AUDI RS6

2008 Audi RS6 Avant

Audi has officially released information on its highly-anticipated RS6 Sedan and Avant, both of which will debut at next week's Frankfurt Motor Show. As expected, both models use a twin-turbocharged direct injection version of the S6's 5.2 liter V10. In RS6 guise, the engine produces 580 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque, capable of launching the Avant–which can hold 58.6 cubic feet of cargo–from 0-62 in 4.6. 0-124 mph in the Avant takes just 14.9 seconds, on the way to the car's electronically limited top speed of 155. Both models will be available with optional ceramic disc brakes.

AUDI ABT AS5 Coupe

The new Audi A5 combines a sporty and an unobtrusive design to a powerful, elegant and individual appearance. “A uniquely beautiful car and thus a real challenge for us,” says Hans-Jürgen Abt. The managing director of Abt Sportsline raved about the new Coupe from Ingolstadt, but he emphasizes that “our designers and engineers were able to improve the outstanding base model even more”. The character of the noble sportscar still maintains but after getting a special treatment in the Allgaeu it appears more dynamical. The body kit, especially tailor-made for the Abt AS5, is a spectacular package: a front skirt with a grid element which emphasizes the singel-frame grill and the fog lights, the slightly curved, laterally
mounted body parts and the sleek gill-shaped air-inlets, as well as the well-proportioned rear.
With the unobtrusive but striking rear spoiler and the rear skirt inset in diffuser optics, the design of the Abt AS5 is
gracefully rounded off. The 4-pipe rear muffler is perfectly fitting and additionally recontoures the rear view.
Needless to say that the car sounds as a real Abt car should.
Even when standing still, the Abt AS5 is a sensual car, which eagerly wants to be driven. And when it is allowed to go on the road, it shows how much sports spirit it has. First of all, the 3.0 TDI engine gets a significant “power treatment”. The extremely powerful, self-igniting engine perfectly fits to the A5 and, in addition, offers moderate consumption values. By means of improved motor management, Abt turns the serial 240 hp (176 kW) into powerful 272 hp (200 kW). With an extra Abt turbo charger, the power even increases to 300 well feeded horses. Diesel and sportiness belong together since long. Certainly, Abt
Sportsline will successively modify later developed A5 engines.
To ensure a perfect handling of the noble power package, Abt also makes use of its adjustable sports suspension, besides the serial Quattro engine. All the more, the Abt AS5 will be brought to a standstill by means of the Abt brake system with a disc diameter of 380 millimeters.

AUDI ABT AS400

The Audi A4 of the Audi Sport Team Abt Sportsline is presenting one of the most powerful and exclusive car from their history: AS400. The new Abt AS400 is equipped with a 2.7 litre V6-Bi-Turbo-engine and has 400 HP (294 kW), 290 km/h top speed and 4.7 seconds from 0 to 100.

The new Abt AS400 keep its suitability for daily use as a sport station wagon and will be launched on the market in a small series of 25.

“With the new AS400 we want to and will set new standards in the field of high performance vehicles'', says Managing Director Hans-Jurgen Abt.''The vehicle is a combination of Audi quality control and the large technical know-how of Abt Sportsline when tuning such a car''.

Incorporated into the design of the AS400 is the experience gained from decades in the tuning business. Under the bonnet the 2.7 litre V6-Bi-Turbo-engine providing a maximum torque of approximately 368 ft lbs (500 nm). Via the permanent all-wheel-drive Quattro system, the concentrated power of 400 hp (298 kw) is transferred to all four wheels which are equipped with 18 inch titanium coloured Abt sport wheels. The sport brake system and the sport suspension kit are responsible for safety and optimal control on every road.

As for all Abt tuning projects, Christian Abt signs himself responsible for the development. For the technical Manager of Abt Sportsline and Audi works driver in the DTM, the AS400 is the highlight of the year: ''Normally no road vehicle is good enough for a race track. However the AS400 is a special case: With the power, acceleration and the sportive handling you really have the feeling qualifying starts any minute.''

An interesting design with its new front grill, front spoiler and side skirts as well as rear skirt and rear wing the AS400 looks like a sport car. The 4-pipe stainless-steel exhaust system is not only responsible for the right sound, but proves its Kempten origin when admired from the probably most often seen perspective of the Abt AS400. The trend is continued inside with Abt entrance panels, instrument clusters (speedometer up to 320 km/h), aluminium pedals and foot rests as well as further details.

The Abt AS400 is available for 94 900 Euro (inclusive Value Added Tax) at Abt Sportsline in Kempten or one of the more than 100 Abt partners in Germany. Also Abt Sportsline offers a power upgrade to 450 HP (331 kW). Additionally an Abt sport brake system and Abt sport wheels SP1 in 19 inch-size are available as optional equipment.

AUDI R10 Le Mans Race Car

PARIS - AUDI AG is once again one step ahead of the opposition: The inventor of ‘TDI’ will become the world’s first automobile manufacturer to fight for overall victory with a diesel engine at the famous 24 Hours of Le Mans. The all-new Audi R10, which was unveiled on Tuesday in Paris, is powered by a totally new 5.5-litre, twelve-cylinder bi-turbo TDI engine, which is extremely quiet and economical.

