Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Justin Timberlake named new Audi "brand ambassador"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/justin-timberlake-named-new-audi-brand-ambassador/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/justin-timberlake-named-new-audi-brand-ambassador/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/justin-timberlake-named-new-audi-brand-ambassador/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



All we really want to do at this moment in time is make a never-ending series of N'Sync jokes. But we don't know any. So instead, let's talk about how Audi has just picked Justin Timberlake to be their new spokesman. What's JT doing specifically? Seems as if the four interlocking rings folks are gearing up to do some sort of "extraordinary Internet campaign" for the A1 and "That's where Timberlake will play a leading role."

Just yesterday, we published a report that the new Audi A1 will possibly not be coming to the U.S. Obviously, a star of Timberlake's caliber will be able to effectively move metal outside of our shores. But we have to wonder if Audi's naming Timberlake its brand ambassador doesn't kick a little sand into the eye of the A1-is-not-for-here theory. After the all, the guy started his music career on Star Search and later as a Mouseketeer. It seems fairly apparent that Audi would make a move like this if us American types are in fact getting their small premium city car. Then again, we're not really up on our star watching and our Significant Others tell us that JT is an international phenom. In any case, at this moment in time, we just don't know what to think. Press release after the jump.


Gallery: 2011 Audi A1 Graffiti Teasers


[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Justin Timberlake named new Audi "brand ambassador"

Justin Timberlake named new Audi "brand ambassador" originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Audi A12010AudiA12011 Audi A12011AudiA1A1AudiAudi A1AudiA1brand spokesmanbrand spokespersonBrandSpokesmanBrandSpokespersonJTJustin TimberlakeJustin Timberlake AudiJustinTimberlakeJustinTimberlakeAudiNSyncspokesmansponsorshipTimberlakeWed, 16 Dec 2009 09:58:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: 2011 Audi A1 not coming to the States]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/report-2011-audi-a1-not-coming-to-the-states/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/report-2011-audi-a1-not-coming-to-the-states/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/report-2011-audi-a1-not-coming-to-the-states/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2011 Audi A1 graffiti - Click above for high-res image gallery

There's still two months to go before the production 2011 Audi A1 is finally scheduled to get its internet close-up ahead of its public debut at the Geneva Motor Show, and the hype machine is already in full swing. No wonder, really, considering how much the Mini line - which, along with the reborn Fiat 500, Audi is obviously targeting with the little A1 - and its excellent advertising campaigns have impacted the public psyche.

One very large question remains, though: Will Audi sell the A1 in the States? We've heard from Audi's head of sales Peter Schwarzenbauer multiple times that the car was designed with the U.S. market in mind, but today we see a conflicting report from Insideline quoting an unnamed Audi insider.

The decision on whether or not the A1 makes the trek to America may well depend on its ability to make money at Mini's established price points and how strongly Audi believes that U.S. buyers have signaled their willingness to spend premium bucks on small cars. We'll see...


Gallery: 2011 Audi A1 Graffiti Teasers


[Source: Insideline]

REPORT: 2011 Audi A1 not coming to the States originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a1audiAudi A1audi a1 americaaudi a1 american salesaudi a1 usaudi a1 us salesAudiA1AudiA1AmericaAudiA1AmericanSalesAudiA1UsAudiA1UsSalesTue, 15 Dec 2009 15:31:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: 2011 Audi A1 teased ahead of Geneva unveiling]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/video-2011-audi-a1-teased-ahead-of-geneva-unveiling/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/video-2011-audi-a1-teased-ahead-of-geneva-unveiling/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/video-2011-audi-a1-teased-ahead-of-geneva-unveiling/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Audi A1 - Click above for high-res image gallery
Two years ago, the Audi Metroproject Quattro concept bowed at the Tokyo Motor Show. A year later, the Audi A1 Sportback study was unveiled in Paris. And in less than two months, the production 2011 Audi A1 will finally be revealed online ahead of its public debut at the Geneva Motor Show... but not before the hype machine is put into full effect.

After the jump, you can check out three teaser videos of the A1, beginning with a graffiti homage to Audi's new compact hatch, followed by a brief statement from Chairman Rupert Stadler and a design discussion with a few of the A1's creators.

