2022 Audi e-tron quattro Review by Ben Lewis

It’s been an Audi lovefest the past few weeks here at CRD. We’ve tested the S4, A4 and now we’re reviewing the fully electric e-tron SUV. While the other sedabs wooed us with their wonderful engines, we wondered can an EV powered Audi win our hearts as well? Let’s find out! Hello Handsome We’ve noticed a trend in the EV world, either you make it look crazy and unique, or you make it look much like the gas-powered choices, the BMW i4 comes to mind – making an easier transition for those coming from fossil fuel cars. We’d say that …

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2022 Audi A4 Sedan review by Ben Lewis

We recently tested the Audi S4 sedan and were blown away by the beautiful sedan’s stunning performance and luxo interior. So, we wondered, can you get the same kind of thrills from the less powerful, less expensive 2022 A4 sedan? Let’s find out. Aggressive and Stylish Like the S4, the A4 makes a bold first impression. In fact, you’d have to be an Audi-phile to know our model was the less expensive model. You get the same segmented LED running lights framing the hexagonal headlights. The same large – but not over the top – grille, and lower side intakes. …

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2022 Audi S4 Sedan review by Ben Lewis

We recently tested the BMW M340i xDrive, and loved the intoxicating blend of performance and practicality. But there’s more than one Great White shark swimming in the Euro-sedan Ocean, and one that’s a direct competitor to that Bimmer is the Audi S4. So does the Audi put the bite on the BMW, or vice versa? Let’s find out. Stunning Design The S4 makes a bold first impression, with segmented LED running lights framing the hexagonal headlights. Like most manufacturers, Audi is a member of the big grille club, but like the BMW, it’s done tastefully here, with lower side intakes …

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Road Test Review – 2022 Audi Q3 S-Line – Audi’s Smallest CUV Offering Soldiers On For Another Year

At first glance, the 2022 Audi Q3 may seem like it’s nothing more than a shrunken-down version of its bigger Q SUV siblings, especially the elegantly bespoke Q8. But the little 3 has managed to carve out a unique niche for itself over the past few years thanks to the family resemblance as well as its compact dimensions. But its spot in the compact luxury CUV pecking order is being threatened by rivals like the BMW X1 and the Mercedes-Benz GLA. Can the Q3 still be the compelling value darling for Audi?   Handsome Styling Allows Q3 To Make Full …

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Audi Says Adios To V10 With 2022 R8 GT Model, Most Potent R8 Variant Yet

Audi’s 5.2 liter V10 has been a long running staple in the R8 supercar especially after it punted the V8 out of the engine lineup several years back. But the mighty ten cylinder is also a dinosaur from an era where fuel economy was placed in the backseat and displacement and horsepower reigned supreme in the performance car scene. That means it’s now unable to comply with pending fuel economy regulations but Audi is sending it out now with a whimper, but a bang with the all-new 2022 Audi R8 GT   Familiar Name Signifies Beefier Performance While the=is version …

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2022 Audi A3 Review by Ben Lewis

We get to test an interesting range of vehicles here at Car_Revs_Daily, from the entry level Hyundai Accentup to the plush Mercedes E450 convertible. What is unusual for us is to test the entry-level model of a premium maker. But with an all-new Audi A3 for 2022, it gave us a great reason to try the carmaker’s most affordable vehicle. So, is it a bargain Bahnstormer, or inexpensive imitation of greatness? Let’s find out! Strong Family Looks From the outside, this is one handsome sedan, if not a large one. The new model is more evolutionary than revolutionary – it’s …

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2021 Audi Q5 55 TFSI e quattro review by Ben Lewis

We recently tested the all-new VW ID.4 EV and loved a lot about it. But there’s part of us that still loves the sound and feel of a good old gas engine. Is there a best of both world’s vehicle? Well, we just tested the Audi Q5 plug-in hybrid to find out if we can have our EV thrills and conventional engine cake all in one bite. Let’s look. Fresh Face For 2021 Audi has freshened the looks of what was already a handsome SUV. Up front, you’ll see the octagonal Singleframe grille is thinner and wider, with taller side …

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Road Test Review – 2021 Volkswagen Arteon SEL Premium R-Line – CC Replacement Does An Even Better Audi Impression

The Volkswagen Arteon had alot on its plate when it first appeared in the U.S. in 2018. Not only did it have to replace the languishing CC in the U.S., but it also showed that top-notch Volkswagen design could move beyond the GTI and Golf R hot hatches and into other nameplates that might not have as much firepower under the hood. But does the Arteon truly succeed in finally bringing cohesive luxury to buyers in this regard? We followed up our west coast encounter of the Arteon with a sequel here on the east coast to see if the …

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Audi Skysphere Concept at Pebble Beach 2021

The Skysphere Concept is an unusual and highly experimental design ethos from Audi.  In being so very unlike their current range it seems to make a bold statement about the elegance of cab-backward, front-engine GTs.  Or at least those are the proportions, but that long hood is surely filled with batteries and motors in this case. None of Audi’s current quattro-intensive range approaches this level of dash-to-axle ratio and this ultralong hood is a striking addition.  The glasshouses for the front and rear lighting elements are interesting and the tactility of the 3D badge up front is quite something. It …

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Audi Gives More Power To 2022 Audi R8 RWD, Highlights Changes For Other RS models

Big updates are in store for Audi‘s red hot lineup of RS performance cars, with the string of updates being spearheaded by the Audi R8. Audi promises some welcome changes for eager enthusiasts, and at first glance, it seems that they will all do their part towards making this special lineup of vehicles an even better performance buy.   More Power Is In Store For The 2022 Audi R8 It wasn’t too long ago that the rear-wheel-drive version of the R8 became an official mass-produced R8 variant (it was a limited release prior.) This flavor of R8 is lighter and …

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2020 Audi Q7 55 TFSI Review by Ben Lewis

When we used to go to movie theaters (and we can’t wait to go back!) they had a selection of sizes on the popcorn, and we liked the largest one – mostly because they unapologetically put the motto “Big is More” right on the tub. Yes, a tub. And the same is true of SUV’s – big is more. And if you need three rows of Audi SUV goodness, you can stop right here at the beautiful Q7. With some major improvements for the new Q7, it’s more than before. Let’s take a look. Big and Beautiful This is a …

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Audi Unveils Its Own Take On EV Performance With 2022 E-Tron GT, RS Version Spices Things Up

When the Porsche Taycan was first unveiled, it signaled a radical shift in Porsche’s plans and unlocked a new frontier of performance. for the broader Volkswagen empire. The Taycan may have had the spotlight briefly to itself, but all that ends with the unveiling of its cousin, the 2022 Audi E-Tron GT, which brings some of its magic into a unique and slightly less expensive package.    Most Exciting Zero Emissions Audi Yet While the E-Tron GT may not be Audi’s first time taking a dip in the zero-emissions swimming pool, it’s perhaps the most exciting dive that Audi has …

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Remember when Audi found its step? What happened to the 2000 Steppenwolf Concept?

