Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[2014 Audi RS7 is a 189-mph terror]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/14/2014-audi-rs7-is-a-189-mph-terror/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/14/2014-audi-rs7-is-a-189-mph-terror/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/14/2014-audi-rs7-is-a-189-mph-terror/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2014 Audi RS7

If you have a burning desire to take yourself and four friends to 189 miles per hour, the 2014 Audi RS7 Sportback can help you out. The luxury hatchback bowed at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show today, complete with a 560-horsepower twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine thrashing under the hood. Getting to 62 mph takes a shave under 3.9 seconds thanks in part to the 553 pound-feet of torque on hand from just 1,750 rpm. While the base car comes with an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph, customers can request the governor be removed by purchasing the dynamic package plus, upping the V-max to 189 mph.

Ludicrous? Sure, but Audi says the RS7 can also yield up to 25 mpg on the US scale. With a cylinder-on-demand system, the V8 can deactivate up to four cylinders by closing their valves. Once the driver gets frisky with the throttle, the engine automatically kicks from four-cylinder to eight-cylinder mode in a few hundredths of a second. The engine is bolted to an eight-speed automatic transmission, which pushes power to all four wheels. You can read the full press release below for more information, but we think you'll have a better time viewing our live shots from the show floor..

Continue reading 2014 Audi RS7 is a 189-mph terror

2014 Audi RS7 is a 189-mph terror originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Jan 2013 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 detroit auto show2014 audi rs72014 audi rs7 sportbacka7audiaudi rs 7audi rs7detroitdetroit 2013rs7rs7 sportbacksportbackMon, 14 Jan 2013 19:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20428325/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/14/2014-audi-rs7-is-a-189-mph-terror/20428325/article-detail.xml 20428325 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/2014-audi-rs7-detroit_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/2014-audi-rs7-detroit.jpg <![CDATA[Justin Bell laps Willow Springs... in the dark... using only night vision]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/11/justin-bell-laps-willow-springs-in-the-dark-using-only-nig/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/11/justin-bell-laps-willow-springs-in-the-dark-using-only-nig/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/11/justin-bell-laps-willow-springs-in-the-dark-using-only-nig/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Night vision has made its way into quite a few luxury cars as a night-driving safety feature, but eBay Motors wanted to see if the technology could be used to actually drive the car. Former racer and World's Faster Car Show host Justin Bell grabbed the keys to an Audi A7 and headed to Willow Springs Raceway to find out.

As if driving in the dark of the desert night wasn't hard enough, the car's windshield and side windows were blacked out, so Bell's driving relied completely on the three-inch night vision display located in the gauge cluster. In addition to navigating the track, his producers also threw in a few surprises for Bell on the track. We don't want to spoil too much for you, but based on the speeds exhibited in the video, we don't think 24-hour endurance races will be adding this tech any time soon; that being said, he probably drove the car faster and better than we could have.

Scroll down to watch how Bell does lapping the track using only the car's night vision.

Continue reading Justin Bell laps Willow Springs... in the dark... using only night vision

Justin Bell laps Willow Springs... in the dark... using only night vision originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Jan 2013 12:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a7audiebay motorsjustin bellnight visionnight vision drivingwillow springs racewayworlds fastest car showFri, 11 Jan 2013 12:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20424266/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/11/justin-bell-laps-willow-springs-in-the-dark-using-only-nig/20424266/article-detail.xml 20424266 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/night-vision-driving_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/night-vision-driving.jpg <![CDATA[Audi takes cars that park themselves to a whole new level]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/11/audi-takes-cars-that-park-themselves-to-a-whole-new-level/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/11/audi-takes-cars-that-park-themselves-to-a-whole-new-level/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/11/audi-takes-cars-that-park-themselves-to-a-whole-new-level/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Autonomous cars are impressive displays of in-car technology, but what exactly would the benefit of such systems be for the average driver? Audi has answered that question by showing off its Piloted Parking system for the Audi Connect at CES 2013.

Installed on this Audi A7, Piloted Parking allows a driver to drop themselves off and have the car autonomously drive away on its own and find its own parking spot. The car can then later be retrieved by "calling" it back with a specially designed smartphone app. We'd be lying if we said this didn't bring back memories of Michael Knight summoning KITT with his wristwatch. The most impressive part of this car might be the fact that the car is fully autonomous but doesn't have any obvious sensors or monitors on the exterior of the car like many other self-driving cars have.

Check out a video of the this innovative technology in action after the jump.

