Effective immediately, two new entry-level engines are available for the Audi Q5: the 2.0 TDI and the 2.0-liter TFSI, both in conjunction with the 6-speed manual transmission. The diesel version is now also available in the A4 allroad quattro. These powerplant options expand the Audi product line with fuel-efficient models at attractive prices.

Effective immediately, Audi customers can order the 2.0 TDI with common rail high-pressure injection and 105 kW (143 hp) as an entry-level diesel for the Audi Q5 as well as for the Audi A4 allroad quattro. There is also a new entry-level gasoline engine available for the Q5 – the 2.0-liter TFSI with 132 kW (180 hp). All new models are equipped with quattro permanent all-wheel drive.

Both the gasoline and the diesel versions are impressive in-line four-cylinder engines with direct injection. The supercharged TFSI gasoline direct-injection unit with 2.0 liters displacement exerts an impressive 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque throughout the broad range from 1,500 to 3,900 rpm. This powerplant is equipped with the Audi valvelift system on the exhaust side. With this variable control, the Audi engineers were able to substantially reduce fuel consumption while further increasing the efficiency of the engine. The 2.0 TFSI accelerates the Audi Q5 from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 8.5 seconds. Its average fuel consumption is 8.4 liters per 100 kilometers (28.0 US mpg).

In the high-tech diesel engine with the common rail injection system, the maximum torque of 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) is exerted between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm. In the Audi Q5, which – like with the Audi A4 – has recently passed the Euro NCAP (New Car Assessment Program) safety test with the maximum rating of five stars, the engine averages a thrifty 6.5 liters of diesel fuel per 100 kilometers (36.19 US mpg). The SUV accelerates to the 100 km/h mark (62 mph) in 11.4 seconds and has a top speed of 190 km/h (118 mph).

The Audi A4 allroad quattro 2.0 TDI with six-speed manual transmission consumes an average of 6.2 liters per 100 kilometers (37.94 US mpg). Thanks to its higher torque level it reaches the 100 km/h mark (62 mph) in 10.3 seconds and can accelerate up to 200 km/h (124 mph).

Selling prices for the Audi Q5 start at EUR 36,800 for the 2.0 TFSI and EUR 36,500 for the 2.0 TDI. The base price for the Audi A4 allroad quattro 2.0 TDI is EUR 37,100.

Styling/image
Take an SE-spec A4 quattro Avant and raise the ride height by 37millimetres, giving it just 20 millimetres less ground clearance than the more rugged Q5. Then add utilitarian plastic wheel arches and rugged bumpers and you have a car with all the road presence of an SUV, but the silhouette of an executive estate car.

Interior/practicality
The A4 allroad offers a beautifully built cabin, plus plenty of equipment. We particularly liked the dash mounted colour LCD screen and new eco driving display. Rear seats offer decent leg room, while the boot is spacious. 70:30 Split and fold seats are easy to operate.

Engine/performance
The 2.0-litre TFSI petrol engine offers 211bhp combined with low fuel consumption. 2.0 and punchy 2.7-litre diesel engines are also offered. Equipped with diesel particulate filters, all A4 engines already comply with the strict Euro 5 emissions standard, while the new 2.0-litre TDI also offers stop and start.

Driving experience
The allroad’s raised ride height allows the suspension more travel, making the ride a softer and more supple. Quite simply it’s the best riding A4 you can buy.
And when you turn off the roads and hit the tracks, the allroad doesn’t disgrace itself either. It’s no proper SUV, but the offroad ESP system, as featured in the Q5, works well at keeping you moving in slippy conditions and it won’t bottom out unless the terrain gets really tricky.

Ownership costs
A standard A4 Avant SE costs £26,000, whereas this 2.0-litre TDI allroad costs nearer the £30,000 mark. Audi also expects most customers add around £9,000 worth of options, so don’t expect much change from £40,000 when ordering flagship models… However slow depreciation and reasonable servicing costs mean cost of ownership is not as high as rivals.

Safety/environment
Based on the NCAP five star Audi A4, the allroad offers front, side and curtain airbags for all occupants. Add to that the car’s efficient diesel engines, and clean turbo petrol powerplants, and it’s easy to see why Audi says that this is the greenest way of going off road currently on offer.

