Latest SUV offering an exceptional specification including the new option of air suspension can now be ordered in readiness for deliveries from April

• All-new version of the best-selling Audi SUV worldwide
• Increased interior space, headroom and rear kneeroom with class-leading interior acoustics, plus a luggage capacity increase of 10 litres
• 2.0 TFSI quattro 252PS and 2.0 TDI quattro 190PS available at launch
• V6 TDI quattro with 286PS will follow at a later date
• SE, Sport and S line specification
• Newly developed five-link suspension and optional adaptive air suspension
• Audi drive select fitted as standard, featuring lift/offroad and allroad modes
• quattro with ultra technology fitted as standard to four-cylinder engines
• Key optional equipment includes Matrix LED lights, MMI Navigation Plus with MMI Touch, Bang & Olufsen sound system, virtual cockpit, head-up display
• Assistance systems range from adaptive cruise control with stop&go, predictive efficiency assistant, collision avoidance assistant and turn assist
• Residual values set the benchmark in the premium mid-size SUV class
• Pricing starts from £37,170 OTR, with first deliveries anticipated in April

More comfortable, more agile, more efficient, more protective and better connected - the all-new Audi Q5 is about to build on the consistent sales success of its predecessor with an even stronger skill set, firmly securing it once more as a cornerstone of the Q range and a standard bearer for the brand’s uncompromising pursuit of progress.

Orders can now be placed in the UK ahead of first deliveries during April for Q5 models in either SE, Sport or S line specification, and pricing starts from £37,170 OTR for the 2.0 TDI quattro 190PS, rising to £41,040 OTR for the 2.0 TFSI quattro S line.

Standard equipment is now even more comprehensive than before, with features such as the Audi Smartphone Interface, the Audi parking system plus and powered tailgate operation present right from the SE entry point. Other notable standard features include Audi drive select, heated front seats, an acoustic windscreen, deluxe three-zone electronic climate control and pre-sense city collision prevention assistance.

Strong specification is just one of the factors contributing to a residual value that is not only the highest in its segment, but of any Audi model ever at launch – over three years/30,000 miles, the Q5 2.0 TDI quattro S line S tronic with 190PS is predicted to retain an exceptional 58.3* per cent of its original value, while every other Q5 model in the range achieves an RV over the same term of at least 55 per cent. Independent automotive valuation experts, CAP Monitor also rate the RV of the Q5 2.0 TDI quattro S line S tronic at an impressive 57 per cent over the same three year/30,000-mile term.

Typically Audi: quattro design language

The new SUV from Audi has a defined and taut stance. A sculpturally flared Singleframe grille with a solid frame dominates its aerodynamically flat front end. It is fitted with Xenon headlights as standard on SE and Sport models and all-weather LED headlights with a signature Q design on S line. High-resolution Matrix LED lamps with dynamic indicators can be chosen as an option regardless of model.

A distinctively curved and strongly undercut shoulder line gives structure to the side view. The strongly emphasised wheel arches are a reference to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system, and the low greenhouse tapers back down early. Just as at the front, horizontal lines at the rear convey an image of width and presence. The tail lights are also available with optional dynamic indicators. The tailgate wraps around the C-pillars – a typical feature of the Q models from Audi. A diffuser insert integrates the exhaust tailpipes.

Weight saved: up to 90 kg lighter than the previous model

4.66 metres long, 1.89 metres wide and 1.66 metres tall with a 2.82-metre wheelbase – compared to the previous model, the new Q5 has grown in nearly all of its dimensions. Consequently, the unladen weight was reduced – depending on the engine – by up to 90 kg. Steels with maximum tensile strength and aluminium form an intelligent material mix in the body.

The new Q5 also stands at the top of its class in its aerodynamics. The four-cylinder versions attain a cd figure of 0.30 with the aerodynamically optimised roof. Wind noises are exceptionally low, and vibration comfort is high – the new SUV from Audi indulges the driver and passengers with the best interior acoustics in its class.

Spacious and wide: the interior

The workmanship quality in the new Q5 is uncompromising. The interior offers a lot of space for five people, and it surpasses the previous model and its competitors in key dimensions. Its horizontally oriented lines underscore the impression of width and comfort, and a three-dimensional trim strip runs across the entire width of the instrument panel. The new equipment lines concept offers customers a broad selection of colours and materials.

A three-spoke multifunction steering wheel is standard. When it is dark, the optional ambient lighting creates an attractive atmosphere in 30 different colours.