It’s not too often that automaker manages to find its figurative step when it comes to designing a concept car for the masses. But Audi managed to take things in an interesting direction when the new millennium arrived on the scene. The company that was typically known for making well buttoned luxury cars was keenly aware that not only were SUVs important, but that the very definition of what an SUV should be was also rapidly changing. Perhaps sensing that the wheels of change were grinding into motion, Audi commissioned the Steppenwolf concept car which aimed to answer what would …

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2019 Audi RS5 Sportback Review by Ben Lewis – Green with Energy

To paraphrase a famous SNL sketch, Audi been very, very, good to us. Looking back, we spent quality time with the beautiful A5 coupe, the potent S5 Sportback, and now we’re driving the Uber-fast (not to be confused with Uber, fast) RS 5 Sportback. It’s a nice progression, as each one has built on the other, but you’re never really prepared for the jaw-dropping performance an Audi RS model can provide. Green, with Energy The first thing that hit us about our tester was its Sonoma Green Metallic paint. We loved it. Audi has a tradition of bringing some awesome …

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Audi E-Tron Sportback Debuts Smoother Shape, Novel Headlight Technology

When the Audi E-Tron first made its debut, the traditional SUV shape as well as its utility focused ergonomics helped make the EV a hit with consumers. However, we were always curious about what would happen if Audi designers were allowed to let loose on the E-Tron, and it appears Audi reps shared our view, and have followed through with the official unveiling of the all new Audi E-Tron Sportback. The styling of the Audi E-Tron Sportback is handsome, but to many observers it might not be readily recognizable as an all electric vehicle. Just like its more conventional looking …

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Road Test Review – 2018 Audi Q5 2.0 quattro S tronic – By Carl Malek

When it comes to being a true jack of all trades, the Audi Q5 certainly has a lot going for it. With its impressive amounts of luxury, poise, and quickness, the Q5 has always been a consistent presence in Audi’s utility lineup. While the Q8 is currently hogging the spotlight when it comes to showing off its slick infotainment technology and impressive engineering, the smaller Q5 has been quietly doing its job as Audi’s bread and butter offering, especially for buyers looking for something between the Q3 and the bigger Q7. But is the Q5 still an excellent volume player …

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Refreshed 2020 Audi TT-RS To Debut In New York

It’s not too often that an automaker is tasked with making changes to arguably an already perfect offering, but the engineers at Audi were assigned with the unenviable challenge of updating what is arguably one of their best performance offerings for the 2020 model year, the TT-RS, and thankfully, they were able to make just enough changes to help it stay fresh, but without tainting the formula that has helped make the TT-RS a compelling buy among well heeled enthusiasts. At first glance, the changes might be hard to spot, with the 2020 TT-RS retaining a lot of the purposeful …

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Gallery – Audi e-tron GT Concept

The rumor  is that e-tron in French means excrement. If so, it is certainly a very shimmery and metallic form of it! The aggressive shoulders and surfacing ideas are the coolest part of this e-tron GT, a sibling of the Porsche Taycan coming next year with all-electric power.  And Tesla-tastic pricing likely above $100k. The cabin looks slightly tight at that price but who knows. The good news is that this machine appears imminent and the concept is a near-production look.  It is hard to evaluate the busy nose and tail in photos but we’re cautiously optimistic.  Quattro might be …

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2018 Audi A4 2.0T Quattro Manual – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

Classic. What makes a car a classic? Often times, it takes years, or even decades to bestow a title like that. Or an ad on Craigslist for some clapped-out conveyance you should never consider buying. Let’s ignore the latter, and concentrate on the former. And we’re here to tell you that the 2018 Audi A4 is a classic. Classical Elegance Even though the A4 was all-new last year, you might not have noticed. Audi is a founding member of the Evolution, not Revolution design club. And besides, the previous model was pretty sweet. The new model looks a little crisper, …

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Road Test Review – 2018 Audi TT-RS – By Carl Malek

It’s not too often that we get the rare and unique opportunity to experience an RS badged Audi. Serving as the penultimate performance model for the bulk of the Audi lineup (R8 excluded,) these special models aim to bring even higher levels of performance, sophistication, and technology to the lucky clientele that are able to add one of these models to their dream garage. One of these offerings is the 2018 Audi TT-RS which brings the RS formula to the brand’s venerable two seat sports coupe. But can this latest chapter of TT-RS finally bring the cohesion and full spectrum …

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2018 Audi Q5 2.0T Quattro S-tronic – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

Welcome to world of the sequel. Just like the movies, the auto world is always challenged by the follow up to a blockbuster. And make no mistake, Audi Q5 SUV is the real deal – the company’s number one selling vehicle. So, for all of us who lust after the R8, the S5 Sportback we just tested, or even the TT Roadster, we have the immensely popular Q5 paying the bills so Audi can bring in all the other good stuff we love. Thank you, Q5. Now, what have you done for us lately? Of course, that is not to …

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2018 Audi S5 Sportback 3.0T quattro Tiptronic – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

We can thank the SUV/Crossover craze again for this – with buyers so used to the flexibility of the big box, it has raised interest again in wagons and hatchbacks. Interesting, because a few years ago, manufacturers were saying customers didn’t want hatches and wags – but the customer is king! I want my Sportback back, Sportback back, Sportback back… Yes, this does make us hungry for ribs, but let’s go on. When Audi recently introduced their new A5 Coupe – which we tested and loved – they also introduced a 4-door hatchback model they named “Sportback”.  Even more exciting, …

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Road Test Review – 2018 Audi Q7 3.0T – By Carl Malek

With the way crossover entries have evolved over the past several decades, automakers are scrambling to keep more established entries relevant as the segment rapidly evolves. One of these is the venerable Audi Q7 which is the biggest and most opulent (for the moment) entry fielded by the German luxury car giant. When it first appeared in the U.S. back in 2007, it represented a seismic shift for Audi, and turned the once car focused brand into a more balanced juggernaut. As for the Q7, it was a key entry in Volkswagen’s greater ploy towards expanding its diesel lineup. This …

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174MPH 2018 Audi RS4 Avant Is Frankfurts Designated Badass Wagon

Audi has long preferred to put their highest-performing RS handiwork into wagons.  The RS6 and now this RS4 can reach such high speeds, the thought is, that the longer roof aids their overall stability and aero. Whatever gets more people to buy wagons, right? This new RS4 Avant promises a giant upgrade in thrust thanks to a V6TT making 125 pound-feet of torque more than the previous model.  This means the 100-kph sprint time of 4.1 seconds really is just amuse bouche.   This RS4 is all about spine-shredding G-force around corners and through its eight-speed tiptronic’s gears.  The bodywork …

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2018 Audi A5 Coupe 2.0T Quattro S Tronic – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

If we’ve learned anything from Hollywood, it’s that the sequel is treacherous territory. While famous follow-ups like Godfather 2 and even Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 2, come to mind, the 2.0 movie has a bad reputation – and it boils down to where do we go from here? And if you look at the first-run Audi A5 Coupe, (some say coo-pay) you’ve got to feel for the folks at Audi. Penned by famed designer Walter de Silva, he called it “the most beautiful car I have ever built”. And you can see his point. It was stunning – and …

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First Drive – 2018 Audi A5 2.0T S-Line Quattro Coupe

  Is Audi doing a greatest-hits album? You might have asked yourself that upon seeing the new A4/Q5 generations.  In the presale renders, the new cars barely look new. Then you land them in the flesh.  Deep chisel for the bathtub beltline?  Integrated shut/cut lines and sharper edges all around?  Sharky hoodline and wide, low singleframe.  Even visible open aero channels in the bumper edges. Yep.  This exec coupe looks hot.  And looks the business for taking on 430i and new Q60. This test A5 wears the incredibly helpful S-line package with unique bumpers, sills, wheels, cabin and suspension.  This …