The Le Mans Prototype, with over 650 hp and more than 1,100 Newton metres torque, significantly exceeds the power produced by the majority of previous Audi racing cars – including that of its victorious R8 predecessor. Audi ventures into previously unexplored diesel-engine terrain with the V12 power plant manufactured completely from aluminium. As with the TFSI technology, which triumphed initially at Le Mans before being adopted for mass-production, Audi customers should benefit once again from the lessons learnt in motorsport.

"With the A8 4.2 TDI quattro, Audi already builds one of the most powerful diesel cars in the world,” explained Prof Dr Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG, at the R10 presentation in Paris. "The Le Mans project will help our technicians to extract even more from TDI technology. Nowadays, every second Audi is delivered with a TDI engine. We expect that the percentage of diesel engines will be even larger in the future.”

The R10 prototype’s V12 power unit, which is equipped with two diesel particle filters, is hardly recognisable as a diesel thanks to the engine’s smooth running nature. The TDI engine’s specialities presented the Audi Sport engineers with a whole list of challenges. The injection pressure easily exceeds the 1,600 bar achieved in production cars. The usable power band lies between 3,000 and 5,000 revs per minute – an unusually low rev range for a racing engine. The driver must change gear in the R10 far less often than in the R8 because of the TDI engine’s favourable torque curve.

The enormous torque of over 1,100 Newton metres does not only make extreme demands of the R10 transmission system – even the latest generation of engine dynamometers at Audi Sport had to be re-equipped with special gearboxes capable of withstanding the unusual forces.

Additionally, radical changes to the chassis were also necessary. The Audi R10 has a significantly longer wheel base than the R8. The overly wide front tyres are, up until now, unique for a Le Mans Prototype. New technologies were also implemented during the development of the carbon-fibre monocoque. Chassis, engine and gearbox form an extremely rigid, fully stressed unit.

"The R10 project is the biggest challenge ever to have been handed to Audi Sport,” said Head of Audi Motorsport Dr Wolfgang Ullrich. "TDI technology has not been pushed to its limits in motorsport yet. We are the first to confront the challenge. The demands of such a project are accordingly high. Long-term technology partners such as Bosch, Michelin or Shell support us in our quest. Together we have the chance to write new chapters in the history books of motorsport and diesel technology.”

The new Audi R10 successfully completed its first test at the end of November. An extensive test programme, including the 12-hour race at Sebring (USA) on 18 March, is scheduled before the 24 Hours of Le Mans on 17/18 June 2006. The development team from Audi Sport is supported by Reinhold Joest’s squad, which also performed this task during the R8 project.

AUDI Locus Concept

Design by Ugur Sahin review:

The name LOCUS means a condition that defines a continuous figure which is a curve.

The main characteristics of the design are the way its surface shapes are formed with a continuous flow from front until the back of the car. Inspiration for that was obviously the Mother Nature we deal with daily but somehow we usually do not realize that everything in the nature has somehow its specific curves and flowing lines it is very rarely to spot perfectly straight lines. The main goal was to implement this design aspect into a car which creates a relaxing, energetic, vibrant and confident feeling.

It is clear to see a curved sharp edged line that starts at the very front, flowing through the middle section, slightly curved down after the A pillar and then going back up again at the rear wheel arches to follow its way back until the diffuser. This same curve language is also applied to the greenhouse and the way windows are shaped. The front is somehow aggressive looking with the traditional AUDI grill and air intakes that are shaped very much like the headlights to create a coherent feeling. The rear section is obviously very organic with defined curves and subtle details, tail lights are designed to have integrated air outtakes underneath them to avoid any unnecessary details. With dual exhaust and fairly empty rear section, it creates a feeling of subtleness. Another feature is the air intake at the end of the roof which is designed to avoid any distracting design elements on the top of the car combining elegance with functionality.

AUDI TT Roadster

Sheer sportiness, a genuine driving experience plus high power reserves – cue the new TT Roadster from Audi. The open-top sports car retains the distinctive lines of its tremendously successful predecessor, but instils them with even greater emotion, performance and dynamism.

Audi offers a choice of two engines for its new TT Roadster. The 3.2-liter V6 power unit generates 250 hp and is coupled to the quattro drive system as standard. The 2.0 TFSI engine, which blends turbocharging with gasoline direct injection technology, delivers 200 hp to the front wheels. Both model variants can be ordered with the innovative S tronic dual-clutch gearbox as an alternative to the standard six-speed manual shift.

The chassis of the new Roadster is also built for impressive sporty performance. Its highlight is Audi magnetic ride, the optional suspension damping technology that allows drivers to choose between an uncompromisingly dynamic ride or more comfort-orientated characteristics.

To mirror the puristic character of open-top motoring, the boldly styled body is crowned by a lightweight cloth hood. The TT Roadster 3.2 quattro comes as standard with a quick-action, fully automatic softtop which is available as an option for the 2.0 TFSI.

