Audi 2.5-liter TFSI wins 2012 International Engine of the Year award

For the third year in a row, Audi's venerable 2.5-liter TFSI five-cylinder has won the International Engine of the Year Award (2-liter to 2.5-liter category). Currently powering the Audi TT RS (and 'Plus' in Europe) and RS3 Sportback, the 2.5 TFSI develops up to 360 hp and 343 lb/ft of torque. Enough to launch the TT RS from 0 to 62 mph in just 4.1 seconds, and only 4.6 seconds for the heavier RS3. Press release after the jump.

Ingolstadt/Stuttgart, 2012-06-13 - A jury of 76 motoring journalists from around the world has voted the Audi 2.5-liter TFSI as the “International Engine of the Year 2012” in the 2-liter to 2.5-liter category. This engine therefore retains the award that it won the previous two years.

The 2.5-liter unit fitted to the Audi RS 3 Sportback and TT RS Coupé and Roadster features both turbocharging and FSI gasoline direct injection, two of Audi’s core technologies. These helped Audi to achieve victory. International Engine of the Year jury members said of the 2.5-liter engine: “It has an excellent torque range and a gorgeous sound, too. An engine that stands out from the crowd.”

The Audi TT RS plus Coupé and Roadster models, newly launched in March 2012, have a displacement of 2,480 cc and reach a power output of 265 kW (360 hp) between 5,500 and 6,700 rpm. Peak torque is 465 Nm (343 lb-ft) between 1,650 and 5,400 rpm, and the car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.1 seconds (Roadster: 4.2 seconds). A top speed of 280 km/h (174 mph) is optionally available.

Audi also offers the 2.5-liter TFSI engine in the RS 3 Sportback. With a displacement of 2,480 cc, this engine produces 250 kW (340 hp) between 5,400 and 6,500 rpm and peak torque of 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) from 1,600 to 5,300 rpm. It takes 4.6 seconds to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) – a best-in-class performance figure. Its governed top speed is 250 km/h (155 mph).

This is the eighth category win in a row at the International Engine of the Year Awards for Audi TFSI technology. Between 2005 and 2009, the Audi 2.0-liter TFSI engine won the award in the 1.8-liter to 2.0-liter category.

Source: Audi AG

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Leaked ETKA scans reveal Audi RS3 'Plus', 'S1' and Q3 2.5 TFSI power figures

So it seems a new batch of ETKA data has been leaked. In case you're not already familiar, ETKA is the Volkwagen Group's official electronic parts catalog and has been a notorious source of leaked intel on all kinds of pre-production Audi vehicles. This latest round of scans sheds some light on a new RS3 "Plus," A1 "quattro 2.0" and Q3 "quattro 2.5." More intel after the jump.

Thanks to an earlier round of leaked ETKA scans, we know that Audi AG has a TT RS "Plus" planned; raising the European car's horsepower to the 360 ponies currently offered in the U.S. model. That said, the 360 hp RS3 "Plus" revealed above, makes perfect sense considering the car's shared powertrains. Noting the last column in scan above, we should officially see this RS3 "Plus" by May of 2012.

Next is the A1 "quattro 2.0" or (2.0 TFSI quattro as its moniker would likely read). Revealed back in January, we've known a quattro drivetrain would eventually reach the A1. In addition to that, we've been expecting an S1 or even an RS1 to eventually be revealed. While the scan only refers to the car by it's engine/quattro designation, we're think a 250 horsepower, 2.0 TFSI quattro would be worthy of an "S" badge on the grille. That is of course, unless the S1 moniker steps on the toes of one of the most potent four-ringed rally cars of all time (a problem BMW encountered when naming the 1M). Either way, as the scans reveal, we should know for sure by March of 2012.

Finally, the TT RS/RS3-derived, 2.5 TFSI five-cylinder powered Q3. While we've known this vehicle has existed for some time now, these scans prove the crossover/SUV will boast 30 less horsepower than the European TT RS and RS3, with a total 310 hp under the hood. Despite lacking an "S" or "RS" in its model designation, this should be one potent (and very tunable) Q3. Like the RS3 Plus noted above, we'll likely see something official by May of 2012.

Source: Paraisomotor via Fourtitude

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Petition launched for NHTSA to accept crash testing by foreign nations

When asked to list their favorite Audi models, many American quattroholics would likely include cars such as the RS2, B5 RS4, C6 RS6 or various Avant and TDI models; all of which forbidden fruit on this side of the pond. A major reason why U.S. consumers never had the chance to purchase (or import) these vehicles are due in part to NHTSA's strict safety laws - requiring foreign automakers to crash-test their vehicles in accordance to American law - adding extra cost and inconvenience, especially on low-volume performance models. A new petition however, could help change this.