The A4 allroad quattro is right at home on any road – and offroad
Quattro permanent all-wheel drive and increased ground clearance
Sporty character and innovative high-end technology

A vehicle that knows no boundaries: Audi is launching the A4 allroad quattro. With its permanent all-wheel drive and increased ground clearance, the A4 can handle any road or trail; it also offers driving pleasure – even on unpaved surfaces. Naturally, the Audi A4 allroad quattro features all the innovative technologies which impart to the A4 model line its superiority: a range of powerful and highly energy-efficient engines, Audi drive select (intelligent handling technology), the high-tech S tronic transmission, and innovative communication and assistance systems. The vehicle will be available in early summer at a basic price of 37,100 euros.

The design of the Audi A4 allroad quattro recalls the A4 Avant: crisp lines enclose tastefully curved surfaces and the low roof line establishes a coupé-like silhouette. Striking details re-interpret this model line’s sporty elegance. The moon-gray single-frame radiator grille bears vertical chrome strips; an accentuated bumper and large air inlets underscore this vehicle’s unique identity. Chrome rings encircle the fog lights. And in the option featuring xenon plus headlights, light-emitting diodes comprise the daytime running lights and taillights. Underneath the front end and tail end, the A4 allroad has a stainless-steel underbody guard.

Viewed from the side, the vehicle dazzles with flared wheel arches, angular sills (available with stainless-steel insert strips), and large wheels – 17-inch wheels in 7-arm design are standard. The roof is capped off by an offset rail with two high crosspieces. The width of the A4 allroad quattro is emphasized by the rear bumper’s distinctive styling and the integrated horizontal reflectors. On the 2.0 TDI, the two exhaust tailpipes appear side by side; on the 2.0 TFSI and 3.0 TDI, they terminate to the left and to the right.

Body and Luggage Compartment
The Audi A4 allroad quattro is a truly expressive car. Its measurements include: 4.72 meters (15.49 ft) in length, a wheelbase of 2.81 meters (9.22 ft), 1.84 meters (6.04 ft) in width, and 1.50 meters (4.92 ft) in height. It also features greater ground clearance than the Audi A4 Avant: 180 millimeters (7.09 inches) when the Audi A4 allroad quattro is unloaded.

Audi has created a vehicle body consisting primarily of high-strength and ultra-strong steel panels – which, in turn, reduce the car’s weight while enhancing its rigidity, vibrational comfort, and impact safety. An array of precisely arranged metal sections protects passengers in the event of an accident.

In addition to the two front airbags, which take into consideration the precise positions of the driver and front-seat passenger, there are side air bags in the front and, optionally, in the rear as well. Last but not least, a head-protection airbag system also stands at the ready. The integral head-restraint system in the front diminishes the risk of whiplash in the event of a rear-end collision.

The luggage compartment’s base capacity is 490 liters (17.30 cubic feet). This can be increased, however, to an impressive 1,430 liters (50.50 cubic feet) and a length of 1.78 meters (5.84 feet) by folding down the split rear-bench backrest, which optionally features a load-through hatch with removable ski bag. The hatch is exactly one meter wide (3.28 feet). The luggage compartment boasts an ingenious design which enhances its use and is lined with high-quality carpet.

Befitting its character, the A4 allroad quattro has a wealth of practical flourishes: the luggage-compartment cover and the partition safety netting are stored in separate compartments; a mere tap of the hand triggers the cover to automatically retract upward. Additional standard equipment includes fastening rings and bag hooks as well as a shelf on one side with an adjustable net.

Every Audi A4 allroad quattro also has a reversible loadliner, the underside of which has been designed as a dirt-resistant tray. Optional equipment includes a reversible mat, a 12-volt outlet, an electromechanical assembly for the tailgate, and a load-securing set with a telescopic rod and strap retainer. The load-securing set’s two rails in the floor allow the luggage compartment to be divided as required.

Interior
Refined touches, uncompromising quality and flawless functionality: the interior of the Audi A4 allroad quattro embodies all the strengths for which Audi is renowned. The cockpit clearly serves the driver. Among the control unit’s highlights: the standard electromechanical handbrake – which has replaced the lever on the center console with a button – and the central on-board monitor. A color display complements the concert or symphony sound system, or the MMI navigation system plus; the MMI’s offset control unit is housed in the center console.

