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Now, when you book a holiday with Abercrombie & Kent by December 31, 2005,
you'll receive $225 off your companion's itinerary. To take advantage of this offer,
contact A&K at 800-554-7016 and mention promotion code 6008AUDI.

Labels: Audi

Labels: Audi

Labels: Audi

It’s no surprise, most Audi owners and enthusiasts understand and value of all-wheel drive. When quattro burst onto the scene in the early eighties, it took the world by storm and allowed the cars fitted with it to seemingly break the laws of physics. Since then, all-wheel drive in automobiles has become a “must have” option on many high-performance cars. Still, when thinking of all-wheel drive, most don’t think of the bicycle or motorcycle. That’s not so with Steve Christini.

Regarding the Audi frame, Steve would only say that Audi had been evaluating the technology. The frame had been sent to Christini to see how difficult it would be to add the system to the Audi design. The answer was that the frame was suitable, and it could be done relatively easily.

Will there be an all-wheel drive Audi mountain bike? Christini wasn’t sure. Talks on the project had stalled from what we could tell from his response.

Labels: Audi

New Passat Variant: Not speedier, but safer, bigger, more comfortable and friendlier
New Passat Variant: Professional functionality packaged in a compelling design

Volkswagen presents the new Passat Variant. The sixth generation of this bestseller estate car is due to be launched in Germany on August 19, followed by its introduction in many other European markets in September and then in the markets of North America and Japan in Spring 2006. For 43 years now, the term variant has been the renowned worldwide trademark for Volkswagen estate car models around the globe. The original variant was given the simple name of Type 1500. Eleven years on/later, Volkswagen presented the first of 4.3 million Passat produced to date under the variant label. It was this automobile which catapulted the estate class to the top of the European buyer market. And its boom continues.

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Mention the name “quattro GmbH” to most American Audi enthusiasts in these post-RS 6 days and you’ll no longer drum up a quizzical look. This small division of Audi is responsible for special edition models like the aforementioned RS 6, the upcoming RS 4 and European market A4 DTM models to name just a few. In addition to these special cars quattro GmbH is also responsible for a seemingly endless palette of interior options and upgrades for tailoring an Audi to specific desires at a price. Still, those with knowledge of this division of delights from Audi might be surprised to know that quattro GmbH is also behind the design and manufacture of Audi-branded bicycles, though it will probably come as no surprise that these non-motorized Audis are far from pedestrian.

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The Motorcycle business and lifestyle are hot. Hit the road on any weekend and you’ll see droves of two-wheelers on the highways and byways. Knowing that, and knowing Audi/Auto Union’s own history for motorcycles, an obvious and immediate flow of thought goes to what a modern Audi motorcycle would be like. What would happen if you applied the ‘Vorsprung Durch Technik’ (translated: 'Lead Through Technology') mantra to this different form of transportation? It is just that question that vehicle designer Bertrand Bach set about answering with the design you see here.

Bach cited the Audi TT as an inspiration for the work, utilizing a similar approach to clean and strong design that is also carries an emotional element due, as he explains, “to the balance of the volumes.” He also tops this off with another characteristic element of the TT – that of beautifully detailed design elements.

Note the winglets on the sides of the fuel tank – a perfect place for the Audi brand logo of four interlocking rings, while on top of the tank a TT-inspired alloy filler cap is displayed.

Labels: Audi

Audi as we know it today may not be a manufacturer of two-wheeled transportation other than several bike models built by Audi Design and sold through quattro GmbH, but that wasn’t always the case.

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Since its launch on April 28th, the Step Ahead with Audi A3 content channel has engaged over 85,000 Internet users across the U.S., as well as Europe and Asia. There, users have interacted by way of blogging, viewing behind-the-scenes clips, voting on the films, and gathering information on the all-new Audi A3.

Labels: Audi

A prototype headlamp system developed by Hella in cooperation with Volkswagen has received top honors for innovation in a bi-annual competition held by Spain's Society of Automotive Engineers (Sociedad de Tecnicos de Automocion).

Hella's LED headlamp came in first among 87 entries in voting by an international panel of judges. The award was presented to Hella at the recently completed Barcelona Motor Show.

The award-winning design was developed in cooperation with Volkswagen for the Golf 5. It incorporates low beam, high beam, indicator and daytime running lights through the use of future-oriented LED technology.

"LEDs as light sources make it possible to create completely new headlamp shapes and arrangements," notes Dr. Raymund Heinen, president of Hella Lighting North America. "The increased durability of LEDs also may lead to automotive headlamp systems that will function without the need for replacement."

Labels: Volkswagen

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Its successor is already waiting in the wings. It features much of what was already displayed on the allroad quattro concept presented back at the start of the year at the Detroit Auto Show. This car captivated the public and prompted Audi to make the decision to build the second generation of the allroad quattro.

As well as offering the elegant sportiness of the new Audi A6 Avant, the new Audi A6 allroad quattro cuts a fine figure off the beaten track. The second generation once again features quattro permanent four-wheel drive and adaptive air suspension with variable ground clearance. The Audi A6 allroad quattro is the most expressive way of driving an Audi A6 Avant.

The second generation of the Audi A6 allroad quattro will be lauched in mid-2006.

