Autoblog

Audi releases special edition S5 on Facebook

Noah Joseph — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 14:30:00 EST

Facebook has rapidly emerged as one of the most visited websites on the internet. So it only makes sense that automakers would launch their new cars there, right?

Audi evidently thinks so. And so it has launched a new special edition U.S. model of its sexy S5 coupe on the popular social media site. The model is characterized by a unique shade of dark silver, special five-spoke wheels, a two-tone white and black leather interior, and of course, special badging.

Only 125 examples will be offered, though specific pricing parameters have not been immediately revealed.

Audi releases special edition S5 on Facebook originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Jan 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fifth Gear lines up Audi RS5 vs. Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe

Steven J. Ewing — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 15:00:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Videos, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Luxury

The menacing Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG coupe is slowly making its way into dealerships, ready to eat the souls of any driver willing to tame the 451-horsepower super coupe. It's a hardcore two-door with a naturally aspirated V8 powerplant under the hood, and in our recent stint behind the wheel, we fell head-over-heels in love.

But the C63 isn't the only hot super coupe on the block. The Audi RS5 - a model that will soon be available Stateside - offers 444 horsepower but puts that grunt to the ground via all-wheel drive. It's not as outright vicious as the Merc, but it's certainly capable of standing toe-to-toe, particularly on wet tarmac.

That in mind, the folks at Fifth Gear took these two coupes to the Cadwell Park circuit in Lincolnshire, Great Britain to see which German could pull off the quickest lap time. We won't spoil it for you, so follow the jump and watch Tiff Needell and company have a bit of high-horsepower fun.

Continue reading Fifth Gear lines up Audi RS5 vs. Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe

Fifth Gear lines up Audi RS5 vs. Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Nov 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Audi A5 DTM makes us long for tin-tops that can also turn right

Noah Joseph — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 19:31:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Motorsports, Coupe, Europe, Audi, Racing

Touring car racing isn't big in the States, which could be in part due to the popularity of NASCAR. But whatever the reason, it's a bit of a shame, because the cars can be wicked cool. Like the new Audi A5 DTM.

Though powered by the same 460-horsepower V8, the racer internally dubbed R17 is set to replace the long-serving A4 DTM (and the V8 Quattro that preceded it) when the new regulations take effect next season. Then it will line up on grids across Germany alongside the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class DTM Coupe and the fresh M3 DTM entry from BMW in the German touring car series. But while development is still ongoing, we got a good look at the A5 DTM here in Frankfurt.

Follow the jump for the press release, and check out the car in the live gallery for a closer look, because while rumors are afloat of the series potentially making the U-Boat trip across the Atlantic, for the time being this is as close as we're likely to get.

Continue reading Audi A5 DTM makes us long for tin-tops that can also turn right

Audi A5 DTM makes us long for tin-tops that can also turn right originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 19:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Facelifted 2012 Audi RS5 breaks out before Frankfurt debut

Jeff Glucker — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 19:00:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Coupe, Performance, Audi

A light nip and tuck is often all that a stylish sports car needs as it gets older. The Audi RS5 isn't even old yet, but's gone in to have some work done anyway. With a refreshed face, the RS5 has emerged on the internet ahead of its global debut at this week's 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. The handsome coupe is propelled by way of a 450-horsepower, 4.2-liter V8 engine that revs to over 8,000 rpm. As before, forward momentum is metered out through the Quattro all-wheel-drive system, and helps the RS5 run from 0-62 miles per hour in 4.6 seconds.

Updated for the coming model year, the Audi RS5 wears a new face that features restyled headlamps, new daytime running lamps and a revised lower fascia. (Apparently the RS5 shown above will buck conventional fog light trends and go with a singular lamp - that, or perhaps Audi is rocking some sort of special offset radar-based cruise control sensor). Either way, we're finally looking at the RS5 that will be sold in North American Audi dealerships, and we couldn't be more excited. Check it over in our gallery and then look past the jump for all of the official details.