Predictably, all three spots are mum on details, but from previous reports, we know that the A1 is likely to be powered by a 1.4-liter TFSI four-cylinder channeling around 150 hp to a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. All-wheel drive may be exclusive to the 180-hp S1 -- due to arrive sometime in 2011 -- with the standard model dolling out power to the front wheels alone, and a cabrio variant arriving in 2012. Expect all the details to come down from on high in February -- including an announcement about Audi's intent to sell the A1 Stateside -- but until then... jump.


Gallery: 2011 Audi A1 Graffiti Teasers

Continue reading VIDEO: 2011 Audi A1 teased ahead of Geneva unveiling

VIDEO: 2011 Audi A1 teased ahead of Geneva unveiling originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 a12011 audi a12011A12011AudiA120122012 audi a12012AudiA1a1audiaudi a1AudiA1genevageneva 2010geneva motor showgeneva showGeneva2010GenevaMotorShowGenevaShowMon, 14 Dec 2009 15:40:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Audi intent on keeping upcoming A1 premium]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/report-audi-intent-on-keeping-upcoming-a1-premium/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/report-audi-intent-on-keeping-upcoming-a1-premium/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/report-audi-intent-on-keeping-upcoming-a1-premium/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Audi A1 Sportback concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

After watching from the sidelines for years as arch-rival BMW found success with the Mini brand, Audi is finally gearing up to jump into the scrum with the new A1. But unlike the Mini One (which slots below the Cooper in overseas markets), Audi doesn't intend to target the budget market. Instead, the new A1 will take aim directly at the Mini Cooper.

Don't expect to see any engine badges on the back of the four-ringed Polo, however, as Audi reportedly intends on keeping the displacement on the A1 hidden. An S1 is tipped to be in the works, but short of that the only thing onlookers will have to distinguish one engine model from another is the exhaust note. Expect the pre-production A1 - previewed by the Metroproject and A1 Sportback concepts - to debut at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show with sales beginning later next year.


Gallery: Audi A1 Sportback Concept


[Source: EVO]

REPORT: Audi intent on keeping upcoming A1 premium originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Nov 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a1audiaudi a1audi s1AudiA1AudiS1s1Mon, 30 Nov 2009 17:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Quattro Shock: Forthcoming Audi A1 lineup reportedly to arrive without AWD]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/quattro-shock-forthcoming-audi-a1-lineup-reportedly-to-arrive-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/quattro-shock-forthcoming-audi-a1-lineup-reportedly-to-arrive-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/quattro-shock-forthcoming-audi-a1-lineup-reportedly-to-arrive-w/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Audi Metroproject Quattro Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Audi and Quattro go together like peanut butter and jelly, but Autobild is reporting that the four-ringed automaker's fabulous all-wheel drive system will be excluded from the forthcoming A1 mini car. We're a little surprised to hear that the Quattro tech won't be added considering that the A1's design study, the Audi Metroproject Quattro Concept, includes the word "Quattro" in its name. Regardless, while this news might be a problem for purists, on the practical side, the inclusion of AWD means additional weight and cost, something that's antithetical to the A1's stated mission.

The A1 will reportedly only be available with one gearbox: a seven speed S-Tronic automatic transmission. Autobild reports that the A1 will be available throughout Europe in August or September of next year, with a sportback version coming online in late 2011 and a cabriolet in early 2012. The S1 will reportedly hit production in February of 2011 with a 1.4-liter TFSI powerplant capable of a very respectable 180 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of 6.9 seconds. There's no word on whether Audi plans to offer the A1 in the U.S., but we should know more when the compact runabout is revealed at the Geneva Motor Show in March.