Labels: Audi

A4 Cabriolet Sport models available at the same price as standard versions until September 30, 2005. Premium for A4 Cabriolet S line models reduced from £1,950 to £1,200 until September 30, 2005. Cabriolet Sport and S line OTR prices range from £25,390 to £31,530. Choice of three petrol engines and one TDI, two of which can be combined with quattro permanent four-wheel-drive.

As an unusually sun-drenched summer for once fully justifies the UK’s position as the world’s largest market for the A4 Cabriolet, Audi has just boosted the appeal of the range in time for pre-September ordering. Until September 30th, 2005, upgrading to the A4 Cabriolet Sport will be a no cost option, while the even more distinctive A4 Cabriolet S line will be available at a reduced premium of £1,200.

Labels: Audi

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The organisers of the XX World Youth Day in Cologne from 16 - 21 August 2005 are expecting some 800,000 young people from 160 countries for the first official journey of Pope Benedict XVI. Under the motto "We Have Come to Worship Him" taken from St. Matthew's Gospel, young people of all confessions will have the opportunity to, pray, sing, discuss and celebrate at over 500 events. The highlight is the Concluding Mass with Pope Benedict XVI on the Marienfeld to the west of Cologne on 21 August 2005. As the official automobile partner, the Volkswagen Group represented by Audi, Europcar and Volkswagen supports the XX World Youth Day with a broad selection from its product range.

"As a global company, we are delighted that the young people of the world are making their way to Cologne in August. By supporting the XX World Youth Day as a forum for exchange, Volkswagen AG is accepting a social responsibility for the young people of this world who will shape our future," said Dr. Josef-Fidelis Senn, Volkswagen Group Representative for Church Affairs. "It is a wonderful commitment on the part of Volkswagen to help ensure the safety of the Papal retinue when Pope Benedict XVI travels to Germany. Volkswagen is truly getting things moving." said Hermann-Josef Johanns, managing Director of the XX World Youth Day.

Labels: Audi, VW

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Rumours were going around that VW was to badge its new coupe-cabriolet as the Eos, but it seems unlikely as Canon has the rights to this name for its camera line-up.

This new VW drop-top will share its engine line-up with the Golf and Jetta models, which will of course include the GTI's 147 kW 2-litre turbo-charged FSI unit.

However, it seems as if VW could unleash an even hotter version of the car.

Apparently VW is finalising plans to introduce a super R36 model too. This model could have a power output of about 200 kW.

Labels: VW

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Labels: VW

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The Q5 will be a "soft-roader," but it will be more of an SUV than the previous allroad quattro. Significantly, it's based on the A4 wagon, rather than the A6 that formed the basis for both the original allroad and the new allroad concept revealed at the Detroit auto show in January. It will feature the latest evolution of Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive system.

It could be launched as early as this September's Frankfurt show as a concept car, alongside the production Q7, though the finished Q5 won't be ready till 2007.

Labels: Audi

Daimler Chrysler is about to face its first serious challenge at the entry level of the premium luxury market in the shape of the A4 from Audi India. The A4, to be launched at January’s Auto Expo, will be priced at Rs 20-22 lakh, directly against the C Class Mercedes.

This also opens up a new segment for Audi India, whose earlier launches, A6 and A8, are priced at Rs 42 lakh and A8 is priced at Rs 70 lakh, respectively.

The Audi A4 will be made available in two variants - one each in petrol (1.8 litre, 163 HP) and diesel (2.0 litre, 140 HP). "With the launch of the A4, we will be taking on Merc’s C class. We may not match them on the volumes to start with, but we expect to double our volumes in 2006," said Michael Weber, country manager, Audi India.

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Apparently talks between VW and Proton concerning the German automaker acquiring a controlling stake in the Malaysian company have stopped due to opposition coming from Proton’s senior management. VW’s separate plans to use Proton’s manufacturing facilities in Malaysia to build its own cars have also been discontinued. Though VW claims that this isn’t a takeover, Proton’s management doesn’t consider it a fair deal. VW would gain significant control of Proton during a time in which the Malaysian government is opening up the country to imports. Proton would benefit from VW’s global distribution and exchange of technical knowledge, but apparently that isn’t enough to make this deal move forward.

Labels: VW

"Audi is ahead of many of their competitors in side impact protection,"
says Institute chief operating officer Adrian Lund. "They [Audi] engineered the new model to do well in both of the Institute's tests, and they want to get the results out more quickly to demonstrate to buyers their cars' state-of-the-art crashworthiness. The A6's 'double best pick' performance, especially, is the kind we hope to see every time we test a vehicle."
"Tests like those conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety have become one way consumers can better understand the actual performance of safety systems when making their buying decisions," says Johan de Nysschen, Executive Vice President, Audi of America, Inc. "We actively sought these tests because we did not want to have to wait to prove the benefits of the extensive development work that has gone into the comprehensive combination of active and passive safety systems in every new Audi."

Labels: Audi

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Labels: The German Car Blog

2005 is an important year for the motor industry as it sees the launch of one of the most anticipated cars, the all-new BMW 3 Series. Audi took note of this and the guys at Ingolstadt couldn't just let BMW have all the fun.

Therefore earlier this year Audi refreshed its important A4 range with a complete new look, new engine range and other vital improvements. The result is an almost all-new A4, only halfway through its model life. And wow, what an improvement!

Not that the outgoing model was a disappointing vehicle at all - in fact it was quite a serious competitor to the 3 Series. But now it just so much better and more than able to tackle its fiercest rival.