Customers can choose one of several different trim materials: an exclusive allroad fabric, two types of leather, or an Alcantara/leather combination. The fabric designs are available in two colors and the leather trim in seven colors (two of which feature sporty contrasting stitching). Standard inlays are micrometallic platinum; options include aluminum trigon, natural fine-grain ash, laurel nutmeg, and walnut brown. Carpeting is made of velour; the headlining is star silver, linen beige, or black (optional). Many of the operating controls gleam thanks to their standard aluminum look; the door sill trims bear special allroad logos.

As for seats, Audi offers a seat-heating system, electrical adjustability, a sporty version with pronounced side sections, and climate-controlled comfort seats. The latter not only can be heated, but also deliver relief on hot days thanks to an integrated cooling unit with small fans. The long wheelbase of the A4 allroad quattro ensures plenty of interior space – even on the rear bench seat.

The Engines
Audi will initially offer three different engines for the A4 allroad quattro: a gasoline engine and two diesel engines. All three are turbocharged direct-fuel-injection engines. They command respect due to excellent performance, impressive pulling power, smooth running, and high fuel efficiency. The engines are further bolstered by pioneering technologies arising from Audi’s modular efficiency expertise. For example, all three units boast a standard on-board recuperation system, which converts mechanical energy into electrical energy during deceleration.

The 2-liter TFSI – voted “Engine of the Year” on four consecutive occasions by an international panel of experts – incorporates three high-end technologies: FSI direct gasoline injection, the turbocharger, and the Audi valvelift system, which boosts pulling power by means of a variable control system. Between 1,500 and 4,200 rpm, the four-cylinder engine delivers 350 Nm of torque to the crankshaft. Peak output is 155 kW (211 bhp). In addition, the 2-liter TFSI propels the Audi A4 allroad quattro to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in just 6.9 seconds, and to a top speed of 230 km/h (142.92 mph). On average, it consumes a mere 8.1 liters of fuel per 100 km (29.04 mpg).

As for the 2.0 TDI, the successor to the most successful diesel engine ever, a common-rail system providing injection pressure of 1,800 bar ensures excellent driving refinement. The two-liter diesel engine delivers 350 Nm between 1,750 and 2.500 rpm. A respectable 125 kW (170 bhp) provides admirable output, yet requires just 6.4 liters of fuel per 100 km (36.75 mpg). The Audi A4 allroad quattro 2.0 TDI reaches 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 8.9 seconds and a top speed of 213 km/h (132.35 mph).

The very best of the three engines is the 3.0 TDI. This V6 diesel produces 176 kW (240 bhp) and transmits 500 Nm of torque to the crankshaft at 1,500 to 3,000 rpm. The 3.0 TDI in conjunction with S tronic propels the Audi A4 allroad quattro to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 6.4 seconds, and tops out at 236 km/h (146.64 mph). On average, the three-liter engine sips only 7.1 liters of fuel per 100 km (33.13 mpg). Like the other two engines, it already meets the EU’s Euro 5 emission standard.

The Driveline
The 2.0 TDI transmits its power to a six-speed manual transmission. The 3.0 TDI and 2.0 TFSI feature the next generation of Audi’s dynamic and very efficient S tronic. This innovative dual-clutch transmission switches extremely smoothly among its seven gears within a few hundredths of a second. S tronic also excels thanks to its high efficiency ratio and a broad spread of the gear ratios. The seven-speed S tronic has a fully automatic mode at the ready: the driver can shift as required, if necessary via shift paddles on the steering wheel.

In the Audi A4 allroad quattro drivetrain, the differential is in front of the clutch and immediately behind the engine. This technical stroke of genius made it possible to reposition the front axle much closer to the vehicle’s front end, in turn allowing for a long wheelbase and an ideal distribution of the axle loads. The benefits include steady straight-line stability, superb ride comfort, and excellent driving dynamics.