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2017 Audi A6 3.0T Competition Quattro – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

There are advantages to flying under the radar. Make no mistake: there is great fun in having a red-hot sports car that gathers the oohs and ahhs of from friends and thumbs-up from those in the know. But there’s little fun having law enforcement following you around, waiting for you to succumb to temptation. Or when your insurance company finds out you have an M3, S4, or AMG E43. Luckily, there’s a nice little niche of strong performing vehicles that don’t call attention to themselves, or raise red flags to those who would spoil Your Good Time. Take for example, …

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Road Test Review 2017 Audi A4 2.0 T quattro S tronic – By Carl Malek

At Audi, the phrase “Vorspung durch Technik” (Advancement through Technology) has played a pivotal role in the company’s marketing and direction in recent years. This technology first initiative has resulted in some of Audi’s most revered models including the Audi A8 as well as the R8 supercar. For 2017, the A4 sport sedan aims to fully embrace this mantra with new-found vigor. But can it still maintain the top notch driving experience that many buyers have come to expect? or has it been lost in the quest for progress?   The exterior styling of the A4 has always been known for being …

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Update1 – 2017 Audi e-Tron Sportback Concept – Previews Q5-Sized 2019 EV

Audi’s astounding sales growth is slowing to a near halt lately.  The firm needs to expand its range horizontally as well as vertically with new model sizes.  The horizontal expansion will add hybrid variants and EVs to similar sizes of Audi’s we know and love today. Unlike just swapping engines, these e-tron models require to be unique platforms from the ground up. There is simply no other way to incorporate flat-pack batteries (a la Tesla) in a conventional chassis. A fresh hint at Audi’s new mission is the 2017 E-Tron Sportback concept.  This full EV just bowed in Shanghai with …

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Audi Q8 Confirmed for 2019 Modelyear [22 New Photos]

We love the designs of both Q8 concepts seen so far: the original in blue at Detroit and this new Q8 Sport Concept from Geneva and NY auto shows.  The bodycolor intake flares in front are gorgeous, the new nose and tail are shockingly cool and fender flares always win friends.  We only dislike its slightly nerdy roofline in profile. After the deeply dull A4/A5 and Q5/Q7 refreshes lately, Audi is showing some design elan with their new Q8 concepts.  This four-seat plugin hybrid (Q8) promises supreme comfort for four.  A platform share with the Q7 moves the back seat …

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3.7s, 450HP 2018 Audi RS5 Scores Snarling New V6TT, Tech and Style

The 2018 RS5 is official and packs a huge wallop of visual impact in person.  In photos, it looks like a forgettable facelift of a car that’s been on the roads since 2010.  But it really evolves in the flesh into a stellar supercoupe. Design analysis quicktake? This new nose does rely on a lot of misdirection, however, to keep you interested.  It is a buffet of intake scoops, layered spoilers, contrasting trim finishes and embossed branding/badges.  We count 1) bodycolor 2) gloss black 3) brushed alloy and 4)carbon-fiber, to name four such finishes.  (Look for black pack on blue …

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Gallery: 2017 Audi R8 V10 Plus on VOSSEN Gold Forged Wheels

This car’s matte green factory paintwork looks HOT over these Vossen HC-1 alloys!  The rich yellowy color and dewy, wet finish are the perfect counter-visual. Only the R8 V10 Plus comes in this Camo Green Matte exterior color from Audi.  Now it pops extra hard! Running 20s in front and 21×12-inch drums out back. This exact car may be for sale, with the sticker reading a crisp $203k in the Vossen galleries linked below.   2017 Audi R8 V10 Plus on VOSSEN Gold Forged Wheels   AUDI R8 VOSSEN FORGED HC SERIES: HC-1 Wheel Size: Front: 20×9 Rear: 21×12 2017 Audi …

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2017 Audi R8 V10 Spyder by FOSTLA.de

He who has the gold makes the rules Sure, this R8 V10 Spyder is striking in chrome-matte gold over gloss black details.  A matte gold R8 was clearly this owner’s dream machine. Who are we to judge? A remote exhaust and powerchip from PP-Performance join the gloss-black alloys and tinted glass – rounding out a very nice stage-one custom. And as a wrap, gold will be swappable in a few years to a new shade.  Full details after the gallery.     2017 Audi R8 V10 Spyder by FOSTLA.de Fostla.de in Hannover has an established reputation for the elevation of …

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2017 Audi S3 – Photo Slideshow + 50 Extra Pics!

  50 pics of the new S3 that didn’t make it into the review — but too pretty not to share! In addition, a video slideshow of the review pics (not these..) for those who want to just lean back and soak it in. That mansion in some of the pics is Drayton Hall, a home completed in 1742.  This makes it one of the oldest surviving structures in the United States. 2017 Audi S3 Quattro S-tronic – HD Road Test Review       2017 Audi S3   2017 Audi S3 Quattro S-tronic – HD Road Test Review

2017 Audi S3 Quattro S-tronic – HD Road Test Review

This big question you have for yourself when spending near $50k for a compact exec car is:  does the performance upgrade make up for its lack of scale? For the same money as the revised 2017 S3, you can find yourself in a (small-engined) fullsize luxury car like Genesis G80 or even Audi’s own A6. While that is a rational thoughtline for your brain, it all goes out the window in real life. The money spent upgrading an A3 to this S3 quattro sedan with S-tronic all goes directly to your cheeks.  To help you smile bigger, and laugh harder! …

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2017 Audi Q8 Concept – Near-Production SUV Limo Shows Face in Detroit

  Finally!  Some fresh design from Audi! After the deeply dull A4/A5 and Q5/Q7 refreshes lately, Audi is showing some design elan with their new Q8 concept.  This four-seat plugin hybrid limo promises supreme comfort for four.  A platform share with the Q7 moves the back seat rearward and focused on backseat comfort for just the second row.  No third row, then. A stonking 516 pound-feet of torque ensure a rapid getaway for the lucky four-some.  And a silent one too!  The machine promises 37-miles of pure EV driving range. What this limo indicates is that Audi’s model expansion has …

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2018 Audi A5 and S5 Sportback – 4-Door Coupes Coming to USA!

