Porsche Baby Cayenne: First spy shots!

Here are the first spy shots of Porsche's upcoming baby Cayenne!

Based on platform architecture shared with Audi's Q5, the compact SUV is the next logical step in the expansion of Porsche's range. Buoyed by the success of the Cayenne, the smaller version will compete with BMW's X3 and Land Rover's Freelander, offering a sportier driving experience than both.

As you can see from these spy shots of a prototype wearing a Cayenne body as a disguise, the new model is shorter and narrower. It will feature four-wheel drive and will share engines with the Q5, including a 3.2-litre V6 petrol and even the possibilty of diesel power for the first time too.

The new model is expected to go on sale next year with a price tag of around £40,000.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, Porsche Baby Cayenne

Source: Auto Express

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Audi RS4: Ultimate sedan shootout against BMW M3 Sedan, Lexus IS F and Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG

Road&Track made the ultimate sedan shootout featuring the Audi RS4, the BMW M3 Sedan, the Lexus IS F and the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG. 4 cars, 1 winner: the Audi RS4. We always knew it, but thanks for the confirmation.

In its last year of production, Audi's RS 4 continues to amaze and delight. In the "amaze" category, we're all impressed how a car whose compact V-8 engine completely overhangs the front axle centerline can change directions with such agility. And how the styling, both inside and out, has held up so well, reflected by points wins in both styling categories...in spite of the controversial "gasping trout" grille. Our car had the Titanium Package that includes gunmetal-gray 19-in. alloy wheels and rearview mirror housings, plus black-out trim for the oval exhaust tips and fish mouth. "The RS 4 is all about subtle style, nothing outrageous or trendy," wrote Simanaitis.

The intake rumble and exhaust note are a little more muted than the others: "Audi chose a high-class sound rather than the C63 and IS F's manly V-8 noises and the M3's race-car roar," said Monticello. But you can play its engine note like the proverbial Stradivarius with the RS 4's excellent 6-speed manual whose lever "glides through its gates with a Teflon smoothness," observed Bornhop.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, Audi RS4

Source: Road&Track

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Audi A3 Cabriolet: Video comparison against BMW 1-Series convertible

A common comparison: the Audi A3 Cabriolet vs. the BMW 1-Series convertible. Clear for us, but have a look.

These two new convertible from BMW and Audi create a new niche in the market for £20k-plus, small, premium soft tops.

So, are they any good, and if they are, which one is best?

Steve Sutcliffe finds out by taking the BMW 1-series and Audi A3 convertibles to the winding roads of the South of France, before making the ultimate decision in a very unconventional race.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, Audi A3 Cabriolet

Source: Autocar

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Audi TT 2.0 TDI quattro: Another review

Here's another review of the Audi TT 2.0 TDI quattro.

The pre-drive indoctrination process at Audi's glass-and-steel corporatorium attached to Munich's Franz Josef Strauss Airport didn't take long to crank into advanced hyperbole. The 2008 Audi TT TDI coupe and roadster were hailed as "the first series production sports cars in the world to use a diesel engine as their power source." Well, perhaps the big buildup is due to the fact that the TT TDI was launched in parallel with the distinctly more commanding TTS with its turbocharged 265-hp gas-fueled engine, making the TDI appear to be the plain sister of the duo. Of course, where the TTS gets the looks, the TT TDI definitely gets the smarts.

Audi's 2.0-liter diesel has been comprehensively reengineered this year in preparation for the brave new world of diesel power, and the measures are about such things as quietness and suppressed vibration as well as power and fuel economy. The DOHC 1,968cc inline-4 features common-rail injection with piezo injectors, a measure that improves efficiency and reduces noise. The compression ratio is 16.5:1 (even in this turbocharged engine), but twin balance shafts control vibration. Even the turbo's vibration is controlled by a special damper.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, Audi TT

Source: Inside Line

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Audi: Interview with Stephan Reil, Head of Technology Development, quattro GmbH

Interesting interview here with Stephan Reil, Head of Technology Development, quattro GmbH.

As chief of Audi’s division known as quattro GmbH, Stephan Reil holds an enviable position. If you consider the concept of high-performance, Stephan virtually holds the keys to the kingdom. All of the most exclusive performance products that have come from Audi in the last ten years Mr. Reil has had a hand in developing – RS 4, RS 6, R8, Q7 V12 TDI… the list goes on. S-line models fall under his domain, as do models tailored specifically for their owner by Audi Exclusive. If there were a vote to determine the standard bearer of the passion that drives Audi, then most would probably agree that Mr. Stephan Reil would win such an election.