Gallery: Audi metroproject quattro concept


[Source: Autobild via German Car Blog]

Quattro Shock: Forthcoming Audi A1 lineup reportedly to arrive without AWD originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 08:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi a1audi mini caraudi s1AudiA1AudiMiniCarAudiS1quattro awdQuattroAwdWed, 18 Nov 2009 08:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Audi A1 spotted wearing swirlies and not much else]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/19/spy-shots-audi-a1-spotted-wearing-swirlies-and-not-much-else/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/19/spy-shots-audi-a1-spotted-wearing-swirlies-and-not-much-else/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/19/spy-shots-audi-a1-spotted-wearing-swirlies-and-not-much-else/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Audi probably won't be taking the wraps completely off its new small car until the Geneva Motor Show next March, but spy shooters are already out there hunting down the prototypes. The clearest image we've seen yet shows a mini-car that appears to have changed very little from the MetroProject concept that first appeared at the last Tokyo Motor Show two years ago. The new A1 is expected to go on sale around the middle of next year in Europe although its not clear if it will ever come Stateside.

To keep costs down, Audi is expected to build the A1 with a conventional steel structure as opposed to the aluminum space frame of the A2 of a few years ago. Power is expected to come from a range of gas and diesel engines likely topping out at about 1.4 liters. Some of the unseen mechanical bits will likely be shared with the new VW Polo, but this is definitely more than just a re-badge job as evidenced by the completely different shape.

[Source: Car]

Spy Shots: Audi A1 spotted wearing swirlies and not much else originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Oct 2009 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a1audiAudi A1audi a1 metroproject...audi a1 sportbackaudi a1 sportback conceptAudiA1AudiA1Metroproject...AudiA1SportbackAudiA1SportbackConceptspyspy picsspy shotspy shotsspy-shotsSpyPicsSpyShotSpyShotsMon, 19 Oct 2009 07:59:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Audi could sell A1 in the States]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/report-audi-could-sell-a1-in-the-states/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/report-audi-could-sell-a1-in-the-states/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/report-audi-could-sell-a1-in-the-states/#commentsFiled under: ,

Audi A1 Sportback concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Luxury marques are betting big on small cars all around the world, and some are even testing the waters here in the good 'ol U.S. of A. Despite the fact that most every small car intended for premium customers in the States has failed dismally in the past, there's reason to believe that tide may be shifting, and automakers have taken notice.

Add Audi into the mix of European car companies interested in dipping a toe in the small car waters. According to a report from Bloomberg, following the undeniable success of rival BMW's Mini brand, Audi may very well engineer its next-gen A1 with U.S. distribution in mind. We've been hearing this rumor for a while now, and it's once again sourced from Audi's head of sales Peter Schwarzenbauer.

The move is seen as another possible way the four-ringed German automaker can reach its goal of outselling BMW and Mercedes-Benz in all markets all three companies compete in, including, obviously, the United States. In order to line up against Mini, Audi's A1 would likely need a price tag that's well under $20,000 - not an easy task with the car expected to sell at a significantly higher price point in Europe.


Gallery: Audi A1 Sportback Concept


[Source: Bloomberg]

REPORT: Audi could sell A1 in the States originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a1audiaudi a1audi a1 americaaudi a1 sportbackaudi a1 usaudi a1 usaAudiA1AudiA1AmericaAudiA1SportbackAudiA1UsAudiA1UsaWed, 16 Sep 2009 14:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: Would an Audi A1 Targa look like this?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/10/rendered-speculation-would-a-audi-a1-targa-look-like-this/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/10/rendered-speculation-would-a-audi-a1-targa-look-like-this/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/10/rendered-speculation-would-a-audi-a1-targa-look-like-this/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The history of the Audi A1 is a great deal of talk and renderings capped by one confirmed sighting. We've seen the A1 Sportback and been told that an A1 Cabrio is coming, after which we were told that the A1 wouldn't be coming to the U.S. Now everyone is in on the game, with forum user The Pretender at RS6.com posting one idea of what a targa version of the A1 could be -- even though it seems much more in line with what an Audi version of the VW Bluesport could be.

Of course, if the A1 isn't coming to America, an A1 targa - a dedicated two-seater, mind you - would have to make a strong price case for itself against an A1 Cabrio, A3 Cabrio, a possible Bluesport Audi, bog standard versions of the TT, plus cross-country competition from the Mini convertible and BMW 1-Series (both four-seaters). But if we ignore all of that and simply consider the rendering above, the questions are: Do we need it and would it tempt you?