Terrific news from Audi!  The list of cars not offered in the USA is now slimmer than ever from Audi.  The coveted A5/S5 Sportbacks are the latest pair to join the American sales lists. These two are billed as 2018 models and are set for their first USA arrivals around May of 2017.  They will go head to head with the BMW 430i/440i Gran Coupes and the yet-to-be-revealed Mercedes-Benz CLC four-door-coupes. They both promise pretty outstanding performance.  The A5 with a turbo four scoots to 60-mph in just 5.7-seconds, while the S5 with its supercharged six drops that down to …

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Audi Debuts 2017 R8 V10 Plus Exclusive Edition

A new revolution in headlight technology is coming, and at long last is finally making its way to the U.S. market. Audi has teased the idea of offering laser based headlights on its models, but nothing significant appeared until a few years ago. The R8 supercar was the first to offer a glimpse of this future back in 2014 with the limited production LMX edition. The LMX utilized the technology in its high beam lamps but never made the trek to U.S. shores due to our country’s stricter safety regulations.     Audi is out to change that with the introduction …

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Update1 – Audi Pulls No Punches With 400HP RS3 Sedan

It’s no secret that we love the Audi A3 here at this site, in fact we even had the chance to review the A3 for ourselves recently and loved it. But while the S3 is a tempting treat in its own right, it’s always made us wonder what would happen if Audi took it to the next level? The company has answered this all important question by unveiling the next evolution of the A3, the all new RS3. The headline snatching feature of this tiny track terror is what lies under the hood, with the RS3 packing the same 400 …

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2018 Audi Q5 – Paris Debut for Fresh Facelift

A fairly light facelift here for the Q5 upgrades the design outside and in, plus relocates its production to Mexico for the first time.  Neither the new look nor the new factory is exactly promising, if we’re honest. 2018 Audi Q5 – Paris Debut PRESENTING THE ALL-NEW Q5 – THE FIFTH ELEMENT FOR AUDI AT PARIS 29/09/16   New Q5 sets standards in connectivity, ride comfort, handling dynamics, efficiency and driver assistance All-new version of the best-selling Audi SUV worldwide Up to 90kg lighter than its predecessor Luggage capacity increase of 10 litres Increased interior space, headroom and rear kneeroom One …

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2016 Audi A3 2.0T Quattro – Road Test Review – By Carl Malek

When gas prices jumped a few years ago, a new breed of luxury car immediately came to the forefront of automotive buyers. Dubbed the “compact luxury car” these vehicles promised to offer their owners a long list of equipment, performance, and luxury in a decidedly smaller package. The 2016 Audi A3 aims to stand out against rivals such as the BMW 2-Series and the Mercedes CLA in this hotly contested segment, but has its push for sales diluted the very traits that have defined recent Audi models?   The exterior styling of our Monsoon Gray Metallic tester is a compelling …

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FOSTLA.de 2017 Audi R8 V10 Plus – Sunflower Matte Metallic + Self-Healing XPEL

The new R8 is available in a comically small palette of factory colors.  About the hottest one is a dark army green… and that is saying something.  Yes, the blue and red and yellow shades are on the R8 builder, but they definitely lack that last bit of supercar punch. Enter the wrapping boutique Fostla.de — forever experimenting with the latest mirrored and color films for their chic clientelle. This new look is a stunner: sunflower matte metallic vinyl wrap, protected by a layer of XPEL film all around.  This keeps the finish perfect and also adds a bit of …

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2017 Audi A4 Quattro – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

  We recently read a comment that the Audi A4 has become so refined and smooth – perhaps overly so – that why not just pocket the cash and get a Toyota Camry? This is a shopping decision that faces us in many places in modern life. Is that fancy artisanal sprouted bread really worth three times the price of the generic loaf at the local grocery? The freshly barista-poured Peaberry better than smudgy carafe of regular at the neighborhood donut house? And now we have an all-new Audi A4. Are we buying? Well, this may not be as easy …

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2016 Audi TT Coupe 2.0T Quattro S-Tronic – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

The Audi TT has always been a bit of a head scratcher for us enthusiasts. When it first launched in the mid 1990’s, it was a visual stunner. And in many ways, it was the birth of the Audi cool that we have today. But there was a problem. As stylish and trendsetting as the TT was, it was not a sports car. And in the world of Porsche Boxsters and BMW Z4s, the TT was odd man out. When the second-gen TT bowed in 2006, it lost some of the groundbreaking style, but was well on the way to …

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First Drive Review – 2016 Audi TT – By Anthony Fongaro

  We all remember the first Audi TT. Its out-of-left-field bold styling left everyone shocked with how stylish it was. This was a huge departure from the bland, traditional Audis of the late 90s. It wasn’t as much of a sports car as it was a fashion statement but thousands of people bought the TT. Fast forward to 2016 with the third generation of the TT. Audi is still trying to make the TT into a stylish, future-thinking sports coupe. After driving it, I have some interesting results. Exterior The original TT was such a hit because it segmented Audi …

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Audi A6/S6/RS6 Widebody! PRIOR-DESIGN PD600R Is Hot New Aerokit

  The RS6 might not have crossed the pond to the USA, but now you can one-up that flagship via a massive new aerokit from Prior Design.  At least in terms of pure curb appeal, this PD600R widebody will make any A6 or S6 a fastlane king. Check out the gorgeous new PD600R in its element around Monte Carlo via the gallery, plus an itemized upgrade list and links to buy below that. PRIOR-DESIGN PD600R Widebody Aerodynamic-Kit for AUDI A6/RS6 With our PD600R Widebody Aero-Kit installed, the car is 8cm wider on the front & 10cm at the back. Complete …

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Beijing Debuts – 2017 Audi TT RS Coupe and Roadster – 3.7s via 400HP!

A fantastic range-topper for the new TT twins: the RS! Power is up by 60Hp over the previous TT RS via a new turbo five-cylinder engine. Ultra-short new ratios for the launch gears of  the DSG twin-clutch auto rocket the new TT RS Coupe to 62-mph in just 3.7-seconds. The ragtop is not far behind. Various trim options for the deep lower splitter, all-new bumpers and grilles front and rear make unique statements.  The black is dark and menacing, while the silver effect (as shown on the red Coupe below) is just as modern and mean… but a bit brighter. …

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2016 Audi A8L Extended Length – Six-Door, Six-Seat Megalux Limo

What a freaky machine to find in your inbox on a bright Monday morning! A jumbo A8L with six doors, giant glass moonroof and six giant seats. While jaded about the car and what it stands for, we can’t help but like the way the cabin turned out.  The three rows of seats are slightly more functional than the Maybach Pullman, which has two rear-facing seats in its limo compartment’s midsection.  This A8L Extended has more practicality and comfort for all its riders, but much less throne-like legroom for the money seats in the wayback. The 2016 Audi A8L Extended is …

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2017 Audi R8 Spyder V10 – World Debut in NYC

The new R8 Spyder is here and packing even more potent performance, luxury and a huge leap in chassis rigidity.  The strength of the new R8 means there will be virtually no difference between the softtop and the hardtop in terms of sheer pace and drive feel. The cabin is all-new, of course, with some of the most advanced design and user-experience technology of any make worldwide. These changes are all more-than-welcome, of course. But they will have to really deliver a great first impression in Audi showrooms. Why? Because the design outside is even more subtle than the coupe’s …

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2017 Audi SQ7 TDI – Triple-Turbo Diesel V8 is Ultimate Tax on Society

  Could there be a worse time for the SQ7 TDI to make its world debut? Ultra-high-performance.  Diesel.  SUV. These top models like the previous V10 turbodiesel appeal to a tiny slice of the population, mostly in crowded European city centers, who are incentivized by the tax programs of their countries to choose a high-powered diesel over a similar gasoline model. The differences in tax, insurance and running costs for any diesel — no matter how hot — are dramatically lower than a similar Cayenne Turbo of GLE63 AMG.  Ballpark?  About a third cheaper for the diesel models like this 90k …

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2017 Audi Q2 – Slides Below Q3 with All-New Design Language, Cheaper Price

Audi only secured the naming rights to the Q2 and Q4 trademarks in the last few weeks — coming right down to the wire before the car’s global debut in Geneva this week. Alfa Romeo had resisted giving their Q2 and Q4 drivetrain descriptors up until recently, and Audi likely paid big loot for the privilege. So just imagine — this car went through the entire VW/Audi development cycle without a confirmed name! And it does show, a bit, in that the Q2 makes little visual sense in the Audi lineup.  Its design is far more modern than the new …

