The title of this post deserves a sub-title along the lines of “the future is here today”, but I will resist the temptation! However driverless cars are getting more and more credible ever year.

Recently, Stanford University’s School of Engineering and Volkswagen America held a special dedication ceremony for the new Volkswagen Automotive Innovation Laboratory (VAIL) which will do research on vehicle-safety, environmental issues, as well as continuing work on autonomous driving. And this is where the car that parks itself comes in.

As part of the ceremony the Standard/VW team demonstrated the “first ever” autonomous parking by a driverless car. The VW Passat called Junior entered into a car park, found the firs empty space and reversed into it. There was nobody in the car… It was all handled by computer.

At the same event VAIL also unveiled the Pike’s Peak Audi TT-S, that they hope will drive itself up the 2010 Pikes Peak course without a driver.

The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is the second oldest motor sports race in America. The race is run on a 12.42 mile course with 156 turns that begins at 9,390 feet and finishes at the 14,110 foot summit of Pikes Peak in Colorado Springs.

Cars That Drive Themselves is a post from: Reviews 4 Cars

Audi has announced new automatic versions of the Audi A3 with engine start-stop technology. The new 1.4 TFSI petrol and 1.6 TDI versions of the A3 come equipped with the latest engine start-stop technology and use the S tronic twin-clutch automatic transmission.

The engine start-stop technology was previously only available for manual cars but now this new variation works with automatic gearboxes. The start-stop system turns off the engine when the car comes to a standstill in traffic. As long as the brake pedal is pressed the engine remains dormant, but when released the engine restarts in just two-tenths of a second.

The start-stop system can be deactivated at the touch of a button, but when used it can increase fuel economy and reduce CO2 approximately 5g/km.

The A3 also comes with a recuperation system to harness kinetic energy generated during braking. With its help, fuel usage is reduced by as much as three per cent.

The S tronic automatic gearbox uses two clutches and enables the A3 to deliver lightning fast automatic or manual shifts via the gear lever or steering wheel-mounted paddle controls with no interruption of the engine’s power delivery across seven ratios.

Facts and Figures

• A3 1.4 TFSI and 1.6 TDI models start from £18,300 OTR and £18,905 OTR – available to order now for first deliveries in December
• A3 1.4 TFSI S tronic with start-stop – 0-62mph in 9.3 seconds, top speed 126mph, combined mpg 53.3, CO₂ 124g/km
• A3 1.6 TDI S tronic with start-stop – 0-62mph in 11.7 seconds, top speed 121mph, combined mpg 67.3, CO₂ 109g/km

New Audi A3 Automatic With Start-Stop is a post from: Reviews 4 Cars

For the first time, Audi Sport will offer a racing sports car specifically developed for customer use in the form of the powerful 500 hp plus GT3 version of the Audi R8 which will be available from autumn 2009. The logistics and factory space required for the AUDI AG customer programme will be created over the next few months in Ingolstadt, Neckarsulm and Györ.

“The R8 is the first production Audi bearing the name and genes of a successful racing sportscar and is therefore an excellent base from which to build up our first big customer sport programme,” explains Head of Audi Motorsport Dr Wolfgang Ullrich. “Ever since the R8 was unveiled we’ve been inundated with enquiries about a race version. With the Audi R8 we will offer customers a racing sportscar equipped with high-calibre technology and the typical Audi qualities, but which is nevertheless easy to handle.”

The Audi R8 conforms to the production-based GT3 regulations allowing the car to be fielded in numerous national and international race series.

Because the GT3 regulations prohibit the use of four-wheel drive the Audi R8 comes with the typical GT rear-wheel drive. The power is transmitted via a newly developed six-speed sequential sports gearbox. The suspension uses almost exclusively components from the production line. A comprehensive list of safety equipment guarantees the highest-level of passive safety. A modified front end and a large rear-wing generate the required downforce for the race track.

The Audi R8, which bears the project name “R16″ within Audi Sport, was developed under the direction of Audi Sport. Mid August, the first prototype successfully completed a roll-out in the hands of Audi factory driver Frank Biela.

The first test races in various European racing series are scheduled for the 2009 season. Delivery to the customers is planned from the autumn of this coming year.