Our test car, the potent 2.0 turbo model with VW/Audi's FSI technology, is one of the best buys in the A4 range, and after testing it we can say it is probably the best in its class too. It is more than a match for the four-cylinder 3 Series models.

Labels: Audi

At the 2004 Geneva Auto Show, Volkswagen showed its Concept C show car and promised that it was indeed headed for production. Now these latest photos, taken in the U.S. southwest, capture a prototype of the production model as it goes through high-temperature testing.

Like the concept car, the production model has a metal roof that can be lowered to turn the car into a stylish convertible. The new four-seat convertible is sized between the Golf and the Passat, and is reportedly much more luxurious than any previous VW convertible. Production is expected to start in late 2005 for the 2006 model year.

Labels: VW

Yee-aah-hooooo-weeeeee!

If first impressions count for anything, this was ours after the first drive in the 2005 Audi TT coupe 3.2 S-Line.

When you talk about this vehicle's unique styling, great handling, comfortable seats, and killer sound system, you could be talking about . . . well . . . just any old Audi TT. The TT, which arrived with the millennium, ranks high on any list of ''head-turners," cars that get lots of second glances.

From Day One, Audi touted the TT as a ''collaboration of art and engineering," and the car has delivered. Right across the line, it's a swell combination of power and handling.

For 2005, however, Audi has taken everything a step further with its S-line of the 3.2-liter, six-cylinder engine version. This is a TT that has a 0-to-60 time of 5.7 seconds and does the quarter mile in 14.1.

Those numbers resonate with car aficionados, but any driver or passenger will react like this when you step on it: Yee-aah-hooooo-weeeeee!

Part of the responsibility of driving is to be aware that there's a danger zone that increases in direct proportion to the amount a car's horsepower exceeds its driver's IQ. There's a big gap in this case, with the 3.2 liter's 250 horses more than doubling its average driver's intellectual capacity.

But to drive this version is to love the experience.

Labels: Audi

"As we are at an international price level now, I don't foresee further reductions," Pischetsrieder said at a news conference to launch the China representative office of the European Automobile Manufacturers Association.

In October, Volkswagen's Chinese joint-venture, VW-FAW, which produces Audi cars in China, slashed prices by an average of some 15 percent on Audi A4 and A6 models, after having cut them by six to nine percent on its A4 series in July.

Automakers in China have been caught up in a price war this year as they try to boost flagging car sales but Pischetsrieder said Audi's price reductions were caused by substantially higher Chinese domestic prices compared with overseas markets.

Labels: VW

While the car's exterior looks great, Audi excels with its interior design. The A3 might be based on the next VW Golf platform, but there is no mistaking this car for a VW -- it is Audi through and through. The materials are first class with a great combination of textures and colours giving an upscale feel.

The handling characteristics are just as impressive, with a tight road feel and precise handling.

Audi has aimed the A3 at the young person with a good career path, yearning for some German engineering, a touch of class and a badge to give their social status a lift. It will work.
The size of the A3 is just right for a single person or young couple looking for their first entry-level luxury car. The powerful new motor is wonderful, the looks are killer, there are front, side and side curtain air bags as standard equipment and the base price is appealing.

Labels: Audi

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In an attempt to level the field

This car was saddled with an extra 110 lbs
to diminish its braking and handling

Its fuel capacity was cut by 10 liters
to offset its superior efficiency.

And its 610hp engine was restricted to only 510hp.

After four previous victories at the world's toughest
endurance race this car could not be stopped
from winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans - again.

Because racing isn't just about numbers.

Here's to the heart and soul of a champion.

The Audi R8 - the finest car in the world.

Labels: Audi

Labels: VW

At the front, the MS Design styling package includes a chin spoiler with Audi RS-style vent gills on each side, and a new aggressive cross-hatch grille insert. Subtle sideskirts can be found at the sides, and both an upper lid spoiler and lower valance insert can be found at the rear.

In addition to the body components, the MS-Design A6 features a new 20-inch 15-spoke wheel design.

Labels: Audi

An Italian tailor once told me that the best men’s clothing is invisible. In other words, a well-made suit flatters its owner, not the tailor. And so it is with the Audi S4 Avant. Despite the company’s decision to slather the press car in Crayola yellow, and their unconscionable policy of inflicting their gauche grill across the entire model range, the S4 Avant is an entirely restrained machine. It’s completely devoid of the aesthetic fripperies that announce a heavily modified car’s sporting aspirations. The S4 Avant is all about the driver, not the manufacturer.

...The bias is obvious the second you enter the belly of the beast...

Every human interface-- from the clicking HVAC controls to the steering wheel’s tiny thumbwheel controllers-- reacts with perfectly measured tactility. Even the in-dash MMI (Multi-Media Interface) works with chilling precision. The car’s single-minded minimalism raises your driving game on the subconscious level.

The S4 Avant’s 4.2-liter V8 whines like a turbine. Blip the throttle and there’s a hint of bass, but nothing to disturb the atmosphere of Zen-like calm.

Labels: Audi

Sometimes Americans just don't get it. As consumers we tend to scoff at diesel powertrains, and our domestic automakers are way behind the curve on hybrid technology. At least we're slowly "getting it" in terms of personal transportation. There appears to be a slow-but-sure transition from 3-ton SUVs, with single-digit fuel mileage, to car-based vehicles offering superior driving dynamics and effective space utilization. It's this burgeoning wave of enlightenment Audi is hoping to ride with the all-new 2006 A3.

