Audi will unveil three new vehicles at Frankfurt’s International Motor Show (IAA): the remarkably dynamic S5 Sportback, the extremely low-emission A4 3.0 TDI clean diesel quattro, and the especially efficient A3 1.2 TFSI. These innovative engines boast some very different key data, yet they share something in common: They embody Audi’s conviction that dynamics and efficiency are not mutually exclusive; on the contrary, they go hand in hand and are mutually complementary.

Elegant dynamics: Audi S5 Sportback

The S5 Sportback is the pinnacle of the new Sportback model line. This elegant, five-door coupé is propelled by a three-liter V6 with a mechanical compressor. From a displacement of 2,995 cm3 (182.77 in3), the small turbo engine delivers 245 kW (333 hp) and 440 Nm (324.53 lb.-ft.) of torque between 2,900 and 5,300 rpm. The S5 Sportback sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 5.4 seconds [provisional figure]; its top speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph) is limited by an electronic governor. It averages just 9.7 liters of fuel per 100 km (24.25 mpg) [provisional figures] — the best in this power-output category.

Concerning the powertrain, the Audi S5 Sportback similarly underscores its superiority: a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission and quattro permanent all-wheel drive are standard equipment. Upon request, Audi will include the sport differential. It variably distributes power on the rear axle between the rear wheels. This new “top model” has a sportily configured chassis with 18-inch aluminum wheels fitted with 245/40 tires; black brake calipers bear S5 emblems at the front. Speed-dependent servotronic steering is also standard.

Small yet striking exterior and interior features visually distinguish the Audi S5 Sportback. Equipment highlights include electrically adjustable S sports seats covered with Silk Nappa leather. Sales of the Audi S5 Sportback will start in Spring 2010; its basic price will be 57,900 euros.

Extremely clean: Audi A4 3.0 TDI clean diesel quattro

Audi debuted the 3.0 TDI clean diesel engine in its large Q7 SUV; now, the world’s cleanest diesel technology will also be available in the best-selling A4.

A package of technologies boasts an array of innovative solutions for engines and the after-treatment of exhaust gas.

At the engine, a new common-rail injection system (which generates up to 2,000 bars of pressure), innovative pressure sensors in the combustion chamber, and an especially high-performance exhaust recirculating system collectively ensure a highly efficient and low-emission combustion process. A novel DeNOX catalytic converter, integrated within the end of the exhaust system, reduces residual nitrogen oxides. Just upstream of it, a pump injects an additive named AdBlue into the hot exhaust flow; there, this aqueous solution decomposes into ammonia — which splits the nitrogen oxides into nitrogen and water.

The A4 3.0 TDI clean diesel quattro already complies with the emission limits of the EU’s Euro 6 standard, expected to become law in 2014. It is also very fuel-efficient, averaging only 6.7 liters (Avant: 6.8 liters) of fuel per 100 km (35.11 and 34.59 miles per U.S. gallon). And this TDI engine is indeed a powerful performer, needing only 6.2 seconds (Avant: 6.3 seconds) to go from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph). Top speed is electronically governed to 250 km/h (155.34 mph).

In conjunction with a six-speed tiptronic and quattro permanent all-wheel drive, this vehicle guarantees a high degree of comfort and superior traction.

Efficient Downsizing: Audi A3 and A3 Sportback 1.2 TFSI

Downsizing is a cornerstone of Audi’s efficiency strategy — and Audi is relentlessly committed. The A3 model line will soon introduce yet another turbocharged gasoline engine featuring lower displacement. It unites maximum performance with minimum consumption.

Designed from scratch, the new 1.2 TFSI generates 77 kW (105 hp) from a displacement of 1,197 cm3 (73.05 in3). And as is typical of Audi, turbocharging and direct gasoline injection once again perfectly comprise a technological one-two punch. Thanks to an aluminum crankcase, this four-cylinder engine weighs just 89.5 kilograms (197.31 pounds); this remarkably low weight also boosts its efficiency.