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HD Road Test Review – 2016 Audi A6 2.0T Quattro – 5.8s, 550-Mile Time-Traveler

No scoffing at my 2.0T badge! It only takes a block of driving to know: this Audi is a time machine. It takes us into a future of downsized, forced-induction engines that hold their own beside V8s.   And cruise onward while others take the exit ramp to refuel. Power, speed, efficiency and value come standard on the 2016 A6 2.0T.  There are a few option boxes omitted on the test car that we think you will enjoy, however. And one bombshell performance secret to why the 32-MPG A6 quattro is a *must* over the 35-MPG A6 2.0T in its $46k, front-drive guise. The …

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~4.3s, 367HP 2017 Audi RS Q3 Performance – Latest RS-UV Delivers Stonking Power, Style Upgrades

Audi’s RS Q3 is now even hotter than ever!  This Euro-only model is now up to 367-horsepower via its turbo five-cylinder engine — and sprint pace to 62-mph is down to an official 4.4-seconds. Both of these are big improvements over the RS Q3 in its previous 310 and 340-pony varieties. Officially, the RS Q3 shot to 62-mph in 5.2-seconds when launched, down to 4.8s for the 340HP 2016 model.  The 4.4-second blast is extremely promising — and might correspond to the shorter 60-mph run as quick as 4.0-seconds dead. This new RS Q3 ‘Performance’ model looks extremely cool on the way to …

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2017 Audi Q7 Visualizer – Colors, Cabins, Pricing and Options Guide

The new Q7 is already burning up the sales charts in the Audi USA lineup! Beset as the brand is with many woes at the moment, the SUV lineup is still a shining beacon of hope.   And cash. Lots of cash! The Q7 in its all-new 2017 generation appears completely immune to the dieselgate saga.  After all, the TDI variants were only ever a 9-percent slice of the model’s sales. The new Q7 really leapfrogs its Touareg and Cayenne cousins for this generation.  Where those two are the lightest of light facelifts for 2015’s refresh, the new Q7 is …

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2017 Audi R8 V10 – USA Pricing, Colors and Spec Secrets + 40-Photo Flyaround

Fun meet/greet with the 2017 Audi R8 V10 yesterday at the Rolex Daytona 24 Hours! Fantastic to see the car out in the sun here in the USA fairly quickly since its reveal in mid-2015.  We’re seeing the car arrive to first buyers around the same time as in Europe — by the end of March in some cases.  No big lag in crossing the Atlantic, in other words. The new R8 is mysterious in person. You really have to know cars to note that this is the new model, first of all. Second of all, its new design details …

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Audi A4 allroad quattro

2017 Audi A4 Allroad – $50k Ski Wagon Set for Fall 2016 USA Arrival – Blah Exterior, but Hoorah Interior

  The A4 Allroad has carved a nice little niche for itself in the US market, where it replaced the standard A4 Avant among most shoppers seeking a low and sporty wagon.  The current Allroad will gain all the new tech and style of the A4 sedan, but wears a more butch stance all around.  A very macho nose redesign brings vertical grille slats, some rough-rough fender flares and even a brushed-alloy chin spoiler in the nose. We are trying to get on-board with this next-gen A4 appearance.  Really trying. And the Allroad has generally been a great showcase of …

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2016 Audi h-Tron Quattro Concept 27

2016 Audi h-Tron Quattro Concept – Hypercomplex Tech Showcase Headed for Sale as $100k Tesla Rival as 2018 Q6

Audi’s big news for the Detroit show?  The new 2017 A4 and Q7 — which are set for arrivals to US showrooms in the next few months. Alongside those dull-looking production cars come massive cabin tech enhancements, efficiency boosts and all-new powertrains. A bit more exciting on the appearance front?  This new h-Tron Quattro Concept. Roughly previewing the size of an upcoming Q6 crossover, this latest prototype shows a production-intent hydrogen-electric SUV.  And boy is is complex: multiple tanks of hydrogen power advanced electrics for a range of nearly 400 miles, a 0-60-mph sprint under 7-seconds, and AWD grip just …

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2016 Buick Envision Driving Front

2016 Buick ENVISION Is New 5-Seat Crossover – Standard Turbo to Rival Audi Q5 – Arrives in April

The 2016 Buick Envision is a pretty huge part of an upcoming Buick product onslaught: the 2017 LaCrosse and Cascada cabrio are the other hotties new to the showroom floor. New to the brand ethos in general? A sexy expectation of future products like an AWD, V6TT variant on the Cadillac ATS Coupe/Chevy Camaro platform like the AVISTA concept. The dreamers among us noted right away: the AVISTA looks like an ideal basis for a next-gen GNX around 2019.  The Envision hopes to make its Chinese-import status an afterthought for US shoppers — through the sheer strength of its luxury …

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2016 Audi R8 LMS – New Open-Aero Design Analysis, Specs and Pricing

The new R8 is big news, of course, for supercar shoppers. Three models are set for the US range: the R8, R8 V10 and R8 V10 Plus. All sport AWD as standard and curb weights of 3500- and 3600-pounds. America will miss out on the limited-release R8 E-Tron but we will definitely see the fifth family member: the nearly unbeatable 2016 R8 LMS. This factory racecar is already outselling the existing model among dozens of top-tier sportscar racing teams. The reasons are simple: it is faster than ever thanks to cunning new aero and mechanicals. The biggest changes versus the …

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Audi TTRS Clubsport by HPerformance.de

  PART TWO: The Clubsport. HPerformance took its major engine-upgrade skills to make this TTRS Clubsport a 510-horsepower track missle. Upgrades outside are awesome – especially the spats up front! Audi TTRS Clubsport by HPerformance.de PREVIOUS Wow!  750 horsepower from a 2.5-liter five-cylinder!? Not easy to achieve — and something that took almost a total redesign of the TTRS engine from all sides.  New turbo, fuel system race tech, MTR tune, custom downpipe and exhaust system…. the list literally goes on and on. The results shout for themselves, however, rocketing this TT to 60-mph in an estimated ~3.3-seconds and on …

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Audi TTRS Black Hawk by HPerformance

3.3s, 750HP Audi TTRS Black Hawk by HPerformance.de

Wow!  750 horsepower from a 2.5-liter five-cylinder!? Not easy to achieve — and something that took almost a total redesign of the TTRS engine from all sides.  New turbo, fuel system race tech, MTR tune, custom downpipe and exhaust system…. the list literally goes on and on. The results shout for themselves, however, rocketing this TT to 60-mph in an estimated ~3.3-seconds and on to a gear-limited ~178-mph? INtense! You have been warned.  If you see an HPerformance charge cooler graphic in your rearview mirror on the autobahn, get right.   Clear the way, slowpokes! The whole 750HP shebang is priced …

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2015 Audi e-tron Quattro and TT Clubsport Turbo Concepts Grace Future Performance Event

2015 Audi e-tron Quattro   Audi future performance days – test and concept cars Audi e-tron quattro concept: Electric driving pleasure with no compromises Audi e-tron quattro concept A foretaste of the production version: The electric-powered Audi e-tron quattro concept Range of more than 500 kilometers (310.7 mi) for full everyday usability New concept combines aerodynamics and creative design solutions     Flow-enhanced design with a drag coefficient of 0.25; a powerful, all-electric e-tron quattro drive with up to 370 kW – Audi is presenting the Audi e-tron quattro concept at the International Motor Show (IAA) 2015 in Frankfurt. The …

