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Spy Shots Of The 2018 Audi S8 Leaked
We last saw a mild facelift for the Audi S8 in 2014 after two generational changes that happened, the last one being in 2012. But even with such adjustments in terms of looks and feel, the S8 always looked a bit outdated.
But now, we are finally seeing what could be the 2018 Audi S8. Testing is being done on Nürburgring, and it will follow through Audi’s latest design language.
Based on the spy shots, the S8 will have a shorter nose because of Audi’s new grille design, which will be wider compared to the older models. While it still has that hexagonal shape, the edges in the upper corner are longer than before and the lower corners remained rounded in shape. Some changes have also been made on the hood and new headlight units, which contribute to the shaping of the nose.
On the sides, there is not much to talk about, except for the upper body line. Previously, the line goes from the corner of the headlight back to the rear, between the belt line and door handles. But now, the line was moved down a bit and runs inline with the door handles. The side view mirrors were also modified in such a way that the upper edged transitioned into the lower outside corner.
There are no concrete shots yet for the car’s interior, but it’s easy to calculate what kind of design prototype is going to be used. Just look at the insides of the 2017 A5 and S5, and you’ll have a pretty good idea how the S8 will look like, interior speaking.
The new S8 is being rumored to use the 2.9-liter engine that is now being shared between Porsche and Audi. This same engine was used in the Porsche Panamera, which can produce 440 horsepower and 405 pound-feet of torque.
Pricing for the S8 is still hazy, though we can expect it to charge $108,678.
Spy Shots Of 2019 Audi S7 Emerge
The second generation Audi S7 was spotted being tested on the road, and it reminds us of the large, four-door hatchback or “Sportback” body found in the Mercedes CLS Coupe, the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe and the Audi A7 Sportback in 2010.
This is the first time the second-generation Audi S7 was spotted in the wild, so we are sure there will be plenty of surprises in future spy shots. The prototype has a strong resemblance to the Prologue Avant Concept since it has the same stretched-out hexagonal grille and small but dominating corner air intakes.
For now, the fascia is still incomplete, so we’re yet to see if it will sport the proper grille or intake inserts. Up front, you’ll also notice the thin headlights, and this is a big thing because the lower, outer corner of the headlamps on the current S7 dips down. But on this model, the bottom edge of the light is flat while the top edge follows the hood. It is a much cleaner look, and would look great once the camouflage comes off the prototype.
On the sides, the Audi S7 has the same distinct body line on the bottom of the door between the two wheel arches. The mirrors are a little shorter and the rear quarter panels are extended outward, which along with the low body height, gives the vehicle rather a “sitting pretty” look. The roof is very much a true “Sportback” while the sharp body line on the rear quarters fade as it gets closer to the headlights.
There’s a new pair of taillights at the rear end. These are thinner than the current model, and have a more rounded contour on the top and the outside edges. As for the rear fascia, it’s not too different from the current model.
There’s no report yet on the powertrain of the new S7, though it may have the same 4.0-liter V-8, except that a little tweak can power it up to 470 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque.
Pricing for the S7 might be $80,500 for the entry model and $85,000 for the prestige.
Spy Shots Of The 2018 Audi RS5 Surface Online
When the A5 and the S5 made their debuts, it became pretty clear how the Audi RS5 will look like. Since there wasn’t an RS5 for the 2016 model year, we’re a bit excited about the styling of the 2018 version.
The next-generation Audi RS5 was caught being tested in the wild, and while it hasn’t shed its camouflage, we can clearly see the correct front fascia and fenders. The vehicle features wider fenders and an RS5-correct front fascia. The fascia looks similar to the model that was caught testing in May, but the new spy shots revealed that the radiator grille is not properly defined in Audi fashion while the corner air intakes were refined to match.
Both the air intakes and the grille don’t have the proper mesh quite yet, though the Audi emblem is now prominently displayed a little below the hood. Now that the correct fascia and fenders are in place, we can safely assume that the RS5 is almost production ready. We may not see in at the Paris Auto Show later this month, but we bet it will debut at the Geneva Auto Show next March.
The rendering of the RS5 coupe showed the same hood as the A5 with the muscular character line and the same headlights. The grille has the same shape, except for the “quattro” lettering that go along with the RS5 emblem on the left side.