Granted, this petition was created simply by an American citizen on the White House's "We the People" web page, so it is still far from reaching congressional halls. However, every signature counts. If the petition reaches 25,000 signatures by December 14th, 2011, American car enthusiasts' chances of being able to import such vehicles legally and responsibly will get one step closer to reality. Not to mention, making it more cost-effective for Audi to offer new vehicles like the RS3 in the U.S.

So, if this is a cause as important to you as it is to us, we ask that you sign and hopefully enable more cars to finally reach our shores.

Click here to sign the petition at WhiteHouse.gov

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Forza 4 'November Speed Pack' includes Audi R15++ and RS3

For those four-ringed Forza 4 fans out there, you have two very enticing reasons to download the new November Speed Pack. As part of this month's ten car DLC, Turn 10 Studios has introduced the Audi R15++ TDI and RS3 Sportback to Forza Motorsport 4. Official trailer and details after the jump.



As posted on ForzaMotorsport.net, The full November Speed Pack includes:

2012 Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4: The newest Bull in the Lamborghini stable has arrived: fans can take it for a spin in “Forza Motorsport 4”and experience what it’s like to whip past rivals at 200 miles per hour.

2012 Aston Martin Virage: Aston Martin’s newest coupe features a barking V12 that balances a perfect ratio of horsepower to torque to propel the Virage down the open road.

2011 #2 Audi Sport Team Joest R15++ TDI: The final version of the Audi R15, the R15 “Plus Plus,” celebrated the R15s final race at the 2011 Sebring 12 Hours.

2011 Audi RS3 Sportback: The newest member of the Audi RennSport line boasts the same 2.5-liter turbocharged direct-injection five-cylinder found in the TT-RS, propelling it from 0 to 60 in only 4.6 seconds.

1957 Chevrolet Bel Air: A true automotive icon, the “57 Chevy” gained notoriety as a hot rod and is now one of the most recognizable American cars of all time.

2012 Dodge Charger SRT8: The 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 is a serious performance machine with a 470-hp 6.4-liter Hemi V-8 that responds to throttle inputs with no hesitation.

2011 Ferrari #62 Risi Competizione F458 Italia: Matched only by the legendary heritage of Ferrari, the Risi Competizione team has won two Le Mans championships and achieved 29 podium finishes.

2013 Ford Focus ST: Debuting with the same 250-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged EcoBoost engine that the much larger Ford Explorer SUV uses, the new Ford Focus ST packs a serious punch.

1992 GMC Typhoon: The 280 horses on tap in the GMC Typhoon allow it to do things unthinkable for an SUV before its introduction.

2011 Volkswagen Scirocco R: The Scirocco R serves as the platform for race cars in the Scirocco R-Cup, which brings world-famous drivers to the Hockenheim track each year.

"The November Speed Pack will be available for 560 MS Points ($7 USD) and will be free to download for those who have already purchased the Forza Motorsport 4 Season Pass. The Season Pass is your ticket to six game add-on packs as they’re released through the next year. Players can purchase the Season Pass on the Xbox LIVE Marketplace and at participating retailers – including Best Buy and GameStop – for only 2,400 Microsoft points ($29.99 USD) The “Forza Motorsport 4” Season Pass is redeemable for six game add-on packs, representing a 30 percent overall savings as compared to purchasing the content separately. New purchasers will also receive all previously released game add-on content and the November Speed Pack."

Source: ForzaMotorsport.net

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MTM introduces 472-hp Audi RS3 tuning program

MTM has just revealed a new set of performance upgrades for the Audi RS3. Thanks to items such as a modified MTM-motronic computer, downpipe, upgraded turbo, reinforced intercooler and more, MTM is able to squeeze up to an additional 132 horses from the RS3's five-pot 2.5 TFSI, for a total 472 horsepower. Not to mention offering a host of handling and braking upgrades, all worthy of a badge boasting three very special letters... M-T-M. More information and photos after the jump.

Under the hood, MTM offers three levels of tune for the RS3's 2.5 TFSI: 410, 424 and 472 horsepower. The first program consists of only a modified MTM-motronic ECU, boosting output to 410-hp, 405 lb/ft of torque and raising the top speed to 282 km/h (175 mph). From there, an optimized downpipe/metalcatalyst and reinforcement for the standard intercooler is available, raising power and torque to 424-hp and 413 lb/ft. Topping off the range is an upgraded turbocharger and spark plugs (added to everything listed prior), for a total 472 horsepower and 442 lb/ft of torque. All told, in its most powerful form, the MTM RS3 is good for a sprint from 0-100 km/h in 4.1 seconds on to a de-limited top speed of 292 km/h (181 mph).