The Audi A4 allroad quattro features quattro permanent all-wheel drive as standard equipment. Its purely mechanical center differential favors the rear, distributing power at a 40:60 ratio to the front and rear axle. If necessary, the quattro permanent all-wheel drive can route up to 65 percent to the front or as much as 85 percent toward the tail end.

The Chassis
The width of the Audi A4 allroad quattro lays the foundation for its driving dynamics. The car’s track is 1,583 mm (62.32 in.) at the front and 1,574 mm (61.97 in.) at the rear – some 20 mm (0.79 in.) wider, respectively, than the A4 Avant. The body is higher on account of a new chassis with longer springs, which – like the new shock absorbers – combine sportiness with comfort. The standard, 17-inch lightweight alloy wheels are fitted with 225/55 tires. At a diameter of 690 millimeters (27.17 inches), even this standard configuration looks rather imposing. For the time being, Audi is also offering 18-inch wheels.

The chassis in the A4 allroad quattro retains all the advantages which distinguish the A4 model line. Steering is straightforward and responsive. A steering box beneath the wheel conveys the driver’s input directly to the wheels. The five-link front suspension and the self-tracking trapezoidal-link rear suspension consist largely of aluminum to reduce unsprung weight. 16-inch brakes with excellent cooling behavior provide for rapid deceleration. It should come as no surprise that the A4 allroad quattro offers sportiness, comfort, and stability – onroad and offroad. After all, it is an A4.

On rough terrain, the A4 allroad quattro relies on a high-tech feature of its Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP): the Offroad Detection (ORD) technology automatically identifies the type of driving surface and adjusts the ESP’s control parameters accordingly. When the driver depresses the gas pedal, ESP increases propulsive power by tolerating more wheel spin than otherwise. If necessary, it will override for a time in the interests of safety.

On paved roads, Audi drive select further enhances the joys of driving. This control system automatically and perfectly adapts the personality of the Audi A4 allroad quattro to the driver’s preferences. Audi drive select namely evaluates the engine’s throttle response, the Servotronic power steering, and S tronic’s shift points in automatic mode. The driver can freely switch among three different engine maps: comfortable, standard, and sporty. And MMI navigation plus provides yet another on-board control option, and is individually programmable.

Audi drive select can be paired with Audi dynamic steering. It consists of a superimposed gear system, and varies the steering ratio as well as steering assistance in a continuously variable manner. Audi drive select functions directly at low speeds and indirectly at high speeds. At the vehicle’s cornering limit, the dynamic steering keeps the A4 allroad quattro on course via split-second corrective actions – subsequently obviating extensive ESP intervention.

Equipment Packages
The Audi A4 allroad quattro will be available at dealerships early this summer at a basic price of 37,100 euros. It is generously equipped with 17-inch lightweight alloy wheels, fog lights, a headlight washer system, roof rails, a convenient luggage-compartment cover, a reversible loadliner, an automatic climate-control system, an electromechanical handbrake, and a sound system with CD player.

Optional equipment also includes a multitude of attractive features. The high-beam assistant automatically switches between high beams and low beams. The two-part panoramic glass roof with an electrically operated interior shade suffuses the interior with sunlight and fresh air. And the electromechanical tailgate, the ingenious three-zone climate-control system, the xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights and LED reverse lights, and the climate-controlled comfort seats are all luxurious options.

If a customer so desires, they can take delivery of an A4 allroad quattro with innovative assistance systems straight from the luxury class. Audi lane assist helps the driver to remain in a given lane, while Audi side assist makes it safer to change lanes. Adaptive cruise control is a radar-assisted cruise-control system which detects vehicles ahead and maintains the proper following distance by braking and accelerating on its own. Should the rate of deceleration for some reason not suffice, the system alerts the driver via one of two alarms based on the extent of danger.

Audi also offers top-notch multimedia options. The world-class MMI navigation plus system belongs to Audi’s cutting-edge generation of new high-tech devices. It integrates a color display with three-dimensional maps, a DVD player, a voice-activated unit facilitating whole-word commands, and a large hard disk drive which stores data for navigation, music, and phoning. MMI navigation plus can be rendered even more sophisticated by means of tuner modules which enable digital TV/radio reception. Last but not least, a Bang & Olufsen sound system indeed constitutes a luxurious extra: its 14 speakers delivering 505 watts create breathtaking surround sound.