The side profile is expected to remain the same, except for a set of larger, light-alloy wheels wrapped in performance-spec tires. Compared to the previous RS5 and to the A5, the body might seat an inch lower to the ground. At the back, it will have the same taillights.
As for the powertrain, the RS5 might be packing a 3.0-liter, turbocharged V-6 that produces somewhere between 450 and 470 horsepower. And since it will be lighter, top speed will likely improve.
The next RS5 is expected to be priced at around $75,000.
The Brand New Audi S5 Revealed
Audi has finally revealed its brand new Audi A5 and S5 Coupes, which will give the BMW 4-Series and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe a run for their money. The Audi S5 is decidedly faster, more efficient, and even lighter than before.
But this is exactly what we are expecting from the S5. Recently unveiled, the S5 followed Audi’s new design DNA with a flatter grille, long bonnet and shorter overhangs. The one that we have been most looking forward to is the S5, which is more powerful compared to the A5.
The new S5 will carry the 3.0-liter V6, which is now turbocharged to produce 349 horsepower, which is 20 horsepower more than the outgoing S5 Coupe. It also has an eight-speed auto—a standard fit for the four-wheel drive.
The Audi S5 is so equipped that it can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 4.7 seconds. In comparison, the closest the BMW can get is the 440i, which has 322 horsepower and can go 0-62mph in 5.2 seconds or 5.4 seconds for the auto transmission.
As for the Mercedes-Benz, it got the AMG C43, which produces 362mph and can go 0-62mph in just 4 seconds.
On the other hand, the regular A5, which is more likely to be the more popular of the two coupes, will have the option of either a 2.0-liter turbo petrol or a 2.0-liter diesel. You may also choose a pair of 3.0-liter TDIs with power ranging from 187bhp to 282bhp.
For the lesser cars, there’s the option of a six-speed manual or seven-speed auto. The diesel option and the S5 can get the eight-speed transmission.
The cars will come with an all-new chassis, which can be equipped with adaptive dampers and dynamic steering. Either way, the A5 will have no trouble handling “narrow, winding mountain roads and long trips on the Autobahn with equal aplomb.”
Sneak Peek Into The 2017 Audi A5 Convertible
The year 2016 has so far brought in new models from Audi, and the next half of this year will also see the launch of the A5 Convertible, just a few short months after the company unveiled the A5 Coupe.
After seeing the prototypes of the S5 and RS5 coupes being tested near the Nurburgring, it can be assumed that the convertible will also be having higher performance models. But as for now, let’s take a look at this standard model, which would be competing with the BMW 4 Series Convertible and the Merdedes-Benz C-Class Convertible.
The A5 would certainly be a tough competitor. Based on the spy shots, we can assume that there would be a new design language, classy interiors and updated drivetrains.
The convertible was covered in camo, but there are plenty of hints as to what it would look like once the camo comes off. It looks like the convertible will have a sharper body line, which confirms the A5 will be heavily based on the A4.
In short, the A5 should be a two-door convertible version of the A4.
The A5 would have the same size and shape as its predecessor, albeit it has reshaped body lines and slightly more angular features. Expect to see new headlamps that feature L-shaped LED stripes and redesigned twin LED lamps. At the back, there would be thinner taillights, shorter trunk lid, and a new bumper.
The interior will be completely redesigned. There’s a new “dashboard” with a continuous air-vent strip and the center console will have a sportier look. There would also be a new steering wheel with revised buttons, a larger display for infotainment system, and a new airconditioning unit.
The seats would be bound with softer materials that match the dashboard and door panels.
The range of diesel and gasoline options were updated—from a 1.4-liter TFSI rated engine to a 2.0-liter four-banger to a 3.0-liter V6.
The A5 Convertible should be a tad bit more expensive than the A4, which starts at $47,900 for the base trim and $50,200 for the premium version.
2017 Audi A6, A7 Received Minor Tweaks
The Audi A6 and A7 received mid-year tweaks for 2016, wherein we saw a refreshed exterior styling and more technology inside. But for the 2017 model, Audi decided to update the A6 and A7 just a little bit more with a more stylish exterior and a high-tech interior.