The rear seat back of the new Audi Q5 is split into three segments. Longitudinal and seat back angle adjustment are optional. Depending on the rear seat position, the basic volume of the luggage compartment ranges from 550 to 610 litres, 10 litres more than in the previous model. When the rear bench is folded down, this volume grows to 1,550 litres. Cargo loading is simplified by a power-operated tailgate fitted as standard, an optional variably folding mat, optional hands-free control of the power tailgate and manual lowering of the body via the optional air suspension.

Simply coherent: controls and displays

Operation of the new Audi SUV is intuitive and is marked by three great new features. The optional Audi virtual cockpit presents brilliant graphics on its high-resolution 12.3-inch screen. The driver can choose from two views – a classic view with large round instruments and a mode in which the navigation map or lists dominate.

The MMI terminal in the centre console acts as the main control element. In the top infotainment system, the optional MMI navigation plus features an 8.3-inch display and MMI all-in-touch incorporating a touchpad built into the rotary controller which recognises haptic feedback. The interactive system is able to comprehend handwritten entries as well as gestures familiar from consumer electronics such as zooming gestures.

The MMI operating logic is based on the flat hierarchies used in today’s smartphones, and it offers such features as intelligent free-text search. The new natural-language voice control function also recognizes inputs from everyday speech.

Audi can deliver a newly developed head-up display as an option. It projects relevant information onto the windshield – including from driver assistance systems – as symbols and numbers that can be perceived quickly.

Audi navigation: “Personal route assist”

The new Audi Q5, like the Q7 and the A4, has a self-learning “personal route assist” function. After activating this function, the navigation system learns the routes and destinations that the customer regularly selects, and it associates this information to the parked position and time of day.

For as long as it is active, the system therefore learns from the customer’s behaviour and uses this information to suggest optimised route planning for the next trip – even while navigation is inactive. The navigation system incorporates the three most likely destinations into the calculation, taking into consideration both the arrival time and current traffic levels. For instance, the system can suggest that the customer activate navigation to find out about potential alternative routes. The driver decides whether or not to activate the function. He also has the option of deleting saved destinations. If the function is deactivated, the system does not store the destinations and does not consider deleted destinations or the routes driven.

Online via LTE: MMI navigation plus

Sport and S line models take advantage of an SD-card based MMI Navigation system, supplemented by a three-month free trial of the Audi connect suite of services. As an alternative, MMI navigation plus with the intelligent handwriting recognition technology of MMI Touch unlocks a full 36-month subscription to Audi connect via an embedded SIM with no data charge.

The free Audi MMI connect app produces a close interconnection between the car and smartphone or a smartwatch and offers other services. They include remote checking of important vehicle states, online media streaming and transmission of a calendar from a smartphone to the MMI.

High-end option: the infotainment modules

The Audi phone box connects smartphones to the vehicle’s antenna for optimal reception quality; it also charges smartphones inductively according to the Qi standard. The Bang & Olufsen Sound System with innovative 3D sound introduces the spatial dimension of height. The Audi smartphone interface also brings Apple CarPlay and Android Auto into the new Q5.

Driver assistance and safety systems

In its driver assistance systems, the new Audi Q5 also tops its segment with a broad range of high-tech options. In their intelligent interplay, the systems represent a next step towards piloted driving.

The predictive efficiency assistant helps the driver save fuel by specific information on the car’s surroundings. Adaptive cruise control (ACC) can also ease strain in slow-moving traffic, while Audi active lane assist makes it easier to stay in lane. Distance warning alerts the driver when the distance to a vehicle drops below a safe distance.

Cross traffic assist rear, the exit warning system, collision avoidance assist and turn assist are other new features that perform excellently in pursuit of safety. The same applies to the pre sense systems – Audi pre sense city is a standard feature which warns of pedestrians and vehicles and may initiate automatic emergency braking within system limits. Park assist, the camera-based recognition of traffic signs and hill descent assist round out the features.

Powerful and efficient: TDI and TFSI engines

The new Audi Q5 is launching in the UK with a powerful 2.0 TDI engine producing 190PS and a 2.0 TFSI engine with an output of 252PS. This petrol unit is capable of returning up to 40.9mpg combined, which equates to 157 grams CO2 per km. The efficiency champion is the 2.0 TDI 190PS: up to 56.5mpg combined is achievable in conjunction with a low of 132g/km, depending on wheel size. The also intensively revised 3.0 TDI, coming at a later date, increases output to 286PS with 620Nm (457.3 lb ft) of torque.