Continue reading Facelifted 2012 Audi RS5 breaks out before Frankfurt debut

Facelifted 2012 Audi RS5 breaks out before Frankfurt debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Sep 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Audi prepares to fend off BMW with new A5 DTM

Noah Joseph — Mon, 18 Jul 2011 10:01:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Coupe, Europe, Audi, Racing

The big news which touring car racing fans were waiting for this weekend came when BMW unveiled its new M3 DTM concept that will spearhead the marque's return to the series next year. But don't think for one minute that returning manufacturers Audi and Mercedes-Benz are about to let their Bavarian rival simply waltz in unchallenged.

Audi, for one, is planning to switch from its current A4 DTM to a new A5-based touring car, previewed in the renderings you see here. Like the stock cars we see racing around American super-speedways, DTM racers are only loosely based on their production counterparts, so the change in body shell - adopting the revised face of the new production A5 - is more aesthetic than anything.

But while the existing DTM drivetrain - consisting of a 460-horsepower V8 and six-speed transmission - is set to carry over largely unchanged, Audi's new racer (internally dubbed R17) is expected to herald some significant changes over the car it replaces, complying to new lower-cost regulations and side-impact stringencies that will see the fuel cells integrated into the carbon-fiber monocoque.

Rival manufacturer Mercedes-Benz, for its part, has yet to announce any prospective changes to its four-door C-Class touring car, but likely will before the start of next season. In the meantime you can check out the renderings of the A5 DTM in our high-res image gallery and the press release after the jump.

Continue reading Audi prepares to fend off BMW with new A5 DTM

Audi prepares to fend off BMW with new A5 DTM originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 Jul 2011 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2012 Audi A5, S5 get a nip/tuck [UPDATE]

Steven J. Ewing — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 10:57:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Audi

2012 Audi A5 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Here she is, the refreshed 2012 Audi A5. And while we've always been quite fond of the current model's styling, the subtle touches to the front and rear fascias of the new car make it look even more elegant than ever before. As for the S5, well, it just looks downright mean now. We approve.

The A5's new nose now uses styling cues found elsewhere in the Audi lineup, specifically, the new-for-2012 A6. Unlike the A6, however, the A5 and S5 do not get Audi's adaptive LED lighting treatment, instead relying on an attractive wraparound LED running lamp combined with a standard projector-beam xenon unit. Out back, the taillamps are only slightly different than the ones found on the current car, save for a larger, thicker running lamp right through the center of the light cluster.

Powertrain options don't change much for 2012, with the A5 coming standard with Audi's turbocharged 2.0-liter, 211-horsepower inline-four. The big news for the new car, however, is that the S5 Coupe will no longer be available with the excellent, free-flowing 4.2-liter V8 - the supercharged 3.0-liter V6 is the only powerplant available. In the S5, it carries over unchanged, rated at 333 hp, though a new, 272-hp version of the 3.0-liter engine will be offered up in the A5, as well.

Look for the refreshed A5 and S5 to go on sale later this year, with prices only expected to increase very slightly. Follow the jump for Audi's official press release.

UPDATE: Audi is telling us that these model changes are for Europe only, at least for the 2012 model year. Here in the U.S. we'll have the same A5/S5 as last year, which means we get to enjoy that 4.2L V8 one year longer.

Continue reading 2012 Audi A5, S5 get a nip/tuck [UPDATE]

2012 Audi A5, S5 get a nip/tuck [UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 13 Jul 2011 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Just how tight are supplies of new Audi models?

Aaron Richardson — Mon, 16 May 2011 16:59:00 EST

Filed under: Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Audi, Humor

Audi customers going to extreme measures to get a new car - Click above to watch the video after the jump

Audi has taken to the Web to poke fun at its own recent supply issues while sneaking in a quick jab at its competitors. The company claims that Mercedes, BMW and Lexus owners have been jumping ship to Audi in record numbers, which is why Ingolstadt can't keep its dealers stocked.