Not surprisingly, Reil is passionate about what he does. There’s a glint in his eye and he always seems about to smile if a grin is not already on his lips – like he’s getting away with something that perhaps he shouldn’t be doing. But, he should keep it up if you ask Audi’s ever-growing mass of enthusiasts, it’s own Board of Directors firmly within that group.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, Audi

Source: Fourtitude

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VW Passat GLI: An artist's dream

Have a look at this damn cool looking VW Passat GLI, unfortunately just a photochop, but you never know...cool looks!

The GTI name and the heritage that goes with it are an asset to be sure for Volkswagen. Thing is, be it Golf, Rabbit, Polo or Lupo, the GTI is a hot hatch pure and simple. Days of slapping that moniker on cars outside the hot hatch spectrum such as the rare Scirocco GTI are long gone. The ground is now too hallowed.

Not so with GLI. GLI is a sedan to Americans and an enigma to everyone else. But, GTI owners often grow up, make babies and grow out of their GTIs. Enter the Passat.

This generation Passat has been a bit less loved by Volkswagen’s loyal owner group. Lackluster equipment packages except for the Euro-only R36 haven’t helped things and it can no longer boast being the “affordable Audi” as was the B5 generation with its Audi chassis and drivetrain sharing. Nevertheless, this car is a solid package underneath and I suspect it might be a bit better received if it had a younger spin.

That brings us back to the GLI name. Imagine, if you will, a Passat sedan and wagon that subscribe to the same philosophy as the GTI. Blacken the car’s chrome snout, add a red border to its grille and give it a more aggressive chin – maybe lifted wholesale from the R36. Throw in some bolstered sport seats with the GTI’s trademark plaid surfaces, along with the Jetta GLI’s flat-bottomed sport steering wheel and accenting red stitching. Ditch the car’s Tiptronic transmission for DSG and offer a manual. Fit a set of 19-inch GTI-design 5-spoke alloys and tune the suspension to handle more like a GTI and I suspect you’d have a real winner.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW Passat GLI

Source: VWvortex

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VW: Going retro with cool Bonanza bike

Ok, I admit it. I loved my Bonanza bike back in the days. Great to see that VW is releasing a new version.

The Bonanza's original hardware includes a shiny black three-speed gearlever console replica, hub gears and back-pedal brake, chrome steel high-riser bars and rims, Kenda tires with a white reflecting stripe — and the most important feature of them all, a black banana seat with red rally stripes. VW notes that the bike is suitable for people up to 180 pounds.

This retro bike is currently available at VW shops and sells online at the VW Web site for about $600.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW

Source: Inside Line

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Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4: White mischief

Great review here of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 by TopGear.

"We specialise in the unexpected," Lamborghini's brand and design director Manfred Fitzgerald tells me in an ante-room on a Geneva stand that looks like the private chamber in Al Pacino's Carlito's Way Miami nightclub. "We have so many projects up our sleeves right now, I can't even begin to tell you..."

What he will brief me on, though, is the new Gallardo. Body design, engine, suspension and transmission have all been thoroughly revised, and Lambo claims significant improvements in performance and efficiency. But let's start with the styling.

Overseen by Fitzgerald - a former marketing guy turned design boss - and implemented by a seven-strong team led by Filippo Perini, the modifications are limited to the Gallardo's front and rear, but they give the car a razor-sharp new character.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4

Source: TopGear

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Bentley Brooklands: Test drive report from the Middle East

We have a feeling that the Middle East is the natural habitat for the Bentley Brooklands and these lucky test drivers seem to share our opinion.

The Bentley Emirates team hosted a terrific event where the team members interacted with the special invitees.

The exclusive Bentley event clientele also had the chance to meet Tim Hodgson – Owner Manager for Arnage, Azure and Brooklands from Bentley Crewe, England.

A veteran Bentley official for 31 years, Mr. Hodgson was present to advise and assist the clients.

The enthusiastic guests were thrilled by the test drive.

Adding to the excitement of the test drive, there was a static display of the engine and ceramic brakes of the legendary car that gave the visitors a deeper insight into the special edition Bentley.

