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[LA 2009: Audi A3 TDI named 2010 Green Car of the Year in diesel repeat]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/2010-audi-a3-tdi-green-car-of-the-year-los-angeles-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/2010-audi-a3-tdi-green-car-of-the-year-los-angeles-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/2010-audi-a3-tdi-green-car-of-the-year-los-angeles-2009/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Audi A3 TDI - Click above for high-res image gallery

At the LA Auto Show this morning, the Audi A3 TDI was crowned the 2010 Green Car of the Year, wresting the title away from last year's winner, the Volkswagen Jetta TDI. Even though three hybrids made this year's list of finalists, the A3's win marks the second year in a row that a TDI diesel car took top honors in the Green Car Journal competition.

The judges selection kind of meshes with AutoblogGreen readers, who overwhelmingly picked the VW Golf TDI from the list of five finalists. The other contenders were the Honda Insight, the Mercury Milan Hybrid (we still don't get why this car beat out the better-selling and nearly identical Ford Fusion Hybrid) and the Toyota Prius.

Each year, Green Car Journal picks the five finalists and then hands over selection duties to celebrity jurors (Jay Leno, Carroll Shelby, and the Sierra Club's Carl Pope, to name a few). During the award ceremony, Green Car Journal editor Ron Cogan said that the five finalists are notable because they are all mainstream vehicles that are available today. They exist because that's what the market is asking for. Whaddya think? Is the A3 TDI this year's rightful Green Car of the Year?


Gallery: Audi A3 TDI - 2010 Green Car of the Year


[Source: Green Car Journal]

Continue reading LA 2009: Audi A3 TDI named 2010 Green Car of the Year in diesel repeat

LA 2009: Audi A3 TDI named 2010 Green Car of the Year in diesel repeat originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 18:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 la auto show2009LaAutoShow2010 audi A32010 Audi a3 tdi2010AudiA32010AudiA3Tdia3a3 tdiA3Tdiaudiaudi a3audi a3 tdiaudi dieselAudiA3AudiA3TdiAudiDieseldieselgreen cargreen car journalgreen car of the yearGreenCarGreenCarJournalGreenCarOfTheYearla 2009la auto showla showla2009LaAutoShowLaShowlos angeleslos angeles 2009LosAngelesLosAngeles2009tdiThu, 03 Dec 2009 18:41:00 EST<![CDATA[2010 Green Car of the Year finalists announced, diesels vs. hybrids]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/07/2010-green-car-of-the-year-finalists-announced-diesels-vs-hybr/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/07/2010-green-car-of-the-year-finalists-announced-diesels-vs-hybr/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/07/2010-green-car-of-the-year-finalists-announced-diesels-vs-hybr/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Last year, Volkswagen's new Jetta TDI was named the 2009 Green Car of the Year at the LA Auto Show, which means that the Volkswagen Golf TDI has a bit of baggage if it wants to win the 2010 award. Regardless, the Golf was named one of five finalists today, along with the Audi A3 TDI, the Honda Insight, the Mercury Milan Hybrid and the Toyota Prius. Odd that the Mercury would be chosen above the Ford Fusion Hybrid, but so it goes. That makes it two diesels and three hybrids vying for top spot.

The Green Car of the Year award is given out by Green Car Journal, which narrows the field of green cars down to five and then turns over picking the winner to "jurors such as Jay Leno, Jean-Michel Cousteau, Carroll Shelby, Matt Petersen of Global Green USA and the Sierra Club's Carl Pop." The winner will be announced in LA on December 3, so stay tuned.