Audi develops race version of the R8 is a post from: Reviews 4 Cars

Extensive revisions to the acclaimed 2.0-litre turbo charged and directly fuel injected petrol engine that already powers the TT have enabled its power to be boosted from 200PS to 272PS and its torque from 280Nm to 350Nm, available between 2,500 and 5,000rpm. Linked to six-speed, close ratio manual transmission the enhanced unit slingshots the TTS Coupé from rest to 62mph in just 5.2 seconds, and on the Autobahn is only curtailed by its electronic limiter at 155mph. With the optional S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission acceleration times are reduced by a further two-tenths of a second in both the Coupé and Roadster.

In addition to the evocative ‘S’ insignia, the most extreme production TT to date highlights its capabilities from the front through newly designed bi-xenon headlamps incorporating trademark Audi LED strip daytime running lights, a redesigned front apron incorporating larger air intakes and aluminium-look door mirror housings. The profile view is enhanced by deeper side skirts and exclusive 18-inch alloy wheels, which can be swapped for 19-inch alternatives at extra cost, while at the rear a revised rear bumper with – for the first time in a TT – four tailpipes protruding from its extended diffuser subtly conveys the newcomer’s extra performance potential.

Inside, deep-set Alcantara and leather combination sports seats, exclusive ‘S’ instruments with white needles, metal pedals and special aluminium trim elements enhance the already very highly regarded sports interior.

Audi Space Frame (ASF)
Streamlined by its revolutionary lightweight Audi Space Frame aluminium and steel hybrid body shell, and pinned to the road by a comprehensively modified, quattro four-wheel-drive-equipped chassis, the new TTS has been designed to maximise the TT’s inherent fun factor while retaining its safe, surefooted feel. Reworked power steering and enlarged brakes help the driver to profit fully from the exceptional performance, and to guarantee the highest degree of agility in all situations the space-age Audi magnetic ride adaptive damping system is fitted as standard.

The magnetic ride system’s sophisticated dampers are filled with a magnetorheological fluid containing minute magnetic particles that can be influenced by an electromagnetic field. By applying a voltage to the system’s electromagnets, the viscosity of the fluid is altered by the affected magnetic particles, increasing resistance to damper movement to iron out pitch and roll when necessary, and reducing resistance when ride comfort takes precedence.

The new sports model is not only notable as the first TT to become a member of the esteemed Audi ‘S quattro series’, which numbers extra special models such as the 450PS S8 quattro among its ranks. Significantly, it also debuts on the tenth anniversary of the TT, the Coupé version of which became an overnight sensation following its launch in 1998.
Audi TT joins the ‘S-Club’- A new, even more focused version of the iconic TT sports car debuts at this month’s North American Auto Show (January 13-23). Destined for the UK in mid-2008 in both Coupé and Roadster body styles, the TTS is powered by a specially developed, 272PS Turbo FSI petrol engine complemented by state-of-the-art chassis technology.

At-a-Glance

* New even higher performance version of acclaimed TT sports car available in Coupé and Roadster body styles
* Debuts at the North American International Auto Show on January 13 and is expected to open for UK order in mid-2008
* Powered by an extensively modified version of the 2.0-litre Turbo FSI petrol engine delivering 272PS and peak torque of 350Nm between 2,500 and 5,000rpm
* Coupé (manual) 0-62mph in 5.4 seconds, limited 155mph top speed, 29.7mpg, Roadster 0-62mph in 5.6 seconds, limited 155mph top speed, 29.3mpg
* Suspension, steering and brakes revised to complement enhanced performance
* Standard Audi magnetic ride adaptive damping system for optimum handling composure

High Performance Audi TTs Debuts in Detroit is a post from: Reviews 4 Cars

Notable as the compact executive car that will attract the lowest company car tax liability in the premium sector, the new 120PS A4 2.0 TDI is available to order now in Saloon and Avant body styles with standard, SE or S line specification priced from £22,150 OTR. The powerful 211PS A4 2.0 TFSI with new performance-enhancing Audi Valvelift technology is offered in SE or S line forms priced from £24,625 OTR. Both will be delivered to their first UK customers in mid-July.

The new TDI is based on the latest generation 2.0-litre 143PS unit first seen in the A4 at its launch earlier this year, and shares its advanced common rail piezo fuel injection system. With an output of 120PS, and 290Nm of torque delivered via a six-speed manual transmission from just 1,750rpm, it combines strong performance with the potential to cover in excess of 55mpg, a bi-product of this impressively low fuel usage being a low CO2 figure of 134g/km.