The soft top

Audi made a conscious decision to keep the cloth hood for the new TT Roadster. The soft top concept fits in perfectly with the philosophy of puristic open-top motoring and also offers a number of benefits over a folding steel hard top.

The cloth hood, incorporating reinforcements made from steel and aluminum as well as a large glass rear window, has a very lightweight construction – not only does this reduce the overall weight of the TT Roadster, it lowers its center of gravity too. It sleekly blends in with the car's lines and takes up only a small amount of space when folded down. Thanks to the new Z-fold, the front section of the roof lies on top of the cloth like a cover. It locks into place to lie flush with the body, dispensing with the need for a tonneau cover. The soft top is available in the colors black and dark grey.

The TT Roadster 3.2 quattro comes as standard with an electrohydraulically powered soft top, which is available for the 2.0 TFSI as an option. This version of the soft top opens in just 12 seconds at the push of a button, and can even be operated on the move at speeds of up to 30 mph. The fully automatic hood incorporates an additional layer of soundproofing beneath the black headliner for even better acoustic and thermal insulation.

The manually operated roof is operated by means of a central catch. A mesh wind deflector that extends and retracts electrically can be ordered as an option to smooth the air stream in the interior – none of the competitor models are able to offer such a convenient solution.

The body and safety

Like the TT Coupé, the body of the TT Roadster is also built on the principles of Audi Space Frame (ASF) technology, featuring a pioneering hybrid construction that showcases the brand's tremendous expertise in lightweight design. The body is made from 58 percent aluminum and 42 percent steel. This material mix makes the Roadster extremely light, with the 2.0 TFSI tipping the scales at just 2,894 lbs. when unladen.

To ensure that the load is distributed evenly between the axles, the steel components are located principally at the rear of the body – the bulkhead behind the passenger compartment, for example, is made from steel. This particular component, which anchors the high-strength roll-over bars with their elegant plastic covering, has a fundamental role to play in the body's overall rigidity.

The side sills are also specific to the Roadster: they consist of extruded aluminum sections containing numerous reinforcing ribs. The A-pillars have been strengthened too and a high-strength steel tube integrated into the frame of the windscreen. Already impressive in the outgoing TT Roadster, static torsional strength has been more than doubled in the new model – this translates into outstanding comfort and precision handling.

A full ensemble of restraint systems promise the greatest possible passive safety. In the event of an impact from the side, aluminum beams and padding in the doors are called into action along with the head and thorax side airbags. Two-stage full-size airbags and the Audi backguard system are on hand to limit the consequences of a collision from the front and rear respectively.

The exterior design

With its rigorous geometry and clarity, the design of the first TT Roadster elevated it to the status of a cult classic. Audi has preserved the charismatic design idiom and carefully honed it for the new model.

Whereas the tail end and the roof section seem to flow into one another at the rear of the TT Coupé, the soft top of the TT Roadster forms a clear contrast that gives the overall design a more geometric look. The body's lines brim with power and forward thrust. This impression is underscored by the athletic curves of the vehicle's flanks just as much as by the rising dynamic line above the sill area and the taut, muscular shoulder line. The eye-catching fuel filler cap positioned above the rear right wheel sports a classic aluminum design.

The face of the new Audi TT Roadster has an expressive feel. Wing-shaped plastic elements are embedded into the slanted, sharply tapered headlights to emphasize the three-dimensional depth of the lamp units. At the rear of the car, it is the large tailpipes and the wide diffuser which stand out. The tube-shaped reflectors seem to hover inside the tail light units. As on the Coupé, an electrically powered spoiler rises up out of the boot lid when the speed reaches 75 mph.

Compared to the model it replaces the new TT Roadster has undergone a growth spurt, with the new proportions accentuating its sporty nature. Length is now 164.5 inches (+ 5.4 in), width 72.5 in. (+ 3.1) and height 53.5 in. (+ 0.3 in), while the wheelbase has been extended by 1.8 to 97.1 in. Despite the extra size, however, the drag coefficient of the 2.0 TFSI is just 0.32 with the soft top up.

The interior

The interior of the TT Roadster is noticeably larger too, offering extra headroom and elbow room. The width at shoulder height is now 53.6 in, an increase of 1.1 in.

Deep-set sports seats provide firm lateral support for both the driver and passenger. The standard-specification leather sports steering wheel features a flat-bottomed rim. The optional Impulse leather trim with its distinctive topstitching already attained cult status when it was offered for the outgoing model; it is one of four different leather trim packages. The 3.2 quattro is upholstered in a combined Alcantara/Leather trim as standard.

The three circular air outlets and the dome shrouding the instrument cluster dials inject the cockpit with characteristic TT flair. As is to be expected of an Audi, the ergonomic concept is perfect and the workmanship of the very finest standard. The increase in the body's dimensions has also benefited luggage space, which has expanded from 210 to 250 litres

The drive train
Like the TT Coupé, the new Roadster is available with a choice of two transverse-mounted engines. Both generate high pulling power and impressive peak output, resulting in out-and-out sporty performance. The four-cylinder engine directs its power to the front wheels, while the V6 powers all four wheels based on the quattro principle offering dynamism and sure roadholding in equal measure. Apart from a sporty six-speed manual shift, both engines are also available in conjunction with the innovative S tronic dual-clutch gearbox for lightning-fast gear changes without any interruption in the power flow.

