2010 Audi R8 Spyder Officially Unveiled at the Frankfurt auto show

No more spy shots or speculation. The highly anticipated Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro, which is a drop-top version of Audi’s brilliant V10-powered R8 supercar, has been unveiled at the Frankfurt auto show.

Only the 5.2-liter V10 engine is available, which is producing an impressive 386 kW (525 hp) and 530 Nm (391 lb-ft) of torque. As such, the R8 Spyder can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 4.1 seconds before hitting a top speed of 313 km/h (194 mph). The fuel consumption figure is also acceptable. The six-speed manual models average 14.9L/100km (15.79 US mpg), while R tronic automated manual gearbox get 13.9L/100km (16.92 US mpg).

To keep the weight low, the R8 Spyder features the aluminum Audi Space Frame (ASF) which only weighs 216 kilograms (476.2 lb). That’s 6 kilograms (13.23 lb) heavier than the one used on the R8 Coupe, because of the strengthening to compensate for the lack of the roof.

Speaking of the roof, Audi uses a traditional cloth top instead of a targa top setup as initially report. It only weighs 30 kilograms (66.14 lb). The soft top is so conventional that it is full automated and can be closed or opened in just 19 seconds at speeds of up to 31 mph. To further maximize convenience, the rear window is separate from the top which allows it to be raised independently of the roof.

In terms of styling, there are black front end accents, a chrome grille, full-LED headlights, an anodized aluminium windscreen surround, three choices of colour for the soft-top. With the lack of a fixed roof, Audi replaced the trademark 'sideblades' with carbon fiber side panels.

Insides, the roadster comes with Nappa leather upholstery, a Bang & Olufsen audio system, GPS navigation, heated seats, and a world-first optional seatbelt microphone for hands-free telephone conversation. If you forget to put the top up on a hot summer day, the seats will be cooler than normal because they use special "pigments that reflect the infrared component of sunlight."

Sales will begin in early 2010. The base price is 156,400 euros. U.S. pricing has not yet been announced.

2010 Audi A3 TDI Priced From $29,950

Earlier this year, Audi has launched the Q7 TDI, the first diesel from Audi this year. Now, here comes the second one, the highly expected 2010 A3 TDI, which will arrive in dealerships in the U.S.late this November carrying a price tag of $29,950 before an $825 delivery fee.

Under the hood, the engine is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, mated to a S tronic transmission and a front-wheel-drive system. The output of the 2010 A3 TDI is rated at 140 horsepower and 236 pount-feet of torque.

With 30 mpg in the city and 42 mpg on the highway, the vehicle will be just as efficient and just as nice to drive as the Lexus HS 250h hybrid, but several thousand dollars less expensive. “The Lexus HS 250h offers similar combined fuel economy with hybrid technology, but not superlative highway mileage range,” says Audi.

Standard features include leather and Audi’s S-line exterior sport appearance package. Options include navigation, Bluetooth, a BOSE premium sound system, a Titanium package with dark gray wheels and black grille, leather/Alcantara seats, wood trim, rain/light sensors, auto-dimming exterior and interior rear-view mirrors and LED daytime running lights.

Audi announces U.S. pricing for 2010 Audi R8, including R8 V10 5.2 FSI

The R8 is a proven worldwide success story for Audi. Lately, Audi has announced U.S. pricing for the highly anticipated 2010 Audi R8 V10 sports car will start at $146,000 for the manual-equipped version, while the R tronic models bumps the price to $155,100.

The 2010 Audi R8 V10 gets a 5.2-liter FSI V10 engine which produces 525 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. This will be enough to accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 3.7 seconds, before hitting a top speed of 196 mph.

The R8 V10 receives unique exterior features as standard equipment, including: innovative full-LED headlights, 19-inch Y-design forged aluminum alloy wheels with summer performance tires, modified sideblades with larger air intakes, and a revised grille with additional chrome accents. Other unique updates include new rocker panels, dual oval exhaust tips, a larger rear diffuser, and plenty of V10 badging.

Inside, the car comes nicely equipped with a navigation system, a 465-watt Bang & Olufsen sound system, SIRIUS satellite radio, Bluetooth connectivity, and heated sport seats.