This impressive efficiency ensures that drivers of the new A4 2.0 TDI 120PS will enjoy the lowest tax burden in the premium sector, with benefit-in-kind tax liability of £1,582.20 per annum or £131.85 per month for a company car user in the 40 per cent tax bracket.

Audi valvelift boosts FSI efficiency
Slotting in midway through the petrol range, the new 2.0-litre TFSI engine is an all-new unit based on the 1.8 TFSI that has been available in A4 Saloon models since launch. Like its smaller counterpart it combines turbo charging and FSI direct injection to deliver strong performance as efficiently as possible, but it also supplements this with new Audi valvelift technology that further reduces fuel consumption by at least 5 per cent by controlling valve opening far more precisely than conventional systems.

Valve lift is variable between two levels through the use of sliding cam units mounted on the intake camshaft. When strong acceleration is required, an electronic control mechanism selects a cam profile which opens the valve as fully as possible for optimum ‘breathing’. When throttle usage is more relaxed, the control mechanism selects a lower profile, reducing the amount of fuel and air compressed.

The new 2.0-litre TFSI unit delivers 211PS from 4,300rpm and a very impressive 350Nm torque maximum from just 1,500rpm. At launch it is available in front-wheel-drive and quattro permanent all-wheel-drive forms, both initially transmitting power exclusively via six-speed manual transmission.

Towards the end of 2008 the unique-in-class multitronic continuously variable automatic transmission – which in several applications actually brings improvements in fuel economy compared with its manual equivalent – will be available for front-wheel-drive versions.

The advantages of Audi valvelift technology are evident in a 6.9-second 0-62mph time and 155mph top speed for the latest A4 2.0 TFSI with six-speed manual transmission and front-wheel-drive. They are even more noticeable in the 42.8mpg combined economy figure and 154g/km CO2 output – a significant improvement over the 36.7mpg and 184g/km recorded by the previous generation A4 2.0 TFSI.

Low Emissions – Audi A4 Petrol & TDi Models is a post from: Reviews 4 Cars

The Audi S5 is unquestionably a car that speaks for itself, so all credit for the good taste in cars, but I’m not convinced the marble paint job really makes the S5 Rock Solid.

Audi S5 – Rock Solid is a post from: Reviews 4 Cars

On the net lie rumors of a V10 Audi R8, the question is, are they true?

I think it’s safe to say yes.

It’s been revealed that Audi tested an R8 with a Twin Turbo V10 from the RS6. However, cooling problems resulted in the melt down of the V10 R8. Not to worry, as Audi have decided to build a brand new engine, a none turbo V10. It’s been said, the new V10 is essentially a development of the high-revving V8 from the RS4 and R8.

Germancarblog added:

“Engineers tell us that this new engine will shade BMW’s 500bhp M Power V10 – as found in the M5 and M6 – in terms of outright power and revs. Considering BMW’s figures, that means the new 5.2-litre engine should be good for around 520bhp and rev beyond 8250rpm. ”

If you’re still not convinced, then listen hard for the sound reassembling a BMW M5 in the video below.

Alleged V10 Audi R8 is a post from: Reviews 4 Cars

Style
 

Exterior
Audi are have nailed the word desire right on the head. I couldn’t help but notice the Carbon fibre side blades which split R8 into two, on the front LED headlamps ghastly frown, while on the rear, squares float in the lights and four colossal pipes exit from the bumper. There’s also an option to illuminate the engine compartment.

Today’s Super Cars characterise abnormal lines and shapes, its clear the R8 is no exception, the Coupe shape where perfect sleek lines, grooves and shapes have been applied to create a masterpiece.

The R8 unquestionably wins a place on my poster wall.

Interior
In Super Cars you would expect to find interiors deprived of the essentials, aiming to save weight for the performance.

Predictably, Audi haven’t disappointed; luxuries provide an elegant theme, carbon fibre and steel trim provide a racy sense, and leather is found on seats along with door sills to maintain a premium look.
 

Comfort & Practicality
 

Comfort
Sacrifice is a sin, as all the expected lavish comforts have been Integrated. The interior flows with the exterior, in front you are faced with all of today’s toys including air-conditioning and remote central locking, while gazing in the rear-view mirror a V8 engine shows-off its engine cast. 

