Audi RS5 Leaked

Ever since the Audi A5 mid-size executive coupe was born 3 years ago, reports of a high-performance RS variant have been teasing us. Finally, the wait is over.

Goog thing we checked our inbox today because we received an anonymous email containing 18 full-resolution photos of the Audi RS 5. Simultaneously, we also received a tip from Australian Motoring blog Ausmotive.com which just posted the same photos which are sourced from a leaked brochure. Either way, go put your bib on, because the drooling starts now.

No details about the powertrain or performance specs are revealed in the brochure. However, it does mention three types of seating and four wheel design choices. Audi's 7-speed dual clutch S-tronic transmission is the only choice - no mention of 6-speed manual. Also, no flat-bottom steering wheel is shown.

Speculation over which powerplant will drive the RS 5 has ranged from a massaged 3.0-liter supercharged V6 in the S4, 4.2-liter V8 and 5.0-liter V10 in the RS 6 to the range topping 5.2-liter V10 from the R8. Horsepower has been logically guestimated between 450 PS (331 kW / 444 hp) and 550 PS (405 kW / 542 hp), essentially where the RS 4 leaves off with 420 PS (309 kW / 414 hp) and ending with the RS 6 and its 579 PS (426 kW / 571 hp).

The RS 5 will undoubtedly debut at the Geneva Motor Show in two weeks. According to previous reports, the RS5 hits the streets soon after in July.

VW Group Considering Audi R4 Platform for New Entry Level Porsche - speculation

The R8 started an exciting journey for the Audi brand when it launched into a segment its maker had not competed in before. Soon after rumours of a smaller R8, thought to be called the R4, surfaced. A concept e-tron car unveiled at the recent Detroit Auto Show confirmed that indeed an R4 is in the works.

Now Porsche is considering using the R4 platform as a basis for its newest and smallest model line. Speaking to Autocar, VW Group chairman Martin Winterkorn finally admitted to be looking at a car below the Boxster/ Cayman pair.

"The Porsche model range is firmly based on the 911, Boxster, Cayenne and Cayman, and it will stay that way," he was quoted as saying. "We are also investigating opportunities for a smaller sports car and a smaller SUV - but I cannot say more at the moment."


The car dubbed the new 356 would use a mid-engine layout and source power (said to be about 186kW or 250bhp) from a turbocharged boxer engine. It will share its transmission with the R4 but remain very much a Porsche in most other ways.

Although the R4 is expected to go on sale around June 2011, the Porsche model won't be available until at least 2012. Speculated prices stand at the equivalent of £33,000 (US$53,300) in today's money.

Audi A1 Snapped During Commercial Filming with Justin Timberlake

A candid snapshot of the Audi A1, with pop-chart topper Justin Timberlake in the foreground, recently leaked out from a video and photo shoot. As the recently announced Audi A1 ambassador, Timberlake will be featured in a series of advertisements for the new supermini.

Our thanks to WorldCarFans reader "G" for raising the flag on this story.

Following official teaser renderings released a few days ago, the car appears to have headlights that bulge a bit as they extend outwards. The grille has a slight hexagonal shape, instead of a trapezoidal one. Air intakes appear to be larger, with foglights ringed in either chrome or white. It appears as though the A-pillar and roofline are still in a second color tone, as expected.

Do not read too much into the American pop star's involvement in the A1 campaign; this is not a sign that the car is coming to US soil. Despite the Mini Cooper's level of profitability in North America, Audi executives have long maintained that the volume of sales are not enough to justify bringing in another competitor. Audi boldly reiterated this line of thinking recently with a statement saying, "no sales are planned for the U.S."

Audi plans to introduce the urban commuter on the internet next February, with a full-reveal coming in March at the Geneva Motor Show.

All New 2011 Audi A8 Revealed - 87 Photos, Initial Details and Video

With much anticipation, Audi has unveiled the all-new fourth generation A8 full-size luxury sedan this evening in Miami. At a glance the A8 and its aluminum body structure features an updated MMI operating system with hand writing recognition touch pad, new driver assistance systems, full LED headlights and new technologies such as night vision assist with marking of detected pedestrians and Audi pre sense safety system.