What Works:
Wagon-made-cool styling, powerful engine, upscale interior, possibly the world's greatest transmission (DSG).

What Needs Work:
Rear-seat legroom and cargo space are adequate at best, "manual" tranny that upshifts when it wants to, value potential evaporates quickly when adding options.

Bottom Line:
A unique combination of advanced technology, premium features and exceptional driving dynamics for under $30,000.

Labels: Audi

Precisely 25 years ago, a car that was to change the world of automotive technology went on display for the first time: on 3 March 1980 the first Audi quattro stole the limelight at the Geneva Motor Show. This winning personality sporting the four-ring badge was the beginning of a success story which has remained undimmed by time.

The "Iltis moment" is what sparked the success story. The moment in 1977 when engineer Jörg Bensinger, on a test trip in Finland in an Iltis, hits upon the idea of incorporating the four-wheel drive of the off-roader into a passenger car. In 1980 a team from the Audi Sport department triumphed in the Paris-Dakar Rally in just such an Iltis. This winning car will be on view, as will a whole string of famous Audi quattro models, each of which makes history in its own way. The first quattro of 1980, still called the "Ur-quattro" to this day, a Group B Rallye quattro, the legendary Audi Sport "Pikes Peak" quattro S1, in which Walter Röhrl was the first to conquer the 4,000-metre-plus mountain in Colorado in under eleven minutes. Nor should the successful circuit racing cars be forgotten. The Audi 90 quattro IMSA GTO, with which Audi instilled fear into the competition in the USA in 1989, and the Audi A4 Supertouring that took seven national championships in 1996. There is even a driving simulator built into the Audi V8 quattro DTM, enabling visitors to relate to the quattro feeling interactively on the racing circuit.

But quattro is not just a technology whose most obvious features can be illustrated in a full-scale model of a drive train. The stories on the periphery also contribute to the legend. For example the "fan moment". Ilse Schneider was the name of the lady whose telephone number was to become the most frequently dialled number in Ingolstadt in the early eighties. This Audi employee spoke the latest interim rally positions and results onto a tape. When Audi ended its involvement in rallying in 1987, the number 89 3636 had been called over 500,000 times. Fan accessories from the eighties are also exhibited, some of which were exhibited highly unusual features. A glance at the present and into the future is provided by the Audi allroad quattro from the Willi Bogner film, "Ski to the Max", the Audi A6 that was used for the current TV ski-jump commercial and, on top all that, a wall with peep-holes, through which it will be possible to make out the outlines of some future Audi developments. And the children are well catered for too. Remote-controlled model cars with quattro and front-wheel drive can be driven on two platforms, on various different road surfaces.

Labels: Audi

When last we reported on the movie The Transporter in August of 2004, word had leaked that the lead character, ex-Special Forces officer turned driver for hire Frank Martin, would turn in the keys to his BMW 7-series from the first movie in trade for Audi’s flagship A8L. With a September 2 release date pending, the more details of the movie are beginning to emerge, including the creation of an official movie website and the release of a fast-pace movie trailer with plenty of screen time for the A8, as well as a Lamborghini Murcielago roadster. The trailer can be found on the official movie website, though it actually dropped last week - shown as a preview ahead of the motion picture The Fantastic Four.

Though “The Transporter”, played by British actor Jason Stratham, has given up his European home for retirement in Miami, the movie seems to have not lost its European flair. From the trailer, and blatantly posed in the movie’s Bondesque movie poster, the lead villain appears to wear plenty of lingerie and eyeshadow.

With the scene set for the colorful backdrop of Miami, word is that the plot revolves around Frank’s working for a wealthy family, where he establishes a friendship with their young son. When the son is kidnapped and injected with a fatal virus, Frank breaks away from the F.B.I. investigating the crime to take matters into his own hands.

From the looks of the trailer, the black Audi A8 will see plenty of time on the silver screen, as should the Lamborghini. We’ve been unable to find more details of the A3 involvement as was originally reported. Look for more details to surface as the summer progresses, from the entertainment press as well as through a release expected soon from Audi.

Labels: Audi

The Audi A4 Avant from Ingolstadt was already born with a dynamic line management. Using premium manufactured body add-on parts, Abt Sportsline understands accentuating this skilful line management. Thus, a marked front grill and a matching front spoiler lip were developed for the Abt AS4 for an equally friendly and aggressive facial expression. This look continues to the Abt side skirts and the rear where the AS4 is equipped with a rear wing and rear skirt. Beside sportier optics the add-on parts also provide an improved contact pressure and so a more stable road holding.

The driver will appreciate this, as also concerning power, the engineers have done their job on the so-called “volume model” from Ingolstadt. Originally the 2.0 TDI engine performed 140 HP (103 kW) under the bonnet but after the power treatment in Kempten a total of 170 HP (125 HP) can be measured. The chip tuning perfected by Abt Sportsline which enables this leap, moreover causes a considerably improved responding behaviour of the power unit. Appropriate sound comes from the Abt rear muffler with four chrome end pipes and necessary safety from the Abt sport brake system.

The optimal contact to the road surface is an important fact when possessing so much power – Abt Sportsline has two important components: the Abt sport wheel SP1 in noble titanium design and a size of 8.5 x 19 inch as well as the matching tyres of Dunlop. The tyre manufacturer is not only partner of the champion team Audi Sport Team Abt Sportsline in the DTM, but also in the tuning business.