Gallery: 2010 Green Car of the Year Finalists

2010 Honda Insight2010 Honda Insight2010 Audi A3 TDI2010 Audi A3 TDI2010 Volkswagen Golf TDI

[Source: Green Car Journal]

Continue reading 2010 Green Car of the Year finalists announced, diesels vs. hybrids

2010 Green Car of the Year finalists announced, diesels vs. hybrids originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Oct 2009 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a3audi a3AudiA3golfGreen Car Journalgreen car of the yearGreenCarJournalGreenCarOfTheYearHonda InsightHondaInsightinsightMercury MilanMercuryMilanmilanpriustoyota priusToyotaPriusvw golf tdiVwGolfTdiWed, 07 Oct 2009 14:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Audi recalls over 10,000 2006-2010 A3 and TT models over potential fuel leak]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/05/audi-recalls-over-10-000-2006-2010-a3-and-tt-models-over-potenti/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/05/audi-recalls-over-10-000-2006-2010-a3-and-tt-models-over-potenti/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/05/audi-recalls-over-10-000-2006-2010-a3-and-tt-models-over-potenti/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2009 Audi TT - Click above for high-res image gallery

If you've got an Audi A3 or TT and like to drive it hard, you may want to check in with your local dealer, because a recall notice has been issued that is directly focused on enthusiastic drivers.

The action concerns a spring that holds the fuel tank ventilation valve closed. Under "extreme driving conditions", the spring in question might not be strong enough to prevent gasoline from leaking out. And since that could start a fire, this recall strikes us as rather important.

The vehicles in question include some 10,200 A3s, TT coupes and TT Roadsters built between September 29, 2005 and August 26, 2009. Volkswagen of America will be contacting vehicle owners to notify them of the recall, and Audi dealerships will replace the faulty ventilation valves with an improved design free of charge. Full details in the recall notice after the jump.


Gallery: Audi TT 2.0 TDI


Gallery: 2009 Audi A3


[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading Audi recalls over 10,000 2006-2010 A3 and TT models over potential fuel leak

Audi recalls over 10,000 2006-2010 A3 and TT models over potential fuel leak originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Oct 2009 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>A3audiaudi a3audi recallaudi ttaudi tt roadsterAudiA3AudiRecallAudiTtAudiTtRoadsterauto recallAutoRecallcar recallCarRecallNational Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationNationalHighwayTrafficSafetyAdministrationnhtsarecallsaefty recallSaeftyRecallTTTT roadsterTtRoadstervalve recallValveRecallventilation valveVentilationValveMon, 05 Oct 2009 18:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Audi throws another $1,000 onto C4C incentives]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/06/audi-throws-another-1-000-onto-c4c-incentives/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/06/audi-throws-another-1-000-onto-c4c-incentives/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/06/audi-throws-another-1-000-onto-c4c-incentives/#commentsFiled under: ,



The government, dealers and consumers don't seem to know exactly what's going on with the C.A.R.S. (Cash for Clunkers) program, but Audi doesn't want to lose any momentum and has decided it's the right time to "enhance the deal even further."

From now until the end of August, if you want to swap your clunker for one of 18 eligible Audis, the Ingostadt marque will give you another $1,000 on top of the C.A.R.S. rebate. According to Audi, the allowable models include iterations of the A3, A4, TT, and Q5 from 2008 and 2009. However, there aren't any approved 2010 models, but if you've been thinking about something with four rings on it, August could be your month. Hit the jump for all the details from Audi.

Continue reading Audi throws another $1,000 onto C4C incentives

Audi throws another $1,000 onto C4C incentives originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 06 Aug 2009 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a3a4audiaudi a3audi a4audi q5audi ttAudiA3AudiA4AudiQ5AudiTtc4ccar buyingCarBuyingcars programCarsProgramcash for clunkersCashForClunkersincentivesnhtsaq5rebatesttThu, 06 Aug 2009 17:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Audi updates MMI system for 2010 A3, TT and R8]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/30/audi-updates-mmi-system-for-2010-a3-tt-and-r8/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/30/audi-updates-mmi-system-for-2010-a3-tt-and-r8/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/30/audi-updates-mmi-system-for-2010-a3-tt-and-r8/#commentsFiled under: ,



Audi's Multi-Media Interface, which is arguably the best of the various all-in-one graphical user interface systems favored, has just got better.