The first two R8 V10 models have already been delivered, the first one was sold at $500,000, and the second also sold for $350,000. The combined $850,000 went to charity.

In addition, the standard R8 4.2 FSI quattro starts from $114,200 with a manual transmission, while the R tronic version is a bit more expensive - $123,000.

2010 A5 Sportback officially revealed in depth

We have mentioned Audi A5 Sportback many times, now finally here comes the true face. The 2010 Audi A5 Sportback, set to go on sale in Europe following a debut at September’s Frankfurt Motor Show, has officially revealed in July 16 during a ceremony that celebrates 100 years of Audi.

Described as offering the practicality of an Avant wagon with the elegant styling of a coupe, the new A5 Sportback features a five door body with an elongated profile, sitting 36mm lower than the A4 sedan. Frameless doors definitely add to the car's clean look. The nicely-angled side windows, ringed in chrome, show off a sporty look with a flowing roofline.

Inside, there’s generous space for four adults. At 480 liters, Audi also provided nearly the same amount of cargo space as the A4 Avant.

Under the hood, three petrol engines are available, including 180 and 211 horsepower variants of the 2.0-liter TFSI unit, and a 3.2-liter V6 model providing 265 horsepower. If it is diesel you prefer, you can choose the incredibly efficient 2.0-liter TDI. The 170 hp unit uses just 5.2 liters of fuel per 100 km, or rougly 45+ mpg. A start/stop system helps increase fuel efficiency. The other TDI engines are a 190 hp 2.7-liter unit and a 3.0-liter, 240 horsepower model. The 2.0 TFSI quattro, the 3.2 FSI quattro and the 3.0 TDI quattro models are available with the seven-speed S-tronic gearbox.

Audi will release three more engines for the A5 Sportback within the next year. Each petrol model, and the highest-powered TDI, is fitted with Audi's "quattro" all-wheel drive system, while customers purchasing one of the two most powerful engines may also add on a newly offered sport differential which distributes the drive power in continuously variable proportions between the rear wheels. Those not receiving quattro instead get a stability unit that helps prevent understeer with an electronic front differential. The 180 hp 2.0-liter TFSI engine also gets the stability program.

Pricing in Europe will start at €33,650 (approximately $45,000) for the base 2.0L TDI model, however, Audi has confirmed that an even cheaper model will arrive in the middle of next year. Orders are already being taken.

MTM Tunes Audi S4 3.0 TFSI to 430HP, A6 3.0 TFSI to 360HP

Audi S4, already one of the most potent of the Audi S cars, produces a respectable 333hp (248kW) with the 3.0L V6 TFSI engine. Now, specialist Audi tuner MTM, has enhanced the power to 430hp (320kW) and 380lb-ft (515Nm) of torque for the Audi S4 sedan and Avant models, thanks to its M-Cantronic system. This makes the cars able to challenge the previous generation RS4 that came with 420 horsepower and 430Nm of torque.

With the quattro AWD and the 6-speed manual gearbox, the modified S4 will accelerate from 0 - 100km/h in just 4.7 seconds – 0.4 seconds faster than the stock version.

Beside improved performance, buyers have a choice between 19-inch and 21-inch Bimoto alloy wheels in addition to a height-adjustable suspension system. An exclusive four-pipe oval exhaust system with different optics is also fitted along with MTM brakes.

As for the Audi A6 3.0-litre TFSI, MTM has a special M-Cantronic programme which not only increases their V6's efficiency but boosts the supercharged V6's output from 290 horsepower to 360 horsepower.

Incidentally, MTM said that assembly and disassembly are done quickly. For vehicles used commercially, making it ideal for people who are using leased cars as well as outright owners.

Audi adds two new engines into Euro Q5 and A4 Allroad

Customers in Europe have a new choice for efficiency and savings now, with the announcement of a new pair of entry level engines available in the Audi Q5 and A4 Allroad.

The Audi's 143hp 2.0 TDI diesel four-cylinder and the 180hp 2.0 TFSI gasoline four, both in conjunction with the 6-speed manual transmission, are available in Audi Q5. And the 2.0 TDI is now also available in the A4 allroad.

However, Americans have less options. The A4 allroad is not yet available in North America , and the Q5 is currently only available with a 3.2-liter gas V6 in North America .