The 1.2 TFSI has been optimized to minimize friction. Eight valves are actuated by a single camshaft. A common-rail system injects the fuel. An electric control valve operates the turbocharger’s wastegate valve; boost pressure builds up spontaneously and scavenging losses drop.

This small engine generates 175 Nm (129.07 lb.-ft.) of torque between just 1,500 and 3,500 rpm. It propels the three-door A3 1.2 TFSI from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62.14 mph) in 11.1 seconds; the Sportback, in 11.3 seconds. Both versions reach a top speed of 190 km/h (118.06 mph) and, on average, consume just 5.5 liters of fuel per 100 km (42.77 mpg) — emitting just 127 grams of CO2 per kilometer (204.39 g/mile).

Sales of the A3 and A3 Sportback 1.2 TFSI will begin in the first quarter of 2010. The new engine will initially be paired with front-wheel drive and a six-speed manual transmission.

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The four-ringed logo has been in use since the Auto Union days back in the 1930s, so we wouldn’t expect Audi to go changing it too drastically, but it has given the logo a fresh take to mark the occasion of the company’s centenary.

Following the lead taken by other automakers, the subtly revised Audi logo is more chrome-tastic and three-dimensional than the one it replaces. The Audi name has also changed to a more conventional font instead of the backswept typeface, and the name, when appearing next to the ring emblem, has moved away from the center to the bottom left corner. A subtle change, for sure, but a change nonetheless. Click on the thumbnails below to compare the old and new emblems to discern the differences for yourself.

The jury’s still out as to whether Audi’s TT RS will ever make across the Atlantic. But for those on the other side - or for if/when it comes here - Swiss tuning firm Sportec has launched an ECU upgrade for the Four Ring’s top-notch turbo terror.

A simple remap of the engine management chip has got the stock turbo five’s output up from 335-bhp and 328 lb-ft of torque to 400-bhp and 401 lb-ft. The extra tug and twist is said to be enough to drop the TT RS’ sprint to 60 mph down from 4.6 seconds in stock form to an R8-rivaling 4.2 seconds - while simultaneously removing the 155 mph speed limiter.

Additional mods are in the works from Sportec, but for our part, we’d just be happy to get the stock TT RS on American shores - then we can worry about chipping it all to hell.

Audi’s 2010 Q7 rolls into showrooms with a base MSRP of $46,900 (all prices exclude the $825 destination charge). That entry-level amount will put the standard Q7 3.6 Quattro (with its 280-horsepower V6) in your driveway. If you want to bump up to the flagship, the Q7 4.2 Quattro (350-horsepower V8) will set you back at least $61,000. Lastly, those interested in Audi’s diesel SUV and its 17/25 EPA ratings will find the Q7 TDI Quattro (225-horsepower V6 with a boat-load of torque) starting at $50,900.

All 2010 Q7 models boast standard all-wheel drive and refreshed exteriors with the brand’s signature LED lighting used in the daytime running lights, turn signals (optional), and taillights. Interior upgrades include available ventilated front seats, upgraded interior ambient lighting and several cosmetic improvements within the cabin. Most appreciated will be the third-generation MMI infotainment system with its 3D map powered by an automotive-grade NVIDIA[TM] chip for graphics processing. According to Audi, the system’s voice-based controls will respond to such command as “I’m hungry,” “I need gas” and “I need coffee” and point the driver to the closest options.

Audi has released pricing on the redesigned 2010 Q7 large SUV that is scheduled to arrive at U.S. dealerships in September. Featuring subtle exterior and interior tweaks as well a revised engine lineup that benefits from the introduction of a new energy recovery system, the Q7 is available in the U.S. with three powertrain options.

The base model that is powered by a 280HP 3.6-liter V6 gasoline engine starts from $46,900 while diesel-lovers can opt for 3.0 V6 TDI that pumps out 240HP and is priced from $50,900. At the top of the range is a 4.2 liter V8 gasoline engine with 350HP, with prices starting from $61,000.