Although the specifications for the United States version have yet to be released, what we can confirm is that both cars will have updated front and rear bumpers, an expanded color palette, and new wheel patterns.
But that’s just for the exterior.
Inside, there are new LED ambient lighting packages, aluminum and wood dashboard accents, and advanced tech features. The updated Audi A6 and A7 have an improved Apple CarPlay, Android Auto smartphone integration, and a wireless charging pad.
The cars also come packed with an available rear-seat entertainment package wherein a pair of tablet PCs can make being rear passengers more comfortable and entertaining even.
There is no major change in terms of drivetrain, meaning it remains at 2.0-liter 4-cylinder base option for the A6 and 3.0-liter V-6 base option for the A7. On the other hand, the S6 and S7 will continue having the 4.0-liter V-8 engine. The same goes for the RS 7.
As we are all aware of, the Volkswagen Group has an ongoing diesel scandal. Because of this, it is more likely that we won’t see a diesel option for the updated 2017 A6 and A7.
Deliveries for both cars will start in the second half of the year, so you don’t have to wait too long. Pricing details have not been threshed out yet, but it is expected to remain unchanged from the 2016 A6 and A7.
This year, the A6 started at $46,200 while the A7 is at $68,300. These figures include the destination already.
Audi Releases 21-Foot, 6-Door A8 L Extended
The past years have seen a number of automakers rolling out limousines straight from their factories. We previously enjoyed the S600 Pullman from Mercedes-Maybach and the Mulsanne Grand Limousine from Bentley.
Now, it’s time for Audi to amaze us with the A8 L Extended.
Measuring 20.9 feet between its bumpers, the Audi A8 L Extended can carry up to six people according to a report. It has six doors, allowing each passenger to enter and exit the car to their convenience. This isn’t a strategy usually employed by other limousine carmakers.
Inside the limousine, you’ll find all seats facing the front and luxuriously lined in extra-supple Valcona leather. The first two rows are electrically adjusted individual seats. In the third row, you can find a center console with some included amenities such as an entertainment package and a cool box.
Suffice is to say that those seating at the back will most likely feel the luxury of riding in the limousine.
Creating the Audi A8 L Extended took almost a year. According to Audi, the main challenge has been ensuring the safety and the rigidity similar to their sedans or shorter wheelbase models.
The major changes in the A8 are the aluminum spaceframe architecture that include thicker side sills, extruded aluminum sections for the center tunnel, additional aluminum tubes and cross-braces for the roof, as well as a double rear bulkhead separating the passenger and luggage compartments.
These changes pushed the weight of the car to 5,330 pounds, although this is still lighter than the curb weight of the G90 of Hyundai’s new Genesis luxury line. That one weighs 5,335 pounds.
For the drivetrain, the A8 L Extended has a turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 that can produce 306 horsepower on an 8-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. This might be an average engine at best, but even with its size, the A8 L Extended can accelerate from 0-62 mph in mere 7.1 seconds. Top speed is at 155 mph.
Audi has so far made only one A8 L Extended for a customer in Europe. It’s more or less looking like the brand will just build the limo by orders, though Audi said there might be more of the car in the market in the coming months.
2017 Audi S3 Sportback Gets Updated Drivetrain, Technology
Audi already unwrapped its new A3 family, which included a hatchback, sedan and cabriolet—all of which have quite powerful performances on the road. The hatchback version, however, deserves special attention, especially as it comes both in three- and five-door body styles.
Similar to the rest of the A3 family, the Audi S3 Sportback has a redesigned front fascia, updated rear end, enhanced technology, and a slightly more powerful drivetrain. It’s a good facelift and has a pretty improved engine, but it’s clear why Audi came up with it—to satisfy clients while waiting for the next generation model.
The S3 is inspired heavily by the new generation A4, and used many of the sedan’s sharper features and more aggressive body lines. The engine hood and the bumper have a more muscular appearance. It also has larger air vents and a U-shaped gap under the grille.
Looking closely at the style, you’ll find new taillights with horizontal LED strips, a reshaped bumper, and a new diffuser with larger fins. There are six color palettes available—Ara Blue, Cosmic Blue, Nano Grey, Tango Red, and Vegas Yellow.