Continue reading Audi takes cars that park themselves to a whole new level

Audi takes cars that park themselves to a whole new level originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Jan 2013 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a7audiaudi connectaudi piloted parkingautonomous parkingautonomous vehiclescesces 2013consumer electronics showkittFri, 11 Jan 2013 10:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20425435/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/11/audi-takes-cars-that-park-themselves-to-a-whole-new-level/20425435/article-detail.xml 20425435 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/audi-piloted-driving_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/audi-piloted-driving.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Car and Driver</i> lists 10Best for 2013, same as it ever was]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/05/car-and-driver-lists-10best-for-2013-same-as-it-ever-was/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/05/car-and-driver-lists-10best-for-2013-same-as-it-ever-was/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/05/car-and-driver-lists-10best-for-2013-same-as-it-ever-was/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,



Forgive us for having the distinct feeling of déjà vu, but it certainly feels like we've been here before. By that we are referring Car and Driver and the announcement of its annual 10Best vehicles for 2013. To be sure, it's an impressive selection of cars that combine heart-pounding performance and frugal sensibilities, but it also represents something of a broken record on the part of C/D. We're not so sure that's a flaw, though, as the resulting list is tough to argue with.

Vehicles like the Ford Mustang, Porsche Boxster, and BMW 3 Series have maintained their high-horsepower spots on this list for several years now. Even on the more practical and nimble end, the Honda Accord, Honda Fit and Mazda Miata have not budged. These continued spots are even in light of redesigns for some vehicles such as the Accord, Boxster and 3 Series.

In fact, the only newcomer to the 10Best list this year are the Scion FR-S/Subaru BRZ twins, which knocked out the Cadillac CTS-V. We think it would have been a huge misstep to have excluded the FR-S/BRZ, even in light of the supercharged Caddy's lamentable departure from 10Best.

Without further ado, here are 2012 Car and Driver 10Best winners:

After perusing our gallery of the winners, bounce on over to Car and Driver to check out the full 10Best roundup, along with a collection of videos on each car. Be sure to let us know in Comments what you think of this year's list!

Car and Driver lists 10Best for 2013, same as it ever was originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 05 Dec 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10 best10best3 seriesa6a7accordaudibmwboxsterbrzcar and drivercar and driver 10 bestfitfocusfocus stfordfr-sgolfgtihondamazdamiatamustangmustang boss 302mx-5 miatas6s7vw golfWed, 05 Dec 2012 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20394696/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/05/car-and-driver-lists-10best-for-2013-same-as-it-ever-was/20394696/article-detail.xml 20394696 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/2013-honda-accord-ex-l-sedan-1354717181_thumbnail.jpeg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/2013-honda-accord-ex-l-sedan-1354717181.jpeg <![CDATA[Audi torques the floor in LA with four new TDI oil burners]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/28/2014-audi-tdi-lineup-la-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/28/2014-audi-tdi-lineup-la-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/28/2014-audi-tdi-lineup-la-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Audi TDI Models

The diesels are coming. Well, one diesel engine sitting pretty under the shapely hoods of five Audi models: the A6, A7 and A8 sedans along with the Q5 crossover are joining the already available Q7, each powered by a 3.0-liter TDI engine offering up 240 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. Suffice it to say, we're pleased.

Audi promises improvements up to 30 percent in both fuel economy and carbon dioxide emissions when compared to its gasoline engines. Not all figures are available quite yet, but the A8, which is coming first in the spring of 2013, will score an estimated 24 miles per gallon in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. The run to 60 miles per hour is expected to take just 6.4 seconds in the big sedan.

Not to play favorites or anything, but we're definitely looking forward to sampling the Audi A7 TDI when it comes to market in the fall of 2013, along with the A6 and Q5. Pricing is not yet available, though the Q7 has carried a $52,000 base price since it went on sale last September.

See the four new Audi TDI models in our high-res image galleries live from the LA Auto Show above and below, and there's a press release below if you're in the mood for some more reading material. Enjoy all that torque-filled goodness!

Continue reading Audi torques the floor in LA with four new TDI oil burners

Audi torques the floor in LA with four new TDI oil burners originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Nov 2012 19:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 la auto show2014 audi a6 tdi2014 audi a7 tdi2014 audi a8 tdi2014 audi q5 tdia6a6 tdia7a7 tdia8a8 tdiaudilala auto showq5q5 tdiq7q7 tditdiWed, 28 Nov 2012 19:40:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20390413/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/28/2014-audi-tdi-lineup-la-2012/20390413/article-detail.xml 20390413 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2014-audi-a8l-tdi-la_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2014-audi-a8l-tdi-la.jpg <![CDATA[Audi confirms four new TDI diesel models headed for US]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/19/audi-confirms-four-new-tdi-diesel-models-headed-for-us/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/19/audi-confirms-four-new-tdi-diesel-models-headed-for-us/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/19/audi-confirms-four-new-tdi-diesel-models-headed-for-us/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Audi has thrilled the diesel fanatics among us this afternoon, by announcing its intentions to show a whopping five TDI diesel-empowered vehicles (four new) at the upcoming LA Auto Show. TDI versions of the Audi's A6, A7, A8 sedans and its Q5 crossover will be new additions to the automaker's US arsenal, while the Q7 TDI will continue as well. The news isn't completely unexpected, as we received confirmation previously that the A6, A8 and Q5 were all on the way with diesel, but the A7 receiving the engine is news, as is the reveal and on-sale timing. Our previous report indicated that the A4 would also be coming over with TDI motivation, but the Audi announcement makes no such promises.