AUDI AG sold around 1,003,400 cars in 2008 and thus achieved its thirteenth consecutive record year. Audi produces vehicles in Ingolstadt and Neckarsulm (Germany), Györ (Hungary), Changchun (China) and Brussels (Belgium). Aurangabad in India saw the start of local production of the Audi A6 at the end of 2007 and of the Audi A4 in early October 2008. The company is active in more than 100 markets worldwide. AUDI AG’s wholly owned subsidiaries include Automobili Lamborghini Holding S.p.A. in Sant’Agata Bolognese (Italy) and quattro GmbH in Neckarsulm. Audi currently employs around 57,000 people worldwide, including 45,000 in Germany. The brand with the four rings invests more than € 2 billion each year in order to sustain the company’s technological lead embodied in its “Vorsprung durch Technik” slogan. Audi plans to significantly increase the number of models in its portfolio by 2015 to 40. The Audi brand celebrates its 100th birthday in 2009. The company was founded by August Horch in Zwickau on July 16, 1909; he named it Audi after the Latin translation of his surname (“hark!”).

AUDI AG will present the complete results for the 2008 business year at its Annual Press Conference on March 10, 2026 in Ingolstadt.

Continuing our pre-show Geneva Salon reports, we have just received word that Audi’s booth will host the world premieres of the long-awaited TT RS and the A4 Allroad. Details are still sketchy, but it has been said that the range-topping TT RS will make use of a turbocharged version of Volkswagen’s U.S. spec 2.5-litre five-cylinder petrol engine pumping out close to 340HP. Naturally, the TT-RS will be fitted with Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system as well as with the latest version of the firm’s S tronic twin-clutch semi-automatic gearbox. The TT RS will be available in both coupe and roadster bodystyles.

As for the first-ever A4 Allroad model, it will be based on the latest-generation A4 Avant. To justify its existence in the range, the A4 will feature the same Allroad cues as the larger A6, including a higher road clearance, larger wheels and dark-grey wheelarch extensions and redesigned bumpers. The engine range will of course be sourced from the A4.

Efficiency is the way into the future – Audi is introducing the current state-of-the-art for its fuel-saving technologies at the Paris Auto Show. The A4 TDI concept e technology concept has the agile handling characteristics typical of the A4, but requires just 3.99 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (58.95 US mpg). This exemplary result was possible through the concentrated use of innovative efficiency modules.

Audi is committing major resources in order to continue improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. The brand is introducing a trend-setting technology concept at the Paris Auto Show: the A4 TDI concept e offers the typically agile experience of driving an Audi, yet it uses just 3.99 liters of fuel per 100 km (58.95 US mpg), which corresponds to a CO2 output of only 105 grams per km (168.98 g/mile). With this near-production study, Audi demonstrates the great potential of the technologies in its modular efficiency system.

The powertrain of the Audi A4 TDI concept e uses a direct-injection TDI engine with an output of 88 kW (120 hp) and 290 Nm (213.89 lb-ft) of torque. It propels the sedan from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 10.7 seconds, and tops out at 206 km/h (128 mph). An entire array of details – from soft springs on the intake valves to a new thermal management system – improves fuel efficiency. Intelligent technologies are used in the engine’s functional environment as well, such as on the fuel pump and on the automatic air conditioning’s compressor.

The recuperation system is another fundamental component for improving fuel efficiency. It recovers power when braking and coasting to a stop, and temporarily stores it in a battery. A start-stop system switches the engine off when the vehicle comes to a standstill. Magnesium was used to reduce the weight of the six-speed transmission, which received an insulating cover for faster warm-up and modified gear ratios.

Audi uses an electromagnetic servo assembly for steering; electrically actuated brakes are fitted at the rear. The 225/45 R17 tires have been optimized for road resistance. Sophisticated fine-tuning measures have improved the aerodynamics of the body. Two types of support are at the driver’s fingertips: he can either call up an economy training program, or have the navigation system calculate the most fuel-efficient route to his destination.