The commercial may soon wind up being more accurate than it is funny, as the company has dwindled down to a 27-day reserve supply of cars, is at maximum production capacity at its European factories and is seeing huge numbers of custom orders. With custom orders coming in faster than flood water and factories working overtime, some customers are waiting months to take delivery.

While we can't imagine how stressful it is to work for Audi right now, the company can't be too bummed out that its products are moving so successfully. To see just how rabid Audi fans may become, check out the video after the jump. Check out the video after the break.

Continue reading Just how tight are supplies of new Audi models?

Just how tight are supplies of new Audi models? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 May 2011 16:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Belated April Fools? Audi A5 leans into corners like a motorcycle [w/video]

Jeff Glucker — Thu, 14 Apr 2011 20:58:00 EST

Filed under: Etc., Videos, Audi

This Audi A5 thinks it's a motorcycle - Click above to watch video after the jump

We recently tried to find all the April Fools-related automotive items that the Internet served up for 2011. We thought we had 'em all... but we may have just found one more to add to the list, courtesy of Spanish-language site Cochesafondo.com.

It reports that Audi is working on a suspension system that allows a car to lean into a turn. It's installed the setup into an A5, prompting a pair of engineers to bring a very stable cup of coffee along for a test ride. Of course, one bump and your lap would be pain soup regardless of the suspension being tested.

Click past the jump to watch the clip. Then sound off in the Comments and let us know if you think this is real or not.

[Source: Youtube via Cocheafondo.com]

Continue reading Belated April Fools? Audi A5 leans into corners like a motorcycle [w/video]

Belated April Fools? Audi A5 leans into corners like a motorcycle [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Apr 2011 20:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Audi won't build you an RS5 Cabrio, but Senner will sell you the next best thing

Steven J. Ewing — Tue, 07 Sep 2010 15:00:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Convertible, Performance, Europe, Audi

Senner Tuning Audi A5 Cabriolet - Click above for high-res image gallery

Audi's full-bore RS5 treatment may only be available in coupe form, but that doesn't mean droptop enthusiasts can't join in on some of the fun. Senner AG, a company known for its Audi upgrades, now offers its RS design package for the A5 Cabriolet, and while it doesn't boast the outrageous power numbers of the RS5, it certainly has the look, with a couple of eccentric one-off touches, to boot.

Starting with an A5 2.0T Cabriolet, Senner has bumped engine output from 211 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque up to a more palatable 275 hp and 317 lb-ft through the use of sport air filters and ECU recalibration. An all-new exhaust system has also been fitted, as well, giving the A5 a louder, angrier sound - something even the S5 Cabriolet could benefit from.

Visually, Senner has added larger front air intakes similar to those on the RS5, though the A5's foglamps have been kept intact. Filling out the wheel wells are silver-chrome 20-inch wheels, wrapped in low-profile tires (245/30 in front, 295/25 out back), and a new rear diffuser has been added to round off the host of exterior upgrades. The interior has largely been left alone, save the addition of carbon fiber trim throughout the cabin.

Senner's kit retails for a healthy €19,900 (roughly $25k USD), and when added to the €55,000 cost of a new A5 Cabriolet, that brings the whole package to €74,900, or $95,150 USD based on current exchange rates. Scroll through the gallery below to see the handsome Senner A5 from all angles, and hit the jump for the full details in the press release.

Gallery: Senner Tuning Audi A5 Cabriolet

[Source: Senner AG]

Continue reading Audi won't build you an RS5 Cabrio, but Senner will sell you the next best thing

Audi won't build you an RS5 Cabrio, but Senner will sell you the next best thing originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Sep 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Audi A5 Sportback could come to the States, A8 diesel due next year

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 13:29:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Audi, Diesel

Audi A5 Sportback - Click above for high-res image gallery

The arrival of the Audi A7 in the U.S. is almost a given, designed to slot in - predictably - between the A6 and all-new A8, while finally providing Audi with a Mercedes-Benz CLS competitor. But what of the A5 Sportback?