In addition to the three engine-performance options listed above, MTM also offers; a performance cat-back performance exhaust system (with throttle valve), bimoto design wheels (coming soon), F-cantronic air suspension upgrade (coming soon), sport brake pads, Brembo 8-piston brake calipers with 380x34mm rotors and a generation 4 Haldex ECU upgrade. Details and prices of each specific RS3 upgrade can be found at MTM's homepage here.




Source: MTM

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Sportec releases Audi RS3 performance upgrades

Famed Swiss Audi tuner, Sportec has now released a host of new performance mods for the Audi RS3. Rather than create one set package, Sportec has taken the à la carte approach, allowing owners to choose from a smorgasbord of goodies; ranging from a re-mapped ECU to a variety of upgraded wheels. More details after the jump.

Focusing first on the go-fast mods, Sportec's new ECU program releases an extra 60 horses from the RS3's already potent 2.5 TFSI; making for a total of 400 horsepower. This ECU upgrade can then be matched with a sport cat-back exhaust, sport air filter and Haldex performance kit. Then in the handling department, there's a choice of a fully adjustable sport suspension system or simple spring-based lowering kit; both dropping the car 25mm. Rounding out the upgrades is a fairly wide range of wheels ranging from 18"-19".

Sportec's new RS3 upgrades are all currently available. For prices and more detailed specifications, check out the company's website at Sportec.ch.



Source: Sportec

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ABT Sportsline reveals Audi RS3 tuning program

ABT Sportsline has really been a tear lately. Just last month, the German tuning firm released two new models; the ABT Q3 and ABT AS6 Avant. ABT's latest tuner is this, the ABT RS3. Utilizing their signature "POWER S" software, ABT is able to release and added 130 horses from the RS3's 2.5 TFSI 5-cylinder for a total of 470 horsepower. More after the jump.

Under the hood, ABT offers the choice of two levels of tune for the RS3. The 420-hp "POWER" and 470-hp "POWER S" programs. As you'd imagine, we're going to focus on the more potent of the two. In addition to its 470 horsepower, ABT's POWER S program is able to expel an extra 133 lb/ft of torque from the RS3's five-pot to a very impressive 464 lb/ft. Coupled with ABT's own performance exhaust system, the ABT RS3 is able to launch from 0-62 mph in just four seconds and on to a de-limited top speed of 177 mph.

As you can see from the photos, ABT chose to leave much of Audi's original bodywork intact. The only aesthetic modifications currently offered is a choice of the firm's "DR," "CR" or "BR" design wheels in 19-inch size only. "19 inches are perfect for this car," explained ABT's CEO Hans-Jürgen Abt, who personally prefers the gun-metal "DR" design as pictured.

For more information, check out the official press release below or feel free to visit ABT Sportsline's official website.

Press Release:

High-speed magic – the new ABT RS3

Well, it can hardly be called “cute”, can it?! The RS3 is chunky and chic and damned fast, too. “A car to which there is even more than meets the eye, and that is quite a feat,” says Hans-Jürgen Abt, CEO of the globally largest tuner of cars produced by the Volkswagen Group. Highlighting what is special about this new car, he continues “If you are into understatement you get a car that is simply elegant. It is easy to handle in narrow streets and you can also burn rubber.“ Even more so when the ABT Sportsline engineers have also tuned up its performance: 100km/h in four seconds? No problem whatsoever. And certainlyenough to keep one’s pole position, don’t you think? And it only stops at 285 km/h. In contrast to its series-production counterpart, the ABT RS3 has no cut-off. Or, as Hans-Jürgen Abt explains: “It was our engineers’ top priority that this car shows a top performance at high speeds, too. If you look at the performance chart, you can see that it is very powerful even near the limit.“ After all, for ABT the RS3 stands for high-speed magic.

The ABT RS3 has power – lots of power. But it uses its power discretely if you are driving through town or leisurely elsewhere. If, however, you want to go at full throttle, in its most powerful version it will turn into a racing car. With its POWER S technology, that is, the ABT turbocharger and a modified motor management, the five-cylinder engine, 2.5l cc, produces no less than 470 hp (346 kW), that’s more kW than the series-production’s horsepower (340 hp/250 kW). 630 Nm (torque; series-production: 450) mean a massive thrust and superiority all over. The RS3 has the same fuel consumption and CO2 emission rate as the basic version. Again, the ABT engineers’ work was perfect. But you don’t need the most powerful version to get fun. ABT POWER does also give you a lot. The 2.5 TFSI strong 420 hp (309 kW) engine’s performance is certainly enough to outrace all others and let them catch a glimpse of the 2-pipe stainless steel ABT exhaust system.