The A8's core competitors include the Mercedes-Benz S Class and BMW 7 Series with the Lexus LS and Jaguar XJ described as secondary competitors. The 2011 A8 weighs about the same as the outgoing model despite being 3 inches longer, 2 inches wider and has more standard equipment (8-speed auto transmission, pre sense basic, keyless go, power trunk, etc.) versus competitors: ~50lbs less than S Class RWD, and more than 200lbs (90.7kg) less than S Class AWD; more than 200lbs less than 7 Series RWD and more than 400lbs (181.4kg) less than 7 Series AWD.

“The new Audi A8 is the sportiest sedan in its segment,” says Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG. “It combines numerous functions in a new and intelligent way. And it’s unmatched in the stylistic elements and impression of the interior.”

Set to arrive at U.S. dealerships in late 2010, the initial engine offering is the well known 4.2 FSI V8 with 273 kW (372 hp). The standard transmission is an all-new eight speed tiptronic coupled to the latest generation quattro all wheel drive as standard. 0-100km/h (62 mph) arrives in 5.7 seconds while Audi is claiming an estimated 15 percent improvement in fuel consumption versus the current A8 (EPA figures TBD).

A long wheel base variant will be revealed in 2010 in addition to the confirmation of a hybrid model on the way.

For complete details please see the press release below.

Audi A7 Sportback: Spy shots from Los Angeles

How about this -- it might be the long-rumored A7. You know, the swoopy "four-door coupe" set to compete against cars like the Mercedes-Benz CLS. That makes much more sense. Take a long look at the rear glass and thick C-pillars in this spy shot. We thinks we may be on to something. Especially if you stare long and hard at the tail lights -- the outer ones appear real and taped off, while the inner lights appear to be fake pieces of reflective tape. A design that conforms to the blurry A7 shots we've seen.

2011 Audi A8 Spied: New details Surface

More spy pictures of the 2011 Audi A8 have appeared as it went around the Nürburgring. Audi is giving it a workout that should make it stand out against competitors in terms of handling. The black and white camouflage is still quite heavy so not much can be seen.

The big news is kept under the bonnet where a new range of powerplants will be found. Downsizing is quite a popular practice across the motor industry and Audi has been at the edge of it all. Therefore, a new compact 2.0-litre TDI is rumoured to be the entry-level diesel for the next A8. Speculation is that it will use twin-turbo technology to churn out over 147kW (200hp) and 400Nm of torque.

There will be other options of course such as V6s and V8s, both petrol and diesel. The V10 currently in the S8 is to be deleted in favour of a smaller V8 packing over 300kW (408hp). Another new engine for the A8 will be based on the same supercharged 3.0-liter V6 found in the 245kW (333hp) S4/ S5. However, it will have twin-turbos producing even more power. At the very top end we should see a new powerful 6.5-litre V12 doing well over 368kW (500hp).



While over 90% of the A8s sold will feature quattro AWD, the rest will be driven through the front wheels. The range-topping Audi will also come with an upgraded MMI system, night vision technology and road sign-recognition abilities.

The new A8 will debut at the 2010 North American International Auto Show in Detroit and go on sale sometime during the year. In the US it will be sold as a 2011 model.

Audi RS5 Latest Spy Photos in Barcelona

Some visible features include the two massive tailpipes, a rear diffuser, rear LED lights and low profile tyres. A brief sneak peak through the windows reveals two front sports seats similar to those of the RS 6.

Since Audi postponed a number of their new product launches, thanks to the global recession, the RS 5 has had to bide its time and clock up extra test miles. Hopefully that makes it an even sharper road hog than originally planned.



Under the bonnet lurks a rumoured 330kW (449hp) of power from a 4.2-litre V8 engine. It would be placed under the care of quattro AWD and a standard 6-speed manual or a 7-speed R Tronic. As with recent versions of quattro most torque should head rearwards under certain driving conditions.

The RS 5 will debut at an international motor show within the next few months, with first sales scheduled for July 2010.