According to Audi, resolution on the system's 6.5-inch screen is getting bumped up to 800 x 480, route calculation will happen faster with a 600 MHz processor, and you can scroll along the route - not just vertically and horizontally - and get speed limit data on highways.

Additionally, the system will also finally charge external MP3 players that are plugged in to the system, song titles will be displayed,

The new A3, TT, and R8 will be the first to benefit from next-step MMI when they arrive in Stateside dealerships in the autumn. U.S. pricing hasn't been announced yet, but you can read about all of the next-gen system's new bells and whistles in the press release after the jump.

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Audi updates MMI system for 2010 A3, TT and R8

Audi updates MMI system for 2010 A3, TT and R8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Jun 2009 17:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a3audiaudi a3audi mmiaudi r8audi ttAudiA3AudiMmiAudiR8AudiTtGUImmimulti media interfacemultimedia interfaceMultimediaInterfacer8techtechnologyttTue, 30 Jun 2009 17:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2010 Audi A3 TDI, diesel with a healthy dash of sport]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/21/review-2010-audi-a3-tdi-diesel-with-a-healthy-dash-of-sport/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/21/review-2010-audi-a3-tdi-diesel-with-a-healthy-dash-of-sport/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/21/review-2010-audi-a3-tdi-diesel-with-a-healthy-dash-of-sport/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2010 Audi A3 TDI - Click above for high-res image gallery

Audi started its big push for clean diesel here in the U.S. market this spring when its big Q7 TDI finally went on sale. While the Q7 TDI is one of the most fuel efficient seven-passenger SUVs available anywhere, it's only the beginning for Audi. Assuming that Americans start taking a shine to hot oil, Audi is likely to introduce a whole series of Rudi D's disciples here. So far, however, only one has been announced in addition to the Q7, the compact A3 hatchback.

The A3 is the entry-level model for the four-ringed brand here in the U.S. Until now, it has only been sold with a choice of a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder or 3.2-liter V6 engines running on gasoline. At the Detroit Auto Show, Audi announced that the A3 TDI would go on sale late this year. While the A3 TDI isn't yet available, one was made available to us for five days during a recent trip to Southern California. Find out what it was like after the jump.


Gallery: Review: 2010 Audi A3 TDI


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Review: 2010 Audi A3 TDI, diesel with a healthy dash of sport

Review: 2010 Audi A3 TDI, diesel with a healthy dash of sport originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 May 2009 11:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a3a3 tdiA3Tdiaudiaudi a3 tdiAudiA3Tdidieseldiesel audiDieselAudifeaturefeaturedfeatured storiesfeaturedstoriesfeaturesreviewreviewsThu, 21 May 2009 11:59:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Lexus' A3/1 series-fight coming to Frankfurt with hybrid power]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/06/report-lexus-a3-1-series-fight-coming-to-frankfurt-with-hybrid/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/06/report-lexus-a3-1-series-fight-coming-to-frankfurt-with-hybrid/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/06/report-lexus-a3-1-series-fight-coming-to-frankfurt-with-hybrid/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Rumors of a compact Lexus bound for the European market have been floating around since late last year, and Top Gear is reporting that the new 1-series and A3-fighter is due to debut in September at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

Unlike the Lexus HS250h on which its based, the entry-level Euro-only model will sport five doors instead of four and be slightly shorter overall. Power will be provided by the same 187-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid as its Stateside counterpart, but unlike the Prius, Lexus plans to brand the FWD premium compact hatch as a sporting alternative to its competition from Germany. Andy Pfeiffenberger, Lexus' European head, said, "The C-premium segment is the fastest growing segment and we must be in it," but for a brand associated more with wafting than corner-carving, it's going to be tough sale abroad. According to TG, the hatch is likely to go on sale in late 2010 and be priced below the IS diesel.