The RS3 simply needs the ABT light alloy wheels. “19 inches are perfect for this car,“ says Hans-Jürgen Abt. He likes the DR with its expressive Gun-Metal look best, but, of course, BR and CR also fit this car perfectly. And all light alloy wheels are also available in complete sets. Finally: high-performance tyres are extremely important for such a fast car. 255/30 R19 on the front axle, 225/35 R19 on the rear one. The ABT RS3 on DR wheels has a real presence then – on the road, too! It’s simply high-speed magic.

The new ABT RS3 – data and facts:

ABT ENGINE TECHNOLOGY
Engine: 2.5 TFSI, 2.480 ccm capacity
Performance tuning: ABT POWER - Performance: 420 HP/309 kW (standard: 340 PS/250 kW)
Performance tuning: ABT POWER S - Performance: 470 HP/346 kW (standard: 340 PS/250 kW)

ABT EXHAUST TECHNOLOGY
ABT stainless steel exhaust system

ABT WHEEL TECHNOLOGY
ABT BR, CR or DR in 8,5x19 inch
(Available also as complete set of wheels with sports tyres)

Source: ABT Sportsline

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Video: First sounds of Milltek's new Audi RS3 exhaust system

Milltek Sport has recently been working on a new exhaust system designed specifically for the Audi RS3. Though still a prototype, fellow UK-based tuning firm, QS Tuning had the opportunity to bolt on Milltek's new piping and have a go. In addition to the exhaust, QST's RS3 project also sports an MTM ECU re-map and black MTM Bimoto wheels. Check out the video after the jump (you may want to crank up your speakers a bit).



Source: Milltek Sport

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H&R releases Audi RS3 sport suspension systems

With the introduction of two new coilover suspension systems, it appears that the folks at H&R feel the Audi RS3 "needs moar low." For the street, H&R's new "Sport" system lowers ride height by 20mm (front) and 25mm (rear), improving looks and handling without sacrificing comfort. And for the track, the more aggressive "Clubsport" system offers full adjustability and peak performance. Press release after the jump.



Press Release:

Compact Tarmac Machine
One does not necessarily expect 340 PS in a compact car nor the possibility to accelerate to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds. However these values all come together under the bonnet of the new Audi RS3 sportsback.

Fitting for the sales launch H&R has developed a sports suspension set for this compact car that brings its front axle around 25 millimetres and its rear axle around 20 millimetres nearer to the tarmac. This not only makes the design more dynamic it also supports the driving dynamics of the RS3 a touch more. Despite the more direct contact with the driving surface sufficient comfort still remains for every day use.

For more agile handling the suspension specialists from Lennestadt are offering a coil over suspension which keeping within TÜV approved values allows the vehicle's height and load on the wheels be individually adjusted.
The Clubsport variant of the coil over suspension tackles the matter even more directly. Here the sporty design naturally is of priority. The soon to be available H&R sports stabilisers – made of special steel – can be used with all the aforementioned suspension products and the ex-works chassis.

Highlights can also be obtained from the H&R TRAK+ Wheel Spacers made of high tensile aluminium – regardless of whether they are combined with works or tuned wheels. The unsightly gap between the wheel arch and the edge of the wing is thus a thing of the past. And in addition these measures have a positive effect on the driving dynamics of this small car. The low rolling resistance of the tyres has been kept – and still the vehicle has a wider track width.

The full range of H&R products - available for over 1,500 different vehicle types – is available at all good specialist dealers and along with the expected H&R quality, comes with a general operating permit (ABE) or TÜV certificate of conformity for parts (Teilegutachten).

Source: H&R (Germany)

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Video: Audi RS3 vs. BMW 1M drag race

As some of you may have noticed already, tests of the Audi RS3 versus the BMW 1M have been a mixed bag. Mainly because, despite both cars sharing similar power ratings, each chooses very different ways to lead their horses the wheels. So, cutting out any cat and mouse chases or lap time comparisons, Auto Express took a more 'old school' approach to see which car is fastest - a quarter mile drag race. Video after the jump.



Source: Auto Express (YouTube)

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Audi 2.5-liter TFSI wins International Engine of the Year Award 2011

For the second year in a row, Audi's venerable 2.5-liter TFSI five-cylinder has won the International Engine of the Year Award (2-liter to 2.5-liter category). Currently powering the Audi TT RS and RS3 Sportback, the 2.5 TFSI develops 340 hp and 332 lb/ft of torque. Enough to launch the TT RS from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds, and only 4.6 seconds for the heavier RS3. Press release after the jump.