Selling prices for the Audi Q5 start at EUR 36,800 for the 2.0 TFSI and EUR 36,500 for the 2.0 TDI. The base price for the Audi A4 allroad 2.0 TDI is EUR 37,100.

Spy shots: First test-mules for next-gen Audi A3

The next-gen Audi A3 will hit the market in late 2010 in the basic three and five-door hatchback models. Audi is expected the new Audi A3 range to compete with BMW’s 1-series range as well as a family of sporty models based on the next-generation Mercedes A and B-Class. Here spy photographers have caught the first images of the 2011 Audi A3.

The new A3 test mule is wearing the current Mark VI VW Golf Volkswagen body to divert attention. Furthermore, the new A3’s underpinnings will once again be shared with VW’s Golf, which means Audi’s latest modular platform design has been ruled out. The spy shots show that next A3 will be bigger than the current model, growing a few inches in width.

Engine options will likely include a series of four-cylinder powerplants ranging from 1.2 to 2.0L in displacement. The base engine will be a 1.2L TFSI with 105hp and 175Nm of torque and this will be followed by a 1.4L TFSI with 125hp and 200Nm of torque as well as a 1.8L TFSI with 160hp and 250Nm of torque. Rounding out the four-cylinder family will be a 2.0L TFSI with 211hp and 350Nm of torque. For the performance S3 model, expect to see a new turbocharged four-cylinder engine. A variety of diesel engines, with a rumored 207hp (152kW) 2.0-liter TDI taking the top spot are also expected.

In an attempt to establish a greater foothold in the North America, Audi is also considering an A3 sedan which is designed to appeal to hatch-hating Americans.

Senner Tuning Audi A5

Senner Tuning have released a complete styling package for the Audi A5, dubbed as Black and White, including both exterior and interior modifications. With all the changes, the car does look pretty hot and the total cost is about €11,700, but customers can select just some of them.

In terms of exterior, the Senner Tuning Audi A5 Black and White features a new aerodynamic package which including a carbon fiber spoiler apron with matching side-mirror housings, carbon fiber rear bumper, new rear spoiler and lip, new LED taillights and quad-exhaust made of stainless steel. The aerodynamic package is available at €3,377.

New 20-inch ASA GT1 lightweight alloy wheels were also mounted. The wheels are available in either Shiny Silver or Matte Black, with the possibility of a separate color ring trim near the wheels' edge. Choices for the rim lip include orange, white, red, and silver. Measuring 9x20 in front, 10.5x20 in back, the wheels are wrapped in Vredestein ultra Sessanta XL tires. The company mounted a Bilstein B16 PSS10 fully adjustable coilover suspension to enhance the handling capabilities. These changes cost just under €4600.

Track wheels are also available for an additional €250.

The Audi A5’s 3.0-liter TDI engine has been retuned to produce 300 hp and 600 Nm of maximum torque with an electronically limited speed of 280 km/h. When combined with the new sport air filter, the cost of the under-the-hood modifications is €1649.

Inside, the Senner Tuning Audi A5 Black and White features carbon fiber trim at the ashtray cover, center console, the front and the rear door panels. These feature costs €1,690. And the company charges an additional €395 to trim out the instrument cluster.

Audi unveils 100th anniversary sculpture at the Goodwood Festival of Speed

Audi has officially unveiled their 100th anniversary sculpture at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Hode your breath and open your eyes, it’s really stunning!!

Located in front of Lord March's Goodwood House in West Sussex, the massive sculpture features two Audi cars – the legendary 1937 Auto Union streamliner as well as the just launched R8 V10 sports car suspended in the air, at either end of a dramatic ‘swoosh’ of tyre tracks, as if they are driving off into the sky.

“I wanted to design something iconic because this year is Audi’s 100th anniversary,” explains the sculpture's creator, Gerry Judah. “The sculpture had to have a celebratory theme and it also had to encompass the qualities of the Audi brand: sporty, prestigious and progressive. "

“I drew about 20 ideas and some had elaborate bridges with vaulted arches but somehow they didn’t have quite the right style. I then had a flash of inspiration and designed this ‘swoosh’ with a car at either end to represent Audi’s 100-year history."