The package for the Abt AS4 Avant is rounded off by an Abt shift knob as well as marked emblems on the rear and the engine cover.

Labels: Audi

Labels: VW

Audi’s X3 fighter is the forthcoming Q5. Due in 2007, the 5 seater compact SUV will be based of the current A4 platform and feature the Torsen AWD system. The Quattro AWD system is set up to provide a 40/60 split for the front/rear torque distribution with 100% being transferred to any wheel when loss of traction occurs.

Styling is to follow closely to that of the 2006 Audi Q7 due to be unveiled at the 2005 Frankfurt Auto show. The distinctive shield grill dawns the front of the car with Q7 lower facia, and sleek like headlights. The rear design is reminiscent of both the A3 Sportback and recently facelifted A4 wagon. Unlike its bigger brother, the Q5 will only have room for 5. The Q5 forgoes with off-roading capability but will feature air suspension and hill decent control.

Engines likely will include the 2.0-litre FSI and 3.2-litre (or 3.6-litre FSI) V6, with the 4.2-litre V8 being fitted into the S version. Diesel power will be the main selling force in Europe with the 2.0 TDI and 3.0-litre V6 TDI both being offered.

Prices are expected to start from roughly $35,000 for a base model in the US and around 30,000 Euros in Europe. Unveiling is planned either at Geneva 2007 or fall 2007. Americans sales start in early 2008.

Labels: Audi

For starters, he’s called it the ‘Spatha 210’, the numbers referring to the new power output. The word itself comes from ancient Rome, describing a short sword used by Gladiators in hand to hand combat.

It certainly gave me a sharp prod, thanks to Nothelle upping the size of the turbocharger and increasing the boost pressure. The car’s 2.0TDI engine has been given a new personality, with 154 kW (210PS) and 465 Nm of torque available right across the rev range. The result is one diesel that sure knows how to move.

Prising my back off the seat after that initial surge of acceleration I quickly settled into my drive, noting how sure-footed the car felt around the Hockenheimring’s twisty perimeter roads.

Walking around the car after my drive (the smell of hot brake pads permeating the German air, I might add…) I can’t help be impressed by the way Nothelle has added a serious attitude to this car’s look. The wider fenders have beefed up the car’s stance immeasurably and are sure to be copied by other stylists in time while side skirts and a striking front spoiler and splitter help to not only improve airflow into the engine, but also redefine this car’s intent. A small lip on the trunk further reminds passers by that this is no ordinary A3. All these subtle styling tweaks, in my opinion, really work. They help elevate this car from suburban hatch to something you’d be happy taking to a show.

Labels: Audi

The sporty yet stylish “Audi exclusive line” packages are specially tailored to the characteristics of the various model series. They contain standard or sports seats in leather with appealing colour combinations, leather steering wheels of 3-spoke or 4-spoke design, attractive inlays and floor mats which are colour-matched to the trim. The package is available for the Audi A6, Audi A4, Audi A3 and Audi A3 Sportback.

Audi exclusive line for the Audi A6:
• Black interior with door trim inserts to match the seat centre section
• Black cloth headlining
• Seats in Valcona leather with black seat side sections and coloured seat centre section in the colours silver, classic red or cognac
• Colour-keyed stitching on the steering wheel rim and gear lever gaiter
• 4-spoke leather-covered steering wheel
• Colour-coordinated piping on the floor mats
• Matt brushed aluminium inlays
• Audi exclusive door sill trims

Audi exclusive line for the Audi A4:
• Black interior with black door trim inserts
• Black cloth headlining
• Seats in Valcona leather with black seat side sections and coloured seat centre section in the colours silver, classic red or anis yellow
• Colour-keyed stitching on the steering wheel rim and gear lever gaiter
• 4-spoke leather-covered steering wheel
• Optional: 3-spoke leather-covered multifunction sports steering wheel
• Colour-coordinated piping on the floor mats
• Brushed aluminium inlays
• Optional: Piano finish black inlays
• Audi exclusive door sill trims

Audi exclusive line for the Audi A3 and the Audi A3 Sportback:
• Black interior with black door trim inserts
• Black cloth headlining
• Sports seats in Fine Nappa leather with black seat side sections and coloured seat centre section in the colours silver, crimson red or sand beige
• Colour-keyed stitching on the steering wheel rim and gear lever gaiter
• 3-spoke leather-covered steering wheel
(Attraction/Ambiente: 4-spoke leather-covered steering wheel)
• Colour-coordinated piping on the floor mats
• Matt brushed aluminium inlays
• Optional: Piano finish black inlays
• Audi exclusive door sill trims

Labels: Audi

Labels: VW

Which electronic functions do customers want? What benefits of a function do customers perceive? How do customers handle the increasing complexity of functions? What does the future hold in store for electronics in the vehicle?

Audi Marketing provides the answers to such questions within the context of a company-wide electronics strategy.

The fact that around 90 % of all innovations in the vehicle fall into the category of electronics highlights the status of this development area for the car industry. Interestingly, this state of affairs is by no means solely attributable to the need to maintain a competitive advantage by offering innovative functions. There are many different factors contributing towards the growing significance of electronics in the vehicle.