[Source: Top Gear]

REPORT: Lexus' A3/1 series-fight coming to Frankfurt with hybrid power originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 May 2009 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 series1Seriesa3frankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtMotorShowlexuslexus a3lexus bsLexusA3LexusBsWed, 06 May 2009 19:28:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: 2011 Audi RS3 gunning for Focus RS, hybrid A3 on the way]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/06/report-2011-audi-rs3-gunning-for-focus-rs-hybrid-a3-on-the-way/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/06/report-2011-audi-rs3-gunning-for-focus-rs-hybrid-a3-on-the-way/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/06/report-2011-audi-rs3-gunning-for-focus-rs-hybrid-a3-on-the-way/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The all-new Audi A3 is right around the corner and that means a new RS3 will follow soon thereafter. According to Autocar, the new four-ringed hot hatch will be motivated by the TT RS' twin-turbocharged, 2.5-liter five-cylinder, putting out approximately 335 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque through a new, beefed-up seven speed dual-clutch gearbox. Naturally, motivation will be sent to all four wheels through Audi's Quattro system, and a new torque-vectoring differential will be tasked with getting all that grunt to the ground. The new A3 is expected to debut in 2011, with the RS3 variant coming the following year.

Also in 2012, Audi is rumored to begin fleet trials of its new A3 equipped with TwinDrive - the same system set to be employed on the hybrid Golf - which utilizes a 105 hp, 1.6-liter diesel-powered four-pot that joins a 30kW motor to aid the front wheels and another set of 30kW in-wheel motors to power the rears. A 12kWh lithium-ion battery pack will be mounted in the floor of the trunk, receiving electricity from a combination of regenerative braking and (supposedly) a plug-in charger. When equipped in the Golf, the TwinDrive system will reportedly power the hatch up to 31 miles on electricity alone.

[Source: Autocar (1) (2)]

REPORT: 2011 Audi RS3 gunning for Focus RS, hybrid A3 on the way originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 May 2009 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 audi a32011AudiA32012 audi rs32012AudiRs3a3audigolfrs3twin drivetwin-driveTwinDrivevolkswagenvwWed, 06 May 2009 15:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Audi dropping 3.2-liter V6 from 2010 A3, A4 and TT]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/22/audi-dropping-3-2-liter-v6-from-2010-a3-a4-and-tt/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/22/audi-dropping-3-2-liter-v6-from-2010-a3-a4-and-tt/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/22/audi-dropping-3-2-liter-v6-from-2010-a3-a4-and-tt/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


2009 Audi A4 - Click above for a high-res gallery

Since the 2009 Audi A4's introduction last year, the number of sedans rolling off dealer lots equipped with the company's turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four versus the 3.2-liter V6 has been nine-to-one. With almost 90% of all A4s equipped with the peppy, fuel-efficient and thoroughly entertaining four-pot, Audi has decided to cease offering the V6 on the A4 - along with the A3 and TT - for the 2010 model year.

"We're not backing away from the V6 strategy," Audi's U.S. Corporate Communications head, Bradley Stertz told Autoblog, "We're recalibrating our mix."

According to Stertz, Audi's rejiggered engine strategy has less to do with the slow-sales of the V6 and more to do with the brand's expanding lineup. With Audi's new supercharged V6 making its way to the States in the new S4, along with the introduction of the TT S and A3 TDI, the 3.2-liter's standing in the engine hierarchy was lessened. And with the 2.0-liter mill delivering the best bang-for-the-buck - not to mention placing Audi in the enviable position of being the only German luxury marque offering a four-cylinder in the U.S. - the automaker's new tactic should continue to pay-off on the sales front.