All of the models in question will be making room for Audi's 3.0-liter V6 turbocharged diesel under their hoods. The powerplant makes some 240 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, and is estimated to return 24 miles per gallon city and 36 mpg highway when installed in the A8. The Q7 is good for 19/28 city/highway mpg.

The A8 TDI will be the first of the new diesels to become available in the 2014 model year, with that executive sedan being offered for sale in the spring of 2013. The A7, A6, and Q5 TDIs will roll into dealerships in the fall of next year, and the Q7 TDI is, of course, on sale right now for a stating price of $52,000.

Feel free to scroll down to read Audi's own press release for just a tiny bit more detail on the announcement, and stay tuned for our LA coverage, as well.

Continue reading Audi confirms four new TDI diesel models headed for US

Audi confirms four new TDI diesel models headed for US originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Nov 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 la auto show2013 audi q7 tdi2014 audi a6 tdi2014 audi a7 tdi2014 audi a8 tdi2014 audi q5 tdia4a6a7a8audiaudi tdidiesellala auto showq5q7tdiMon, 19 Nov 2012 14:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20383732/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/19/audi-confirms-four-new-tdi-diesel-models-headed-for-us/20383732/article-detail.xml 20383732 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/tdi-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/tdi-628.jpg <![CDATA[Audi launches Black Edition models in UK *UPDATE]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/06/audi-launches-black-edition-models-in-uk/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/06/audi-launches-black-edition-models-in-uk/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/06/audi-launches-black-edition-models-in-uk/#comments2013 Audi A6 Black Edition

Audi has unveiled Black Edition versions of the A6 and A7 in the UK. Each model will roll from the factory with a set of rotor-design wheels and feature a lower sports suspension borrowed from the company's S Line kit. Designers swapped out the standard grille, license plate surrounds and window trim for blacked-out pieces, and the cabins wear piano black accents. Black Edition models also offer up sport seats swaddled in Valcona leather. The packages will be available on A6 sedan and Avant models, as well as the A7 sportback.

The Black Edition packages are based on the Audi S Line specification, which means tricks like navigation, audi drive select suspension, parking assist and LED tail lamps are all part of the party. Buyers in the UK can expect to see their vehicles be available for order this month, but will have to wait until early 2013 to take delivery. Prices start at 35,010 pounds for the A6 Sedan Black Edition and rack all the way up to 50,575 pounds for the A7 Sportback Black Edition.

We've reached out to Audi to see if North American buyers will get a shot at the new trim lines, and will update this post as soon as we hear word back. In the interim, you can check out the full press release below.

*UPDATE: Mark Dahncke, product and motorsports communications manager with Audi of America, has confirmed the A6 and A7 Black Edition models will not be sold in the US. The Black Editions will only be available in the UK.

Continue reading Audi launches Black Edition models in UK *UPDATE

Audi launches Black Edition models in UK *UPDATE originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Nov 2012 18:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20132013 audi a6 black editiona6a7audiaudi a6audi a6 black editionaudi a7audi a7 sportback black editionblack editionukTue, 06 Nov 2012 18:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20371936/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/06/audi-launches-black-edition-models-in-uk/20371936/article-detail.xml 20371936 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2013-audi-a6-black-edition-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2013-audi-a6-black-edition-628.jpg <![CDATA[Which is best for enthusiast drivers, Audi's S6 or S7?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/12/which-is-best-for-enthusiast-drivers-audis-s6-or-s7/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/12/which-is-best-for-enthusiast-drivers-audis-s6-or-s7/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/12/which-is-best-for-enthusiast-drivers-audis-s6-or-s7/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2013 Audi S6 and S7 parked side-by-side

Audi's S6 is a high-performance four-door sedan and the S7 is the automaker's high-performance five-door luxury hatchback. The two are platform-sharing siblings with common 420-horsepower twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engines, seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearboxes and permanent all-wheel drive. No surprise, then, that straight-line performance between each is indistinguishable from one to the other. Based on this information, many casual observers are led to believe that the only discernible difference between the two models is found in bodystyle.