The steel structure weighs in at 44 tons (40 tonnes). It may look relatively simple, however, Judah said "...it's actually extremely complex, because the structure has to be rigid and completely balanced without the need for hundreds of supporting props." Built by 12 men in four weeks, the colossal monument is expected to awe and inspire more than 130,000 visitors.

Besides the sculpture, Audi will display several historic vehicles in the Festival, including a handful of Auto Union ‘Silver Arrows', a variety of early Quattro cars, and the legendary Le Mans winning R10 TDI. A brief timeline below documents what Audi thinks are some of its seminal moments over the past 100 years.

1909 - First car to bear the Audi name: the Audi Type A (2.6 liter)
1935 - The Auto Union B-type wins the Italian Grand Prix at Monza
1937 - The Type C Stromlinenwagen first to break the 400 kph land speed record on the Autobahn
1938 - First to perform systematic crash tests bringing added safety and reassurance for drivers
1980 - First to introduce a permanent four-wheel drive rally car – the Audi Quattro with its turbocharged five-cylinder engine
1989 - First Audi with TDI – the Audi 100 shows the world the remarkable power and economy with TDI
1994 - First to use the Aluminum Space Frame – tough and corrosion resistant, this provided the bodyshell for the Audi A8, making it far lighter than traditional designs
2006 - First to win Le Mans with a diesel-powered car
2009 - First appearance of the Audi R8 V10 – the new 10-cylinder performance car which is capable of 0-62 mph in just 3.9 seconds

Audi releases first details and new teaser for A5 Sportback

We first reported that Audi A5 Sportback would be debuted at this September’s Frankfurt Motor Show in May 1. Now Audi has revealed more details of the all-new A5 Sportback.

Audi has announced A5 Sportback is set to go on sale in Europe following the debut at September’s Frankfurt Motor Show. Pricing in Europe will start at €36,050 (approximately $49,855) for the base 2.0L TDI model, however, Audi has confirmed that an even cheaper model will arrive in the middle of next year.

Designed to be as "emotional and elegant as a coupe, as comfortable as a sedan, and as practical as an Avant", the new A5 Sportback features a five door body with an elongated profile. Although the teaser video only shows an artist stretching the A5 Sportback's design, Audi states that the new model features a large rear hatch, a graceful tapering roofline which is 36 mm (1.4") lower than the A4 Sedan's, and four frameless doors with "dynamic window styling". Inside, there’s 980L of storage available with the rear seats are folded and generous space for four adults.

At launch, the A5 Sportback will be offered with three diesels and two petrol engines. Diesel versions include the 2.0 TDI with 125 kW (170 hp) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque, a 2.7 TDI with 140 kW (190 hp) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft), and a 3.0-liter V6 TDI with 176 kW (240 hp) and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) torque. The two petrol versions, the 2.0 TFSI quattro with an output of 211hp (155kW) and 258lb-ft (350Nm) of torque and the 3.2L V6 quattro generating 265hp (195kW) are both equipped with the Audi valvelift system. This feature can produce more power and higher torque as well as lower fuel consumption.

To ensure optimal handling performance the A5 Sportback comes with a newly developed electronic stability program (ESP) with an electronic differential lock on the front axle. The car also comes with the Audi drive select dynamic driving system, which allows the driver to choose between three different modes which influence the throttle response characteristics, the shift points for the seven-speed S tronic or multitronic transmissions, and supports the servotronic steering. If the vehicle is equipped with the MMI operating system, a fourth, freely programmable level is also available.

Expect more details to be released closer to the car’s unveiling in September.

Audi Q7 V12 TDI by ABT Sportsline

ABT Sportsline is expecting for the Most Powerful Diesel in The World title with the new ABT Audi Q7 V12 TDI.

The tuner announces that the ABT Audi Q7 V12 TDI is able to output 560 hp (412 kW) and a heart stopping 1200 Nm of torque. This is 60 hp and 200 Nm of torque more than the standard car. With the extra 60 hp, the SUV hits 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds while the top speed achieved is 258 km/h.

The ABT Audi Q7 V12 TDI is equipped with the 6-speed tip-tronic gearbox and is able to get from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds. It's top speed is 258 km/h. The ABT Audi Q7 V12 TDI also comes with a few styling enhancements including 22 inch wheels.

No words about the price yet!