Gallery: New Audi A4

Audi dropping 3.2-liter V6 from 2010 A3, A4 and TT originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 Apr 2009 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.0-liter turbo2.0-literTurbo20102010 audi a32010 Audi a42010 audi tt2010AudiA32010AudiA42010AudiTt3.2-liter V63.2-literV6a3a4audittWed, 22 Apr 2009 14:28:00 EST<![CDATA[2009 Audi A3: Tweaked and priced]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/05/2009-audi-a3-tweaked-and-priced/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/05/2009-audi-a3-tweaked-and-priced/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/05/2009-audi-a3-tweaked-and-priced/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the 2009 Audi A3

Audi gave up the details on the European-spec A3 earlier this year, but it took until today for it to disclose what changes will carry over to the U.S. model when the 2009 A3 goes on sale later this month.

A cursory inspection of the exterior and specs doesn't reveal much, but dig a little deeper and the revisions become obvious. The fascia has been tweaked with a few cues from the recently revamped A4, including new LED daytime running lamps, and redesigned rollers fill the wheel wells, hiding Audi's optional Magnetic Ride suspension system.

The five-door's powertrain choices remain, with either a 2.0-liter turbocharged four or a 3.2-liter V6, and all-wheel-drive is finally available as an option on the 2.0T model. Previously, Audi's hill-start assist was only available with the S-tronic dual-clutch transmission, but it's now standard on models fitted with the six-speed manual.

Pricing has been set at $26,920 for the front-wheel-drive, six-speed manual model equipped with the 2.0T, while the top of the line 3.2-liter Quattro variant comes in at $36,975.

Gallery: 2009 Audi A3

2009 Audi A3: Tweaked and priced originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Sep 2008 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20092009 audi a32009AudiA3a3audiFri, 05 Sep 2008 16:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Audi A3 TDI Clubsport Quattro concept]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/16/audi-a3-tdi-clubsport-quattro-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/16/audi-a3-tdi-clubsport-quattro-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/16/audi-a3-tdi-clubsport-quattro-concept/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Audi A3 TDI Clubsport Quattro.

Audi has released the first official images of its newest concept before the wraps are taken off at the Lake Wörther Tour in Austria later this month. Think of the Audi A3 TDI Clubsport Quattro concept as a smaller, racier, more attainable version of the Audi R8 V12 TDI concept shown in Detroit, with power provided by the highest specific output diesel in the world.

Look past the DTM-inspired bodywork and you'll get an aluminum-enhanced glimpse of the oilburning jewel that lies beneath. The 1,968cc turbodiesel produces 221 hp and 332 lb.-ft. of torque available at an oh-so-low 1,750 rpm. Power is sent through a six-speed manual transmission before it reaches the ground through Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive system. Audi claims that the A3 TDI Clubsport Quattro can reach 62 mph in 6.6 seconds and on to a top speed of 149 mph. We believe it.

While the body work might be a bit over the top, the tuned A3 sits 26mm lower than stock and rides on 20-inch wheels that fit cleanly into blistered wheel arches, widening the A3's track by 33 mm in front and 46 mm in the rear. Stopping power in the front is provided by six piston calipers clamping 356mm carbon ceramic discs, while standard steel brakes are fitted out back. Inside, it's all business with a bit of show car flare, including a flat-bottom steering wheel, bolstered buckets, aluminum trim, toggle switches and a red starter button to get the party underway. Audi has also fitted the concept with a its Drive Select system, which can change throttle response, exhaust sound, power steering assist, ESP settings and magnetic ride damping on the fly.

Audi isn't saying that the A3 TDI Clubsport Quattro is destined for production, but it would make an excellent runabout for the times when rolling the R8 V12 TDI to the store would be overkill.

Make the jump for the full press release.

Gallery: Audi A3 TDI Clubsport Quattro concept

Continue reading Audi A3 TDI Clubsport Quattro concept

Audi A3 TDI Clubsport Quattro concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 16 May 2008 18:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a3audiAudi A3 TDI Clubsport Quattro conceptAudiA3TdiClubsportQuattroConceptbreakingclubsportquattrotdiFri, 16 May 2008 18:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Infiniti wants a 1-series competitor]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/01/infiniti-wants-a-1-series-competitor/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/01/infiniti-wants-a-1-series-competitor/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/01/infiniti-wants-a-1-series-competitor/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Infiniti is gearing up for its entrance into Europe, but something's missing from its lineup: a small car. With BMW's 1-series being a popular choice for badge-obsessed consumers abroad, Infiniti needs something similar to solidify its place in the luxury hierarchy, but what form it will take is unclear.