Versatile and efficient: drivetrain

The drivetrain of the mid-size SUV has been redeveloped from the ground up. Automatic transmissions integrate a fuel-saving freewheel function. The driver controls it by a selection lever or by shift paddles on the steering wheel; in both cases, the control signals are transmitted electronically.

The new quattro drivetrain with ultra technology is standard equipment for the 2.0 TDI with 190PS, and for the 2.0 TFSI with 252PS. quattro with ultra technology always disengages the rear-axle drive whenever it is not needed, and if necessary it can proactively re-engage it. The new concept boosts efficiency without reducing traction or driving dynamics.

For the V6 diesel, Audi can deliver an optional sport differential at the rear axle which distributes torque between the wheels as necessary and thereby provides a maximum of driving dynamics – this is another new feature in this model series and in the competitive field.

Torque vectoring gives handling a refined touch. The intelligent software solution always delivers a dynamic, precise and controllable driving experience.

Resolving contradictions: the chassis

The new Audi Q5 enables handling that combines very different strengths – it is sporty while being extremely comfortable. Creating the basis for this are the newly developed five-link suspensions and also the new electromechanical power steering system. Dynamic steering is available as an option; it varies its gear ratio according to the driving speed and steering angle.

Customers can choose from two extension stages of springs and damping. The chassis with damper control offers a very wide spread between comfort and dynamics, which the driver can select via Audi drive select. In addition to adjusting damper control, the new adaptive air suspension can be used to vary the ride height of the car body over five stages.

In the standard system, Audi drive select, which accesses various technical modules, the driver can select one of as many as seven driving modes. The offroad mode emphasises the broad repertoire of talents the Q5 has when going beyond the beaten track.

The new Audi SUV comes from the factory with 18-inch alloy wheels (SE and Sport), and the S line package with 19-inch wheels. Wheels up to 20 inches in diameter are available as options.

The new Audi Q5 is manufactured at a newly constructed plant in Mexico. It will arrive at Audi Centres in the UK in the spring of 2017.

For further information visit the Audi online magazine “Q5 illustrated” www.audi-illustrated.com/en/q5

Article source: www.audi.co.uk

Successor to popular second generation TT combining TDI torque with quattro all-wheel-drive tenacity is now available to order in the UK

• UK ordering now open for the Audi TT 2.0 TDI quattro S tronic
• Available in Sport, S line and Black Edition specification
• TT TDI quattro Coupé starts from £34,230 OTR; Roadster from £35,845 OTR

Audi is further expanding the repertoire of its iconic and multi-award-winning Audi TT range this week by introducing new, third generation successors to the popular TDI quattro Coupé and Roadster models. Slotting into the line-up alongside the established front-wheel-drive TDI ultra efficiency champions, the new all-wheel-driven versions are now available to order priced from £34,230 OTR, and are due to start arriving with UK customers in the spring.

A six-speed S tronic twin-clutch transmission exclusively partners the 2.0 TDI unit in the new variants, and appropriate distribution of the 184PS and 380Nm of torque that it channels to both axles is the responsibility of the electro-hydraulic multi-plate clutch at the heart of the quattro system. It incorporates wheel selective torque control for even more precise and agile roadholding in all weathers. Sprint times reflect the traction advantages, with zero to 62mph in the Coupé dipping to 6.7 seconds compared to 7.1 seconds for the TDI ultra, while top speed is a creditable 145mph. In the Roadster, 62mph takes 7.0 seconds, three tenths quicker than the ultra, with a 142mph top speed.

Delivery of drive to all four wheels has also done little to diminish the efficiency of the TT 2.0 TDI, with a combined fuel consumption figure of 52.3mpg achievable according to the NEDC, corresponding to CO2 of 142g/km. As a Roadster, the TT 2.0 TDI quattro S tronic returns up to 50.4mpg, with 147g/km of CO2.