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450HP 2016 Audi A8L 4.0T Sport – S8 Style for $25k Less

Audi has revealed some stunningly sexy S8 and A8 specials in Europe and the UK, including the Edition 21 and the S8 Plus with its 605-horsepower and 189-mph top speed. The first tweaked model we have — aside from the S8, of course, which is on the US price lists from $115,000 for 2016 — is this new A8 4.0T Sport. This new Sport replaces the old 4.0T model with a bump of 15 horsepower to a round 450, plus an upgraded exterior look that is kissing-close to the S8 from all angles. The most dramatic change, of course, comes …

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2016 Audi R8 V10 in Satin Canyon Copper Wrap by HplusB Design

This brand-new Audi R8 started life black, but has been reborn in a custom satin color by its new owner. The beauty of the new lines and fender details are really brought to life with this no-sheen Satin Copper Canyon wrap, expertly applied by HplusB Design of Germany.   2016 Audi R8 V10 Copper FULMINANT AUDI R8 by HPLUSB DESIGN In concern with car wrapping with all its aspects, the HplusB Design Company at Monheim on Rhine stands out in the center of attention. All foiled by the team of Michael HIBGEN and Patrick BARTH vehicles are a clear expression …

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Audi RS 7 Sportback performance

2016 Audi RS6 and RS7 Debut New Performance Spec: +45HP and +45MPH = 190MPH vMax!

Quickest and fastest Audi’s of all time? Certainly among four-door models! The just-revealed top spec for the already-mighty RS6 and RS7 focuses under the hood, so delivers its S-Model-smacking performance upgrades in fairly subtle fashion. Certainly when static, the RS6 and RS7 performance (low-case P in Performance is on purpose by Audi) just looks like a loaded existing model. One featuring the largest forged alloys available, matte silver detailing and quattro 3D script in the front bumper. Versus even the RS6 Plus from before, however, the V8TT in the new ‘performance’ trims is mighty impressive. Power leaps up to 605-ponies …

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Hamana Audi R8 V10 - Vossen Forged VPS-302 Wheels - © Vossen Whe

VOSSEN Audi R8 V10 and RS6 Avant by Hamana Japan Prove Bronze Alloy Beauty

Good to see the Audi love is flowing strongly at Hamana Japan — one of the car-crazed island’s numerous supercar tuning boutiques. These two are just about the sexiest examples of each we have seen recently, with the bronze finish of the Vossen forged wheels a sexy contrast with both light and dark-colored vehicles. VOSSEN Audi R8 V10 by Hamana Japan VOSSEN Audi RS6 Avant by Hamana Japan

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HD First Drive Review – 2015 Audi A3 1.8T Sedan

 The Audi A3 family is pretty massive for 2015 – with the new sedan just the first in the offensive that will include the A3/S3 Cabrio, A3 Sportback and Sportback Hybrid, an S3 sedan and even the Q3 mini SUV. So there is a lot riding on this compact exec’s shoulders – not least a worry that it might be overpriced and under-amazing. But that is not the case in the slightest. What we discovered after flogging Audi’s latest machine around Lake Lanier, Georgia last week is a fun, peppy car with outstanding driving characteristics, very intuitive steering, and a …

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2.9s, 203MPH 2016 Ferrari 488 Spider – Frankfurt Gallery + Engine Audio MP3s

Gorgeous reveals by the dozen in Frankfurt this week, with only Aston and McLaren declining to launch something new and fairly important. Superlux EVs might be the defining show theme, but supercar rivalries are a close second. Lamborghini’s new Huracan Spyder, the McLaren 650S Spider and this brand-new 488 Spider are all viciously competitve with one another. Performance is roughly the same for all three as well: 3.0-second launches to 60-mph and top speeds just above 200-mph. Pricing is also in the same glitzy neighborhood: not much change from $300k for each. So if performance, pricing and capability in normal …

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Audi at the 2015 IAA

2017 Audi S4 Will Rock 354HP Turbo In Quest to Beat BMW 340i and C400 Sport

The new Audi S4 made its glittering debut at the top of the Audi showcar stand last night in Frankfurt. Along with the new E-Tron Quattro EV SUV previewing a future Q6, the 2017 S4 was joined on stage by a “G-Tron” A4 Avant designed to run on CNG. Smart stuff. The S4 is clearly the closest to buy hands, however, with sales promised “in 2016.” This is likely to mean a March 2016 USA arrival at the earliest, and July probable for first orders. The S4 is Audi’s big engine upgrade from launch. The A4 TFSI power output is …

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Update1 with 25 New Photos – 2015 Audi E-Tron Quattro Concept is Sexy but Pointless EV SUV

Updated with 25 Live Frankfurt PhotosThis is the latest Audi fantasy concept. And it is not named Prologue. Yay! But it is just as exhausting to behold. The E-Tron Quattro is a 100-percent electric SUV concept promising 310 miles of range and AWD traction. In truth, though, the idea of an EV SUV is the most ridiculous thing we can even fathom. Electric vehicles and SUV adventures are anathema. They do not mix. Imagine going skiing from Denver to Vail or Breckenridge, a three hour mountain drive climbing thousands of feet on steep mountain roads. It is snowing, with fresh …

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HD Road Test Review – 2015 Buick ENCORE – Drives Like an Audi, Priced Like a Kia?

Compact crossovers could not be hotter right now. They avoid the depressing drive experience of small sedans, no matter how tight they might be inside. The flipside is that carmakers can be tempted to overprice the mini-SUVs — with options taking the ultra small machines deep into real SUV territory.  This is certainly the case with the $48k BMW X1 sDrive28i we tested last year. Or how about the $67k AMG GLA45? Clearly the temptation of luxury features, equipment and options is powerful for both the brands and to buyers, though. The compact SUV is therefore quite perplexing at times: …

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2017 Audi A4 Arrives to USA in March – Updated With 150 New Images

Updated 9.7.15 With 150 New Images We’ve been scouring the web for a closer look at some real-life photos of the next A4. The initial renderings left much to be desired, both in terms of style and believeability. This next batch is a mixture of photos, new official renders, and stills from the launch video. Overall, there is definitely a fresh stance to the new model — especially so thanks to the new double check of LED DRLS in front, plus low/light LED pipes in back. The lamps then are pretty sexy. But what about the rest? Nothing great to …

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RECON MC8 By Potter and Rich 17

RECON MC8 Is 1000HP Audi R8 V10 Plus with LMS Carbon Reskin and GT3 Aero

  This is our first intro to English supercar boutique Potter and Rich — but they are making a strong impression even across an ocean! The latest P&R custom is dubbed the RECON MC8 — and is a wildly ugraded Audi R8 V10 Plus. Ten are planned for sale to customers, with a laundry list of racing upgrades and custom details. Most importantly … the RECON MC8 is a racecar for the road!  Anyone with eyes or ears will know that as the beast rumbles past. A supercharged and strengthened V10 engine comes from McChip-DKR in Germany, while the shouty …

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Prior Design Turns Audi A5/S5/RS5 Into Credible Sport Quattro via PDA500 Widebody Aero Kit