We recently had the opportunity to drive the S6 and S7 back-to-back on our favorite Southern California canyon roads. While it wasn't a track environment, we pushed each pretty hard until distinct personalities and driving dynamics were revealed. We also learned a few other interesting things about the close siblings:
  • On a scale, the S6 (4,398 pounds) is 110 pounds lighter than the S7 (4,508 pounds). The additional weight in the S7 is due to structural reinforcement for the hatchback - possibly meaning there is more weight over its rear axle. (Audi has not released weight distribution figures.)
  • By the tape, the S7 has a slightly wider front track (up 1.1 inches) and rear track (up 1.2 inches), and its body is 1.4 inches wider overall. The S6 sedan is 1.9 inches shorter in length than the S7 hatchback. (Audi has not released center of gravity height.)
  • Despite sharing the identical electromechanical servotronic speed sensitive steering, the system in the S6 delivered a more direct feel and effort felt slightly heavier. The S7 steering felt marginally lighter and less accurate.
  • The S6 felt more balanced in the corners, even though it was the narrower and taller of the two. Mid-corner corrections were more stable in the S6, as the additional weight over the rear of the S7 caused a tiny oscillation as it corrected itself in the same maneuver.
  • The S6 was wearing Pirelli tires, while the S7 was shod in Yokohama rubber. Audi says both tires should perform nearly identically, but we'd beg to differ.
  • Audi's official 0-60 time is 4.5 seconds for each, but using the gearbox's (secret) launch control feature drops each to about 4.0 seconds flat.
The S6 has a base price of $71,900 while the S7 starts at $78,800. Based on our short comparison, if you're not interested in the S7's form factor or trunk space, we recommend the driving enthusiast should save $6,900 and go with the S6.

Which is best for enthusiast drivers, Audi's S6 or S7? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Oct 2012 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 audi s62013 audi s72013+audi+s7+review2013audis7reviewa6a7audiaudi+s7audi+s7+reviewaudis7audis7reviewfeaturedquick spinquickspins6s7s7 vs s7Fri, 12 Oct 2012 11:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20343290/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/12/which-is-best-for-enthusiast-drivers-audis-s6-or-s7/20343290/article-detail.xml 20343290 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/audis6s7628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/audis6s7628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Audi S7]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/26/2013-audi-s7-first-drive-review-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/26/2013-audi-s7-first-drive-review-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/26/2013-audi-s7-first-drive-review-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Performance With Poise

2013 Audi S7

As reaction settles down to news that Audi has scooped up Italian bikemaker Ducati right from under the nose of Mercedes-Benz for a cool billion, we can now get back to the four-wheeled performance Audi does best. And there are few better ways I can think of doing that than throwing body and mind into a fully optioned new Audi S7 and hitting the sunny German countryside.

At least for this scribe-driver, Audi does a much finer job on its S models than it attempts to do on the RS versions. Not that the RS lineup is a bad thing, but its various members often strike me as just souped-up S models - not the true RennSport icons they ought to be. I want mayhem and magic in an RS and never really get it. What I probably really want is rear-wheel drive and about 400 fewer pounds to lug around, but knowing Audi's modern day raison d'être, that'll never be allowed to happen.

But the S cars are genuinely satisfying Sport-driving professionals that happily double as very stylish everyday drivers. The current civilian Audi that expresses best the stylish part of the equation is the sleek A7. It's a funny car in that the initial reaction to the swoopy A7 was a bit hesitant from some quarters. But the enthusiasm has grown over time and now the sportback-style car is a certifiable hit in the United States and elsewhere.

Continue reading 2013 Audi S7

2013 Audi S7 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Apr 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 audi s7a7audiaudi a7audi saudi s7featuredfirst driveFirstDrives7Thu, 26 Apr 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20224355/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/26/2013-audi-s7-first-drive-review-video/20224355/article-detail.xml 20224355 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2013-audi-s7-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2013-audi-s7-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Audi pumps out new twin-turbo TDI 3.0L V6 [w/audio]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/audi-pumps-out-new-twin-turbo-tdi-3-0l-v6-w-audio/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/audi-pumps-out-new-twin-turbo-tdi-3-0l-v6-w-audio/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/audi-pumps-out-new-twin-turbo-tdi-3-0l-v6-w-audio/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Audi BiTDI V6 engine

If you're in the market for a new car and diesel's among the options you'd consider, your local Audi showroom should be among your first destinations. The German automaker has made burning oil a cause célèbre right up there with Quattro all-wheel drive, but it's not about to sit on its proverbial laurels and let the competition catch up. To that end, Audi has just announced its most powerful V6 TDI yet.