According to Autocar, Infiniti insiders are planning to unleash something that aims to compete with the Audi A3 and BMW 1-series, but unnamed sources at Infiniti are quick to point out that the shape will be something entirely different than what's currently being offered by its competitors. The two options, according to Autocar, include a smaller crossover that would slot in below the EX35 or a hardtop convertible. Whatever it looks like, expect the new B-class Infiniti to be revealed sometime in 2010.

[Source: Autocar via JustAuto - Sub. Req.]

Infiniti wants a 1-series competitor originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 May 2008 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1-seriesa3audibmweuropeinfinitiThu, 01 May 2008 14:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Audi announces new A3 will reach U.S. in Fall]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/24/audi-announces-new-a3-will-reach-u-s-in-fall/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/24/audi-announces-new-a3-will-reach-u-s-in-fall/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/24/audi-announces-new-a3-will-reach-u-s-in-fall/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click the image above for a high-res gallery of the 2009 Audi A3.

For those of you aching to get your hands on the 2009 Audi A3, we have good news: it will go on sale this September and pricing information should be available close to that date. Audi's adapted press release for the U.S. market is available after the jump, but the short and sweet version is we get a choice of either the 200 hp, 2.0-liter TFSI or the 250 hp, 3.2-liter six with Quattro. If you want your power dolled out to all four wheels, but want the turbo'd 2.0-liter, you'll be able to swap cogs with Audi's S-tronic transmission. Hit the jump for all the details.

Continue reading Audi announces new A3 will reach U.S. in Fall

Audi announces new A3 will reach U.S. in Fall originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 24 Apr 2008 20:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20092009 audi a32009AudiA3a3audiThu, 24 Apr 2008 20:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Audi unveils updated A3]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/24/audi-unveils-updated-a3/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/24/audi-unveils-updated-a3/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/24/audi-unveils-updated-a3/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a high resolution gallery of the S3 Sportback

Audi has revealed the model updates for the European-spec 2009 A3 and S3. Both are slightly larger than the previous version, and the S3 is now available in the 5-door Sportback version. The front of the A3 receives a freshened look including a more complex design around the grille and more modern headlights with optional bi-xenon units that incorporate LEDs. At the rear there is a modified tailgate and the taillight design uses fiber optic rods to create a pretty cool effect. The interior features new aluminum design trim and new colors and fabrics for the seats, and the controls for the audio system have been given a new look. As for the powertrain, the Euro-only diesel engines have been reworked to include an updated fuel injection system. All engine options are now available with the S tronic transmission, and the 1.6, 1.4 TFSI and 1.8 TFSI engines can be paired with a newly developed seven-speed version.

Follow the jump for the full press release with all the details for the updated A3 and S3, and check out the galleries of each car below.

Gallery: 2009 Audi S3 Sportback

Gallery: 2009 Audi A3

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Audi unveils updated A3

Audi unveils updated A3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 24 Apr 2008 02:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 Audi A32009 Audi S32009AudiA32009AudiS3A3AudiAudi A3Audi S3AudiA3AudiS3breakingS3SportbackThu, 24 Apr 2008 02:02:00 EST<![CDATA[<i>Quattro Quarterly</i> lays out Audi's five-year plan for world domination]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/04/i-quattro-quarterly-i-lays-out-audis-five-year-plan-for-worl/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/04/i-quattro-quarterly-i-lays-out-audis-five-year-plan-for-worl/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/04/i-quattro-quarterly-i-lays-out-audis-five-year-plan-for-worl/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,



The Audi Club of North America puts out a publication aptly titled the Quattro Quarterly that gives Audi owners the inside skinny on everything from future products to how to swap bigger brakes into their B5 S4. One of our intrepid readers, Kevin, sent us a few scans of the QQ's latest issue, where it outlines Audi's product plans for the next five years. While some of it has already been confirmed, other interesting factoids, including the future of the R8, RS-TT and the development of an R4, have long been rumored on these very pages. Follow the jump for the full breakdown on what Audi has in store, but be aware that we're handing out grains of salt below the fold.