For only £80,000 it would have been charitable for Audi to include extras such as:

- Semi-automatic gearbox – £5200,
- Satellite-navigation – £1800,
- Magnetic ride with adaptive suspension – £1350,
- Electric seats – £830

The R8 I tested featured all but the Semi-automatic gearbox, therefore I can provide you with a taste for most of the extras.

Many high quality controls are recognisable from other Audi models such as the RS4. The supportive sports seats hold you in, whilst the aluminium detailing and bottom-chopped steering wheel stress the spottiness.

The cockpit looks orderly as Audi have introduced a 6.5″ colour TFT Multi Media Interface system into the R8 for an intuitive all in one solution for entertainment, communications and vehicle control. A premium sound system by Bang & Olufsen is an option specifically for the Audi R8 by the Danish hi-fi boffins which features; dynamic compensation for road noise, a digital amplifier, 12 speakers and a total output of 465 watts.

Practicality
The R8 blends performance with luxury to provide everyday practicality, a convincing reason to ditch my present car. The R8 sits low to the ground yet mysteriously offers ample room to manoeuvre. To demonstrate practicality, Audi have left enough room for a set of golf clubs behind the seats and provided a front boot.

 Performance & Handling

Performance
The R8 runs from the same soul you would find in the RS4 with one big difference, the R8 engine has been developed with Dry sump lubrication, rather then a big sum of oil at the base of the engine a separate pool is utilised resulting in the engine being mounted lower, improving the centre of gravity.

The R8 being a curb weight of 120 kgs lighter then the RS4 decreases the 0-60 mph time to 4.0 seconds and increases the top speed to an Audi all-time high of 187mph. To outlay the 430Nm of torque Audi provide the option of a 6-speed manual transmission, or for £5200 exceptionally fast gear changes then the race-inspired R tronic sequential shift gearbox with joystick and paddle control.

Today’s Super Cars are light years ahead in aerodynamics, which Audi haven’t forgotten. The R8 is Audi’s first car to feature a diffuser to provide down force as the Rear spoiler also retracts typically between 60-70mph when the vehicle needs additional composure to ensure the R8 glues to the road.

The thirsty R8 4.2 Semi-automatic gearbox achieves 20.7 mpg while the Manual achieves 19.3 mpg combined. A Diesel version should also be arriving to the market for the fuel conscious drivers.

Handling
As Audi own Lamborghini, 15% of the R8 is shared with the Lamborghini Gallardo, including the transmission and chassis. The R8 is built with a light weight and ridged single space frame constructed from aluminium with magnesium components resulting in better performance, agility and handling on the road.

The R8’s standard suspension is impressive through town and on the track, however Audi have decided to go a step further to engineer Audi Magnetic Ride which is an optional extra. Audi Magnetic Ride is an adaptive suspension system with selectable modes; Normal and Sport. The Audi Magnetic Ride system monitors the road conditions adjusting the damping effect by varying a magnetic charge that passes through a fluid-based shock absorber, improving road handling, chassis control and driving comfort.

The roaring V8 with 414 BHP engine tames itself by directing power to all four wheels as 44 front : 56 rear, the result, a phenomenal drive with an expected controllable tendency to wagon tail. The Electronic Stability Program 8.0 has been configured in three modes offering high driving safety and vehicle stability to rectify under-steer to provide a real race car feel when you nose into a corner.

Safety & Reliability

Safety
All this joy arrives with remarkable safety. In the event of a crash, front and side airbags are at hand, while belt tensioners promptly bring the belt much closer reducing the risk of injuries, and for whiplash injury thanks to active head restraints which automatically deploy forwards to cushion backward momentum of the head in a rear collision. Audi have fitted the R8 with 8-piston callipers on the front and 4-piston callipers on the rear to give the R8 the ultimate stopping power.

Reliability
The R8 is solid car bolted together and theirs no reason why the R8 should have no more problems than any other Audi models. When running a prestige vehicle such as the R8 it is essential to ensure services are conducted according to schedule maintaining the engines peak performance, also at the time of selling vehicles with full service history sell like hot cakes.

Costs
 

Running Cost
Running a Super Car has never been cheap, but buyers will probably be well off enough not to worry too much about price.

Miles per Gallon: 19.3 mpg
Estimated fuel cost for 10,000 miles a year: £2,459
Road tax for 12 months: £400
Insurance Group: 20
Servicing: Two years/19,000 miles
Warranty – Three years/60,000 miles

Depreciation
Below a vague depreciation guide based on 10,000 miles per annum.