[Source: RS6.com]

Rendered Speculation: Would an Audi A1 Targa look like this? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Jun 2009 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a1audiaudi a1AudiA1convertiblerendered speculationRenderedSpeculationtargaWed, 10 Jun 2009 17:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Audi pres says U.S. not ready for A1]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/03/audi-pres-says-u-s-not-ready-for-a1/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/03/audi-pres-says-u-s-not-ready-for-a1/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/03/audi-pres-says-u-s-not-ready-for-a1/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Audi A1 concept

Audi of America President Johan de Nysschen has confirmed what's been assumed since the A1's introduction in Paris: it's not coming to the U.S. At least, not in its current form.

The statement from de Nysschen is hardly a revelation, particularly after Audi CEO Rupert Stadler said as much back in July of last year. However, rumors continued to persist late into 2008, aided by Audi's marketing head, Peter Schwarzenbauer, who said that Audi could benefit from America's increased interest in premium small cars.

According to de Nysschen, the American perception that "small-equals-cheap" is partly to blame, particularly when Audi consulted dealers on what they believed would be the ideal price for the A1. The dealers wanted an MSRP of around $18,000, a far cry from the estimated $25k (euro adjusted) price tag.

De Nysschen admits that, "...not enough people know us yet." So when the public perception of Audi changes, the next generation A1 - due in 2015 - could finally come to the States.

Gallery: Audi A1 Sportback Concept


Gallery: Audi A1 Sportback LIVE


[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Audi pres says U.S. not ready for A1 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Feb 2009 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audi a1AudiA1Tue, 03 Feb 2009 15:01:00 EST<![CDATA[New details on Audi S1 emerge]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/06/new-details-on-audi-s1-emerge/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/06/new-details-on-audi-s1-emerge/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/06/new-details-on-audi-s1-emerge/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Image removed at owner's request.

Auto Express got the inside dope on the upcoming Audi S1, and the the compact hatch has its sights set on the MINI Cooper JCW, Fiat 500 Abarth SS, Alfa Romeo MiTo GTA and Volvo C30. Based on the new Audi A1, the S1 will feature a cranked up version of VW/Audi's Twincharger 1.4L TSI four tweaked to produce 200 hp and 221 ft-lb of torque. Power might be down compared to the S1's competitors, but expect the three-door to hold its own with a rear-biased quattro setup, a seven-speed S-Tronic twin-clutch gearbox and a lowered and stiffened suspension that might feature Audi's magnetic dampers. AE is projecting a 0-60 time of around six seconds, an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph and a combined fuel economy of 35 mpg.

The car should look as good as it moves, with styling that apes the metroproject quattro we saw in Tokyo last year. Expect an aggressive bodykit, 19-inch alloys, roof spoiler, and chrome accents. Inside, you'll find a flat-bottomed steering wheel, sport seats and aluminum pedals, along with a version of Audi's mobile electronic device. The dash-mounted Audi iPhone-alternative can actually control some of the car's systems remotely, but we wouldn't be surprised if the system doesn't make it to production for at least another two years. The baby S3 won't be is cheap, so expect the S1 to start at almost double the A1's £13,000 starting price when sales begin abroad next year.

Gallery: 2010 Audi S1 rendering


[Source: Auto Express]

New details on Audi S1 emerge originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Jan 2009 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alfa romeo mitoalfa romeo mito gtaAlfaRomeoMitoAlfaRomeoMitoGtaaudi a1audi s1AudiA1AudiS1fiat 500fiat 500 abarthfiat 500 abarth ssFiat500Fiat500AbarthFiat500AbarthSsmini coopermini cooper jcwMiniCooperMiniCooperJcwvolvo c30VolvoC30Tue, 06 Jan 2009 14:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Audi confirms pure electric city car in the works]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/08/audi-confirms-pure-electric-city-car-in-the-works/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/08/audi-confirms-pure-electric-city-car-in-the-works/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/08/audi-confirms-pure-electric-city-car-in-the-works/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of the Volkswagen up!