At a glance

Engine
Two-liter TDI with displacement of 1,968 cc, 88 kW (120 hp) output and 290 Nm (213.89 lb-ft) of torque
Average consumption only 3.99 liters/100 km (58.95 US mpg), corresponds to 105 grams of CO2/km (168.98 g/mile)
0 – 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 10.7 seconds, top speed: 206 km/h
Intelligently controlled subassemblies and additional new engineering
Recuperation system for recovering energy when braking

Drivetrain
Six-speed manual transmission with magnesium housing, adapted gear ratio and insulation all the way around
Automatic start/stop for switching off the engine when it has come to a standstill

Chassis
Power steering with highly efficient electro-mechanical drive
Electrical brake system on the rear axle
Road-resistance-optimized using 225/50 R17 tires

Body
Sophisticated aerodynamic fine-tuning with rear trailing edge
and partially closed single-frame grille, aero-floor and modified ride height

Interior
Economy training program on the instrument panel display
Navigation system with calculation of the most fuel-efficient route

The engine

The heart of the sedan is a direct-injection diesel engine – a 2.0 TDI with output of 88 kW (120 hp), just as for the A4 production models. From 1,750 to 2,500 rpm, the four-cylinder engine produces a constant torque of 290 Nm (213.89 lb-ft), which generates impressive acceleration. The piezo injectors in the common-rail system inject the extremely finely atomized fuel at a pressure of up to 1,800 bar, and the special piston geometry provides ideal thermodynamics in the combustion chambers.

The 2.0 TDI also features a comprehensive package of additional efficient technologies. The oil cooler, the oil nozzles for cooling the piston crowns, the oil pump and the water pump have been designed so that they can be switched off – when inactive they do not require any power. New piston rings resulted in lower tangential forces, the spring pressure on the intake valves was reduced slightly, and the vacuum pump for the brake booster received a new actuator. These measures as a whole reduce emissions by 5 grams of CO2/km.

Other engine-related modifications include reduced internal friction, a new thermal management system during the warm-up phase and an electronically controlled fuel pump.

Just as in the production version, Audi is using a thermostatically controlled cooling circuit with an internal heat exchanger for the automatic air conditioning system. It responds in a highly efficient manner – the system uses 20 percent less fuel than its predecessor. The A4 TDI concept e uses a new controller: the engine disconnects the air conditioning system’s compressor from its drive whenever possible.

Like many Audi production models, the A4 TDI concept e uses a recuperation system that converts the energy of motion during deceleration into usable electrical energy. In the deceleration and braking phases the A4 TDI concept e operates with increased secondary voltage. At this point, it is able to convert the kinetic energy into electrical energy; it is buffered in an absorbent glass mat battery, which is a robust battery with a long life. Whenever the sedan accelerates again, the battery feeds the energy back in, thus reducing the load on the alternator.

Efficiency and agility are inextricably linked at Audi – as proved by the basic data for the A4 TDI concept e. The sedan sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 10.7 seconds, and accelerates from 80 to 120 km/h (49.71 to 74.56 mph) in fifth gear in just 10.9 seconds. The A4 TDI concept e reaches a top speed of 206 km/h (128 mph).

Drivetrain and chassis

The 2.0 TDI transfers its power to a six-speed manual transmission which is notable for its considerably reduced internal friction. It was specially customized to the high-torque TDI engine and has somewhat taller ratios for gears three through six. Most of the housing consists of ultra-light magnesium, which reduces weight by nearly 5 kilograms. A foam-packed skin serves as insulation, ensuring that the transmission oil heats up faster after the vehicle has been started. The drive shafts from the differential to the front wheels have also been redesigned.

The transmission is coupled to a start-stop system that switches the engine off whenever the sedan comes to a standstill. The TDI is deactivated whenever the A4 TDI concept e comes to a standstill, the shift lever is in the neutral position, and the driver’s foot is off the clutch pedal. It starts up again as soon as the driver steps on the clutch – a specially developed starter handles this in around two tenths of a second, which is faster and smoother than a traditional component. While the driver puts the vehicle in gear, the TDI speeds up; as he takes his foot off the pedal, it drops down to idle speed.

The start-stop system improves the exemplary fuel efficiency of the Audi A4 TDI concept e still further, meaning that 5 grams less of CO2 are produced per 100 kilometers – as measured on the dynamometer. And in actual terms this reduction may turn out even higher, as many trips to work are less than ten kilometers long and are frequently interrupted by traffic lights.