- Best engine in 2-liter to 2.5-liter category for second year in a row
- Seventh category award win in a row for Audi TFSI technology

Ingolstadt/Stuttgart, 2011-05-18 - A jury of 76 motoring journalists from around the world has voted the Audi 2.5-liter TFSI as the “International Engine of the Year 2011” in the 2-liter to 2.5-liter category. This engine therefore retains the award that it won last year.

The 2.5-liter unit fitted to the Audi RS 3 Sportback and TT RS Coupé and Roadster features both turbocharging and FSI direct gasoline injection technology, two of Audi’s core technologies. With a displacement of 2,480 cubic centimeters, this engine produces 250 kW (340 hp) between 5,400 and 6,500 rpm and peak torque of 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) from 1,600 to 5,300 rpm.

International Engine of the Year jury members said of the 2.5-liter engine: "This is certainly the best turbocharged engine in recent years. Torque, power, and great sound – this engine has it all! It is a powerful, visceral reminder of the original quattro rally racing engine that put Audi on the map.”

Developed by quattro GmbH, the Audi TT RS Coupé can sprint from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.3 seconds (Roadster: 4.4 seconds) and both the Coupè and Roadster have an optional top speed of 280 km/h (174 mph).

Audi now offers the same engine that powers the two TT RS models in the RS 3 Sportback. It takes 4.6 seconds to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) – a best-in-class performance figure. Its governed top speed is 250 km/h (155 mph).

This is the seventh category win in a row at the International Engine of the Year Awards for Audi TFSI technology. Between 2005 and 2009, the Audi 2.0-liter TFSI engine has won the award in the 1.8 to 2.0-liter category.


Source: Audi AG

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Audi A3 concept and RS3 Sportback at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show

We've put together a brief photo gallery from yesterday's Audi press conference at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show. Highlights of the event included an introduction to the RS3 Sportback, driven on stage by legendary rally femme fatale, Michèle Mouton (with daughter, Jessi riding shotgun). Following the RS3 was a brief serenade by Scottish singer/songwriter, Amy MacDonald, which set the stage for the event's headliner - the world premiere of the all-new Audi A3 concept.












Photos: Audi AG and United Pictures

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Video: New Audi RS3 driving footage

Even though the Audi RS3 was first revealed last November, the 2011 Geneva Motor Show does mark the car's official world auto show debut. As such, Audi released some new RS3 Sportback driving footage to help mark the occasion. Chock full of exotic Mediterranean scenery and backed by our favorite five-cylinder soundtrack, this video certainly does not disappoint.



For more videos like this, be sure to subscribe to QuattroholicVideos on YouTube.

Source: Audi

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Video: Audi RS3 Snow Drifting

We're fairly confident in saying, this is by far, the coolest set of Audi B-roll driving footage we've ever seen. And by cool, we mean full opposite lock Audi RS3 hoonage on a snowy track at last week's Fascination quattro event in Quebec, Canada. Following the driving scenes are exterior and interior glamour shots, along with some great exhaust revs showcasing the RS3's venerable five cylinder turbo growl.



Source: Audi via QuattroholicVideos (YouTube)

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Quattros in the Snow: New photos of Audi RS3, A7, RS5 and more

In addition to the reveal of the new A1 quattro, Audi has released today a photo gallery that we can only describe as a quattroholic's ultimate winter wonderland. Included in the set are new photos of the RS3 Sportback (in Daytona Grey), A1 quattro, A7, RS5, S4, TT RS and Ur-quattro rally cars. All set to a snowy backdrop near the Mont-Tremblant resort outside of Montreal, Canada.

We find the choice of Canadian location (and conspicuous Ontario license plates) to display a number of vehicles not currently available in North America, quite odd. While the A7, RS5 and TT RS all have a green-light for future sale in the US and Canada, we hope the inclusion of the RS3 and A1 quattro to this photo shoot could foreshadow future availability (fingers crossed).

RS3 Sportback:




A1 quattro (Click here for more info):




A7:




RS5:




TT RS:




S4:




Ur-quattro/Sport quattro:




Audi tagged each photo "Fascination quattro Montreal 2011-01-07/09." Whether or not all of these models will be available at next weekend's Fascination quattro winter driving event is not yet known. For more information on Fascination quattro, please visit fascinationquattro.com.

UPDATE: This lineup was put together as a PR event for "select" members of the press. Apparently, various UK and European journalists were able to get behind the wheel of the RS3 last weekend. North American journalists (not us, unfortunately) are heading to Montreal this weekend for the same opportunity. As far as we know, goodies such as the RS3 will not be available as part of the public event.

Source: Audi

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