Audi Q5 Hybrid coming in 2011

The competition of Hybrid-electric and other green propulsion systems becomes more and more deep. Already Lexus' new RX 450h is leading the compact crossover hybrid race and BMW is positioned to make an entry eventually with the X6 ActiveHybrid. In keeping with the times, Audi also announces its plans to bring a Q5 hybrid SUV to the U.S., most likely by 2011.

TheCarConnection is reporting that Audi will fit a new petrol-electric hybrid powertrain to the Q5 in 2011, and since the compact SUV shares much of its design with the A4 and A5 models the hybrid option may filter across to these as well. After the launch of the hybrid, Audi is then expected to introduce an efficient turbodiesel version of the Q5.

The latest news follows comments originating with Wolfgang Hatz, Audi's head of powertrain development, back at January’s Detroit Auto Show. Hatz cautioned that diesel is a more practical alternative, but there’s a catch. The cost-effectiveness of diesel technology is greater, though that calculus in the U.S. is very different from Europe, where the price of fuel is higher in general and the differential between diesel and petrol isn't as great.

Whether that calculation works out so dramatically in favor of diesel, however, acceptance of hybrid technology is clearly much greater in the U.S. That alone might be enough to justify the decision to bring in the hybrid Q5 before the diesel.

Caractere styling kit for Audi A5 Cabrio

After unveiling their sexy body kit for the Audi A5/S5 coupe last year, Caractere now offers a similar series of styling accessories for the new Audi A5 Cabrio.

The design program for the Audi A5 Cabrio offers a range of front and rear fascias, side skirts and a roof spoiler. The new pieces are designed to fit and enhance the newly introduced drop-top, with special pieces for the high-performance S5 model.

An exhaust kit is also available, but only on non-quattro models, while the two-piece front spoiler kit only works on non-S-line models. The unique CW1 wheels in both 19 and 20in sizes are available as part of the program, though since it's a piecemeal system, you can always opt for your own if Caractere's designs don't suit your tastes.

Overall, the result is surprisingly tasteful. Although pricing information wasn't released, the styling accessories are currently on sale.

Audi unveils '100 years of Audi' package for Europe

Audi's "100 Years of Audi" celebrations have already seen a unique watch called the Tachoscope, now it continue with the announcement of two new Audi Exclusive equipment packages for European Audi cars.

The packages are the Styling package and the Innovation package. Both are available for the Audi A3, A3 Cabriolet, A4, A6, TT, A5 coupe and Q5 to Q7.

The Styling package is named as such because it concentrates on upgrading the cars' looks, including a three-spoke leather steering wheel and unique alloy wheels, while the innovation portion features xenon headlights, LED daytime running lights with high-beam assist.

Other custom options are also available on 100-year packages, including a special Daytona pearl exterior color, sport seats, tinted moonroof, and a special door sill design that backlights a silhouette of the legendary 16-cylinder Type C racing car.

Both packages also offer huge values, cutting the price of the included options and features by as much as 40%. Pricing starts at €2,400 ($3,300) and ranges up to €6,750 ($9,400) for the style packages, while the innovation packages cover the span from €1,700 ($2,300) and €2,700 ($3,800).

New ABT AS3 based on Audi A3 Facelift

German tuner ABT Sportsline has released a tuning kit for the facelift Audi A3 hatchback. The tuner calls it ABT AS3 and it's more than just a cosmetic surgery. The tuned A3 follows in the footsteps of similar work undertaken by ABT on the larger Audi A5. The tuning focuses on both performance enhancements and visual upgrades to give the car more grunt than the standard hatch from Audi.

Under the hood, ABT takes the 2.0L TSI engine and winds it up to an impressive 240hp (179kW), rather than the standard model’s 200hp (147kW). Similar gains in performance are available for the other petrol engines in the A3 lineup, including a 35hp (26kW) lift to 160hp (120kW) in the 1.4L TSI engine, and a 50hp (37kW) lift to 210hp (157kW) in the 1.8L TSI unit. For the 2.0L turbodiesel A3, ABT can also lift power to a maximum of 190hp (142kW), along with plenty of torque.

To help control the extra power on the road, ABT is also offering custom made performance springs that lower the car by 35mm. When coupled with an upgraded braking system, the ABT AS3 should prove to be significantly more agile than the factory A3 on the road.