Labels: Audi

Only if innovations are of a high quality when they come to market will customers remain delighted with their brand in the long term.

The familiar core skills in technical development at Audi have previously comprised quattro permanent four-wheel drive, TDI engines, and the aluminium-built Audi Space Frame ASF, and Audi design. A new discipline can now be added to this list: its electronics expertise, which has brought innovations such as the Audi MMI (Multi Media Interface) operating concept, the cornering light system Audi adaptive light, adaptive cruise control (ACC) and the electronic parking brake onto the market. Almost all assembly groups in an Audi A8 or A6 incorporate electronic sensors or actuators. In modern cars, the electronics constitute the domain where all functions intersect, making them the definitive interface.

The satisfying outcome of this intensive in-depth work, comprising a wide range of intensive tests, stands up to scrutiny:
In the 2004 ADAC breakdown statistics, Audi secured top spot in three out of five vehicle categories. The number of breakdowns due to problems with the electronics was reduced by more than half between 2001 and 2004, even though many electronic innovations were simultaneously introduced. During the same period, the number of faults attributable to the electrics/electronics was cut by 39 percent.

Labels: Audi

As he read the opinions on VWvortex.com, an independent Web site for VW owners and enthusiasts, Hunt was goaded into action.

It's standard procedure to let such things pass if you are a senior executive. But Hunt couldn't help himself.

In a rare move for a high-ranking auto exec, Hunt went public: He posted a comment along with his name and title: "Len Hunt, executive vice president, Volkswagen of America Inc."

It is no surprise that Hunt and other executives at VWoA's Auburn Hills, Mich., headquarters regularly follow threads in the VWvortex forums. The Web site has more than 200,000 registered users, and more than 500,000 visitors each month.

That's a massive audience that Hunt wants to address personally.

Labels: VW

Labels: VW

Britain’s traffic jams will soon contain fewer Audis as RAC Trafficmaster is to begin beaming real-time traffic information direct to the satellite navigation systems of A6 and A8 models, helping drivers to steer clear of congestion.

Audi UK will integrate RAC Trafficmaster's RDS TMC (Radio Data System Traffic Message Channel) service initially on satellite navigation systems fitted to the A6 and A8 from November 2005. The real time traffic data technology will enable drivers to monitor traffic conditions and will automatically redirect them away from congested routes in order to minimise traffic delays.

Labels: Audi

Labels: Audi

The A4 sports edition is visually identifiable by virtue of a colour-coded sports bodykit with front and side skirts, rear diffuser and rear spoiler. Combined with the new A4's prominent singleframe grille and expressive 'features' such as newly-designed headlights and V-swages on the bonnet, the overall impression of the A4 sports edition's styling is one of sportiness and dynamism.

Labels: Audi

The high-performance Jetta is set to debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. In Europe it's likely to be called the Jetta 2.0T FSI.

The GTI badge might be used in America, as sedan sales have traditionally been strong. But VW is keen to use the GTI badge only for European-style "hot hatches," so any use on a four-door seems unlikely.

Labels: VW

Over the course of the next year or two, we will bring you a series of articles chronicling the transformation of the TT into a car that would be suitable for daily use as well as occasional hot laps around the local race tracks. We are looking to build a car that’s equally comfortable at a car show as it might be on a racing circuit. Modifications will be made to enhance the performance of the engine, brakes, and suspension first. These will then be followed by changes to the lighting, interior and exterior of the car.

A number of parts will be sourced from those enthusiast-based businesses developing TT specific parts and from companies that are dedicated to selling parts solely for the TT. In addition to those TT-specific parts, we’ll explore the large selection of aftermarket products out there that fit the car, in part due to its relationship to Volkswagen's Mark IV A-chassis cousins. We can also thank the large TT contingent in the UK for a burgeoning market for Audi's small sportscar and we’ll look to that side of the pond for some parts as well. So as not to bore you with a never-ending dialogue focused solely on the technical aspects of the project, we will also provide insights into the companies that will be involved in the transformation, hopefully providing our audience with a glimpse into the cottage industry created around the TT and the aftermarket industry surrounding Audis in general. It will be a fun journey and like any trip, we will probably take a few unknown roads along the way and may even ask for some directions, which hopefully will provide many unexpected but welcome surprises.

Labels: Audi

Labels: VW

Labels: Audi

Audi achieved sales records in the first six months in 12 of 20 markets in Western Europe. Great Britain, the biggest European export market, with sales of around 45,100 vehicles (41,805, up 7.9 percent), Spain with 28,700 vehicles (23,742, up 20.8 percent) and France with around 22,600 vehicles (18,451, up 22.3 percent) deserve a special mention. Sales in Western Europe (excluding Germany) were up by 13.8 percent to 194,500 (170,991) vehicles. New sales records were set in 28 markets worldwide in the first half of 2005.

Labels: Audi

The target is Malaysia's state-controlled automaker Proton. Discussions between the two companies were confirmed this week by Malaysia's former prime minister Mahathir Mohammed, an adviser to Proton. "If we want to, we can sell more than 50 percent to Volkswagen," he said. "They are quite willing, I think, to buy even 100 percent."

Mahathir said "many other companies" would be interested in Proton, but the biggest fear was that if they took over the firm, they might end production of Protons and assemble their own cars instead. VW has already announced plans to assemble the Passat sedan in Malaysia this year with Proton, and the subcompact Fox from 2006.