Inspired by the exploits of the ‘Bentley Boys’ at the famous Brooklands racetrack in the 1920’s, the new Bentley Brooklands captures all the style, power and splendour of that era.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, Bentley Brooklands

Source: AMEInfo

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Audi Q5: Promotional trailer released

Audi has released the promotional trailer for the Audi Q5 and of course we would like to share it with you. Enjoy!

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, Audi Q5

Source: The German Car TV

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Audi R8: US stock sold out for months!

The Audi R8 is celebrating a huge success in the US and is therefore sold out for months in advance.

In what amounts to a depressing footnote for fans of the Audi R8 and its 420 horsepower, the German automaker on Tuesday issued a new sales report that said its "stock of Audi R8 cars is sold out for months to come."

Audi AG was mum about just how many R8s it has sold since the supercar was introduced last year. It reported that total sales in April were up by more than 2.9 percent, with the brand selling 86,700 cars worldwide last month.

The R8 is Audi's first midengine sports car, as well as the fastest Audi ever produced. Equipped with a 4.2-liter FSI V8 engine, the R8 has a 0-60-mph time of 4.4 seconds and a top speed of 187 mph.

Audi reports that the Audi Q7 has become the automaker's most successful model in the U.S. market after the Audi A4. Audi Chairman Rupert Stadler said he expects a "significant growth in sales" in the second half of the year and predicts "we'll achieve the millionth car sold by year's end as announced."

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, Audi R8

Source: Inside Line

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Audi TT 2.0 TDI quattro: Review

We found a nice review of the new Audi TT 2.0 TDI quattro.

Audi is expanding its second-generation TT range; 160bhp 1.8 TFSI petrol engines now mark the entry level and the 270bhp TTS sits at the upper end, with 2.0 TFSI (200bhp) and 3.2 V6 (250bhp) models in between. Now comes the one many have been waiting for: the diesel.

Both TT coupe and roadster are offered with the VW Group's 170bhp 2.0 TDI engine, in conjunction with six-speed manual transmission and Quattro four-wheel-drive; the S-tronic sequential-shift auto gearbox will be optional later in the year. Performance is strong - 140mph and 0-62mph in 7.5 seconds - yet this diesel model returns 53.3mpg and emits a tax-friendly 139g/km of carbon dioxide. It also meets the future Euro 5 emissions legislation.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, Audi TT

Source: 4Car

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Audi A4: Modded by Rieger

German tuner Rieger has modded the new Audi A4. Have a look!

Toni Rieger and his crew have boosted the performance of the six-cylinder turbodiesel, through such modifications as a reprogrammed ECU, a new sport air filter and a stainless-steel exhaust system with quad tailpipes. Output climbs to 294 horsepower and torque to 450 pound-feet. Brakes and suspension also have been upgraded, and the car is fitted with 20-inch alloy wheels and performance tires.

A carbon-look aero body kit includes a front lip spoiler, side skirts, deck spoiler and rear bumper with integral diffuser.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, Audi A4

Source: Inside Line

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VW Jetta TDI: On their way to US dealers

The first new VW Jetta TDI are on their way to US dealers.

For everyone who has been waiting anxiously for the new fifty state legal Volkswagen Jetta TDI to arrive at U.S. dealers, it appears things are inching a little closer. A reader the other day spotted a transporter filled with Jettas festooned with TDI signage headed northbound on a North Carolina freeway. Andrew called a local VW dealer who confirmed that these were actually among the first batch of TDIs that will be available for test drives at dealers around North America for the next couple of months before they go on sale later this summer.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW Jetta TDI

Source: Autoblog

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VW: Video from photo shoot for DC United

If you are a US soccer fan you most probably already heard that DC United scored a sponsoring deal with VW. Here's a nice video from the photo shoot!

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW

Source: The German Car TV

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Lamborghini Murcielago LP640: Starring in Batman The Dark Knight

The Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 will be starring in the latest Batman episode "The Dark Knight".

When he isn't protecting Gotham City from various villains in the Batmobile as his alter ego, Batman, billionaire Bruce Wayne's vehicle of choice is one of Lamborghini's sexiest super sports car ever built, the Lamborghini Murcielago LP640. Bruce Wayne's newest Lamborghini can be first seen prowling the streets in the movie's new, extended theatrical trailer shown in theatres May 2, 2008, prior to "Iron Man."

The Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 Coupe is not Bruce Wayne's first Lamborghini. The association with the marquee began in 2005 when Propaganda Global Entertainment Marketing, Lamborghini's entertainment marketing firm for worldwide activities, brokered the deal for the Lamborghini Murcielago Roadster to make its on-screen debut in "Batman Begins." In the film, Bruce Wayne can be seen driving the Lamborghini supercar to an exclusive party with two beautiful models in the passenger seat.
The Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 Coupe appearing in "The Dark Knight" is powered by a 640 horsepower 12-cylinder engine and is capable of more than 211 mph.

"The Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 is the natural choice for Bruce Wayne's other car," stated Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini. "Lamborghini is proud to be associated with one of the greatest movie franchises in history, especially co-starring with the night-bound Batmobile."

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, Lamborghini Murcielago LP640

Source: Fourtitude

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Bentley: Special series edition of Devil May Care book

Bentley has released a special edition of the Devil May Care book, the latest story of James Bond.

As we first reported last September, MI6's greatest secret agent also returns to his Bentley-driving roots in Devil May Care. The car is the same one he drives in Fleming's Thunderball and On Her Majesty's Secret Service: a custom 2-seat Bentley R type Continental convertible with the 4½-liter engine from a Mk VI stuffed underhood. To celebrate Bond's return to Bentley, Penguin Books asked the automaker to design a very limited Special Series Edition -- just 300 copies will be made.

Devil May Care numbering plateUnder the supervision of chief designer Dirk Van Braeckel (the man responsible for the current Continental GT's lines), Bentley has delivered a leather-bound, heirloom-quality piece. The 'Flying B' hood ornament is featured on the cover and spine, and the outer leather is stitched in the same diamond pattern you'll find on the seating surfaces of a modern Bentley road car.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, Bentley

Source: Autoblog

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Audi: Developing hybrid technology with Sanyo

Audi and Sanyo are collaborating on the development of hybrid technology. Another proof that Audi is working on an electric car.

According to latest reports Audi and Japanese electronics giant Sanyo are planning to work together on a new pilot hybrid project for the Volkswagen Group.

The partnership will see the development of advanced battery technology and electronic components that will eventually make their way into a number of VW models. According to a report in Germany newspaper Süddeutsche Zeitung, the two companies will invest a combined €1 billion on the project.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, Audi

Source: Motor Authority

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Audi A5 3.2 quattro: Review

Here are some nice reviews of the Audi A5 3.2 quattro, although we still believe automotive journalists who can't write quattro shouldn't work in this business.

A technological masterpiece, the 2008 Audi A5 impressed us during its week-long stay in our test fleet. We have praise for the LED headlamps, well-appointed interior, and even Audi’s MMI interface.

It’s probably better looking than the Infiniti and BMW, completely obliterates them in headlight awesomeness, and covers any bet the BMW or Infiniti make on interior airiness. Our model had the automatic Tiptronic transmission—a very nice six-speed that is a good daily driver option.

I wrote last week that the BMW M3 was the perfect car. I feel as if I could say the same about the Audi A5, however it’s perfect in a different way. The A5 looks good, perhaps even better than we think. Drive past an intersection and heads turn to follow your path. Driving through neighborhoods, kids playing on lawns stop and stare and point. Maybe it’s the shape of the body, the sweet propeller blade-like wheels, or the unique LED headlamps—the car delivered a lot more curb appeal than I expected. More, even, than the M3 Coupe and M3 Sedan.

Driving felt great. It’s an Audi—no complaints there.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, Audi A5

Source: Winding Road

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Audi R8: Great photography

We found some stunning photos of the Audi R8. Awesome skills!





Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, Audi R8

Source: Rijtesten.nl

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Volkswagen: AWD for next-generation small car across all brands

The next-generation small car platform will feature AWD across all brands.

The new platform, dubbed PQ25, will find its way underneath a handful of new models, spanning the range from the low-end (SEAT), mid-grade (VW) and luxury (Audi). All-wheel-drive won't be an option for the new SEAT Ibiza, but consumers of the next VW Polo (specifically the CrossPolo) might be able to outfit their tiny runabout with AWD, while the Audi A1, due out in late 2009, will continue the automaker's love affair with quattro.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, Volkswagen

Source: Autoblog

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VW Scirocco: New design sketches released by Flavio Manzoni, Head of Creative Design Volkswagen Group

We found these new design sketches of the VW Scirocco and VW Iroc Concept, released by Flavio Manzoni, Head of Creative Design Volkswagen Group. Nice!




Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW Scirocco

Source: Virtual Car

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