Cost New	£78,195
Year 1	£64,370
Year 2	£56,744
Year 3	£48,490
Year 4	£42,321

As you would expect from Audi, the residuals for the R8 prove to be strong.

Buying & Selling Used

Attached with the R8 is a waiting list slowly shrinking, however to avoid waiting you could ring a number of Main Dealers to enquire for stock, in which case the spec may not be customisable. First deliveries began in the UK in mid-2007, new orders would not be fulfilled until 2009.

If you’re looking for a used R8 it shouldn’t be too difficult, but for an inflated price as 750 Audi R8s a year have been set for the UK getting snapped up by traders. The most desirable R8’s will have £10,000+ worth of extras, so expert to pay premium prices.

Verdict

Love – Exhilarating Engine, Elegant, Easy to Drive

Hate – Rear visibility

If Audi are to continue down the path of the R8, they are set to be untouchable. Audi have engineered the R8 to perfection, the desired exterior, luxurious interior and Super Car performance make the R8 a practical everyday Super Car. The R8 has broken the Super Car boundaries and open new doors for the automotive sector achieving what no other manufacturer has achieved, ‘an all-round Super Car’ where no sacrifice is made. There’s no doubt this is only the beginning as a 6.0 litre TDI R8 is still to come.

The base price of the R8 is around £80,000, but once you add all the extras you will be looking to pay near £100,000. This is engineering excellence at its best from Audi, worth every penny.

Rivals:

- Porsche 911 Coupe – One of the most developed sports cars ever.
- Aston Martin Vantage – The full Performance Prestige Package.
- Nissan Skyline GT-R – Super Car Performance for a Fraction of the Price.

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

Audi R8 Review – Sacrifice is a Sin is a post from: Reviews 4 Cars

It seems the Diesel haters have banished of the earth after they heard of a Diesel Super Car landing.

Audi have been investing in racing diesels at Le Mans and now you have the result, the dangerous Audi R8 V12 TDI. This R8 TDI has made diesel history with its 6.0-litre V12 TDI engine developing nearly 500bhp;  compare this to the neighbours 180 BHP Audi A4 and I’m sure you will agree this is a remarkable achievement for a Diesel. The R8 TDI produces 737lb.ft of torque making the R8 V12 TDI jump from 0-62mph in just 4.2 seconds and exceeds 186mph.

After all this, the Audi R8 TDI has achieved 24 mpg in testing. You may also find this engine sitting discreetly in a Audi Q7 model soon.

The Audi R8 at present is still a concept; keep your eyes peeled as this beast is expected in 2009.

News – Menace Audi R8 500bhp V12 TDI is a post from: Reviews 4 Cars

The Audi A3 created the entirely new market segment of the premium compact car when the first-generation model made its debut in 1996. The ‘Vorsprung durch Technik’ brand has been notably successful in that market segment and has since built 1.9 million units of the Audi A3. After four successive record-breaking years, the one millionth example of the second-generation A3 – which went into production in 2003 – left the assembly line just a few days ago. Audi is now solidifying its lead.

The exterior: even sportier profile

New visual details for the three-door A3 and A3 Sportback emphasise its modern profile. The bonnet lid and front wings are more sculpted, and the bumper and large single-frame radiator grille have been updated to enhance road presence. The new headlamps incorporate a curved trim element, known as the “wing” which accentuates their technical perfection. On S line, Xenon headlamps with LED daytime running lights provide a distinctive optional feature. New exterior mirrors with integral indicators, new door handles and an attractive new alloy wheel range add to the side profile of the new generation A3.

To the rear, the modified bumper and new tail lights create a clean design; the A3 Sportback now has innovative fibre optic rods arranged in a flat, continuous strip that creates an impressive visual effect in the dark. In addition, the three-door A3 has a modified tailgate with a new light edge. As a result of the design modifications, the A3 has grown by 2.5 centimetres (0.98 in) in length to 4.24 metres (166.93 in), while the sporty proportions of the Sportback remain virtually unchanged at 4.29 metres (168.90 in) in length.

Interior elegance

Inside the car, too, the designers fine-tuned the premium feel of the car. Elegant aluminum design elements on the air vents, light switches and center console accentuate the prestige character of the Audi A3 and A3 Sportback. The switches and controls beneath the audio system have been given a new, modern look. The instrument cluster boasts a new sporty feel with black dials and red needles which reinforce the impression of precision and advanced technology, and a shift indicator displays the recommended gear in any given circumstances in the driver information system. Fitted as standard to the SE, Sport and S line the driver information system displays the time, date and distance in a clear, high-resolution white font. The three-spoke leather steering wheel on the Sport and S line has new aluminum trim, with a flat-bottomed design available as an option on S line.