The four-cylinder unit bearing the initials TFSI musters up 200 hp and a constant 207 ft.-lbs. of torque between 1,800 and 5,000 rpm from its capacity of 1,984 cc. The TFSI technology combines a turbocharger to optimum effect with Audi's own gasoline direct injection, which produces a distinct improvement in combustion efficiency.

In both 2005 and 2006, the responsive and extremely refined two-liter turbocharged FSI unit was voted "Engine of the Year" by an international jury of experts.

When fitted with the S tronic shift, the Audi TT Roadster 2.0 TFSI accelerates from standstill to 62 mph in just 6.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 146 mph. It burns an average of just 7.8 litres of fuel for every 100 km.

The V6 unit with its capacity of 3,189 cc delivers 250 hp and a peak torque of 236 ft.-lbs. which is on tap between 2,500 and 3,000 rpm. The sonorous, ultra-compact long-stroke engine features two continuously adjustable camshafts. The TT Roadster 3.2 quattro sprints from 0 – 62 mph in 5.9 seconds with the S tronic gearbox and can, if necessary, go on to reach a governed top speed of 155 mph. It returns average fuel consumption figures of 9.5 l/100 km.

The chassis

The sporty chassis has undergone complete redevelopment for the new TT Roadster. Its chief features are the complex four-link rear suspension, wide track widths, elastokinematics that have been heavily reworked, plus large wheels. The 2.0 TFSI rides on 16-inch and the 3.2 quattro on 17-inch alloy wheels. The wheels may be specified with run-flat capabilities as an option.

The front wheel suspension, which is linked to a separate subframe, has a McPherson construction that has been refined by the use of lightweight aluminum components. The electromechanical power-assisted steering combines a direct ratio with sensitive precision.

The construction of the four-link rear suspension, which also operates using a subframe, separates the coil springs and the shock absorbers from one another. The longitudinal links – which have a relatively soft set-up for enhanced ride comfort – absorb the propulsive and braking forces, while the rigid connection of the three transverse links for each wheel allows them to direct the lateral forces into the bodyshell with great precision.

The redeveloped electronic stabilization program (ESP) has been optimized for a sporty driving style and to help produce the steering balance of the TT Roadster, which varies between neutral and slight understeer. If necessary, the brake assist system takes action to ensure that the four large disc brakes build up maximum braking power as fast as possible.

The optional Audi magnetic ride adaptive damping system is a high-tech feature that is unique in the roadster segment. At the push of a button, drivers can choose between either an extra-comfortable or a decidedly dynamic suspension set-up. Circulating inside the shock absorber struts is a special fluid containing minute magnetic particles. Applying a voltage to this fluid alters its viscosity – and therefore the damping characteristics – within milliseconds.

The equipment

All variants of the new Audi TT Roadster come generously equipped as standard, with the specification including the new "chorus" audio system and a driver information system, and in the 3.2 quattro, automatic air conditioning. There is a choice of two optional navigation systems, both DVD-based and featuring the exemplary MMI operating logic. Universal mobile phone preparation and the resonant Bose surround-sound system are also available.

An extra touch of class can be added to the interior's sophisticated and sporty ambience by opting for either of the two aluminum styling packages. The standard storage facilities, featuring deep compartments in the doors and two cup holders, can be supplemented with the storage package, comprising three storage nets and four extra, practical compartments. Customers who lead a sporty, active lifestyle are also able to opt for a load-through facility in the rear panel, including a ski bag which is large enough to accommodate two pairs of skis up to 1.90 m in length – something which no other model in the roadster segment is able to offer.

Xenon plus headlights with the adaptive light cornering function can also be found on the extensive list of equipment options.They are fitted in conjunction with a headlight styling package that Audi includes as standard on the 3.2 quattro.

AUDI ABT Q7

-a special version of the performance SUV:

Abt Sportsline`s presentation of the tuned version of the Audi Q7 coincides with the sales launch of the multifunctional sports car from Ingolstadt

Combined experience: For 25 years Audi has been manufacturing all-wheel driven cars and the successful Kempten-based company Abt Sportsline has been upgrading vehicles for just as long. In the Abt Q7 the know-how of both companies is combined in a car that meets highest demands.

It is more than a mere successor of the legendary Quattro: The Audi Q7 is the perfect car for every opportunity, as it not only is suitable for all terrains, but a convincingly comfortable car for travelling long journeys at the same time. Since the Q7 innately is a true all-rounder, it proves to be a perfect tuning model. Once again Audi supplies the perfect basis for Abt Sportsline`s experts. The vehicle was optically and technically upgraded without changing its characteristic features.