Called the BiTDI, the 3.0-liter, six-cylinder twin-turbo-diesel packs 313 metric horsepower (309hp on our scale) and a whopping 480 pound-feet of torque. It's being rolled out initially in the UK on the A6 (sedan, Avant wagon and Allroad high-rider) and A7 Sportback, but we're told to expect its arrival soon as an option on the Q7 crossover.

In the A6 sedan, the BiTDI is said to be good for a 5.1-second dash to 62 mph, with top speed (as per usual) limited to 155 mph while returning a 44.1 mph rating on the combined UK cycle. But if that's not full enough a package for you, Audi has also fitted a sound actuator to give its throaty new diesel the exhaust note you'd expect from a hi-po gasoline engine. But you don't have to take our word for it - just click through the jump to listen to a sound file of the new engine, as well as read the official press release.

Continue reading Audi pumps out new twin-turbo TDI 3.0L V6 [w/audio]

Audi pumps out new twin-turbo TDI 3.0L V6 [w/audio] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a6a7audi bitdiaudi dieselaudi tdibitdidieselq7videoWed, 01 Feb 2012 16:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20162068/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/01/audi-pumps-out-new-twin-turbo-tdi-3-0l-v6-w-audio/20162068/article-detail.xml 20162068 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/bi-tdi_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/bi-tdi.jpg <![CDATA[Audi lights up vampire-laden S7 commercial ahead of Super Bowl]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/26/audi-lights-up-vampire-laden-s7-commercial-ahead-of-super-bowl/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/26/audi-lights-up-vampire-laden-s7-commercial-ahead-of-super-bowl/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/26/audi-lights-up-vampire-laden-s7-commercial-ahead-of-super-bowl/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Audi vampire super bowl ad

Audi apparently couldn't wait until the Super Bowl to show off the ad it will run during the Big Game. The German automaker has released its spot, and sure enough, the quick clip has cashed in on the current vampire craze. The commercial features a clutch of gen x/y/millennial 20-something vamps out for an impromptu fireside party. When their hero arrives in an Audi S7 with an extra cooler of O Negative, disaster ensues. At least the company chose an excellent soundtrack. The whole drama plays out under the silky tones of Echo & The Bunnymen's "Killing Moon."

Audi unveiled the spot mere days after teasing its Super Bowl ad after Facebook fans beat the company's Race The Light game on the social network.

We have to say, we're a little underwhelmed by the spot. Audi is on an undeniable roll right now with products like the TT-RS and A7 littering showrooms across the country, so it's a bit sad that this was the best feature they could muster to highlight in a Super Bowl commercial. Hit the jump to see the spot for yourself.

Continue reading Audi lights up vampire-laden S7 commercial ahead of Super Bowl

Audi lights up vampire-laden S7 commercial ahead of Super Bowl originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Jan 2012 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 audi s7a7advertisingaudiaudi s7audi super bowl commercialcommercialmarketings7super bowlsuper bowl commercialvampirevampiresvideoThu, 26 Jan 2012 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20157680/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/26/audi-lights-up-vampire-laden-s7-commercial-ahead-of-super-bowl/20157680/article-detail.xml 20157680 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/audi-vampires_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/audi-vampires.jpg <![CDATA[Watch this Audi transform into a moving picture show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/17/watch-this-audi-transform-into-a-moving-picture-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/17/watch-this-audi-transform-into-a-moving-picture-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/17/watch-this-audi-transform-into-a-moving-picture-show/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Audi video mapping

Though we still can't explain the technology, we're becoming big fans of projection mapping, as can also be seen in this video that has also been featured on these pages.

From what we can gather, a Russian marketing team called Radugadesign was behind this production, and we can only assume that a lot of hard work and some sinister numbers crunching from a swath of powerful computers and graphics cards went into its making.

As to why this presentation existed in the first place, we have no idea... other than some vague notion that it was produced for Marlboro. Yes, we're assuming it's the cigarette company. What Marlboro has to do with an Audi A7, we won't even attempt to explain.

In any case, we suggest you see the results for yourself in the video after the break.