Another important feature is that an electro-mechanical part replaced the electro-hydraulic power steering. This yielded a further reduction of 4 grams of CO2/km. It does not have to circulate any hydraulic fluid, nor absorb any energy while the vehicle is traveling in a straight line – its electric motor which provides power assistance only kicks in if the driver turns the wheel.

The electrical brakes are another technology module that shows how meticulous the Audi engineers were in their approach to efficiency. Thanks to active brake control, residual brake torque is almost non-existent. It only arises if the small air gap that is necessary for a stiff feel to the pedal and immediate brake response results in a slightly unevenly shaped disk rubbing on the lining. Using electrical rear-axle brakes will achieve the same effect on the front axle: here, an enlarged air gap is also possible since the power brake system only has to carry out the lining displacement for one axle.

Body and cockpit

The A4 TDI concept e glides sleekly through the wind. A trunk lid with a restrained separating edge adds a further dimension to the already excellent aerodynamics. The partially closed grid in the single-frame grille and sporty suspension tuning with optimized ride height also contribute to the excellent drag coefficient of 0.25 (production model: 0.27).

The underbody of the technology study painted in Daytona Grey is faired much more extensively than the production model; the rear lights feature LED technology, which uses much less power than regular bulbs. Newly designed, dip-polished cast aluminum wheels, of the size 7.5 J x 17 improve the flow of air around the wheels and wheel housings. The tires are designed for smooth running, but also provide sporty grip due to their 225/50 R17 wide format.

The intricate technology package from Audi’s modular efficiency system also takes the most important external factor of all into account as far as possible: the person behind the wheel. Despite the prominence of high-end technology, the driver remains primarily responsible for how fuel-efficient his vehicle is. This is a fact that Audi takes very seriously in relation to its efficiency strategy.

The driver will discover two major aids in the A4 TDI to help him drive economically. He can call up an efficiency program that shows up on the instrument panel display and which acts like an ecology trainer – pointing out open side windows or recommending rapid upshifting. And the navigation system will always offer an especially fuel-saving route as an alternative whenever the driver enters a destination.

The ‘e’ models from Audi

The Audi ‘e’ models are especially progressive, combining maximum efficiency with excellent dynamics. The Audi A3 1.9 TDI e and the A3 1.9 TDI e Sportback both achieve standardized fuel efficiency figures of 4.5 liters per 100 km (52.27 US mpg) and a CO2 value of only 119 grams per km (191.51 g/mile). Both models have an output of 77 kW (105 hp) and a top speed of 194 km/h (120.55 mph).

The new Audi A6 2.0 TDI e and its Avant equivalent are equipped with a 100 kW (136 hp) diesel. The sedan accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 10.3 seconds and has a top speed of 208 km/h (129.25 mph). Average fuel consumption for both models: only 5.3 l/100 km (44.38 US mpg).

The A8 2.8 FSI e, with its 154 kW (210 hp) V6 on average consumes only 8.3 liters of fuel (28.34 US mpg), making it the most efficient gasoline engine in the luxury class.

Audi plans to expand its ‘e’ model line in the near future and start putting further technologies from its modular efficiency assembly into production. By the year 2012, the brand with the four rings will once again have significantly reduced CO2 emissions while continuing to hone its sporty, elegant profile.

The equipment, data, and prices specified refer to the models offered in Germany. Subject to amendment; errors and omissions excepted.

If there was one aim Audi had in mind when developing the new A4, it must have been to beat the 3-Series. That would be no mean feat: the BMW has a blend of handling, quality and desirability many car makers can only dream of.

So it’s all the more impressive that Audi was successful in its quest – the all-new A4 is a winner! The sleek four-door is a great example of the brand’s cutting-edge design. There’s nothing revolutionary about the looks, yet the sharp lines and sometimes unexpected features create a dashing compact executive model.

The high-quality design continues inside, with an attractive and beautifully built dash in place of the 3-Series’ sombre ambience. High-spec cars offer a cabin fit for the luxury class. What’s more, Audi’s MMI interface is the best solution to centralised cabin controls yet. And while in the past, the A4 has been left trailing by its rivals on the road, that’s no longer the case. With the help of a superb new platform and the latest front and four-wheel-drive powertrains, the A4 is as agile and enjoyable to drive as any rival.