At first glance the Abt Q7 looks brawnier than its original counterpart which is mainly due to the fender extensions lending the vehicle a more powerful appearance. You can tell that it easily masters difficult terrains. The rear wing completes its harmonious look and ensures that the Abt Q7 never loses wheel grip. By means of a two-coloured contrasting paint in white aluminium on the marked front skirt, the elegant rear skirt and side skirts, the Abt SUV reveals itself as an exclusive cruiser. The vehicle sides are eye-catching as a result of the lateral white aluminium insets which give the Abt Q7 unmistakeable features and dignified and agile looks at the same time. The sporting impression is highlighted by the double twin-pipe exhaust system with a pipe diameter of 84 millimetres and the one-piece wheels. Abt Sportsline`s wheels type AR with diamond-machined surface and exclusive exchange system are already available in the sizes 20 or 22 inch with tyres 275/45 R20 or 295/30 R22 Conti CrossContact. Another wheel option is the 22-inch SP-wheel.

Abt Sportsline`s modifications meet all the Q7`s demands, no matter whether off-road, on motor ways or in front of a luxury hotel – the Abt Q7 is the perfect car for every opportunity. Looks and technology form a unified whole; the Abt Q7 does not only look husky, it really is. Abt Sportsline`s engineers succeeded in clearly enhancing the innately powerful 3.0 TDI power unit. The modified six cylinders V-engine now provides 272 HP instead of the standard 233 and an explosive torque of 580 Nm (standard: 500 Nm).

AUDI ABT R8

There are cars and dream cars. The latter includes Lamborghini’s Gallardo, Ferrari’s F430 or Porsche’s 911 Turbo.

These cars make your heart beat faster and show the perfected magic of speed on the roads. Abt Sportsline’s R8 will also be among these outstanding super sports cars and is getting ready to overtake them in the prestige duel.

The design studies already show the first impressions of Abt’s sportiest creation – and prove that the Kempten-based tuner manages to perfect an excellent serial model like the R8 to detail and accentuate its racing genes already in the drawing. The front of the Bavarian R8 shows the marked Abt face. Together with the unique and beautiful rear with its four inclined arranged exhaust end pipes, the rear diffuser and the extravagant rear wing, the front of the Abt R8 is part of an overall concept that brings about phenomenal roadholding. The add-on parts of the super sports cars from the Allgäu-region improve downforce and ensure perfect balance of the front and rear axis. This is especially notable in speed ranges reserved for only a few cars. The sideblades which were developed especially for the Abt R8 and the Abt side skirts give the Abt R8 a new and individual design besides aerodynamical advantages. The aerodynamically efficient Abt body kit, which also includes carbon-fibre parts, is a real eye catcher but also shows the state-of-the-art Bavarian precision work. With the ingenious construction, which also includes a carbon-fibre bonnet, not only a maximum reduction in weight is achieved but it also ensures optimized weight distribution of the Abt R8 – the pure presence of the model athlete already shows this.

Technology and design milestones do not only come from Maranello or Sant’Agata-Bolognese but also from Kempten. The Abt R8 will be a gorgeous dream car with the genes of a top-class race car. This special automobile will belong to one of the fastest among the fastest; the Abt R8 will also challenge the Lamborghinis and Porsches. With regards to the anticipated performance data the Bavarians are traditionally discreet. But this data already amazes sports car fans and makes them want to spur the hot-blooded Bavarian horses. 530 HP (390 kW) are to be drawn from the 4.2 litre-V8 thanks to the Abt supercharger. Compared with the serial model which already shows impressive performance data this means an increase of 110 HP (81 kW). The brand new Abt 20-inch BR wheels stylishly transfer this power onto the asphalt. The all-wheel-drive dream car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds and reaches a top speed of 317 km/h. These values are synonymous with magic and this extraordinary super sports car desperately wants to be driven. By means of the Abt suspension which is adjustable in height, pressure and rebound, the performance and driving comfort of the super sports car can be adapted perfectly to the requirements of its driver.

AUDI RS4 Cabriolet

Audi of America, Inc. announced today that the RS 4 Cabriolet model will come to U.S. showrooms as a 2008 model, and the RS 4 sedan will have new features and option packages. Approximately 300 of the limited-production RS 4 Cabriolets will be sold in the U.S. The RS 4 Cabriolet models will arrive in fall of 2007.

The RS 4 Cabriolet shares the same high-revving 4.2 V8 FSI engine found in the RS 4 sedan. It produces 420 hp at 7,800 rpm and 317 ft-lbs. of torque at 5,500 rpm. Like the sedan, the Cabriolet will only be available with a six- speed manual and quattro(R) all-wheel drive featuring the asymmetrical dynamic torque split. Like the sedan, the Cabriolet will have 19" RS 4-style alloy wheels with 255/35/19 performance tires, a four-link front and trapezoidal- link rear sport-tuned suspension with Dynamic Ride Control (DRC), and 14.4" front and 12.8" rear brake rotors.

The RS 4 sedan also gets some new and unique features for 2008. Two new option packages, the Titanium package and Audi exclusive package, will be available. The $750 Titanium package consists of titanium colored 19" RS 4- style alloy wheels, black front grille, black side window moldings, black interior headliner, and piano black interior trim. The $3,800 Audi exclusive package has Crimson red leather seat centers (black leather side bolsters and head rests) and door trim, contrasting red seat piping, red stitching on the shift boot and steering wheel, piano black interior trim, carpeted floor mats with RS 4 logo and contrasting piping, and Audi exclusive badging. Sirius satellite radio and Bluetooth will become standard equipment on the RS 4 sedan.