Audi A1 Prototype Caught for First Time

Spies have caught the first images of the Audi A1 prototype being taken around the block. BMW-style black & white psychedelic camo cannot do enough to hide the Audi front grille. Just from these pictures it appears the car will have a longer wheelbase than its chief rivals. An Audi executive was recently quoted as saying several body variants were possible. Clearly this is a 3-door but a 5-door, a Cabriolet and a possible coupe/ roadster can be expected. Even an SUV cannot be discounted.

Engines would include a 1.8-litre TSI, some diesel units as well as hybrid or full-on electric. Drive would be placed mainly on the front wheels but a possible S1 might take a leaf from bigger S cars and use quattro AWD.



Audi is not yet at a stage where customers in the US are prepared to part with premium cash for an ultra-compact model. Therefore the A1 will not be launched for this market, not until such time as public attitudes at least improve.

Whether the A1 eventually looks more like the Metroproject Concept remains to be seen.

Audi A8 Prototype Hits the Ring

An Audi A8 prototype has been spied testing again.

The pics do not reveal anything new and what to expect from the next-generation of Audi's flagship sedan is based mostly on speculation.

But that the new A8 will be fitted with Audi's standard array of large engines is an easy guess to make. Those include the 3.0 liter TDI and the 4.2 liter V8 petrol/gasoline. Despite reports of the S8 being cancelled in America, perhaps and S8 will come with a variant of Audi's 5.0 liter V10 FSI engine as seen in the R8.

Questions arising, though, as to what new technology Audi will introduce into the A8 to keep it competitive, newsworthy and eco-friendly. Mercedes has an S-Class hybrid, as does BMW with the 7-Series, but there's been no word yet about any possible hybrid A8.



Likely to be featured is a second-generation of Audi's Aluminum Space Frame (ASF II) technology which makes the A8 standout in terms of engineering accomplishment. The aluminum frame keeps the A8 light and agile, a key distinction in this notoriously heavyweight class.

The next-generation Audi A8 will be making its debut sometime next year - maybe at the Geneva auto salon, or perhaps later at the Paris show in September. Audi will want to make sure that its flagship sedan will get the appropriate amount of fanfare for what is one of the most important launches for the German premium brand.

2010 Audi A1 Details Emerge

CAR magazine UK has reported on its candid conversation with Audi executives regarding the A1. According to CAR, the A1 will not only come in hatchback form but also as cabriolet and estate models potentially including quattro AWD.

"We will start with the three-door version with several different engine variants," Schwarzenbauer told CAR. "Will we do further models? Look at what we do with the A3 range - we could something similar with the A1."

That means probably anything from a 1.2-litre up to 1.8-litre turbo units, both petrol and diesel. Because the A1 will be a direct rival to the MINI, which is busy testing an electric model (MINI e), it may be safe to assume that alternative power sources are also on the cards here. We'd definitely be up for a performance S1 as well. And since MINI has all sorts of variations, including SUVs, two-seat Coupes and Roadsters coming up, expect the A1 to follow suit with similar offerings and even a possible Q1 SUV.

In terms of basic looks Audi has already given clues through the Metroproject Concept car (pictured here). The A1 is very important to Ingolstadt as it will add greater volumes and spur the company on with its plans to overtake BMW as the world's largest premium car manufacturer by 2015.

Unfortunately the A1 does not quite feature in the Audi's US plans as yet. Executives have said as much on a number of occasions.

Audi A1: First test mule spotted

These are the slated first spy shots of an Audi A1 test mule!

Audi RS5: Spied on the road, gets V8 engine

These are the latest spy photos of Audi's hotly-anticipated RS5 Coupe that is expected to celebrate its world premiere at the next Geneva Salon in March of 2010. Compared to the S5 upon which it is based, the flat-black prototype you see pictured here is distinguished by a new front bumper with larger and more pronounced side air inlets, the honeycomb grille and the single-outlet tailpipes that replace the S5's two smaller outlets on each side of the rear bumper.

Furthermore, the black panels on the front and rear fenders of the test car clearly indicate that the RS5 will get a wider body with flared arches harking back to the original Quattro coupe as well as to the current RS6 saloon and Avant models.