How do you make a BMW 1 Series driver jealous? Easy... go buy an Audi A3 Sportback.

Audi's marketing slogan for the A3 Sportback is "A new kind of vorsprung" and there is no doubt that Audi is indeed coming out with full force to give the Sportback the edge.

In fact the Sportback already proves to be popular as there is a waiting list of three months and Audi dealerships can prepare themselves for a flood of potential buyers.

As with its VW sibling the Sportback 2.0 T FSI offers potent turbo power which makes it a great driver's car. But it seems quieter than in the Golf and in the Sportback it has a more "grown-up" feel to it as it doesn't feel as wild.

Though it is still fun and this model is a superb combination of performance and the need of a practical and versatile vehicle. This model offers a smooth ride but once the turbo kicks in at about 2 000 r/min the fun really starts.

The Sportback is a car with a big "wow" factor and it is an impressive package indeed. This is a vehicle which comes with loads of style without sacrificing versatility.

Furthermore this is complimented by superb fit and finish giving it a touch of class, which is not matched by its biggest German competitor.

This Audi's potent and frugal engine range makes the Sportback even more desirable.

The Sportback is not only a car which you want to be seen in, but also one you want to drive.

Labels: Audi

Labels: Audi

Labels: Audi

If there’s a rolling example of automotive indulgence in the Audi lineup, it must assuredly be the S4 Cabriolet. With serious performance hardware and a folding top, one can cater to one’s own performance needs while seeing and being seen… or at the very least working on one’s tan. This most rapid topless transport also happens to be fairly practical – including seating for four and quattro all-wheel drive, the latter paying dividends year-round in climates benefiting from the changing of the seasons. With all of this in mind, choosing an S4 for a Four Season test series was an easy decision.

Throughout the next year, we’ll report twelve times monthly on the S4. We’ll log miles and driving impressions, sharing our findings, our likes and our disappointments. Having a car like this also inspires one to hit the road, making any excuse one can find to take a road trip – of which we’ll also report.

The car will be primarily based in the Washington, D.C. area, so we’ll be utilizing our local dealer Rockville Audi as the main service point for the S4. Rockville already maintains our Project A4 1.8T Avant and always treats us quite well. The car always comes out of service freshly washed, and our service manager was calling us by name – a nice touch - before he’d ever heard of Fourtitude.

We intend to share other owners’ experiences with the S4 Cabriolet as well. If you own an S4 Cabriolet and would like to share your experiences and comments, please email them to info@fourtitude.com.

Labels: Audi

The A3 Cabriolet is scheduled for introduction in Europe in spring 2007; plans for the U.S. are not known yet.

Sources say the A3 Cabriolet's new look features a high and short rear end, more contoured flanks, and a fresh face that reportedly wears the single-frame grille upside down — like the famous Auto Union racing cars. The car is described as having a "gangsta" look vaguely reminiscent of the 1989 Porsche 911 Speedster.

Labels: Audi

"The response to the Q7 Globe has been tremendous. And this is despite the fact that widespread promotion of the Q7 has not even started yet. The fact that over 110,000 people have registered their personal details demonstrates the immense level of interest in the Q7. For us these are potential customers with an enhanced interest in buying the vehicle", says Hans-Christian Schwingen, Head of Marketing Communication at AUDI AG.

The Q7 Globe was jointly initiated by Audi Marketing Communication and Audi Relationship Marketing. André Lutz, in charge of Potential Customer Management, explains: "The Q7 Globe is not just simply a website, but a key component in a program for the generation and support of prospective customers at an international level, and for the extended launch campaign introducing the new SUV. This is Audi's biggest multi-channel marketing project to date for the launch of a new model." Lutz goes on: "The Q7 will be Audi's first vehicle in the SUV segment. This means that this car has no predecessor at Audi. For this reason it is essential to get to know new customers and to win them over from other brands in order to achieve sales targets.
The Q7 Globe project was launched as early as in March in order to identify this target group at an early stage. It has been a great success in this respect: Around sixty percent of people registering an interest drive vehicles of other brands. The online special is made available centrally by Audi Marketing to all importers, along with the other elements of the Q7 Globe. So far the program and its online special are used by 38 markets throughout the world. It has been translated into seven languages to date. Further markets and language versions are to follow. Germany heads the chart of prospective customer registrations, followed by the USA, Belgium, France and Italy.

Labels: Audi

In the recent British Insurance Car Security Awards, the A8 outclassed 12 other models in its segment and scored the highest points total overall. It consequently gained a 5 star rating for both 'theft of' and 'theft from' security, and the best-in-class award in the Executive/Luxury category - one of 11 categories judged by Thatcham experts. The A8 remains the only luxury saloon from the 'big three' German premium brands to merit this top rating, bearing testament yet again to the exceptional attention to detail that has been paid to the flagship Audi.

Labels: Audi

This was a hotly contested category. When all votes were counted, Audi’s award-winning A8 sedan again came out on top as America’s best Luxury Car.

Why shouldn’t it? It is superbly built with world-class fit-and-finish both inside and out, it is a delight to drive, and the available engine options are unparalleled. Audi’s all-wheel-drive system makes the A8 an all-weather luxury liner of the highest order. The more we drive the A8, and its longer, roomier A8L sibling, the more we wonder why anyone would pick another luxury car.