According to our sources, the success of the A7 will play a key role in Audi's decision to import the A5 Sportback into the States. If the A7 is well received, the Sportback could be slotted in as a smaller alternative to the larger A7 and its closest competitor, the CLS. We haven't been given a timeline on when the A7 could arrive, but with the European launch happening early next year, a Stateside debut in 2011 isn't out of the question.

Audi's product expansion isn't just limited to new models, but includes the continued proliferation of available drivetrains. To that end, a diesel-powered A8 should arrive in the U.S. sometime next year.

When the A8 goes on sale this November, both the standard and long-wheelbase versions will launch simultaneously, each packing Audi's 372 horsepower 4.2-liter FSI V8. The 500-hp W12, however, won't be an option on the A8L until the first quarter of 2011. If Audi decides to equip the A8 with a diesel, expect the same 3.0-liter V6 TDI fitted to the refreshed Q7, outputting around 225 hp and 406 pound-feet of torque.

Gallery: 2010 Audi A5 Sportback

Audi A5 Sportback could come to the States, A8 diesel due next year originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Aug 2010 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Review: 2010 Audi A5 is a personal luxury coupe for the modern age

Sam Abuelsamid — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 11:58:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Audi, New Car Reviews, Luxury

2010 Audi A5 - click above for high-res image gallery

With the introduction of the A5 for 2008, Audi launched itself into a vehicle segment it had never competed in - one which has waned significantly over the past two decades. Not so long ago, the personal luxury coupe was one of the top selling segments in the U.S., but for a wide variety of reasons, the overall sales picture left it behind.

Now you might ask yourself, "How is an A5 in any way similar to the likes of a 1970s-era Chevrolet Monte Carlo or Ford Thunderbird?" At first glance, the A5 is something completely different, but when you dig below the surface, there are more similarities than one might think - particularly when considering the 2.0T model. Except for a few NASCAR-inspired specials, PLCs of the 1970s weren't typically performance machines anyway - they focused more on style and creature comforts. And it's here where the A5 delivers.

Gallery: Review: 2010 Audi A5

Continue reading Review: 2010 Audi A5 is a personal luxury coupe for the modern age

Review: 2010 Audi A5 is a personal luxury coupe for the modern age originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Jul 2010 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Report: Audi launching Titanium Package for most models

Steven J. Ewing — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 16:58:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Sedan, Performance, Wagon, Audi, Luxury

Now here's an option box we'd gladly check. Audi will be offering its Titanium Package on A4 (both sedan and Avant), A5 Coupe, S4 and S5 Coupe models for the 2011 model year. Essentially, this removes the bright chrome trim on the grille surround and window treatment, and adds some large, attractive wheels and some sportier interior touches. Hot stuff.

The exact Titanium specs vary from model to model, but they include things like 19-inch RS-style wheels, piano black interior trim, sport suspension and sport seats. Exact pricing hasn't been released just yet, but customers will soon be able to order these sexier Audis from dealerships in the near future, with the first examples hitting the streets in the near future. For the full details on what each Titanium package includes, head over to Fourtitude for the complete listing.

[Source: Fourtitude]

Report: Audi launching Titanium Package for most models originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 Jun 2010 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Review: 2010 Audi S5 Cabriolet speaks too softly, but carries a big stick

Sam Abuelsamid — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 11:57:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, Audi, New Car Reviews, Luxury

2010 Audi S5 Cabriolet - Click above for high-res image gallery

Taking a great looking performance car and chopping off its roof is risky business - compromises are inevitable. That's especially true in this modern age of unibody structures. Removing a big chunk of a vehicle's architecture without adequately reinforcing what's left can yield a chassis incapable of managing the position of the wheels, let alone result in a vehicle that loses its level of driver engagement and enthusiasm. On the other hand, reinforcements add mass - often lots of it. It's a treacherous path, as both flaccid body control and weight are the mortal enemy of performance.