Article source: www.audi.co.uk

Even more powerful and well connected five-door RS regains its place in the range alongside the recently launched RS 3 Saloon

• 400 PS five-cylinder engine delivers a concentrated dose of driving pleasure
• Wider track and pronounced sills are hallmarks of the RS design
• World premiere at the Geneva International Motor Show
• UK ordering possible from the summer, first deliveries later in 2017

The RS 3 Sportback - the original entry point to Audi RS ownership - has taken a back seat recently to allow the new RS 3 Saloon its share of the limelight, but at next month’s Geneva Motor Show the muscle-bound five-door will make its comeback emboldened by the latest 400PS five-cylinder TFSI engine and a raft of design and connectivity upgrades. Following its world public debut in Switzerland on Tuesday March 7 the Audi compact segment spearhead will become available to order in the UK in the summer and will touch down here towards the end of the year.

“The Audi RS 3 Sportback offers our customers an attractive introduction to the RS world,” said Stephan Winkelmann, CEO of Audi Sport GmbH. “Since 2011 the sporty compact model has proved itself extremely successful on the market. And with the new five-cylinder engine, the Audi RS 3 Sportback is at the head of its class and continuing that strong track record.”

From 0 to 62mph in 4.1 seconds

Behind the impressive performance of the Audi RS 3 Sportback is the world’s most powerful production five-cylinder engine – the 2.5 TFSI. It delivers 400PS – 33PS more than its predecessor – and is 26 kilograms (57.3 lb) lighter thanks to its aluminium crankcase, among other features. Its maximum torque of 480 Nm (354.0 lb-ft) is available from just 1,700 rpm and remains at the driver’s disposal right through to 5,850 rpm.

This wide tract of torque facilitates an exhilarating 4.1-second 0-62mph sprint time, the effect of which is heightened by the five-cylinder unit’s unmistakably full-bodied and characterful sound. Top speed is limited to 155mph, but if the optional dynamic package plus is specified a de-restriction to 174mph is among the extra features it brings.

For better mixture preparation, the new 2.5 TFSI engine employs dual injection into the intake manifold and into the combustion chambers. On the exhaust side, the Audi valvelift system controls the duration of valve opening depending on the throttle and engine speed – for moderate fuel consumption at low and partial load as well as optimal throttle response and a high level of tractive power at full load. In the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) test the RS 3 Sportback returns 34.0mpg – a creditable figure considering its performance capabilities which equates to 189 grams of CO2 per kilometre.

quattro drive with variable distribution of power

The proven channels for the mighty engine’s output are the S tronic seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and quattro permanent all-wheel drive based on an electro-hydraulic multi-plate clutch which distributes the drive torque variably between the axles. The share it allocates to the rear axle automatically varies depending on speed and cornering forces, but its bias can also be influenced by the driver using the standard Audi drive select system, which can also influence the response of the steering, transmission, engine management, adjustable exhaust flaps and optional RS sport suspension with adaptive damper control. It offers three modes - comfort, auto and dynamic. Cornering attitude is also further enhanced by the Electronic Stabilisation Control (ESC) with wheel-selective torque control and the sport mode specially tuned for the RS.

Wider track and sporty suspension setup

With its standard progressive steering and sophisticated multi-link suspension with wider front track positioning the stocky body 25mm lower than the A3, the RS 3 Sportback is set up to deliver compelling grip and adjustability with extraordinary poise. 19-inch alloy wheels framing 310-millimetre brake discs front and rear are factory fitted, and as an alternative customers will be able to choose carbon-fibre ceramic front discs.

Distinctive RS design

Externally, the flared front arches that evocatively link the RS 3 Sportback with its Eighties quattro coupé forebears continue to lend just the right air of power and purpose to the latest car, while subtle styling revisions based on the recent updates made across the A3 range also lift its look. The Singleframe grille with its gloss black honeycomb mesh and the large air inlets and angular sill trims which flank it are now also complemented by a redesigned blade in the bumper which serves to make the car appear even more broad-shouldered. At its ends it forms narrow, upright funnels. LED headlights with their distinctive lighting signature are standard, and matrix LED headlights are available from the options list. At the rear an elongated RS roof edge spoiler, a diffuser insert and the RS exhaust system’s large oval tailpipes add further emphasis to the high performance hatchback’s foursquare stance.

Lap timer, boost pressure indicator and special RS screen

In the equally focused cabin the two circular instrument dials with their black faces, white scales and red needles sit either side of a driver information system that includes a boost pressure indicator, an oil thermometer and a lap timer. In the latest car this configuration can now be replaced by the fully digital Audi virtual cockpit which is newly available. A special RS screen shifts the tachometer to the centre, displaying on either side the readings for torque, g forces and tyre pressure. When the S tronic transmission is operating in manual mode, a scale with a colour background prompts the driver to use the steering wheel paddle or selector lever to upshift when approaching maximum rpm.