Audi RS 8

So, you think the R8 is all you need? Well think again, if you want to keep up with your neighbours Porsche Turbo you will need some more power. And for that case Audi is developing the R8 into a RS8. Let the R8 join the Carreras and Astons Vantage, but if you want to play with the big boys you will need something else.

The RS8 is your answer, the V10 comes from the Lamborghini Gallardo but probably detuned to 490-500 bhp but the speed and sound are there. The main visible difference to the R8 are the bigger air intakes on the sides and newly designed side skirts. Also the front brakes appear to be bigger. Looking at it, driving high-speed test at the Nürburgring it really shows how well balanced the RS8 is. Smoothe in and out through every curve, and very quick on the long straight. The RS8 is developed by Audi's sport division, Quattro GmbH who also develop the RS6.

Will it beat the Porsche Turbo? Well it got the looks and it got the speed, so I guess we just have to wait for the first duell between those two.

Audi RS TT

Audi is presenting its TT sports car for the first time with a six-cylinder engine and innovative transmission technology. This enables a particularly dynamic transmission of power with an uninterrupted power flow during gear changes. The combination of the high-torque 3.2-litre engine with innovative sports gearbox and quattro permanent four-wheel drive emphasises the dynamic driving qualities of the Audi TT in a unique way. The new TT 3.2 quattro will be offered as both Coupé and Roadster versions.

The 250 bhp version of the Audi TT Coupé 3.2 quattro completes the sprint from 0 to 100 kilometres per hour in 6.4 seconds, whilst its top speed is gently governed at 250 km/h. This model has an overall fuel consumption of 9.8 litres per 100 km. These figures speak for themselves, even when compared with vehicles with a classic 6-speed manual gearbox. The differences compared with the conventional geared automatic transmission with torque converter are even more impressive, since the latter is prone to significantly higher transmission losses due to its fundamental concept.

The source of the power is the proven 3.2-litre V6 engine with four valves per cylinder. The six-cylinder engine is particularly well-suited to the sporty Audi TT by virtue of its outstanding torque and power characteristics, especially in combination with the new twin-clutch transmission. The engine now delivers 184 kW (250 bhp) and a broad peak-torque range with a maximum value of 320 Nm from 2,800 to 3,200 rpm.

With its cylinder angle of 15 degrees, the V6 is extremely compact – a basic requirement for installation transversely to the direction of travel. The valve control process generates only little friction thanks to the use of roller cam followers with hydraulic adjustment. In order to reduce emissions and further improve efficiency, the inlet and exhaust camshafts are continuously adjustable. The compression ratio is 11.3:1.

Other technical details such as the variable intake manifold and the modified intake ports give the six-cylinder engine superior torque and power output, coupled with low emissions. A great deal of detail work has once again been invested particularly in the area of the cylinder head and air intake in order to improve still further on peak output and torque characteristic for use in the TT. In its new role in the TT, the engine complies with the strict emission standards that apply for the USA and Japan, and of course with the EU4 standard.

Throttle valve actuation is designed for an exceptionally agile, spontaneous engine response to accelerator pedal movements. The way it interacts particularly with the ultra-rapid, precise control technology of the new Direct-Shift Gearbox with twin clutch opens up an entirely new dimension in propulsive power. The close connection between throttle and transmission control is made particularly apparent by active throttle blips during downshifts in the selector lever position S and in the manual gate.

Audi RS 5

The RS5 will be bestowed with a more toned-up body kit, to make it a worthy BMW M3 rival. Expect a similarly discrete-but-muscular treatment as the RS4; if Audi gets gets the new two-door right, it could be the closest we've come to a successor to the original 1980 Quattro.

We expect the free-revving, naturally aspirated 4.2-litre V8 from the current RS4 to be installed in the A5's new platform. Count on at least 414bhp and 317lb ft - enough for rampant acceleration of the 911-worrying variety.

The new layout moves the front axle 120mm further forward for better weight distribution, effectively nudging the motor back in the engine bay for a more even 55:45 front-rear balance. The A5's engineering boss, Stefan Härdl, told CAR Online that the new layout dramatically improves the handling. 'It really helps the steering - it's more precise and direct than even the RS4, we've removed all the elasticity.

Audi RS 3

Turbocharged 3.2-litre v6 : 350 hp : 2006
The Audi RS3 will take the hot hatch brigade by storm and it is expected that this super car will have a power output of about 260kW. Audi insiders say that there will also be a less powerful S3 model.
At the heart of the 2006 RS3 will be a modified version of the current A3 range topper's 3.2-litre V6 engine. This unit will be turbocharged and will also feature FSI direct-injection technology and torque will be about 450Nm.

The RS3 will get a six-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission with paddle shifts and will also have electrically assisted power steering. It will also feature upgraded brakes similar to that of the RS4.