You can understand our trepidation, then, upon learning that Audi was planning on introducing its S5 Cabriolet at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show. By our reckoning, the German debutante's rollout was cause for both consternation and celebration. When the A5 and S5 coupes arrived in 2007, they were hailed as being among the best looking cars ever to wear the brand's Four Rings. The new Cabriolet models would bring with them the euphoria of open-air motoring, but we had to wonder - would Audi's rakish new hardtop be turned into a floppy flier just by giving it a roofectomy? Equally as important, would the model's newly downsized engine drop the performance? There was only one thing to do: Put the range-topping S5 Cabriolet through a week-long test.

Gallery: Review: 2010 Audi S5 Cabriolet

Continue reading Review: 2010 Audi S5 Cabriolet speaks too softly, but carries a big stick

Review: 2010 Audi S5 Cabriolet speaks too softly, but carries a big stick originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Apr 2010 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Geneva 2010: Audi RS5 is a 450-horsepower two-door tease

Drew Phillips — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 11:29:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Geneva Motor Show, Audi

2011 Audi RS5 - Click above for high-res image gallery

The one thing on our minds as Audi unveiled the RS5 here in Geneva is whether or not the car will come to the United States. We can't get a definitive answer from the German automaker, and although we're guessing the chances are fairly slim, we were told not to completely rule it out. Audi has listed the base price of the car only in Euros (77,000), but we'll hold on to hope until Audi officially states the car won't be sold across the pond.

Why do we want the RS5 in the U.S. so bad? For starters, it's got a 450 horsepower version of Audi's tried and true 4.2-liter V8 paired to the legendary Quattro AWD. Combine that with perhaps the best looking coupe designs on the market today and you've got one heck of an appealing sports car. Hit the jump for the newly released press release or check out our live photos in the high-res gallery below.

Gallery: Geneva 2010: Audi RS5

Continue reading Geneva 2010: Audi RS5 is a 450-horsepower two-door tease

Geneva 2010: Audi RS5 is a 450-horsepower two-door tease originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Mar 2010 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: Audi TDI good at a lot of things, but suicide apparently isn't one of them

Chris Shunk — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 12:28:00 EST

Filed under: Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Audi, Diesel

Click above to watch the video after the jump

Killing yourself is a bad idea. And trying to kill yourself by running a hose from the tailpipe to the cracked window of an idling Audi TDI diesel isn't only a bad idea; it's apparently unlikely to get the job done. That's the message we get from the four-ringed automaker's ~~interesting~~ disturbing ad. We aren't clear as to what market this spot aired in (or if it's intended solely for Internet consumption), but the commercial features the Audi A5 and an actor playing part of the dangerously depressed. The man pulls out a hose, feeds it into the A5's exhaust and places the other end into the cracked passenger window. He then turns the car on and waits in vein for the afterlife. The controversial one-minute spot isn't a quick guide to euthanasia but instead Audi is apparently demonstrating (avoided) death by emissions as a way to graphically illustrate just how clean its diesel technology is.

Hit the jump to view this very disturbing, very not-ready-for-U.S.-consumption spot. For the record, we have absolutely no idea whether or not the TDI in the Audi A5 is so clean that you safely can run a hose from the exhaust to the window, let the car idle until it runs out of gas and live to tell about it. In other words, under no circumstances should you try this at home, with or without a clean diesel.

UPDATE: The original video was yanked from YouTube, but we've found another that you can view after the jump.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading Video: Audi TDI good at a lot of things, but suicide apparently isn't one of them

Video: Audi TDI good at a lot of things, but suicide apparently isn't one of them originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 12:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Hofele Design introduces Audi A5/R8 mashup to controversial effect

Jonny Lieberman — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 19:00:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Convertible, Coupe, Europe, Audi

Hofele Design R8 Look A5 - click above for high-res image gallery

And by "controversial," we mean "disgusting." Look, the R8 has those side blades because it's a mid-engine car, but Audi felt they still need a place for a set of golf clubs, so they lengthened the cabin so the clubs can be stowed behind the seats. Meaning that the body has a whole lot of extra length in the middle. Rather than go all BMW and start torturing the hell out of the metal, they slapped on some pieces of plastic (fine, carbon fiber) and called it a day, leading to a look that some love and others loathe.