Sport seats with RS seatback emblems in black fine Nappa leather are standard, and for even greater support RS sport seats with more contoured profiles and integrated head restraints for the driver and front passenger are available as options. The RS sport leather steering wheel is flat-bottomed and features buttons for operating the infotainment system. The main control element is the rotary/push-button control on the console of the centre tunnel. A touchpad can be integrated in its surface, enabling the driver to scroll, zoom and enter text. Also included is a free text search feature that automatically completes the user’s input after just a few letters have been entered. The voice control can process user questions and commands formulated in everyday language.

Online with Audi connect

When it comes to infotainment, the RS 3 Sportback is even more versatile than before. The Audi Smartphone Interface is now standard, enabling users to access selected apps on their handsets from the car’s onboard monitor via Apple Car Play and Android Auto, and an LTE module brings the Audi connect services on board, including navigation with Google Earth and Google Street View, as well as information on fuel prices, weather, travel and traffic. The Audi MMI connect app lets users transfer their smartphone calendars into the MMI system. Drivers can also send destinations from Google Maps and special destinations to the navigation system, and also stream music from the internet. In addition, the navigation system includes a Wi-Fi hotspot that enables passengers to connect their mobile devices to the internet.

Other highlights include the Audi phone box for wireless connection to the car’s onboard antenna and inductive charging of handsets equipped to the QI standard, the Bang & Olufsen Sound System with 705 watts of power, and many driver assistance systems. In slow-moving traffic up to 40mph, for example, the traffic jam assist keeps the car at a safe distance from the vehicle in front and can briefly take over the steering. Also new in the Audi RS 3 Sportback are the emergency assist, which automatically stops the car if required, and cross traffic assist rear. The latter system looks out for crossing vehicles when the driver is pulling out of a parking space.

Market launch and prices

Orders for the RS 3 Sportback and the RS 3 Saloon will be accepted in the UK from the summer, and UK pricing for both variants will be confirmed closer to that point.

Article source: www.audi.co.uk

New patented process enabling matte lettering and graphics to be embedded in painted surfaces makes its debut in R8

• Patented process modifies surface sheen to create matte lettering and graphics
• Audi Board of Management Member for Production Prof. Dr. Hubert Waltl: “A high degree of individualisation with maximum efficiency and flexibility”
• Available for the first time as part of the Audi exclusive programme for R8 Coupe and Spyder models

Owners have always been able to make an impression with the Audi R8, but now they can also make their mark on one thanks to a new Audi-developed process for the partial matting of painted surfaces that enables virtually any lettering or graphics to be precisely ‘blasted’ into the painted surface of the car’s distinctive sideblades.

A special powder roughens the clear lacquer on the surface to a depth of a few thousandths of a millimetre so that individual markings become visible, making each R8 which undergoes the process unique. As the desired symbols are applied to components after being painted, the process can easily be integrated into normal series production.

“The method of partial matting is an excellent example of the flexibility of our production. Being able to implement individualisation in normal series production is one of the aims of our smart factory,” stated Prof. Dr. Hubert Waltl, Member of the Board of Management for Production at AUDI AG.

Painting a car consists of – in addition to the cathodic dip coating to protect against corrosion – at least three further coats: filler, base coat and the transparent lacquer as the top protective coat. With the newly developed process, a template of the desired pattern is first placed on the component. A blasting system then sprays a special powder onto the surface, which roughens the clear lacquer to a depth of just a few thousandths of a millimetre – less than a tenth of the thickness of a human hair. This creates the effect of a matt and homogeneous pattern.

“With this process, we modify the brilliance of the paintwork and the intensity of its sheen. Light hitting the surface is then reflected diffusely by the individualised surface areas. This makes it appear matt,” explained project manager Dr. Erhard Brandl. Production section head Mirko Endres added: “This form of individualisation is weather resistant, unlike conventional lettering and stickers, and it has a much more high-quality appearance.”

The Audi paint shop can apply almost any pattern that a customer requests providing it does not affect any third-party rights. At present, components with a size up to a metre by a metre can be processed in this way. The Audi R8 super sports car in both Coupe and open-top Spyder forms is the first model for which this technology is offered through the Audi exclusive personalisation programme. This option will also become available for other models in the range in the future.

Article source: www.audi.co.uk