Continue reading Quattro Quarterly lays out Audi's five-year plan for world domination

Quattro Quarterly lays out Audi's five-year plan for world domination originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 04 Dec 2007 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a1a2a3a4a5a6a7a8audiq3q7rs-tttt-rstt-sTue, 04 Dec 2007 10:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Audi A3 Cabriolet unveiled in Hungary]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/30/audi-a3-cabriolet-unveiled-in-Hungary/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/30/audi-a3-cabriolet-unveiled-in-Hungary/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/30/audi-a3-cabriolet-unveiled-in-Hungary/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


click above image for high-res gallery of the Audi A3 Cabriolet

Ahead of next week's Bologna Motor Show, Audi has unveiled the A3 Cabriolet for all to see at its Györ, Hungary plant. . Based on what we can glean from the released info, the A3 Cabriolet is a Euro-only machine. As such, there are two TDI powerplants available at launch -- a 105-hp 1.9L and a 140-hp 2.0L. Both offer combined-cycle fuel economy better than 44 mpg. There are also a pair of gasoline engines on offer. The 1.8 TFSI makes 160 hp while the 2.0TFSI we're all familiar with produces another 40 on top of that. The 2.0 TDI and both TFSI engines can be had with optional S Tronic dual-clutch gearboxes instead of their standard manual units. All A3 Cabriolets are front-wheel-drive.

Appearance-wise, it looks pretty much how you'd expect an Audi to look. The shield grille dominates the front end and makes it instantly recognizable.The compact four-seater has a typically well-executed Audi interior, which can be dressed up beyond its standard "Ambition" and "Attraction" trims with S-Line and Audi exclusive packages. The four-seater's soft top is power-operated and can be had as either a semi-automatic or fully-automatic unit. The latter receives an extra layer of sound insulation in its construction to make for a quieter closed-roof ride. When folded, it impacts trunkspace minimally, according to Audi, and can also be operated while the car's moving at speeds up to 30 km/h. Speaking of the trunk, it's available room can be expanded by flipping down the back seats regardless of the roof position.

Sales begin in Europe in early 2008, and like we said, there's no mention made of a US version. That doesn't mean we won't eventually get something in the same vein, however. Remember that Audi showed off the Cross Cabriolet quattro concept in L.A. earlier this month, which looks similar but has AWD and a more powerful engine, so Audi still has the U.S. on its radar screen for a new convertible.

[Source: Audi]

Gallery: Audi A3 Cabriolet

Continue reading Audi A3 Cabriolet unveiled in Hungary

Audi A3 Cabriolet unveiled in Hungary originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Nov 2007 08:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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4Car sat down with Michael Dick, a member of Audi's board who heads up the product engineering side of things, and came away with new insights on the MINI-fighting A1, the future of Bentley and what products are waiting in the wings.

Starting small, Audi's new A1 will not share the all-aluminum construction of the less-than-popular A2, instead using the steel PQ24 platform that underpins the VW Polo and Skoda Fabia. It will be distinctly Audi in its design, albeit in a small package, and will feature a number of technologies - specifically the MMI setup - that's found in the quad-ring's luxury offerings. Don't expect Quattro in the beginning, nor will a three-door body be offered at first, but Dick confirmed that there would be a concept debuting in Tokyo next month that hints at the A1's styling.