Now, the A5/S5 is a superbly beautiful car. From every angle, the seemingly minimalist design gets better and better. Especially when you run your eyes across the length of its rising and falling center line that runs from the front fenders past the doors only to terminate in the tail lamp. Just about pitch-perfect. Truly, one of the better designs this decade. German tuner Hofele Design (apparently) had but one simple mission: how to destroy it!

The results are self-evident. All those people that are moaning and complaining that their Audi A5 3.2s don't look anything like a R8 V10 can now cease their protests. All two of them. Also, and we know this doesn't need stating but here goes: why would you go through the trouble of mutating your car to the nth degree but then leave on the "A5" and "3.2" badges?

Most people who know Audis (i.e. the very people that might have an outside chance of being impressed by this) would agree that A5 and 3.2 stands for the automaker's worst engine/transmission combination, the slow-revving 3.2-liter V6 that's already been dropped from the new A4 and the numbskull six-speed Tiptronic box that likes to be in sixth gear by 39 mph. So, besides the raw, inharmonious phony aspect of the body kit (nice fake quad pipes) why on earth bother? Especially as the badge on the back says A5 and the one in the grille says S5. That's a rhetorical question, because we all know there's no answer/point. One more thing: the R8 Spyder doesn't even have side blades. And hey, why not another: the camber on the rear wheel's all messed up.

Gallery: Hofele A5 R8

[Source: Hofele Design]

Hofele Design introduces Audi A5/R8 mashup to controversial effect originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Frankfurt 2009: Audi A5 Sportback earns believers

Jonathon Ramsey — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 16:59:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Sedan, Performance, Audi, Luxury

2010 Audi A5 Sportback - Click above for high-res image gallery

Although the U.S. market won't be getting the Audi A5 Sportback, based on the reaction here on the floor in Frankfurt, Audi won't have any problem moving them in Europe. It took us longer to get clear shots of the A5 than any other car at Audi (even the R8 Spyder), and when we returned at the end of the day there were still numerous fascinated Euro types examining the car like it was CSI evidence.

The A5 is so beautiful on its own we weren't sure how the Sportback appellation might distort, but like the BMW 5 Series GT, it makes friends with the eyes in person -- and in fact, it's better. The S5 is the top of the heap model, and it will sport a supercharged, 3.0-liter V6 with 333 hp and 325 lb-ft. Just 5.4 seconds takes you to the 60, but whatever speed you travel, you shouldn't be disappointed with how you look doing it. At least, if you're not in the U.S...

Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: 2010 Audi A5 Sportback

Continue reading Frankfurt 2009: Audi A5 Sportback earns believers

Frankfurt 2009: Audi A5 Sportback earns believers originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Sep 2009 16:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2010 Audi A4, A5 and Q5 priced, A5 2.0T starting at $36,000*

Damon Lavrinc — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 19:33:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Coupe, Sedan, Crossover, Audi, Luxury

Audi A5 - Click above for a high-res image gallery

When Audi announced it would begin offering the A5 with its turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four for the 2010 model year, we expected the manual-equipped entry-level model to be priced significantly lower than the current 3.2-liter, stick-shifted A5. Thankfully, Audi didn't disappoint. For $36,000* you'll be able to get behind the wheel of the A5 2.0T Quattro Coupe with a manual transmission in Premium trim, with the Premium Plus model commanding $39,500 and the Prestige variant priced at $44,300. Tack on an additional $1,200 onto each model's MSRP if you opt for the Tiptronic automatic gearbox.