Audi has long been rumored to be developing an electric car and many of us concluded that it would be based on the A1 concept that the German automaker recently showed off at the Paris Motor Show. According to Audi board member Peter Schwarzenbauer, the electric car is indeed coming, though it will be based on the Volkswagen up! platform that's destined to carry the Lupo badge when it goes into production. Audi will need to work fast if it's going to catch BMW, its natural rival, which has already begun production of an electric version of the hugely popular MINI Cooper. For the Audi/VW offering, a battery pack will be mounted at the rear of the Lupo's platform, though we still have no indication of what type of battery will be used. What might the new car be named? Not sure, but we do know that A2 is available.

Gallery: VW up!


[Source: Autocar]

Audi confirms pure electric city car in the works originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Oct 2008 09:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi a1audi a2audi evAudiA1AudiA2AudiEvelectric audielectric audi a1ElectricAudiElectricAudiA1vw upvw up conceptvw up spacevw up space conceptVwUpVwUpConceptVwUpSpaceVwUpSpaceConceptWed, 08 Oct 2008 09:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Audi and Toyota considering offering smaller cars in the States]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/06/audi-and-toyota-considering-offering-smaller-cars-in-the-states/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/06/audi-and-toyota-considering-offering-smaller-cars-in-the-states/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/06/audi-and-toyota-considering-offering-smaller-cars-in-the-states/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click either image for a high-res gallery

It's been well documented that we Americans have been growing larger, and if the auto manufacturers thinking of bringing their small cars Stateside follow through, we're going to feel like giants. Toyota and Audi are the latest automakers discussing whether to bring smaller transportation for us portly Americans. Audi, who didn't design the A1 concept for US duty, now believes it's a good idea to rethink its original strategy. Audi marketing boss Peter Schwarzenbauer thinks US customers have made a real shift towards smaller cars and trucks, and that the movement has staying power. Audi brass has made no decisions regarding the A1 in the US, but the fact that they're genuinely looking into the matter is a good thing.

Toyota's cleverly packaged iQ is also being considered for sales in the US. A company insider told Automotive News that Toyota was looking into the viability of the iQ in the US. The sharp looking micro car goes on sale in Europe beginning in early 2009, and we wouldn't be surprised if it arrived Stateside some time after that.

Gallery: Audi A1 Sportback LIVE


Gallery: 2009 Toyota iQ


[Source: Automotive News subs req'd]

Audi and Toyota considering offering smaller cars in the States originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Oct 2008 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Audi A1AudiA1small carSmallCartoyota iqToyotaIqUS salesUsSalesMon, 06 Oct 2008 13:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Paris Leakage: Audi A1 Sportback Concept]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/01/paris-leakage-audi-a1-sportback-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/01/paris-leakage-audi-a1-sportback-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/01/paris-leakage-audi-a1-sportback-concept/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for gallery of the Audi A1 Sportback Concept

We'll start our live coverage of the Paris Motor Show in the wee hours of tomorrow morning, but in the meantime the embargo dam at Audi has broken a bit early and released some interesting details along with a few images of the new A1 Sportback Concept. Hinted at by the Metroproject concept from Tokyo, the new A1 is a bit shorter than the A3, which is currently the smallest member of the Ingolstadt family tree, and aims to fill the premium small car niche that is currently dominated by the MINI Cooper. The Sportback's ace-in-the-hole may be its five door body-style, offering up a dose of practicality not found in the standard BMW-based MINI. Don't expect too many styling changes to be made before the new A1 is released in Europe as an '09 model. The concept sports what appears to be a new mild hybrid powertrain with a 150-horsepower 1.4L TSI engine mated up to a 27-horse electric motor. That combo sends power through Audi's S-Tronic dual clutch gearbox, which is essentially Volkswagen's superlative DSG transmission with a new name. Mileage is spectacular at 60.3 mpg (U.S.) and carbon emissions are low, just 92 g/km. We'll know more after Audi officially unveils the A1 Sportback Concept in Paris tomorrow.