In terms of visual upgrades, ABT is offering a number of modifications, including a new bonnet, front grille, front bumpers, fenders and LED daytime running lights. The rest of the bodywork is made up of new side skirts, a front spoiler insert, fender inserts and a rear apron. ABT's recognisable four tailpipe unit gives the cars more presence. ABT AR or BR alloy wheels measuring 18 or 19-inch are recommended for the AS3.

Audi Q5 gets the highest safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA

In previous post, we reported that the 2009 Volkswagen CC received the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s Top Safety Pick award for 2009. It seems carmakers do take the safety of cars into considerations. It's no different with the 2009 Audi Q5, which is equipped with most of the safety devices available on the market today, earning a Top Safety Pick award for 2009 from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), and received the highest front and side crash ratings from U.S. safety regulators.

Results from rigorous IIHS testing showed the 2009 Audi Q5 received a "good" rating in all three crash measurements: side impact, offset frontal and rear impact seat tests. The NHTSA gave the 2009 Audi Q5 five stars for both driver and passenger protection in front and side impact tests.

“Audi engineers place unwavering emphasis on the protection of motorists and their passengers,” said Johan de Nysschen, President, Audi of America. “These outstanding ratings for the Audi Q5 confirm our intent to meet the most rigorous safety standards found anywhere in the world.”

Every Audi sold in the U.S. has standard four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock braking system (ABS), an electronic stability program, daytime running lights (DRL) and a standard tire pressure monitoring system. The Audi Q5 adds to these features with quattro permanent all-wheel standard on all models, providing high levels of active safety and traction in a wide variety of conditions. All of these features are designed to help reduce the chances of a collision, and they all contribute to the Q5's top safety rank.

Audi expands A3 range with two new economical 1.6L TDI engines

In the U.S. the 2009 Audi A3 is only offered with a pair of petrol engines ranging in displacement from 2.0L up to 3.2L, but in the rest of the world Audi offers a full range of engine options including both petrol and TDI diesel units. And now overseas, Audi has expanded the Audi A3 line-up with the addition of two new 1.6L TDI engines offering 90hp (66kW) and 105hp (77kW), respectively. The two engines give customers who concern about fuel efficiency more options.

The first is a 90 hp engine with a peak torque of 230 Nm, emitting a scant 118 grams of CO2 per km. 0-100 km/h time is 12.9 seconds in an A3 with this engine, and a top speed of 180 km/h. Using only 4.5 liters of diesel per 100km, or 52.27 US mpg, you might be pleased with cleanness of this choice.

But the second unit is not only more powerful, but more efficient, too. Rated at 105 horsepower, this four-cylinder engine uses just over 4 liters of diesel for every 100 km of driving. This translates to a spectacular 57.37 US mpg. Even emissions are cleaner with this unit, dispensing only 109 g/km. With the 105 hp unit, the Audi A3 gets a 0-100 km/h time of 11.4 seconds, on its way to a 194 km/h top speed. But torque figures were not released for this engine. The secret to this engine's success is the use of both engine start-stop and energy recovery system.

The energy recovery system draws kinetic energy from the car’s brakes when slowing down, converting this to electricity to take the load off the alternator, which draws power from the engine and thus consumes fuel. According to Audi, this improves fuel economy by as much as 3%.

The Audi A3 1.6-liter TDI is on sale now. The 90hp (66kW) unit will cost €22,550, while the 105hp (77kW) model will cost €23,550.

Details of 2010 Audi TT RS

Last year, Audi has taken the wraps off several variants of its sporty TT, including TT-S, 2.0L TDI diesel-powered TT and the entry-level 1.8L TFSI model. And at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show, we see the performance RS version of the TT, which is simply called Audi TT RS. The TT RS range has two models, they’re TT-RS Coupe and Roadster.

The TT RS range is powered by Audi's new 2.5-litre five-cylinder turbo engine with FSI direct petrol injection. It makes maximum power of 340hp (250kW) and peak torque of 450Nm (332 lb ft) between a wide band of 1,600rpm and 5,300rpm. This power and torque is sent through to all four wheels via Audi's quattro permanent AWD.