  One more gorgeous widebody special to get the Citroen DS4 out of our systems… =]   Now that we have seen the 2016/2017 A4 , it is clear that the Audi mid-size models will be around in the current style for years to come. This is hugely disappointing for a variety of reasons.   Audi Sport Quattro But current owners of the A5/S5 and RS5 should not despair — there is actually a painless way to get the Sport Quattro Coupe Concept design cues today, The A5 PDA500WB conversion is one of the more stunning we have seen in …

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Quickest-Ever 2016 Audi S8 Plus Hits 62 in 3.8s With Vmax of 189MPH – Calls Out Haters

Audi just revealed its saloon-car flagship for 2016: the S8 Plus. Not exactly sure when it happened, but we hate the Audi A8 lately. Despite this (clearly super-influential:) opinion, the A8 is actually performing exceptionally well in the sales charts. Only the S-Class beats it for American-market full-size luxury sedan market share. As if sensing our disdain from afar, this superlimo wants to re-earn some of the cool points of the Ronin or Transporter S8 years. Then, the blacked-out S8 variant of all-aluminum flagship was a quirky but rapid AWD alternative to the big dogs from BMW and AMG. That …

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2016 Audi A4 Redesign Majors on Engines, Efficiency and Cabin Tech

This, ladies and gentleman, is the long-anticipated 2016 Audi A4. You are forgiven for the totally understandable surprise/horror at the lack of a new design. We have been muttering the same thing to ourselves prepping this article’s images. THIS!? Is It? Apparently. A hyper-subtle exterior makeover is all we will receive, despite the new A4 being all-new in every way. An all-new multi-material platform is lighter, the 2.0T engine is all-new, while the cabin is finally up to date on tech. The new A4’s design outside does have scientific merit, if not sex appeal. How? Just a 0.23 drag coefficient …

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Best of Awards – 2016 Mazda CX-5 GT Is Real-Deal BMW X1 and Audi Q3 Competitor

Love at first drive … in the Mazda CX-5! First things first: what are the Best of Awards? That is our highlight for cars and trucks of the year – but given out as-needed whenever we get behind the wheel of a truly fantastic new vehicle. The Mazda3 won this acclaim last year, and the 2016 Mazda6 is on track to nab one as well. In order to rise up to the title, a car needs to be so excellent that it really knocks your socks off outside, inside and on the road. But mostly on the road, at full …

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2015 Audi TT Clubsport Turbo – Sounds Freaky as Electric Boost Spools Up to Ultra-High RPM

2015 Audi TT Clubsport Turbo Sound Updated 5.13.15 With 20 New Photos and 2 Videos Despite the outrageous and super-cool exterior and interior overhaul of this TT Clubsport concept, it is really all about the engine. This is some revolutionary innovation that, if proven successful, could revolutionize forced induction. What is going on under that hood? As detailed below, a 48-volt electrical system spins up an e-compressor on this five-cylinder beast to help the main turbo deliver 600-hp overall. What does it sound like on e-boost? That is the million-dollar question. In theory, the e-boost can be preemptive and avoid …

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Standaufnahme

600HP, 3.6s 2015 Audi TT Clubsport Turbo Concept Runs 48V E-Compressor

Here is a fantastic new concept from Audi ahead of the annual Wörthersee Festival! A racing widebody and extreme aero kit are needed thanks to the five-cylinder engine’s massive dual-compressor technology. A standard exhaust-gas turbocharger is joined by an all-new electric turbocharger– promising a huge rush of instant-on torque at any throttle shove. This latest turbo tech innovation is tough to introduce. BMW has also been researching electrically-spun turbo’s, but this Audi is the first to take it near production feasibility. Think of the tech like a super-Dyson blower inside the intake tract of the car. Typically, the limit has …

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Real-life Photos Show Sexier 2015 Audi Prologue Allroad Than Preview Renders

Okay, this is just getting ridiculous now. After the Prologue in LA and La Vegas, plus Prologue Avant in Detroit, we thoroughly get the point of this concept car. The second frustrating thing about the Prologue concept series is that the Audi A4 needs to be replaced. Urgently. Where is it? This latest Prologue Allroad is as expected – a high-riding version of the Avant, but this time powered by a giant V8 hybrid as with the first Prologue Coupe. The Avant was a diesel-electric hybrid if we are not mistaken. So where the F is the new A4? After …

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Standaufnahme

2015 Audi Prologue AllRoad Makes High-Riding Shanghai Debut

Okay, this is just getting ridiculous now. After the Prologue in LA and La Vegas, plus Prologue Avant in Detroit, we thoroughly get the point of this concept car. The second frustrating thing about the Prologue concept series is that the Audi A4 needs to be replaced. Urgently. Where is it? This latest Prologue Allroad is as expected – a high-riding version of the Avant, but this time powered by a giant V8 hybrid as with the first Prologue Coupe. The Avant was a diesel-electric hybrid if we are not mistaken. So where the F is the new A4? After …

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Geneva 2015 Galleries The Germans 25

Geneva 2015 Galleries – The Germans, Austrians, Swiss and Czech – ALPINA, Audi, Quant, Mansory and Skoda

PART THREE   Here is why we are revisiting this mega-show: there are 400 photos in our Geneva 2015 file folder that have not been published yet. Some of the cars are cool, some are curious, and some are normal economy hatchbacks. A dozen of the big reveals are in individual articles — viewable at the Geneva category page over here. But for whatever reason, these fine machines did not make it into solo posts. Not fair, right? All photos deserve to see the light of day! The cars could use some sun, too. The Geneva auto show generally delivers …

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2016 Audi R8 V10 Headlines Geneva Show With New R8 LMS GT3 Racecar

The 2016 Audi R8 V10 is official today ahead of its Geneva debut next week! Packing a totally redesigned chassis, cabin and exterior — the R8 hopes to keep its place as the modest and comfortable supercar in a world filled with moody McLarens and finicky Ferrari’s. The 5.20-liter V10 of the R8 V10 in blue here is only slightly tweaked from before, as it also is in the orange and red V10 Plus R8 models with their extra spoilers and TopGear-lap track mods. Inside, the design is quite fantastic and now includes all the latest and greatest Audi tech, …

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2016 Audi R8 e-tron Revealed In Geneva – 3.9s EV Is Only Rear-Drive R8

The new R8 e-tron is indeed a real thing! After the last model was cancelled in near-production form — despite years of testing and R&D — the R8 e-tron was never a sure thing for this generation. Audi is indeed selling this new R8 EV to customers — with orders taken later this year. Performance is quite slow versus the Tesla Model S. The R8 e-tron hums its way to 62-mph in 3.9-seconds before hitting a Vmax of just 153-mph. Overall range when driven gently is more than 250 miles. The design is massaged nicely with a grille inset in …

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2016 Audi Q7 e-tron 3.0 TDI quattro Trusts Locomotives and Submarines for New Diesel-Electric SUV Powertrain

As any fan of locomotives or submarines will tell you, the combination of diesel engines and hybrid battery tech is a match made in heaven. Endless research has determined that diesel-electric is the most efficient and powerful combination for heavy machinery. Typically, in the car business, diesel-electric power has been shunned because the combination is too expensive. Diesels are around a $4000 price premium above a gas engine, while hybrid components can add at least $5000 to a car’s wholesale price to make. But in a class like the large SUV segment, innovation is affordable if it can achieve huge …