Continue reading Watch this Audi transform into a moving picture show

Watch this Audi transform into a moving picture show originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Jan 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 audi a7a7audiaudi a7marlboroprojection mappingraduga designradugadesignvideovideo mappingTue, 17 Jan 2012 20:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20150681/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/17/watch-this-audi-transform-into-a-moving-picture-show/20150681/article-detail.xml 20150681 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/audi-video-map_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/audi-video-map.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Autoweek</i> awards Audi A7 and Land Rover Evoque 'Best of the Best' titles]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/03/autoweek-awards-audi-a7-and-land-rover-evoque-best-of-th/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/03/autoweek-awards-audi-a7-and-land-rover-evoque-best-of-th/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/03/autoweek-awards-audi-a7-and-land-rover-evoque-best-of-th/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Audi A7

2012 Land Rover EvoqueThe editors from Autoweek have lined up their notes and named their 2011 Best of the Best. The 2012 Audi A7 and Land Rover Range Rover Evoque took the top honors, with editor Wes Raynal saying that the Audi is a vehicle with "few peers" thanks its integration of sedan styling and hatchback functionality. The Evoque, meanwhile, won over the hearts and minds of those at Autoweek thanks to its Land Rover roots and excellent ride refinement. The publication says the Evoque redefines the brand.

Autoweek isn't alone in its picks. As you may recall, the editors at our sister site, AOL Autos, chose both the A7 and the Evoque for the website's first-ever car of the year awards, Motor Trend named the Evoque its SUV of the Year, and we're rather fond of them both, as well.

In order to qualify for the Autoweek Best of the Best list, a vehicle had to be completely or substantially new for 2011. Click past the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading Autoweek awards Audi A7 and Land Rover Evoque 'Best of the Best' titles

Autoweek awards Audi A7 and Land Rover Evoque 'Best of the Best' titles originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Jan 2012 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 audi a72012 land rover evoque2012 land rover range rover evoquea7audiaudi a7autoweekbest of the bestcar of the yearevoqueland roverland rover evoquerange rover evoqueTue, 03 Jan 2012 16:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20139214/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/03/autoweek-awards-audi-a7-and-land-rover-evoque-best-of-th/20139214/article-detail.xml 20139214 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/01-audi-a7-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/01-audi-a7-628.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Car and Driver</i> reveals its 2012 10Best cars [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/06/car-and-driver-reveals-its-2012-10best-cars-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/06/car-and-driver-reveals-its-2012-10best-cars-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/06/car-and-driver-reveals-its-2012-10best-cars-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,



Each year, the scribes at Car and Driver go through every new vehicle on sale and pick the ten best cars available here in the United States. And while some major automotive awards are only shelled out to vehicles that are all-new or significantly updated for a certain model year, C/D's approach is to look at the full scope of cars currently on sale. After all, there are some cars that are simply perennial favorites, even if they haven't changed year over year.

For 2012, the Chevrolet Volt and Hyundai Sonata have fallen off the list to make room for the Audi A6/A7 and Ford Focus. The other eight vehicles that round out the 10Best list have carried over from the 2011 winners, but we can't say we're surprised. These ten cars indeed represent some of the best vehicles on sale today.

The 2012 Car and Driver 10Best winners are:
Head over to Car and Driver to read the full 10Best roundup, and follow the jump to see a video of this year's winning fleet, then check in to Comments to share your thoughts on C/D's list.

Continue reading Car and Driver reveals its 2012 10Best cars [w/video]

Car and Driver reveals its 2012 10Best cars [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Dec 2011 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10 best10best2012 10best3 seriesa7accordaudibmwboss 302boxstercadillaccar and drivercts-vfitfocusfordgolfgtihondam3mustangporscheten bestvolkswagenTue, 06 Dec 2011 14:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20121966/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/06/car-and-driver-reveals-its-2012-10best-cars-w-video/20121966/article-detail.xml 20121966 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/cd10best628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/cd10best628.jpg <![CDATA[Audi A7 wins Motor Press Guild's inaugural Car Of The Year award]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/10/audi-a7-wins-motor-press-guilds-inaugural-car-of-the-year-award/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/10/audi-a7-wins-motor-press-guilds-inaugural-car-of-the-year-award/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/10/audi-a7-wins-motor-press-guilds-inaugural-car-of-the-year-award/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



The Motor Press Guild has named the 2012 Audi A7 as the its first-ever Car Of The Year. MPG calls itself the largest automotive media association in the United States, and says that the the A7 was chosen as the first recipient of the organization's Car Of The Year award because of its styling, handling and slew of advanced technologies.

MPG says that the A7 faced some stiff competition from four other finalists chosen by a panel of members. The entire MPG membership then evaluated and ranked those vehicles at the organization's track day in October.

Motor Press Guild President Laura Burstein will present Audi of America President Johan de Nysschen with the Car Of The Year award at the upcoming Los Angeles Auto Show.

Of course, the MPG wasn't the only organization to honor the A7. Automobile Magazine recently named the high-end hatchback its Car of the Year as well. Hit the jump for the MPG press release.