Performance, according to Audi, confirms the TT RS as the fastest in its class. The Coupe fires off the line to 100km/h in 4.6 seconds while the Roadster does it in 4.7 seconds. Top speed is limited to 250km/h in both cars but can be increased to 280km/h if requested. The hard top weighs in at 1,450kg (3,197 lbs) while the Roadster is 60kg (132 lbs) dearer because of all the extra equipment needed to operate the canvass roof.

Average fuel consumption is 9.2 litres per 100km (25.57 US mpg) for the Coupe and 9.5 litres per 100km (24.76 US mpg) for the Roadster.

The standard wheel size is 18-inch with 245/40 tyres but customers can specify the bigger 19s or 20s for their baby. A standard sports suspension lowers the car by 10 milimetres while the optional magnetic ride adaptive damping system offers Comfort and Sport characteristics. The rear features a diffuser and a stationary spoiler. There is an optional one that retracts and extends. All models are fitted with a six-speed manual and ventilated disc brakes with black four-piston aluminium callipers and diameters of 370mm at the front and 310mm at the rear button, which alters throttle response and also opens a flap in the left exhaust tailpipe to increase the rumble. The standard electronic stability software has been replaced with a more sporty version that is more forgiving to sideways action and can also be switched off completely for maximum fun.

The interior is laid out in leather and Alcantara. It also features heated sports seats, brushed aluminium inlays and a flat-bottomed multifunction sports steering wheel.

The TT RS Coupe will be priced at €55,800 and the Roadster at €58,650 when they are launched this summer in Europe.

ABT Sportsline adds AS5 package to new A5 Cabrio

ABT Sportsline, a long-time Audi tuner with very close ties to the German carmaker’s motorsport division, launched the ABT AS5 Audi A5 Cabrio upgrade program.

The new AS5 kit has previously been launched for the A5 Coupe but now it is being applied for the full A5 Cabrio range. The AS5 kit includes a new front grille, a 4-pipe exhaust unit, a new front apron and the side sills and 19" or 20" rims. Under the bonnet is a series of power upgrades achieved via tuning of the different engines’ electronic control modules.

Starting with the 2.0L TFSI model, ABT lifts output to 275hp (202kW). With the 2.7L TDI, the standard 190hp (140kW) output becomes a much stronger 230hp (169kW). Next in line is the 3.0L diesel, which is increased in output to 282hp (207kW). Finally, a special ‘Power S’ kit for the 3.0L V6 turbodiesel sees output increased even further to 310hp (228kW).

The tuner also offers for the ABT AS5 Audi A5 Cabrio a new braking system and suspension hardware required by the increased output of the models.

Both 19 and 20-inch wheels are available, in the "cool bold BR alloys" style. Also on offer are the more exclusive ABT wheel sets with high-performance tires for maximum road munching traction.

Audi Q5 Custom Concept Revealed at Wörthersee Tour 2009

The 28th Wörthersee Tour in Austria kicks off on May 20 and ends on the 23rd. The show is a gathering of auto enthusiasts, including those who love the Audi brand.

Audi is featuring a number of vehicles at the show, including the TT RS, the V10-engined R8 and the previously revealed A1 Sportback concept car. But the star of the show will almost certainly be the Q5 Custom Concept, a new sporty version of the baby-SUV prepared by the Audi engineers specifically for the Wörthersee Tour. And a number of modifications have been made to give the car its new look.

The Q5 Custom Concept features an exterior paint colour called Daytona Gray, Some red paint applications were made on the rims, the roof rails, the front skirt and the rear spoiler. Other features include matt rolls on 21-inch wheels of 7 twin-spoke design, a new track widened by 90 millimeters (3.54 in) and a new height, lowered by 60 millimeters.

Under the hood Audi has seen fit to take the Q5's standard 3.0L TFSI V6 engine and give it some much needed upgrades. While the stock Q5's V6 churns out a healthy 333hp (245kW), the Q5 custom concept has a much sportier 408hp (300kW), leading to some massive gains in its straight line performance - the sprint to 62mph is dispensed with in just 4.4 seconds. The upgraded power rating comes from a modified air intake and a cooling water strut brace in the engine compartment, helping engineers eek more power out of the supercharged unit.

Some features and equipment include the rear view parking assistant camera, S Line sports seats, stainless steel-plated pedals and voice control.