New inlays for the Standard, SE and Sport and a wide selection of upholstery colours and fabrics enhance the interior through design, impressive material quality and meticulous crafting. The upholstery range includes Alcantara/leather and Fine Nappa leather trim for the sport seats.

Split folding rear seats, as standard, offer versatile space for the A3’s luggage bay which is the roomiest in its class, at 350 to 1,080 litres (12.36 to 38.12 cubic ft.), with an even larger 370 to 1,100 litres (13.06 to 38.83 cubic ft.) on the A3 Sportback. On quattro versions the boot floor is a few centimeters higher, to accommodate the special rear axle. A particularly ingenious feature is available for the front-wheel-drive versions – a sturdy, reversible loadliner that is a practical, easy-to-clean tray used, for example, carrying wet items, can also be removed from the car as a carrying tray. As part of the wider option range roof rails and a panoramic sunroof are available for the A3 Sportback.

Powerful drive: the engines

For the UK market, the new generation A3 and A3 Sportback engine range comprises seven different engines – four petrol and three diesel versions. Five of them are pioneering four-cylinder direct injection units with turbocharging. Their abbreviations TFSI and TDI encapsulate the strengths of Audi’s engine technology – performance, high torque, dynamism, refinement and efficiency.

The 1.6 unit develops 75 kW (102 hp), the 1.4 TFSI 92 kW (125 hp), the 1.8 TFSI 118 kW (160 hp) and the 2.0 TFSI 147 kW (200 hp) The 1.9 TDI delivers 77 kW (105 hp) and the 2.0 TDI 103 kW (140 hp). The 2.0 TDI 125 kW (170 hp) version is available later. Both two-litre diesel engines have been extensively re-engineered – a new common rail injection system now assures ultra-refined running, efficiency and excellent acoustics.

The diesel with an output of 77 kW (105 hp) is the power unit of the extremely efficient 1.9 TDI e version which, thanks to special fine-tuning measures, clocks up 100 kilometers on a mere 4.5 liters of diesel (52.27 mpg). Thanks to the efficiency measures, the other engines likewise offer reduced fuel consumption by as much as 15 percent. The 1.8 TFSI and the technically closely related 2.0 TFSI have been frictionally optimised and have new cylinder bores, pistons and oil pumps to increase efficiency.

High tech from Audi: the new transmissions

The range of transmissions has been extended and become even more appealing. Almost all engine versions are supplied as standard with six-speed manual transmission. The 1.6 and 1.9 TDI are fitted with the five-speed manual transmission.. The high-tech dual-clutch S tronic transmission, now available on most engines, changes gears with exceptional speed and smoothness. The driver can set it to operate in a fully automatic mode or change gear manually – either at the selector lever or with the standard shift paddles on the leather sport steering wheel.

The S tronic on the 2.0 TFSI and both 2.0 TDI diesel versions has six speeds, whereas the 1.6, the 1.4 TFSI and the 1.8 TFSI petrol engines feature a newly developed seven-speed S tronic. Both its clutches are dry-running – an innovative approach. This means that they do not need a separate oil supply, further adding to their already impressive efficiency. The seven gears are closely spaced for a rapid response, though the top ratio is sufficiently high-geared to reduce the engine speed, cutting fuel consumption as a result.

The quattro versions, which put the A3 in a different league to the other players in the premium compact class, likewise have even more to offer. The all-wheel-drive system is available for two engine versions – for the 2.0 TFSI and the 2.0 TDI (170PS). In its latest technical form the central hydraulic multi-plate clutch responds even faster when the engine’s power needs to be redistributed between the front and rear wheels. This increases stability, traction and driving pleasure for the driver.

The standard-fit dynamic suspension, too, provides safety, precise handling and comfort all rolled into one. The well-balanced chassis characteristics of the Audi A3 and A3 Sportback are attributable to the elaborate engineering elements such as the four-link rear suspension and the efficient electromechanical power steering. The Sport models are fitted as standard with sport suspension that supports the body 15 millimeters (0.59 in) lower; in conjunction with 17-inch alloy wheels.