Depending on the trim, the 2010 Audi A4 2.0T is priced slightly higher, lower or the same as their corresponding 2009 models, although all new A4s include LED tail-lamps on Premium Plus and Prestige models. The 2010 Q5 3.2 FSI starts at $37,350* and can be had with all-new 20-inch five-spoke wheels, a choice of Fine Grain Ash or Natural Brown interior inlays and a new Luxury Package for the Prestige model that includes leather door armrests and IP, along with ventilated front seats swathed in Milano leather.

Although Audi hasn't priced the 2010 Audi S4, it has released an on-sale date for its 333-hp sedan: August. Expect pricing to follow in the coming weeks.

Make the jump for all the details and corresponding changes for the 2010 model year.

* Excludes $825 destination charge

Gallery: 2009 Audi A5

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading 2010 Audi A4, A5 and Q5 priced, A5 2.0T starting at $36,000*

2010 Audi A4, A5 and Q5 priced, A5 2.0T starting at $36,000* originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 Jul 2009 19:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Officially Official: 2010 Audi A5 Sportback revealed, not coming Stateside

Sam Abuelsamid — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 18:50:00 EST

Filed under: Hatchback, Audi, Luxury

2010 Audi A5 Sportback - Click above for high-res image gallery

After teasing us with a video of the 2010 A5 Sportback, Audi has finally dropped all the details on its all-new mid-size five-door liftback. Building on the curvaceous body work of the A5 coupe and cabrio, the Sportback adds an extra set of doors, along with a tailgate to blend a bit of functionality with its form.

European buyers will be able to pick up a Sportback starting in September with a choice of six engines split evenly between gas and diesel units, all of which come equipped with direct injection. Like the A4, the 2.0-liter TFSI four comes in 180 and 211 hp flavors, along with a choice of Audi's 3.2-liter V6. On the compression ignition side, 2.0-liter inline-four, 2.7-liter V6 and 3.0-liter V6 units will be available, with the 170 hp 2.0-liter TDI rated at 45.2 mpg (US) on the EU combined cycle. The four cylinder engines all get automatic start-stop systems and the top gasoline- and diesel-powered V6s get the requisite quattro all wheel drive. Three additional engines will drop into the lineup in 2010.

This five-door sport hatch segment is quickly getting crowded with the BMW 5-series Gran Turismo, the Acura ZDX, Honda Accord Crosstour and, of course, the upcoming A7 Sportback in 2010. Get all the details in the press release after the break.

Gallery: 2010 Audi A5 Sportback

Continue reading Officially Official: 2010 Audi A5 Sportback revealed, not coming Stateside

Officially Official: 2010 Audi A5 Sportback revealed, not coming Stateside originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 Jul 2009 18:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: 2010 Audi A5 Sportback reveals even more in So. Cal.

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 16:00:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Spy Photos, Sedan, Wagon, Hatchback, Audi

Less than 24 hours ago, Autoblog commenter Zamafir sent us a few cloaked images of the upcoming Audi A5 Sportback getting ready for its close-up at the University of California San Diego. Unsurprisingly, another camera-phone wielding student was able to capture Audi's new five-door A5 sans camouflage, and the results are equal parts telling and predictable.

Although the front end remains masked in these newest spy shots, the bit that matters - the slopping rear hatch - is plain as day, with a stretched C-pillar and elongated rear-quarter window, large rear windshield and slightly upkicked boot lid. The rear overhang doesn't seem disproportionately stretched and the profile proves that at least one German automaker can pull off an attractive mid-sized five-door without relying on a bloated rump.

There's still some debate about whether Audi will offer the A5 Sportback in the States, so just because it was shot in So. Cal. doesn't mean it's headed this way. Instead, expect the A5 to debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September (possibly earlier, at the Audi Centenary Celebration in July), with a range of gasoline and diesel powertrains, including an S5 variant packing the supercharged 3.0-liter V6. You can read the full account of Zamafir's rendezvous with the A5 Sportback and see another spy shot of the new five-door over at Fourtitude.

Gallery: Audi A5 Sportback teaser

[Source: Fourtitude]

Spy Shots: 2010 Audi A5 Sportback reveals even more in So. Cal. originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Jun 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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