And then we come to the engines. Not only are the diesels some of the punchiest and most economical in the class, but the latest FSI petrol units are superb, too. Even the 3.2-litre V6 is capable of both blistering acceleration and 35mpg economy when cruising. Compactexecutive car buyers have never had it so good.

Commended: BMW 3-Series

Shortlist:
BMW 3-Series
Audi A4
Mercedes C-Class
Lexus IS
Alfa Romeo 159
Volkswagen Passat CC

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AUDI A4 EARNS FIVE STARS IN THE EURO NCAP CRASH TEST

• Mid-sized model one of the safest cars in its class
• Highest rating possible for the new A4 Saloon

After testing the new Audi A4 for passive crash safety, the Euro NCAP consortium awarded the vehicle five stars, the highest rating possible. The results achieved by the new Audi A4 for adult protection in frontal and side crashes as well as child and pedestrian protection make it one of the safest vehicles in its class.

The mid-sized model from the brand with the four rings was put to the test for passive vehicle safety by Euro NCAP. The consortium, consisting of international representatives from European ministries of transport, automotive clubs, insurance companies and consumer protection agencies, comprehensively examined the crash performance of new vehicles.

The Euro NCAP’s demanding test requirements substantially exceed the guidelines stipulated by European lawmakers. The data collected on the A4 for driver and passenger safety in frontal and side crashes earned the vehicle five stars, the best rating possible. The Audi A4 offers good protection for children as well: the test results for child safety are also high, with four stars earned.

Founded in 1997, the Euro NCAP consortium conducts crash tests with all of the important vehicles on the European market. It seeks to systematically improve safety in traffic, thus protecting the lives of all road users.

Audi regards providing partner protection for pedestrians and cyclists as an important task. A vehicle front end designed specifically to comply with this safety philosophy helps to mitigate consequences in the event of an accident. This development is rewarded with two of four possible stars in the Euro NCAP test.

German based car customizer and bodykit specialist Rieger Tuning has presented a new styling and performance upgrade for the new B8 Audi A4 saloon at this week’s Tuning World Bodensee event in Germany. The Rieger A4 is a saloon redesigned for daily use with a kick and manages to keep the understated good looks of the standard model while also adding a touch of aggression.

This is helped in part by the addition of a new front-lip spoiler, sport side-sills, a custom rear bumper and integrated diffuser plus a set of 20in alloy wheels.

For the mechanical upgrades, engineers chose to focus on improving performance of 3.0L TDI diesel model. Engine output has been increased to a healthy 297hp (up from 240hp in the stocker) and 610Nm of torque, courtesy of a new sports air-filter and stainless steel exhaust plus an ECU upgrade.

Rieger Tuning was founded by Toni Rieger twenty years ago and is based in Eggenfelden, Germany. The tuner is a specialist in creating bodykits for a number of German labels including Mercedes-Benz and BMW as well as Audi.

Tuners - perhaps especially the German-car tuners - seem to leave no stone unturned in the search for more performance and sportier looks. Abt’s latest creative burst brings us this new take on Audi’s already excellent A4 Avant.

The Abt AS4 is an estate redesigned for daily use with a kick. Although Audi gave the A4 Avant a good bit of go from the factory, Abt has chosen to do a bit more. Depending on the state of tune desired, and which engine you’re starting with, you can go from a stock 160hp with the 1.8L TSI petrol motor to 200hp or 240hp after upgrades; with the diesel Abt cranks it up to either 282hp or 310hp from a stock 240hp. Torque for the diesel is a devilish 610Nm in top trim.

Big stoppers at all four corners and custom wheels with sticky rubber mean the car can haul down its massive straight-line speed in time for whatever you might throw at it. An all-new lower body kit - front, side and rear skirts - and a a rear roof spoiler plus Abt classic dual-dual exhaust system give the AS4 a sporty look to match its upgraded internals.

The best part is that even with all the added performance and style, the utility and comfort of the A4 Avant is still there, undisturbed, beneath it all.