Inside, Audi didn’t change much in the S3 Sportback. There are a few changes, of course, such as the mildly redesigned three-spoke steering wheel, an optional heating function, and leather-wrapped driver seat with massage function.
The important changes are all in the tech department. There’s Audi’s virtual cockpit, a 12.3-inch TFT screen with multiple display modes, navigation, audio system and phone info. It also offers LTE connectivity that provides WiFi hotspot for mobile devices, Google Earth, Google Street View, parking and traffic info, and weather.
The S3 comes with the same 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with an output of 310 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Transmission options include a seven-speed S Tronic automatic and a six-speed manual.
That power can hit 60 mph in 4.7 seconds with the manual gearbox and 4.9 seconds with the automatic. Top speed is put at 155 mph.
Audi is not selling the S3 in the US, or any of the models in the A3 family. Prices, if you’re interested to know, will be around €42,600 in Germany.
Audi A5 Sportback To Arrive In US
Good news for Audi lovers in the United States of America! The Audi A5 Sportback will likely come to the US when the A5 lineup is redesigned next year. According to Car and Driver, the info was shared by Audi CEO Scott Keough, who said that the next-generation Audi A5 would offer a third body style in the States once it launches in 2017.
The five-door Sportback, which is only a Europe-only four-door hatchback in the shadow of the larger Audi A7, will be the one to arrive in the States since the A5 coupe and convertible versions (the two other body styles) are already being delivered in the US.
The arrival of the A5 Sportback would make a competition out of the BMW 4-Series Gran Coupe. In Europe, Audi sells the Sportback with a number of powertrains, including gas, diesel and S performance varieties.
In the US, that means buyers can choose whether they want a front- or all-wheel drive machines.
However, even when there’s good news from Audi, there’s a downside too. The new 2017 Audi A4 won’t offer a TDI diesel option as previously reported. This went against Audi’s plan to market it in the US. Keough said the decision was based on current market trends rather than the company’s diesel emission scandal.
That a little hard to believe since the A4 market is gearing towards the diesel option. Furthermore, the BMW 3-series is offering a diesel-powered 328d variant while the Mercedes Benz C-class diesel will arrive this Spring.
This means the US-bound A4 will only have one engine—a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline four-cylinder. The high-performance A4, on the other hand, will have the same turbocharged V-6, much like the Euro-spec S4.
Announcement for the A5 Sportback will probably come before the second quarter of 2017, when it is also expected to go on sale.
Audi SQ7 Launched With New Tri-Turbocharged V8 Diesel Engine
The Audi SQ7 has brought its game to new heights with the 435 bhp diesel SUV boasting a tri-turbocharged V8 diesel engine with 664 lb-ft of torque.
According to Auto Express, the SQ7 has plenty of speed and torque to impress even the most discerning of drivers. Its 435 bhp capability can get the car from zero to 62 mph in just under five seconds. That’s all thanks to its V8 4.0 diesel engine with three turbochargers. Two of those are the usual exhaust-driven items while the third one is an electrically driven turbo.
The two turbos, mind you, are not a one-per-bank arrangement. Rather, they sit in the V—the first for light acceleration and cruising, and the second one for maneuvers that require “big efforts.”
The third turbo, the electrically driven, is placed near the engine after the intercoolers. It is powered by a 48-volt motor, and uses 10bhp when running on full load. Audi said the technology ensures there would be no turbo lag, but remember that some belt-drive superchargers on petrol engines chug up to 100bhp.
There are two exhaust valves in each cylinder in this supercar, both of which are independently controlled. The first set is connected to the light-load turbo while the other set stays shut and can only be activated when the second set of exhaust valves come to life.
The SQ7 also has some advanced suspension control, and its anti-roll bars are the best for straight road driving. When in a bend, the 48-volt system recouple the bars to keep the car steady and allows the driver to maneuver it safely.
What more, the 48-volt system, used also in the Bentley Bentayga, is good for roll stabilization since it has a faster-acting reaction. It is lighter and more comfortable too.
Aesthetically, the SQ7 comes with LED headlights, new bumpers, more aluminum trim and special wheels. Inside, it has sporty seats and the S house style.
It will go on sale in May 2016 priced from around £70,000 with the first deliveries scheduled in August.