Of course Audi's famous quattro four-wheel drive system will also be standard on the RS3.

The car's exterior will reflect its sporty nature. Like the new A6 and A8 W12 the RS3 will get the new Audi single frame grille which will dominate the nose design. A deep spoiler with large air intakes will finish of the muscular front-end.

Other sporty touches include wide side sills, heavily flared wheelarches and a tailgate spoiler.

Audi will also launch the RS3 in Sportback guise. The Audi A3 Sportback, which is a estate car, will be introduced later this year.

Early next year Audi will introduce an S3 model which will rival cars such as the Alfa 147 GTA. It will get a naturally aspirated version of the 3.2-litre V6 engine with a power output of about 210kW.

Audi RS 6

The RS6 is the highest-performance version of Audi's C5 body style A6. Production began in late 2003 and ended in early 2004. The C5 RS6 (2004) was the second model to come out of Audi's quattro GmbH; first was B5 RS4 (2001); and the current is the B7 RS4 (2006). It was the first RS model to reach North America (U.S.A. and Canada).

Model Information (2002 - 2004)

The first RS6 was the top-of-the-line of C5 (2nd generation, 1997-2004) A6 and was available as both a sedan and a wagon (called Avant by Audi). Derived from the C5 S6, the RS6 also shares aluminium structure from the firewall and forward with the C5 V8 A6s (A6 4.2 V8 quattro, S6 sedan/Avant).

The "RS" stands for RennSport, and is positioned above the "S" ("Sport") line of Audi's regular line-up.

Engine

The RS6 featured a twin-turbocharged version of the corporate 4.2 Litre V8 engine (code BCY) tuned by Cosworth Technologies (Now known as Mahle Powertrain), which had originally been developed for the 1994 A8. With the aid of the turbochargers, output rose to 450/331 bhp/kW and 415 lb-ft (560 Nm) of torque. The combination of the 4.2 litre V8 and twin turbochargers gave the RS6 an exceptionally wide power band, with peak torque available from 1950 to 5600 RPMs.

Transmission

The RS6 was available only with Audi's Quattro All-Wheel Drive 5-speed "Tiptronic" transmission, a modified unit that was being used in the 6.0 litre W12 powered D1 A8.

It is an electronically-controlled 5-speed automatic transmission with lock-up torque converter. It has "hill detection" capability, and is programmed to blip the throttle for gear change. There are over 200 shift programs to suite the driving style.

The front differential is open, with electronic differential lock ("EDL"); the center is a Torsen unit; and the rear is open with EDL. The power from the engine is first routed to the Torsen center unit, and then divided to front & rear.

Suspension (U.S. model)

The RS6 also served as the debut model for Audi's Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) system. The system is mainly mechanical, and uses a pump to keep pressure in the shock abosorbers during cornering to counteract rolling and pitching. The system is "intelligent", it is able to adjust the stiffness at each shock absorber constantly to maintain both a comfortable ride and high grip. However, DRC's main advantage is that it operates without the need for most of the complicated electronics required in similar systems from Mercedes-Benz and other competitors.

Brakes (U.S. model)

The front features Brembo 8-piston fixed caliper (4 pads per side) working with cross-drilled, floating vented disc sized 14.37" (1.3" thickness). The rear had single floating caliper (2 per side) with parking brake mechanism, mated to cross-drilled, floating vented disc sized 13.19" (0.9" thickness).

Both front and rear floating discs are held in by metal pins to the hub, and allow 1mm of thermal expansion from the hub center.

ABS and EBD was standard.

Tyres & Wheels

There were total of three OEM wheels types produced for the RS6, and one for RS6 Plus. In Europe and elsewhere, 19" wheels & tyre package was standard with optional 18" package for those who wish it. However, only 18" package was offered in the U.S. market. 18" winter package was universally available. RS6 Plus saw the addition of "anthracite" (dark gray) 19" package as standard. For 18" wheels, the standard tyre fitted was 255/40-18 with extra load (XL) rating. This is often stressed and the only recommendation by Audi as RS6 does weigh a hefty (approx.) 4100lb. Tires that are not rated XL may not be safe for use. Owners reported finding Continental ContiSportContact 2, Dunlop SP Sport 9000, Michelin Pilot Sport PS2, and Pirelli P-Zero Rosso as OEM suppliers for the tires.For 19" wheels, the standard tyre fitted was 255/30-19 with extra load (XL) rating. However, there were debates as to how safe are 19" tires as XL rating will only get to 96 (1565 lb load rating). (In contrast, the 255/40-18 XL will get you 99, good for 1709 lb per tire.) Also, 19" wheel & tire package may rub against the strut if not properly fitted. At least from one U.S. owner reports Michelin Pilot Sport PS2, part number 14875, will fit as the tire does not come with rim protector "lip" on the inner side of the tire.

Statistics

According to testing by Car and Driver magazine, the RS6 can accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in just 4.7(Avant 4.9) seconds, 0-124 mph in 17.6(Avant 17.8) seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h), although many people reported to have gone well over this limit. It can stop from 60 mph (96.6 to 0 km/h) in 118 feet (35.97m), thanks to its large 365/335 mm (14.4/13.2 in) front/rear brakes, and an uncommon eight-piston design in the front.