Way ahead of the competition: Audi magnetic ride

There is another new feature that puts the A3 and A3 Sportback ranges streets ahead of their rivals. The adaptive-action shock absorber control system by the name of Audi magnetic ride. This system overcomes the age-old conflict between sound handling behavior and ride comfort. The driver can choose between “Normal” and “Sport” programs by flipping a switch. A magneto-rheological fluid circulating in the shock absorbers changes its flow properties within milliseconds when a voltage is applied; this affects the damping characteristic, which can be varied from comfortably supple to crisply firm. Magnetic ride is available as an option on the 1.8 TFSI and 2.0 TFSI petrol engines as well as both versions of the 2.0 TDI diesel models.

Strong and clear equipment choice for UK models.

The equipment range for the Audi A3 and A3 Sportback has been re-structured to offer even greater competitiveness. There are four trim levels to choose from, each offering additional key equipment for a relative price upgrade.

As ‘Standard’ the A3 and A3 Sportback has a comprehensive level of specification and is now fitted with manual air conditioning on all models. As an upgrade the re-defined ‘SE’ trim offers a range of convenient features including the driver information system, multi-function steering wheel, front fog lamps and a different alloy wheel design.

With further stylistic features the ‘Sport’ raises the bar with sport seats, aluminium medial inlays, sport suspension and 17-inch alloy wheels. Whilst the top of the range S line can be distinguished by its 18” twin spoke alloy wheels, S line body-styling and black cloth/leather upholstery.

For even greater customisation, the deluxe Audi exclusive line and the Audi exclusive range provide the opportunity to add further individuality.

All models are fitted with chorus radio system with four speakers as standard, with Concert radio including an Aux-in socket standard on Sport and S line There are also modern infotainment options available, including the Bose Sound System and iPod and USB connections.

The array of other new options demonstrates the high technological standard of the A3 model range. These include deluxe automatic air conditioning, adaptive light – the dynamic cornering light system (S line only) – and the Audi parking system for front and rear, displaying the distance from an obstruction via the frequency of the signal emitted. There is also the new parking assistant – a first for the Audi range. Its pioneering ultrasound sensors scan the parking spaces by the roadside as the car is driven slowly past; the driver is informed in the instrument cluster if one of them is sufficiently large to back into. If the reverse gear is engaged and the accelerator pressed, the system manipulates the electromechanical steering to guide the car automatically into the space. All the driver need do is control the accelerator, clutch and brakes.

Pure performance: the new S3 Sportback

At the top of the latest A3 range is a second top model on the market – the S3 Sportback now joins the three-door Audi S3. Both versions are equipped with the same engine, the re-engineered 2.0 TFSI with an output of 195 kW (265 hp). With an increased torque output of 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) available constantly from 2,500 to 5,000 rpm, the direct-injection, two-liter turbo catapults the three-door model from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 5.7 seconds (Sportback: 5.8 seconds); the top speed is limited electronically to 250 km/h (155.34 mph). Yet the fuel consumption of the new S3 is astonishingly low, at an average of 8.5 liters per 100 km (27.67 mpg).

A six-speed manual transmission efficiently handles the power from the engine to the standard quattro driveline while 18-inch wheels provide the appropriate traction with the road. The sport suspension holds the body 25 millimeters (0.98 in) lower and uses advanced, lightweight aluminum components. Black brake calipers act on 17-inch disk brakes. Audi’s compact premium sports model offers the exceptional responsiveness to driver inputs. It reacts spontaneously to the steering and its handling remains very stable, precise and almost neutral right up to its physical limits. When emerging form a bend for example, traction and grip levels are remarkably high, enabling the driver to deploy the car’s power very early on exit.

Like the A3, the S3 has been visually revised and is clearly distinguished by a number of updated exterior design elements, for example the radiator grille, the bumpers and the roof spoiler, as well as by the aluminum-look exterior mirrors. Inside, the driver and front passenger are greeted by laterally supportive sports seats; Audi exclusive bucket seats are available as an option. Aluminum pedals, three different styles of inlay and a black or silver headlining create an exclusively premium look. In addition, automatic air conditioning, multi-function steering wheel and xenon plus headlamps with LED daytime running lights extend the range of standard features.

The enhanced Audi A3, A3 Sportback and the two S3 versions are set to arrive in the UK market; this summer.

The New Generation Audi A3 is a post from: Reviews 4 Cars