Audi has introduced its first plug-in hybrid compact SUV in the form of the new Q3 45 TFSI e and Q3 Sportback 45 TFSI e. Electrified SUVs will be available from spring 2021.

Both models will be powered by a combination of a 1.4-liter turbocharged petrol four-cylinder with an 85kW/330Nm electric motor that combine delivers 245 hp with 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) of torque. Q3 accelerates from 0-62 mph in 7.3 seconds with a top speed of 130 mph. The Q3 has a 6-speed automatic transmission. NEDC estimates the combined fuel consumption for both models at 1.4 to 1.7 liters (138 to 168 US mpg) per 100 kilometers. With only electric drive, the compact SUV can cover 50 km.

In “Auto-Hybrid” mode, the main operating mode, the electric motor supports the four-cylinder engine in many situations, when accelerating and passing. Drivers can prioritize electric drive with the EV button. Drive control system by estimating a number of data points, such as route information from the navigation system and the data about the near surroundings from the vehicle sensors. This allows it to identify when the car is approaching a town sign, a speed limit or getting too close to the vehicle ahead.

Switching the Q3 45 TFSI e hybrids to ‘Dynamic’ mode, flicking the dual-clutch gearbox into S and flooring the accelerator enables a 10-second ‘overboost’ mode, unlocking the electric motor’s full 330Nm torque output.

Additional Battery Hold and Battery Charge modes are used to store or charge the battery, while Comfort, Auto, Dynamic and Individual modes allow the driver to adjust the response of engine and transmission.

Available active safety technologies include adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assist, lane-departure warning and autonomous emergency braking.

There will be four equipment packages on offer, including Technik, S line, Black Edition and Vorsprung. The coupe-inspired Q3 Sportback is available with all packages except the Technik.

The base prices in Germany are EUR 46,000 for Q3 45 TFSI e and EUR 47,400 for Sportback .

Audi unveiled the RS6 GTO concept at the 40th anniversary of the legendary 90-quattro IMSA GTO race car. The concept was developed at Audi’s Neckarsulm plant and is based on a high-performance caravan with a V8 engine.

So far without technical data, the photos show that the car has white one-piece wheel covers with quattro markings and red central caps as well as a former race car. At the back is a prominent spoiler painted red. The stickers are the same as the original car, but have a slightly different design of the side lines. There is also the number 40, which indicates the anniversary.

“The RS6 GTO concept of our apprentices has turned out to be an incredibly great car. I am very proud of them and the results of their work,” says Helmut Stettner, Neckarsulm plant manager and possessor of one of the most German names on the planet.

Interior has been modified. The rear bench has been slung out and replaced by a roll cage, while the front seats are switched for extremely slender Recaros with minimal padding.

The center console has‘t been replaced, but the front side windows have been replaced with safety nets, which is another common feature with the racing ancestor.

Last month, Audi unveiled the TT RS 40 Years of Quattro as an ultra-exclusive special version of the sports coupe inspired by the Sport Quattro S1 race car that won the 1987 Pikes Peak. Only 40 copies will be produced and are destined for the German market.

Source: Audi

The all-new Audi A8 has arrived. In the tradition of its predecessors, Audi A8 is both a design leader and a technological marvel. A vision, that’s come to life.

The Singleframe® grille on the Audi A8 has evolved with each generation. On the new A8, the grille is both wider and lower to emphasize its sportier stance. From profile, its face is more upright. From another angle, a third dimension appears as the outer sections appear to fold inward.

The headlights on the Audi A8 reveal a character who looks optimistically at the road ahead. The shape of the headlights exudes a focused demeanor. Full LEDs produce a light spectrum much like the mid-day sun. Extending across the lower section of the trunk lid and serving as a visual bridge between the dynamic taillights, the light bar highlights the increased width and sporting stance of the Audi A8.

The interior of the Audi A8 features an expanse crafted natural wood inlays, the luster of high-gloss Black surfaces and active climate control shutters that automatically fold into the dashboard. Within the interior’s modernist lines is not just the rewarding touch of premium leather or the texture of natural wood inlays, but a host of features designed to elevate the luxury experience.

The 3.0-liter TFSI® V6 engine was engineered to deliver powerful throttle response in a smooth, refi ned manner. A twin-scroll turbocharger design and revised Audi valvelift system help provide up to 335 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque through a wide engine rpm range.

Instead of traditional coil springs, the Audi adaptive air suspension uses airbags to help control wheel movements. Ride quality can be selected through the Audi drive select system, off ering Comfort and Dynamic settings to suit road conditions and driving preference. The available dynamic all-wheel steering system features an electromechanical steering system on the front and rear axles. The system is designed to enhance both stability during lane changes and maneuverability by decreasing the vehicle’s turning radius.