Labels: Audi

This season, the guys are back in full effect, transforming more rides and more lives. As usual, Xzibit--Pimp Master of Ceremonies himself--will be pulling drivers off the road who are guilty of committing heinous vehicular style crimes and giving their wheels the ultimate pimp-over.

Labels: VW

Labels: Audi

The Jetta GLI continues VW's tradition of sporty models with more power, better handling, and special trim. Naturally the most important part of the GLI is its more powerful engine. Instead of the Jetta's 2.5 liter five-cylinder making 148 horsepower, the GLI will have a 2.0-liter turbo four cranking out 200 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, while a DSG transmission is optional. Putting this power to the road is a firmed-up suspension, plus 17-inch-diameter alloy wheels wearing high-performance tires.

The Jetta GLI also has its own individual styling touches including performance sport seats. The GLI grille has a honeycomb pattern instead of horizontal bars, and replaces the chrome prow of the standard Jetta with shiny black. All other chrome trim pieces on the Jetta's front end have also been deleted, with the exception of the fist-sized chrome VW emblem. Chrome trim around the side windows has been changed to black as well. And naturally, the GLI has VW's signature trim element for its sporty models, the thin red stripe around the lower edges of the grille opening.

Labels: VW

Labels: VW

Earlier this year the A8 was named Automobile Magazine’s 2005 All-Star Luxury Sedan, the winner of Edmunds.com’s Top 10 Cars for CEOs in the “Under $75,000 For Work” category and received Consumer Guide’s “Best Buy” rating in the Premium Luxury Car category.

This year’s results appear in the July 4, 2005 issue. According to AutoWeek, it is in this competition where their subscribers choose the hottest, sexiest, most desirable cars, trucks and SUVs in the land. These awards have been held every year since 1990.

Labels: Audi

The Volkswagen Group's Electronics Research Laboratory (ERL) is helping to accelerate the development of the "intelligent" car of the future. Potential technologies are analysed, rapidly brought to production maturity and the customer thus enabled to benefit from them even more swiftly.

The ERL in Palo Alto, California (USA), is the main electronics research centre of the Volkswagen Group. Located at the heart of Silicon Valley, it enables the group to collaborate directly with many of the world's leading high-tech companies, budding hardware and software companies, and university research institutes. The close partnership between the ERL and these partners promotes the design and development of innovative equipment and applications, which are then installed in test vehicles of the group brands for further analysis and trials.

The research area with a time horizon of 5-10 years plays an important role especially in a branch of industry in which the life-cycle of a product can be up to a decade. This is because key features and specifications are defined several years before market launch. It is evident from a glance at the timescale that for a concept earmarked for launch in 2010, it may be necessary to present and approve many of the details by as early as 2005. Within this process, the ERL engineers assume the task of integrating future cutting-edge technologies into functioning equipment specifications in order to demonstrate their features in vehicles. This is the only way that product planners have the opportunity to consider new technologies in terms of customer benefit and incorporate these ideas into future draft vehicle designs.

Labels: Volkswagen

Labels: Audi

Labels: Audi

Labels: VW

Transmission specialists expect demand for continuously variable transmissions to increase in the United States and Japan while dual-clutch transmission technology gains share in Europe.

"The dual-clutch transmission will put the final nail in the coffin for the CVT" in Europe, says Andrew Fulbrook, manager of European powertrain forecasts at CSM Worldwide in London.

Labels: Audi, VW

Design-wise, the look of the A3 is subtle, even understated. Audi's new single-frame grille is smaller and less distracting. The side view is very plain, but the car's rear profile is nicely proportioned.

The cabin is typical Audi: stylish without overdoing it. There's enough shiny metal to accent the trendy black background here. Gauges are easy to read, and controls are within reach and properly placed.

Despite a price point that starts below $25,000, the look and feel of the A3's interior is excellent.

The joy here is in the driving.
Our test A3, with the optional Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG), an automatic transmission that provides crisp shifts with steering-wheel shifters, was ready to run. Acceleration was very, very quick. In fact, I started stopping for yellow lights just so I could be the first away when the traffic signal turned green. It's the kind of performance that rewards an enthusiast.

The A3 enters the showroom as the cheapest Audi, but it remains a member of a luxury family -- so things like dual-zone automatic air conditioning, 17-inch alloy wheels and a 10-speaker, 140-watt stereo are standard. So are safety items like dual front, side and side-curtain air bags, anti-lock brakes with electronic brake distribution, and electronic stability control.

Labels: Audi

Labels: Audi

Labels: VW

Excellent performance and the right combination of usable technologies make the Audi A6 a prime contender in the premium sedan class.

Labels: Audi

The whole promotion started on April 1st of this year, with the ‘theft’ of an Audi A3 from Audi Forum on Park Avenue in New York. The story line is a little strange, but about 300 people gathered last night in Santa Monica to witness the conclusion which was also webcasted.

Labels: Audi

• 3rd prize, category "Lions direct": VW Polo icecube


• 1st prize, category "Press": VW Commercial Vehicles


• 2nd prize, category "Press": VW Golf GTI and VW Polo


• 3nd prize, category "Press": VW Touareg


• 1st prize, category "Outdoor": VW Commercial Vehicles


• 3rd prize, category "Outdoor": VW Golf GTI and VW Touareg


• 2nd prize, category "Cyber Lion": Audi Quattro Germany

Labels: Audi, VW

Labels: VW