In addition, Automobile Magazine ran the RS6 from 0-60mph in 4.3 seconds, and 0-100mph in 10.4 seconds, and 0-150mph in 26.8 seconds. Road and Track recorded a quarter-mile run of 12.63seconds@109mph. Motor Trend achieved 60-0mph braking in 113 feet, rounded the skidpad at .90g, and ran the slalom at 68.7mph. These are the best figures, respectively, recorded on the RS6.

About 8000 RS6s were produced worldwide. Originally Audi of American planned to sell approximately 860 units in United States, total of approximately 1200 were sold at the end. In 2003, it was priced at $82,000 for the U.S. market (Car and Driver estimate).

RS6 Plus

Towards the end of production in 2004, there was a run of higher-performance RS6 named RS6 Plus, producing over 480bhp/353kW @ 6000-6400rpm and 413lb-ft/560Nm @ 1950-6000rpm(engine code BRV) - topping out 280km/h(174mph). This performance was achieved with a new ECU and two additional radiators behind the intercoolers(which were available to RS6 in hotter climate countries). A mere 4.6 seconds elapse for the standard discipline of sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h. The Quattro RS6 Plus hits 200 km/h in just 17.3 seconds. The RS6 Plus came with DRC as standard, also a Sports Suspension Plus(lowering the standard sports suspension by 10mm) was available with no extra cost. The wheels were uprated from 255/40 R18 to 255/35 R19 size. The car came only as an Avant and was sold only in European markets. It lasted for just one model year but quickly sold out once it was released(999 units total). The last three digits of the VIN are reproduced on a plaque inside the car, displayed on the centre console.

Racing

The RS6 has recently been used in the Speed World Challenge

2008 RS6

Audi is currently in the process of creating a new twin turbo V10 engine derived from the current S6 5.2L V10. This engine will produce 580 hp.

This is sure to rival (or out-do) the performance of the BMW M5 and M6 and the Mercedes Benz E63 AMG.

Awards

The 4.2 V8 engine in its base configuration was named as one of the Ward’s Auto World "10 Best Engines for 2005".

The RS6's combination of performance, handling (AWD), luxury and available space was why it was chosen over its closest competitors, Jaguar S-Type R, and Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG by Car and Driver magazine.

Audi RS 4

The Audi RS4 is a high-performance version of the Audi A4, a compact exclusive car produced by German automaker Audi. It slots above the Audi S4 as the fastest model in the A4 range.

B5 RS4 (1999-2001)

Audi introduced the first generation RS4 in late 1999 as the successor to the Porsche developed/RS2. The vehicle, like its predecessor, was available only as an Avant (station wagon), and was built on an existing platform, in this case the "B5" generation A4/S4. Base price was around 103,584 Deutsche Mark. The RS4 was available for sale in most of Europe and in some Latin American countries.

Power came from a modified version of the B5 S4's 2.7 L, twin-turbocharged V6 engine tuned by Cosworth Technology, featuring enlarged intake/exhaust ports on the cylinder heads, turbochargers and intercoolers, new induction and exhaust systems and a re-calibrated engine management system; a six-speed manual transmission and Audi's Quattro all wheel drive system were part of the package. The modifications were enough to bump the engine's power output from the 265 PS (195 kW/261 hp) and 400 Nm (295 ft·lbf) of the S4 to 380 PS (280 kW/375 hp) and 440 Nm (325 ft·lbf).

Even with a curb weight of 1620 kg (3568 lb), the RS4's powerful engine gave it the performance of a sports car. The 100 km/h (62 mph) mark could be reached in just 4.7 seconds and the 160 km/h (100 mph) could be achieved in just 11.6. Brakes were also developed in house by Audi/Cosworth Technologies not by Porsche as with the RS2. It now has 360 mm (14.2 inches) discs at the front and 312 mm (12.2 inches) at the rear gave the RS4 braking to match, needing less than 50 m (155 ft) to come to a full stop from a speed of 110 km/h (69 mph).

Audi produced 6030 units between 1999 and 2001.

B7 RS4 (2006-present)

After a long hiatus, the second generation RS4, now built on Audi's "B7" A4 platform, became available to European customers in the summer of 2006. It was introduced at the 2006]] North American International Auto Show in January and arrived in August 2006 in North America.

The B7 RS4 is an almost complete departure from previous RS cars, as it was launched as a sedan, with an Avant and Convertible version arriving later. Only the RS6 has gone this route before, the previous RS4 and RS2 were available exclusively as Avants. In addition, power comes from an FSI equipped, normally aspirated 4.2 L V8. This engine is very powerful, producing a total output of 420 PS (309 kW/414 hp), over 100 PS/litre. The engine also produces 430 N·m (317 ft·lbf) of torque. Curb weight is stated at 1650 kg (3634 kg). The RS4 is also equipped with the 14.3 inch front brake discs and eight-piston calipers from the Lamborghini Gallardo.