The spy photos also suggest that the RS5 may get a deployable rear spoiler located at the tip of the boot.ers like the Mercedes-Benz CL (tba S-Class Coupe) and the Aston Martin DBS.

2011 Audi A8 Prototype Already Shedding Some Camouflage - Spied Hot Weather Testing

The new Audi A8 was caught by spies as it underwent hot weather testing. This new set of photos shows the prototype with a little less camouflage than before. Audi's flagship car is expected to get several efficient V6 and V8 engines, as well as the 258 horsepower 3.0-liter TDI that produces upwards of 258 horsepower.

In the latest set of photos, we are able to see what the vehicle looks like with LED daytime runners. The end of these lights lead towards the grille, which appears to be distinctly separated into an upper and lower section, unlike on the current model. Absolutely do not be surprised if this changes, although the new bumper appears to have space for integrated fog lamps. The rear section of the vehicle looks a bit more prominent as well, and should also include LEDs. Through the rear glass we can also see a bit of the interior.



Audi is rumored to unveil the new Audi A8 by the end of the year as a 2010 model, but a Geneva appearance is also possible. Whether or not it will be offered as either a hybrid or electric remains to be seen.

Audi RS5 Latest Spy Photos

Audi's 2010 RS5 coupe has once again been spotted undergoing high performance testing on Germany's famous Nürburgring.

While the new photos don't reveal any additional details, the matte black paint scheme is simply out of this world. Up front, the RS5 is distinguished by larger, more aggressive air intakes and a revised mesh grille. Other styling tweaks include 15-spoke alloy wheels, a more pronounced rear spoiler, and a massive dual exhaust system.

As we have previously reported, the RS5 will come equipped with a powerful 4.2-liter V8 engine with at least 450hp (331kW). Boasting quattro AWD and a standard six-speed manual transmission (a seven-speed R Tronic gearbox will be optional), the RS5 is expected to accelerate from 0-100km/h in less than 5 seconds. Audi will likely limit the top speed to 250km/h (155mph), but aftermarket tuners will surely fix that.

Look for the 2010 Audi RS5 to be officially unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

Audi A8 prototype mocks Mitsubishi jet-fighter front grill

Could this be a new Audi A8?

We should not assume anything here (because you know what that does) but it does seem like this is a short-wheelbase A8 under an A6 shell carrying an upside-down Mitsubishi badge and jet-fighter front grill.

This scoop comes to us courtesy of a VW Vortex forum and Autoblog, and the photos show what is definitely not a Mitsubishi driving along the highway in the Southwest of the United States. The road warrior (Autoblog reader Ryan on a cross-country trip) who snapped the pictures believed it to be a new A6 undergoing testing, after having spotted some camouflaged VW Routan's earlier in the trip. But the details (and Audi's product time-line) seem to point to a new A8 iteration.

A next-generation A8 was expected to debut at the Frankfurt motor show this September, although, there seem to be no indications from Audi that that will occur. But the new A8 is expected to make its debut in the market sometime in the latter part of 2010.

Looking at the design features of the model pictured here, the furrowed-brow headlights, linebacker shoulder lines, bonnet ridges and the long, swooping C-pillar all point to a flagship Audi sedan.

By the way, is Audi allowed to use a Mitsubishi badge as a cover for a prototype?

Just asking.

Audi A7: Test mule spotted in the Alps?

Have a look at these interesting spy shots of what is alleged to be the upcoming Audi A7.

Audi A8 teaser image discovered

The first teaser image promoting the Audi A8 has recently been found. Standing with the cloth-covered A8 is Audi's Board Member for Technical Development, Michael Dick.

Few things are clearly visible in the picture other than Dick. We can see the now-signature Audi LED daytime lights through the sheet, but we also notice a car that could be a little shorther than the current generation. The rear windshield of the car also looks to have a bit of a sharp angle, something that contradicts the official sketch of the car released by Audi last October.

According to Autovisie, the photo was buried in a collection of promotional materials released by the automaker as part of a 100th anniversary celebration.

The Audi A8 is expected to hit the market in 2010 with four engine options, including petrol and diesel versions of a 3.0-liter and 4.2-liter V8. Should a S8 model be released, it could receive a 5.0-liter V10 FSI that unleashes 620 horsepower.