Exterior enhancements for the 2010 model year include newly designed alloy wheels, updated front and rear bumpers, revised headlamps and tail lights, reworked single frame grille in gloss black with vertical chrome strips, exterior mirror housings, and a new lower body panel trim with contrast paint for the Q7 3.6 quattro, full body paint with Chrome package on the Q7 TDI quattro diesel, and S line treatment on the Q7 4.2 quattro.

Inside, the list of upgrades include optional ventilated front seats, new decorative trim on the passenger side of the dashboard, additional ambient lighting on all four doors, an upgraded MMI system, additional interior chrome accents, and a new instrumentation font.

Audi today announced the U.S. manufacturer’s suggested retail prices for the highly anticipated 2010 Audi S4 sedan and A5 / S5 Cabriolet models. The S models arrive at U.S. dealers in late August, while the A5 Cabriolet will be available in the Fall of 2009.

2010 S4 sedan (excluding $825 destination charge, taxes, title, options and dealer charges):
S4 sedan (manual) $45,900
S4 sedan (S tronic) $47,300

2010 A5 and S5 Cabriolet (excluding $825 destination charge, taxes, title, options and dealer charges):
A5 Cabriolet 2.0T multitronic front-wheel drive $42,000
A5 Cabriolet 2.0T Tiptronic quattro ` $44,100
S5 Cabriolet (S tronic) $58,250

The S4 sedan and A5/S5 Cabriolet feature technological advancements as available features that enhance both interior and performance luxury. The 3G MMI (Multi Media Interface) with 3D map graphics and SIRIUS traffic displays the latest evolution of 3D navigation, joystick control for navigation map destination finding, updated graphical clarity, SIRIUS® artist/title preview, and SIRIUS traffic-based navigation. The S4 sedan features voice-based destination input control, and voice inputs such as “I’m hungry,” “I need gas” and “I need coffee” that will point to the closest options. The unique Audi drive select option available in the S4 sedan and A5/S5 Cabriolet also helps the driver customize steering, suspension, and acceleration characteristics. The available performance-oriented Sports Rear Differential package with torque vectoring is reserved for the S4 sedan and S5 coupe/Cabriolet.

The 2010 S4 sedan returns to the Audi U.S. lineup a year after the successful launch of the all-new B8 A4, and marks a strategic enhancement for performance models in the U.S. Audi lineup.

The new S4 features more performance and technology than ever and now enters a hotly contested competitive set that includes the BMW 335i and Mercedes-Benz C350 at a very attainable price. Now equipped with a 3.0T V6 FSI direct injection supercharged engine with 333 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque, the 2010 S4 with a manual transmission offers a 0-60 time of 4.9 seconds, compared to a 0-60 time of 5.3 seconds for the previous generation S4 V8 manual. The 2010 S4 also provides greater fuel efficiency (2010 S4 manual achieves 18 mpg city/27 highway, compared to the previous-generation 2008 S4 V8 manual ratings of 13 mpg city/20 mpg highway).

The S4 sedan will also provide more performance and standard features over its German luxury competitors. Using a continual focus on attention to detail, S4-specific features include distinctive standard S4-embossed heated front sport seats, front/rear bumpers, front grille, wheels, LED tail lights and front xenon headlamps with LED daytime running lights. Other unique standard features include rear-biased 40:60 quattro® all-wheel drive, 18” wheels, heated front sport seats with S4 logo embossing, stainless steel and carbon fiber interior trim, contrast stitching on steering wheel / shifter / seats, Bluetooth®, SIRIUS satellite radio, Homelink®, and iPod® Interface.