Audi is also developing a new alloy structure for the A8 that will underpin the next generation of Bentleys, and will likely reduce the overall weight of both models by over 300 pounds. Also, the reworked A3 is coming next year, along with a convertible version, while the Q5 will arrive in 2008 complete with either a hybrid drivetrain or a diesel engine - both slated for sales in the U.S.

[Source: 4Car]

Updates on Audi: A1 coming, Tokyo concept, A8/Bentley diet originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Sep 2007 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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It's no secret that Audi is attempting to be all things to all people, and with its sights set on becoming the preeminent automaker in Deutschland, that means bringing more product to the market in quick order. So say "Hello" to the A3 convertible.

Caught while undergoing testing, the cabrio version of Audi's two-door hatch sports a revised taillight arrangement, along with a new MINIscule boot that looks like it would have a hard time fitting much more than a duffle and a few bags of groceries. The rear-seat passengers apparently will get rollover protection in the form of two hoops behind their heads, and while retractable hardtops are all the rage, previous reports, and these new shots, reveal that Audi will be sticking with a soft-top. No surprise, considering the A3's diminutive footprint and price point.

Follow the 'Read' link below for more, and expect the A3 cabriolet to debut in Geneva next year.

[Source: Auto Titre via the German Car Blog]

Spy shots: Audi A3 cabriolet originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Aug 2007 08:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a3audicabriocabrioletconvertibleMon, 20 Aug 2007 08:04:00 EST<![CDATA[A3 droptop to drop next year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/04/a3-droptop-to-drop-next-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/04/a3-droptop-to-drop-next-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/04/a3-droptop-to-drop-next-year/#commentsFiled under: , ,



When Audi gets done with their corporate spiel at next year's Geneva Motor Show, it's likely that they'll pull back the curtain and unveil their newest attempt to steal market share from the MINIs and 1-series of the world.

The A3 cabrio has been confirmed as the next drop top to come from the quad-ringed company, sporting four seats and an electrically controlled foldable canvas roof. According to AutoExpress, Audi has no intention of offering a hard top 'vert on its models anytime soon.

Power will come from the usual suspects, including the 3.2 V6, all the way down to the 1.6-liter FSI and diesels. At the low end, European customers can expect to pay around £18,500, while those heavy with the pen in the check boxes will top the A3 convertible out around £28k. Sales are expected to begin in 2008.

[Source: AutoExpress]

A3 droptop to drop next year originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 May 2007 10:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a3audicabriocanvas topCanvasTopcloth topClothTopconvertiblefoldable roofFoldableRoofFri, 04 May 2007 10:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Lutz lets a bit of Edmunds survey slip, GM takes 13 first place picks]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/04/lutz-lets-a-bit-of-edmunds-survey-slip-gm-takes-13-first-place/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/04/lutz-lets-a-bit-of-edmunds-survey-slip-gm-takes-13-first-place/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/04/lutz-lets-a-bit-of-edmunds-survey-slip-gm-takes-13-first-place/#commentsFiled under:



Sometimes news is just too good to keep to yourself. Just ask GM Vice Chairman Bob Lutz. With his company supposedly claiming 13 spots on Edmund's Consumers' Most Wanted list, Lutz just had to brag a bit on the corporate blog before the winners were made public.

And he should brag. Most other car of the year awards are chosen by us automotive writers who usually prefer horsepower over hip room. As the name implies, Edmund's CMW awards are chosen by the car-buying public. And despite not voting with their wallets, the car-buying public who visits Edmund's really like their GMs.

The GMC Acadia got Most Significant vehicle of the year, beating out Honda's Fit, the Toyota Camry Hybrid, the Ford Edge and the Toyota Tundra.

Click through to see Edmund's press release as well as the other category winners.

[Source: Edmunds, GM FastLane Blog]

Continue reading Lutz lets a bit of Edmunds survey slip, GM takes 13 first place picks

Lutz lets a bit of Edmunds survey slip, GM takes 13 first place picks originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 May 2007 09:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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