Gallery: Audi A1 Sportback Concept


[Source: CarScoop]

Paris Leakage: Audi A1 Sportback Concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Oct 2008 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi a1audi a1 sportbackaudi a1 sportback conceptAudiA1AudiA1SportbackAudiA1SportbackConceptbreakingparisparis 2008paris motor showparis motor show 2008Paris2008ParisMotorShowParisMotorShow2008Wed, 01 Oct 2008 11:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Four-door Audi A1 headed to Paris]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/15/four-door-audi-a1-coming-to-paris/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/15/four-door-audi-a1-coming-to-paris/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/15/four-door-audi-a1-coming-to-paris/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for high-res shots of the Metroproject concept

The small car market is heating up fast, even for upmarket brands like Audi, Mercedes-Benz and BMW, the latter of which has the majority of the market cornered with its MINI sub-brand. The Bimmer competitor from Ingolstadt plans on attacking that market with its A1 subcompact, but unlike the Metroproject concept from Tokyo, the new A1 due to be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show will sport four doors. Europeans are likely to get a production model spawned from the concept, which will likely be built in Brussels, Belgium and be introduced as a 2009 model. An electric model could follow shortly thereafter. Will the U.S. be blessed with another Germanic mini car? Audi's elusive Magic 8-Ball currently says "Not Likely," but with sales of the MINI going strong it's entirely too early to count it out completely.

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]

Four-door Audi A1 headed to Paris originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Sep 2008 13:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Despite the burgeoning popularity of small cars, especially with premium nameplates, Audi doesn't think there's a case for bringing its MINI-sized A1 to the United States. Audi CEO Rupert Stadler acknowledges that American customers are increasingly interested in fuel efficiency, but also contends that we want that frugality wrapped in larger sheetmetal than customers elsewhere might go with. In the interest of greener numbers, Audi's planning on going electric, launching an armature-motivated car around 2010, roughly the same due date as a Volkswagen electron-mobile. No decision has yet been made about a plant in North America, but that might reduce costs enough for attractive pricing to facilitate Audi's target of selling 1.5 million annual units by 2015. Without the A1, we're going to be forced to continue drooling all over the Alfa MiTo's roundy-round front fenders.

Gallery: Audi metroproject quattro concept


[Source: Auto News - Sub Req]

Audi A1 not bound for U.S. shores originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 13 Jul 2008 10:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Audi gave the world a preview of its new A1 mini-car last fall in the form of the MetroProject and the production version of the new A1 is expected to debut in 2010 with a lineup that should include a drop-top version to take on the MINI Cabriolet. As usual, Audi will likely bring all the bells and whistles to the A1 Cabrio, including a power top that descends fully into the back end of the car. That would give the A1 and advantage over the MINI which stacks on top of the hind-quarters. And, unlike the MINI that maintains a diminutive replica of a rear seat, Audi won't bother with the rear quarters, keeping it strictly a two-seater. In the rendering from AutoExpress the car looks more like a miniature version of the RS4 Cabrio, but the little machine won't bother with quattro all-wheel-drive. Instead, the front wheels will be powered by 1.4L TFSI engines with mated to a DSG gearbox. The A1 Cabrio should debut at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show.

[Source: AutoExpress]

Audi A1 drop-top bound for Frankfurt in '09, aimed at MINI cabrio originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Jun 2008 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audi a1audi a1 cabrioletAudiA1AudiA1CabrioletThu, 26 Jun 2008 16:02:00 EST<![CDATA[VW Group's next small-car platform to get AWD across the board]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/06/vw-groups-next-small-car-platform-to-get-awd-across-the-board/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/06/vw-groups-next-small-car-platform-to-get-awd-across-the-board/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/06/vw-groups-next-small-car-platform-to-get-awd-across-the-board/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Audi metroproject quattro Concept.

Buyers of the next generation of Volkswagen-developed small cars will have one more option box to tick when placing their order: all-wheel-drive. The new platform, dubbed PQ25, will find its way underneath a handful of new models, spanning the range from the low-end (SEAT), mid-grade (VW) and luxury (Audi). All-wheel-drive won't be an option for the new SEAT Ibiza, but consumers of the next VW Polo (specifically the CrossPolo) might be able to outfit their tiny runabout with AWD, while the Audi A1, due out in late 2009, will continue the automaker's love affair with quattro.