Built with a next generation Aluminum Space Frame, the 2010 Audi A8 was supposed to be shown off in Frankfurt this September but recent reports state this has been postponed despite the "surfacing" of this teaser image.

Next gen 2012 Audi A3 mule first spy photos

Our spy photographers have managed to catch the first images of Audi's upcoming 2012 A3.



Like previous prototype Audis, this A3 mule is wearing a Volkswagen body to divert attention. While the Golf body prevents us from seeing the A3's new styling, the extended fenders suggest the car will grow a few inches in width. So far, our only indication of A3's exterior design comes from a leaked image that supposedly shows the car's Q5-inspired rear hatch.

Engine options will likely include the 105hp (75kW) 1.2-liter TSI, the 141hp (104kW) 1.4-liter TSI, and the 173hp (127kW) 1.8-liter TSI. We can also expect a variety of diesel engines, with a rumored 207hp (152kW) 2.0-liter TDI taking the top spot.

As we have previously reported, Michael Dick, a member of Audi's board of management for technical development, has stated that Audi is considering an RS3. If such a model were to be produced, it would likely feature the 2.5-liter five-cylinder turbocharged engine from the TT-RS. Packing 340hp and 450Nm of torque, the RS3 would probably rocket from 0-62 mph in 4.6 seconds before hitting an estimated top speed of 179 mph (288 km/h).



In an attempt to establish a greater foothold in the North America, Audi is also considering an A3 sedan which is designed to appeal to hatch-hating Americans.

Audi A5 Sportback Caught Completely Undisguised at Photo Shoot

The Audi A5 Sportback has been out and about it seems. These spy pictures of the four door hatch/ coupe were taken during a campus photo shoot in which the car was starring. Presumably the resulting official pictures will form part of a soon-to-launch marketing campaign, perhaps end up in a leaked brochure? We can only wish.

Nevertheless these are clear enough to indicate where the A5 Sportback lies in terms of positioning and styling. For the family man who desires the fastback action of the A5 coupe's lines but can't convince the missus of the importance of a sporty two-door GT to a man's overall wellbeing, the Sportback calls. Imagine 480 litres (980 with rear seats folded) of cargo space wrapped around the elegant alloy sheets and housing some of the most rewarding engines around. That is the Sportback; space plus performance.

Engines ensuring the latter are a 2.0TDI making 125kW (170hp) and 350Nm of torque. Following that is the 2.7TDI good for 140 kW (190hp) and 400Nm of torque, and a 3.0TDI worth 500Nm. There are also petrols like the 2.0TFSI with 155kW (211hp) and the 3.2-litre V6.

Audi A5 Sportback Teaser Photos, Video & Initial Details Released

Audi has announced new details regarding their upcoming BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo competitor, the A5 Sportback.

Designed to be as "emotional and elegant as a coupe, as comfortable as a sedan, and as practical as an Avant", the A5 Sportback is essentially a five-door coupe. Although the teaser video only shows an artist stretching the A5 Sportback's design, Audi states that the new model features a large rear hatch, a graceful tapering roofline which is 36 mm (1.4") lower than the A4 Sedan's, and four frameless doors with "dynamic window styling".

In terms of practicality, Audi has informed us that the new A5 Sportback offers 480 liters (17.0 cubic feet) of cargo capacity and 980 liters (34.6 cubic feet) when the rear seats are folded down.

At launch, the A5 Sportback will be offered with three diesels and two petrol engines. Diesel versions include the 2.0 TDI with 125 kW (170 hp) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque, a 2.7 TDI with 140 kW (190 hp) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft), and a 3.0-liter V6 TDI with 176 kW (240 hp) and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) torque. On the petrol side, potential owners can select a 2.0 TFSI quattro with 155 kW (211 hp) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque or a more powerful 3.2-liter V6 quattro with 195 kW (265 hp).

Performance options include a newly developed ESP system with an electronic differential lock for improved steering response, Audi drive select, adaptive shock absorbers, and dynamic steering with continuously variable assistance.

Look for the new A5 to start arriving in European showrooms this September with a base price of €36,050.