Continue reading Audi A7 wins Motor Press Guild's inaugural Car Of The Year award

Audi A7 wins Motor Press Guild's inaugural Car Of The Year award originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Nov 2011 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 audi a7a7audiaudi a7la auto showlos angeles auto showmotor press guildmpgThu, 10 Nov 2011 16:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20103520/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/10/audi-a7-wins-motor-press-guilds-inaugural-car-of-the-year-award/20103520/article-detail.xml 20103520 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/03-2012-audi-a7-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/03-2012-audi-a7-review.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Automobile</i> names Audi A7 its car of the year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/08/automobile-names-audi-a7-its-car-of-the-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/08/automobile-names-audi-a7-its-car-of-the-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/08/automobile-names-audi-a7-its-car-of-the-year/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2012 Audi A7

It seems we at Autoblog are not the only group of enthusiasts who are ready to announce to the whole world their love for the Audi A7. The men and women from Automobile Magazine have named Audi's coupe-like five-door hatchback as their 2012 Automobile of the Year. There's a whole article worth of reasons why the A7 has won the coveted trophy, so if you're interested, we suggest clicking here to read all about it yourself.

In related news, Peter Schreyer, chief design officer for Kia, has garnered the magazine's 2012 Man of the Year award for the contributions he's made to the Korean company's overall design aesthetic. We wholeheartedly support that notion. 2012 Technology of the Year laurels go to the "Turbo Tech Trifecta," that being Automobile-speak for turbocharging, direct injection and variable valve timing. Finally, the 2012 Design of the Year has been awarded to the Fisker Karma. We're betting that last decision will be the most controversial.

Got an opinion? Feel free to voice your own choices for Automobile, Man, Technology and Design of the Year in Comments.

Automobile names Audi A7 its car of the year originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Nov 2011 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 audi a72012 automobile of the year2012 fisker karmaa7audiautomobile magazineautomobile of the yeardesign of the yearfiskerkarmaman of the yearpeter schreyerschreyertechnology of the yearTue, 08 Nov 2011 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20101340/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/08/automobile-names-audi-a7-its-car-of-the-year/20101340/article-detail.xml 20101340 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/2012-audi-a7_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/2012-audi-a7.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Audi S7 saunters slyly onto stage, shows sultry shape]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/13/2012-audi-s7-frankfurt-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/13/2012-audi-s7-frankfurt-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/13/2012-audi-s7-frankfurt-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Audi S7

It seems Audi has hit upon a bit of love-it-or-hate-it styling with its new A7 full-size five-door. Regardless of your stance on its aesthetics, we can all agree that the motor does a fine job of hauling the hefty hatchback around. Now, however, Audi has given us our first glimpse at the more powerful S7, and we can't wait to get this shapely German back on U.S. soil.

Under the hood, a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine belches out 420 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. That's enough motivation to propel the four-passenger five-door from 0-62 miles per hour in under five seconds. Despite the power, Audi has managed to eke out a fuel economy average of 25 miles per gallon thanks to its cylinder deactivation system and seven-speed S tronic gearbox.

Should you live your life in the luxurious fast lane, Audi has prepared a few optional goodies to keep you comfortable at speed. An available sport differential varies the the power distribution between the rear wheels while optional carbon ceramic brakes bring the speedo needle back to legal numbers.

There's no word yet on pricing. It's possible to push the price of a loaded A7 above $80,000, so we expect the S7 to start somewhere in that neighborhood.

Continue reading 2012 Audi S7 saunters slyly onto stage, shows sultry shape

2012 Audi S7 saunters slyly onto stage, shows sultry shape originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Sep 2011 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 frankfurt2012 audi s7a7audiaudi s7frankfurtfrankfurt motor shows7Tue, 13 Sep 2011 15:40:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20041617/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/13/2012-audi-s7-frankfurt-2011/20041617/article-detail.xml 20041617 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/2012-audi-a7-frankfurt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/2012-audi-a7-frankfurt.jpg <![CDATA[Audi A7 3.0T takes on the Mercedes-Benz CLS550]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/24/audi-a7-3-0t-mercedes-benz-cls550-comparison/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/24/audi-a7-3-0t-mercedes-benz-cls550-comparison/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/24/audi-a7-3-0t-mercedes-benz-cls550-comparison/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Which Is Better Depends On Where You're Sitting

2012 Audi A7 3.0T and 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS550

"This car has an identity crisis. The aggressive exterior, brash exhaust note and firm ride say 'sport,' but the interior screams 'grandma!'"