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2016 Audi R8 – Digital Colorizer in 60 Custom Shades

Step right up, folks! Pick a color… any color…. there’s plenty for all  and plenty to choose from! Took to Photoshop to explore some wild digitally-rendered colors on the new R8 shape. Most of the candy-colored Skittles rainbow is proudly represented here, along with a set of bold hues and a set of deep and dark shades. Enjoy! 2016 Audi R8 – Digital Colorizer Brights   2016 Audi R8 V10 Plus – Digital Colorizer – Bolds 2016 Audi R8 V10 Plus – Digital Colorizer – Darks  

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3.0s, 610HP 2016 Audi R8 V10 and R8 V10 Plus Are Official! HD Video + 30 Images

The 2016 Audi R8 V10 is official today ahead of its Geneva debut next week! Packing a totally redesigned chassis, cabin and exterior — the R8 hopes to keep its place as the modest and comfortable supercar in a world filled with moody McLarens and finicky Ferrari’s. The 5.20-liter V10 of the R8 V10 in blue here is only slightly tweaked from before, as it also is in the orange and red V10 Plus R8 models with their extra spoilers and TopGear-lap track mods. Inside, the design is quite fantastic and now includes all the latest and greatest Audi tech, …

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2015 Audi Prologue Avant Concept Shows 4-Door, Fast-Wagon Style Ahead of Geneva Show

We have seen two iterations of the Prologue concept so far from Audi: both coupes with the scale and presence to compete between the BMW 6 series and the Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupes. With a design that harks back to the low and lean appearance of the Audi 5000 from the late 1980s, the Prologue design does feel much better as a deeply-sloping wagon silhouette. More naturally Audi, but still a bit blah for our tastes. It engenders little to no visual passion or excitement, despite being a clean and pure design. This latest Prologue Avant dramatically decorates the exterior details …

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2016 Skoda Superb 6 copy

2016 Skoda Superb Revealed in Prague With Audi A8-Rivaling Roominess and Superior Design?!

Skoda is very proud of the Superb, their flagship of the line and packing a gigantic back seat that is in the same league as the standard-wheelbase A8 limousine. How and why is this possible in a car that is priced under the VW Passat? How comes down to the mass-market MQB chassis componentry and lack of an aluminum-spaceframe chassis or alloy bodywork. Front-drive is the name of the game, but this is also a side benefit. The trunk is bigger than any Audi sedan. Why? That is a bit more complicated. Think of the Superb as the Phaeton of …

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All-New 2016 Audi R8 First Look Teases Laser LED Headlamp For Berlinale VIPs

    Audi has been swishing it up with the European Sundance attendees this past week – being the official car of the Berlinale film festival. Giving its highest honor to “Taxi, a film shot with dual dash-mounted cameras by a passport-revoked director from Iran, the Berlinale is just the kind of flashbulb event sponsorship Audi loves. Countering Mercedes-Benz near-domination of fashion weeks in NY and abroad, Audi is cozying up to film stars, movie lovers and culture jockeys alike. Sample the new car, sir? Along with this glitz and bohemian glamour, Audi also took the wraps off a new …

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2016 Acura ILX A-SPEC Makes Credible, Playful and Chic Audi A3-Fighter

The first-gen Acura ILX did not do it for us. It seemed too much like a lightly-upfitted Civic to really turn heads, and its design never appealed much either. But for 2016, the ILX takes huge advances on the performance, style and tech realms. The new eight-speed, dual-clutch automatic is a peppy and responsive playmate for the 201-horsepower 2.4-liter engine, while even the new design is actually quite cool. ILX is bit more handsome than the Audi A3? What is happening!?! Even the much-maligned Acura single-bar grille is suddenly much cooler, with a sharp and three-dimensional new shape making it …

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Concept Flashback – 2000 Audi Rosemeyer

Steampunk? Does that apply here? No, none of the original Audi race-cars from the 1930s were powered by steam, but this Rosemeyer concept seems to fit into this new, retro-mechanical style movement. Exposed rivets, pop-up lamp covers, individual headlight pods, massive vents all down the back of the engine compartment — all fantastic and moody. The brushed-aluminum surface takes a big step toward authenticity versus the clean and polished surface of the Avus Quattro concept, while the front vents all feel milled from a solid piece of metal. 2000 Audi Rosemeyer

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2016 Lincoln MKX in 30 Photos – 2.7L EcoBoost, Open-Pore Wood, 19-Speaker Audio

The 2016 Lincoln MKX has broken cover, and it is a very impressive next step for the resugent American luxury brand. A step up in size from the MKC, the MKX is larger and more posh, of course, but also a bit more evolved. The MKX images here show sexy new detailing inside and out, with a heavy emphasis on advanced luxury not offered on any Ford at any price. These details include the new twin LED DRL accents in front, a multi-lens HID low and highbeam design, and a full-width LED lightbar in back. The MKX with these modern …

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q7 tech

2016 Audi Q7 Shows New MMI Touch, Audi Connect and MIB Tablet Interfaces by Nvidia

The new Audi Q7 will debut not just a much lighter chassis and all-new styling outside, but a cabin that is fresh from the carpet upward and absolutely packed with tech goodies. Where to start? The latest Virtual Cockpit design uses a 12.3-inch TFT panel in the main guage cluster, able to show 3D instruments, full Google-Earth navigation and maps, and a dozen other custom displays as needed. These are operated by voice, redundant knobs and buttons on the wheel and dash, or by the new MMI Touch control panel with multi-touch capabilities (ahead of the shifter). On the road, …

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Updated with Tech Video – Audi Prologue Hybrid Piloted Drive to Vegas

We were active haters of the Prologue concept when it was revealed for Los Angeles in late November. The low and clean style of the future A8 this car previews is growing better with time, but still seems a bit dull. The change of color to a dark grey with new five-spoke alloys are a huge improvement. They let the design breathe and feel a bit more interesting, with the lower bodywork and sill extensions coming to life in ways they didn’t in silver. The concave rear glass is still bizarre, and the nose and tail detailing still seem awkward. …

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tt 2016

2016 Audi TT Wins TopGear Coupe of the Year + LED Lighting Demo

  TopGear has hated the Audi TT for as long as anyone can recall. Sure, this is part of their countercultural appeal, as the UK was one of the TT’s biggest global markets. The car was absolutely everywhere and wore many people out. It represented a “tarted up Golf,” as the guys said so, so many times. So for the new 2016 model-year TT to win the mag’s Coupe of the Year award is quite surprising indeed. Granted, they gave more than a dozen of these awards out in many categories, with heavily subjective and qualitative assessments deciding who won …

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2015 Audi RS5 Sport

2015 Audi RS5 Sport is Fresh Limited-Release from Audi Exclusive

  Pretty cool and very unique trim upgrades for the latest Audi Exclusive: the RS5 Sport. You are very unlikely to ever see another one if you are one of the 75 buyers of this ultra-exclusive special edition. Performance stays stock, but few will gripe about a 4.5-second sprint to 60-mph with the stonking atmospheric V8 roaring up front.   2015 Audi RS5 Sport Introducing the 2015 RS 5 Coupe Sport edition from Audi exclusive December 19, 2014 | HERNDON, Virginia RS 5 Coupe Sport edition features 20’’ 5-V-spoke design wheels, red brake calipers and a Black and Crimson Red …

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