equipped with a navigation system, there is also an “individual” mode that the driver can largely configure him or herself.

Audi drive select can be combined with additional modules, if desired. These are the sport suspension with damper control, the sport differential and dynamic steering, which steplessly varies the steering ratio by nearly 100 percent as a function of speed.

Another new standard feature in the A5 model series is the electromechanical power steering. An electric motor generates the right amount of boost for the speed being driven. The electromechanical power steering features a direct ratio, reacts instantly and provides precise road feedback. It intervenes slightly to support the driver when braking on a surface with less grip on one side of the car.

The system reduces fuel consumption by up to 0.3 liters per 100 km and up to 7 g CO2/km (11.27 g/mile) because it consumes no energy at all while driving straight.

Assistance systems
The assistance systems in the Audi A5 model series use a variety of technologies to make driving even more controlled. Some of them have been improved with new functions. Among the standard features is the new driver information system with recommendations to take a break. It uses steering motions and additional parameters to detect when the driver is getting tired and issues an appropriate warning.

Audi side assist supports the driver when changing lanes by using radar to monitor the space behind the car. Audi active lane assist – a new feature in the A5 – helps the driver to maintain the lane. A camera detects the lane markings and the system makes slight corrections to the electromechanical steering, if necessary. The adaptive cruise control uses radar technology to maintain a constant interval between the A5 and the vehicle ahead. At speeds below 30 km/h (18.64 mph), it initiates maximum braking in the event of an impending collision.

Infotainment systems
The infotainment systems in the A5 have been significantly upgraded. Audi equips all models in the A5 lineup with a CD radio and eight speakers.

The optional top-of-the-line unit is MMI navigation plus with a large hard drive, seven-inch color monitor, 3D graphics and DVD player. Its controls have been improved. The number of hard buttons has been reduced from eight to four and the volume control now features a joystick cap to make it easier to choose songs. Voice control and digital radio reception also received some fine-tuning.

An additional option is the Bluetooth online car phone. Audi connect is the catchword for the attractive services this phone brings to the A5, which include Google POI search, navigation with Google Earth images and a WLAN hotspot. The hotspot enables passengers to surf the Internet and send and receive e-mail with their mobile devices. Audi traffic information online is an additional service that does a much better job than the familiar TMC standard of providing the driver with extremely precise and current information about the traffic load along the selected route. All the driver needs to use these functions is a data-capable SIM card.

Prices
Despite the extensive product improvement, Audi is raising prices only slightly. The price increase for the A5 Coupé 2.0 TFSI is only €200, for example. The base model, the Audi A5 Sportback 1.8 TFSI, costs €33,350.

The Audi S5
The top models in the series – the S5 as Sportback, Coupé and Cabriolet – have also been refreshed. All S5 models, including the Coupé, are now equipped with the 3.0 TFSI producing 245 kW (333 hp). Compared to the 4.2-liter V8 it replaces in the Coupé, the supercharged V6 consumes on average 20 percent less fuel per 100 kilometers. Average fuel consumption is just 8.1 liters (29.04 US mpg) while performance remains impressive. The S5 Coupé accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in just 4.9 seconds on its way to an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph).

Visual cues to the updated S models include new lights, modified body details and new crystal-effect paint finishes. Subtle changes can also be found in the interior. The most important technical updates for the Audi S5 are quattro drive with the crown-gear center differential and electromechanical power steering. The special S sport suspension and the standard 18-inch wheels deliver the power to the road.

The equipment and data specified in this document refer to the model range offered in Germany. Subject to change without notice; errors and omissions excepted.

Source: Audi AG

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