The decision was made to review these "four-door coupes" not only from the driver's perspective, but from all four seating positions.
Strong words, especially when they originate from a stranger named Stephen sitting in the back seat of the $80,995 Mercedes-Benz some 80 miles from where we picked him up. The 31-year-old real estate broker and five other industry outsiders were invited to spend the day with Autoblog to help us compare the 2012 Audi A7 3.0T to the 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS550.

These two vehicles have met head-to-head before, but not on these pages. To make things a bit more interesting, the decision was made to review these "four-door coupes" not only from the driver's perspective, but from all four seating positions. The unique comparison would require each of the vehicles to carry 700-plus pounds of passengers comfortably from the flatlands of the hot LA Basin up to the cool mile-high elevations of Big Bear Lake and back. The winner would be determined by a simple vote.

As this task called for six warm bodies willing to be chauffeured 160 miles over a long afternoon, Autoblog's Facebook page was enlisted to recruit. Within 24 hours, we had our six smiling volunteers fingered.

Continue reading Audi A7 3.0T takes on the Mercedes-Benz CLS550

Audi A7 3.0T takes on the Mercedes-Benz CLS550 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Aug 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 audi a7 3.0T2012 mercedes-benz cls550a7a7 cls comparisona7 versus clsaudiaudi+a7audi+a7+reviewaudi+picsaudia7audia7reviewaudipicscls-classcls550comparisonsfeaturedmercedes+benzmercedes-benzmercedesbenzWed, 24 Aug 2011 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20024583/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/24/audi-a7-3-0t-mercedes-benz-cls550-comparison/20024583/article-detail.xml 20024583 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/audi-a7-mercedes-cls-comparison_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/audi-a7-mercedes-cls-comparison.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Audi A7]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/08/2012-audi-a7-review-road-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/08/2012-audi-a7-review-road-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/08/2012-audi-a7-review-road-test/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Stylish Five-Door Earns Respect Right Out Of The Box

2012 Audi A7
2012 Audi A7 - Click above for high-res image gallery

It's only just arrived, and the new 2012 Audi A7 reminds us of a trusted old friend. That's quite a compliment.

The five-door is fresh on the scene, with gorgeously sleek sheetmetal hiding an advanced supercharged engine and all-wheel drive. Inside, there is a four-place cabin loaded with luxury and some of the industry's most innovative technology. Impressive, but that isn't what sets the Audi apart.

While most original designs require time for familiarization, the A7 seems to be an exception. Unlike most cars that cross our paths, this new luxury hatchback welcomes occupants into one of the warmest and most inviting passenger cabins we have encountered in years. Even though it is thoroughly modern and sophisticated, all controls are intuitively placed and their operation is second nature. Everything, from throttle and steering response to passenger space and cargo utility, works exactly as one would expect it to.

This may sound crazy, but after just two minutes behind the wheel, we are as comfortable as if we were entering the tenth year of a long relationship...

Continue reading 2012 Audi A7

2012 Audi A7 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Jun 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 A72012 Audi2012 Audi A72012 Audi A7 Sportback2012+audi+a7+reviews2012audia7reviewsA7A7 SportbackaudiAudi A7Audi A7 Sportbackaudi+2012audi+7audi+a7+reviewaudi+s7audi2012audi7audia7reviewaudis7featuredreviewreviewsWed, 08 Jun 2011 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19961117/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/08/2012-audi-a7-review-road-test/19961117/article-detail.xml 19961117 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/2012-audi-a7-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/2012-audi-a7-review.jpg <![CDATA[Vehicles take flight at the 'Ring's Flugplatz]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/25/vehicles-take-flight-at-the-rings-flugplatz/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/25/vehicles-take-flight-at-the-rings-flugplatz/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/25/vehicles-take-flight-at-the-rings-flugplatz/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

chevrolet corvette zr1 gets air at flugplatz
All four off at Flugplatz - Click above for high-res image gallery

Many areas of Germany's demanding 13-mile Nürburgring race track have became notorious in their own right, and have nicknames that hint at the challenge they present. One such section is called Flugplatz, which means "airport," and the name certainly fits because this crest is enough to send some cars skyward.

Our friendly spy photographers decided to take a break from the cat-mouse-camo-car game, and trained their lenses on Flugplatz. In the gallery below, we have airborne units from Germany, the United States, the United Kingdom and Japan, all attacking the airport. Engineers like to use this lift-off point to check a variety of parameters. They also like to use Flugplatz to force suspension setups to reenact heavyweight prize fights.

We hear that drivers need to exceed 100 miles per hour at Flugplatz in order to play games with gravity. That makes the shots of the Panamera that much scarier, and the shots of the McLaren MP4-12C that much more amazing. Check out all of Flugplatz finest in our high-res image gallery.

Vehicles take flight at the 'Ring's Flugplatz originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 May 2011 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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