Gallery: Audi metroproject quattro concept


[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]

VW Group's next small-car platform to get AWD across the board originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 May 2008 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a1all wheel driveall-wheel-driveAllWheelDriveaudiaudi a1AudiA1awdawd crosspoloAwdCrosspolocross poloCrossPoloquattroseatvolkswagenvolkswagen crosspoloVolkswagenCrosspolovw crosspolovw poloVwCrosspoloVwPoloTue, 06 May 2008 14:59:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Audi's Metroproject stays still for the moving camera]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/24/video-audis-metroproject-stays-still-for-the-moving-camera/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/24/video-audis-metroproject-stays-still-for-the-moving-camera/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/24/video-audis-metroproject-stays-still-for-the-moving-camera/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Audi metroproject quattro stars in its first promotional video. The 2-minute video shows a few of the cars niftier features, like the removable iPhone-like gadget that does iPhone-y things and also allows remote access to some of the vehicle's systems.

However, the car does appear to have a bit of stage fright. It's beautiful inside, as befits an Audi concept car. Lights flash, but neither the car nor any piece of it moves, and the video has no sound. Perhaps that's an allusion to the silence of its beautifully packaged electric motor in back... Follow the jump to see the video.

[Source: YouTube via German Car Blog]

Gallery: Audi metroproject quattro concept

Continue reading VIDEO: Audi's Metroproject stays still for the moving camera

VIDEO: Audi's Metroproject stays still for the moving camera originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Oct 2007 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a1a1 metroprojectA1Metroprojectaudiaudi a1audi metro projectaudi metroprojectAudiA1AudiMetroProjectmetroprojectWed, 24 Oct 2007 11:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Tokyo Motor Show: Audi metroproject quattro concept]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/23/tokyo-motor-show-audi-a1-metroproject-quattro-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/23/tokyo-motor-show-audi-a1-metroproject-quattro-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/23/tokyo-motor-show-audi-a1-metroproject-quattro-concept/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


click above image to view more high-res images of the Audi A1 Concept

Audi's new city car concept might look OK in the official press images, but it looks even better in person with its imposing grille and sleek yet muscular lines. There's also a lot of attention paid to the details of the concept such as LED headlights, aluminum roof arches and those stunning rear lights. One detail the concept could do without, however, are those garish chrome wheels. The metroproject quattro doesn't look significantly smaller than the A3, but it's likely this show car is a little larger than the production model will be anyway.

Underneath, Audi has developed a hybrid drivetrain for the metroproject. A TSI (turbocharger + supercharger) engine drives the front wheels, while the electric motor sends all of its juice to the rear, making it a pseudo-AWD car. Also of note is the mobile electronic device that's embedded in its dash. It's basically Audi's version of an iPhone that actually does more than Apple's own Crackberry, including allowing the owners to access some of the car's systems remotely.

When we asked Audi CEO Rupert Stadler whether the production model would come to the U.S., he simply replied "Why not?", so there's a good chance we'll see this come Stateside at the A1 soon after it begins production in 2009.

Check out the full press release from Audi on the metroproject quattro concept after the jump and our complete gallery of official and live images from Tokyo below.

[Lead photo by Koichi Kamoshida/Getty Images]

Gallery: Audi metroproject quattro concept

All live photos (C)2007 Siddharth Raja / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Tokyo Motor Show: Audi metroproject quattro concept

Tokyo Motor Show: Audi metroproject quattro concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Oct 2007 23:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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With recent reports that Audi still hadn't finalized the design of it's upcoming A1 mini, designer Gabriel Rabhi has shared his own thoughts on what it should look like. Rabhi has created a series of images for Fourtitude that show a new look for the A1. Aside from the now standard Audi grille and the upsweep of the lower body character line, it doesn't share much with current Audis. Unlike Mini and Fiat, Audi doesn't have a classic small car design to draw on for retro cues so Rabhi has combined typical small car proportions with some distinct design elements. Until we see the real thing from Tokyo in a couple of weeks, check out the car in various colors at Fourtitude.

[Source: Fourtitude]

Rendered Speculation: Audi A1 taking different direction originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Oct 2007 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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