The introduction of A5 and S5 Cabriolet marks the expansion of the A5 model line and the replacement for the 2009 A4 and S4 Cabriolet nameplates. Featuring an innovative cloth acoustic roof that folds in a class-leading 15 seconds at speeds of up to 30 miles per hour, it is lighter than a retractable hard top and improves driving dynamics, center of gravity, and fuel efficiency as a result. Safety continues to be a top priority for Audi, which offers more models earning “Top Safety Pick” recognition from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety than any other German luxury car brand.*

The A5 and S5 Cabriolet feature the latest safety features expected from a modern German luxury 4-seater convertible, including active roll bars behind the seats, front airbags, knee airbags, seat-mounted side head/chest airbags, and ESP stability control. Several packaging innovations come from the cloth acoustic roof, including rear passenger reading lights and class-leading 50:50 flat-folding rear seats. The A5 and S5 Cabriolet also come with available head-level heating built into the seats, enabling passengers to enjoy a longer top-down motoring season. The front seatbelt presenter puts the belt well within reach of front drivers and passengers as a convenience and safety feature, while ensuring effortless entry or exit.

Audi is the first car company in the United States to equip 100% of its gasoline engines with FSI direct injection technology beginning with model year 2010. Audi began racing with FSI direct injection technology in 2000 at the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the American Le Mans Series with the R8 FSI prototype racing sports car. Once this technology first became available for U.S. Audi customers in late 2004 with the introduction of the 2005 A6 3.2 FSI quattro, the list of Audi vehicles sold in the U.S. with FSI direct injection technology has continued to grow.

Making a prestige German car calls for an obsession for attention to detail with Audi now only selecting leather from bulls rather than cows to achieve the required upholstery standards for the 36,000 premium cars it will sell in the UK this year equipped with leather seats.

As many as 40 per cent of UK Audi customers specify real leather thanks to the company’s very high quality interiors achieved with soft and supple leather sourced only from bulls. Hides from cows are too small and less homogenous and do not meet their stringent quality standards.

The very high standards required for its customers start from when Audi selects its materials. Each hide destined for an Audi is divided into three quality zones. The best piece is the back area (croupon) where the grain is particularly even with cracks or scars due to injuries rare. Audi discards the outermost region of each hide again for quality control reasons.

The very high grade leather from the core of the bull’s back is used in all areas of a car seat where fine, smooth appearance and high robustness are most important – on the headrest, in the shoulder area, in the important lower seat squab area and on the side bolsters and seatbacks on the entry side.

The scent detectives – the Audi Nose Team
What is more, the legendary Audi attention to detail also ensures that the hides actually smell nice once installed. Audi’s remarkable Nose Team was formed in 1985 to combat potentially offensive aromas inside its cars. The six-member Nose Team cuts small pieces out of the materials to be tested – for example wood inlays and the leather upholstery used for the seats.

Leather specimens are each placed in a standard canning jar equipped with an odourless gasket. An oven heats the sealed jar to 80 degrees Celsius for two hours. Each tester briefly sniffs the contents of the jar, reseals it and passes it to his or her colleague. Each team member writes down their grade in secret.

The Audi Nose Team also examines complete components such as dashboards and also a car in its entirety. The “professional sniffers”, who analyse approximately 500 different components from the passenger compartment for each model, are chosen by virtue of their particularly sensitive noses.

Smoking is prohibited for these valued experts, while a cold, for example, can stop a team member from working. These experts also must not give off any scents of their own during testing – whether it be perfume, shower gel, after shave or maybe even garlic.

45 Leather Tests
In a pioneering move for the World’s car industry, Audi stopped using chromium salts for tanning hides as long as 15 years ago. The multiple stage leather tanning process is followed by 45 tests to determine the durability of the leather. Samples are mounted in automatic fixtures, which show that they expand evenly, where they begin to tear, when they begin to develop wrinkles and how resistant they are to abrasion and fire.

Audi is celebrating its centenary this year with the ‘Vorsprung durch Technik’ brand recording a century of fitting real leather into its cars. Times have changed, technology has advanced, but the basic raw materials remain the same as they were as long ago as 1909 when the first Audi was produced.

In case you thought that the grill to your new Audi was too tame, Sports Wheels is offering something a little more exciting. The grills are available for any Audi, except the R8.