Tag Archives: audi
Double Excitement with 2020 Audi SUV
Audi never rests. Really. Even when it comes to the world of rumors, Audi keeps us all busy. This time too, what has come floating our way is an excellent piece of news. Or should we say double the piece of news. We will tell you why we are saying so. Well, vehicle experts have heard from some very credible sources that Audi is planning or actually deciding to throw the world a double treat! Yes, that’s right. So, if the above-mentioned piece of story is to be believed, Audi has in store for us a double line up, meaning double the number of SUVs are going to double by the end of the decade. So, get ready to embrace a double doze of upcoming 2020 Audi SUVs.
The experts are seeing a full-fledged strategy in the German company’s decision to offer double the excitement. The brand is already developing Q2,Q4, and Q6 models to bulk up its current SUV offerings which includes Q3, Q5,and Q7. Industry experts are seeing more in this double treat than just double the thrill! They are thinking that it comes as a well-thought move in an attempt to cater to a wider segment of the market. While definitely Audi will stay a style statement of the rich, the upcoming 2020 Audi SUV will, to a slight extent, be more achievable.
Some are also of the view that the pressure for 2020 Audi SUV lineup is a result of Volkswagen’s goal to become the planet’s largest automaker by 2018. Imagine this with another piece of news that Audi had accounted for 48 per cent of Volkswagen profit in first nine months of 2012! This indeed is a mind-blowing figure now, isn’t it? Who would have imagined such a great digit, keeping in mind that it only sold 14 per cent of the group’s vehicles! Now with the upcoming 2020 Audi SUVs, one can only imagine how much profit lies in its way.
Well, profit or not, the popularity and the cheer that Audi draws from the world is truly unmatched. So, even keeping the profits aside, the brand is going to continue riding high on its global demand!
Want to know more about upcoming 2020 Audi SUVs. It has been heard from trustworthy sources, of course, that the compact Q2 is going to be based on the cross lane concept. It has even been spotted by some fortunate spectators at Paris last year. What a spectacle it made, they said! They treated their eyes to the beauty of this one and just when they thought they were fascinated with it, the brand presented Q6! News is that Q6 is going to be manufactured in Audi’s Mexico plant, alongside Q5. The brand lovers are exclaiming that they are not so bothered with where that beauties are being produced as much as the WHEN part of it!
With the double dose strategy, the brand is sure to boost its sales by 40 % – 15 % higher than their current sales! It sure is a win-win for Audi as well as its lovers!
2015 Audi Q3: A Premium Compact Crossover
Moving forward from the success of their highly appreciated midsize Q5, Audi is in the process of to offer an even smaller SUV to its customers in 2015 which will aptly be named 2015 Audi Q3. Market leaders are considering it a late move for the already thriving premium compact crossover segment, which might create trouble for them to strengthen their hold in SUV market.
There will be no denying that this time as well Audi will maintain its high standards and will introduce its refurbished 2015 Audi Q3 with turbocharged four cylinder engine which will compliment beautifully its six speed automatic transmission. The new 2.0 liter engine will have the 200 horsepower capability and will sport 207 pound feet of torque. All these features combined together will allow the newly 2015 Audi Q3 to deliver lively acceleration and low end muscle to perform cargo duties usually expected from such small size SUVs. This time as well, the Audi will sport front four wheel drive, whereas the all wheel drive feature will also come as an option.
This time Audi Q3 has made reasonable changes in size and has decreased it by nearly 10 inches to make it shorter than Q5. But they have made no compromise with its cargo space, which will still remain 48 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down, however it will go down to 16,.2 cubes when the rear seats are up. Apart from having all the standard features that an Audi SUV comes with, this time the 2015 Audi Q3 will also have 18 inch wheels, heated 12 way front seats, a panoramic sunroof and leather upholstery. To make the SUV more enticing for consumers Audi is offering additional options like sporty front seats, 7 inch display, navigation system, 14 speaker audio system from Boss and a power liftgate to improve its chances in the market.
When it comes to safety, Audi leaves no stone unturned and offers the best in class security systems that primarily include parking assist, rear seat side airbags, blind spot monitoring, rearview camera and side curtain airbags which are standard in all models. This futuristic SUV will be available for customers in three adjustable driver dynamic modes namely Auto, dynamic and comfort to choose from. When taking a test drive, it is quite visible that the SUV offers plenty of grip to the driver and also suppression of body roll is quite Impressive. However, the speed sensitive steering wheel doesn’t leave much room for road feel. If you are looking for the more rugged up version of A3, then you might get completely disappointed.
The market price for Audi Q3, when it will hit the roads in 2015 can be somewhere around $40,000, which is quite a lot of money to spend on an Audi, when you can easily buy a Range Rover for that price, which incidentally is also the toughest rival for luxury car maker. Whereas, you can easily buy a BMW X1 for almost $31,000, which is actually a quite less amount, and also Mercedes is launching its Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class at the same. So, experts are expecting Audi to keep its 2015 Audi Q3 price somewhere between that only to fit the bill.
2014 Audi Q7 Continues to Rule!
The Audi Q7 has been a benchmark and a true legend when it comes to the three rowed SUVs that are available in the market. Though many companies gave their best shots at the segment, resulting in the enrichment of the SUV world, the legendary Audi Q7 still remains to be among the brightest of these all! Already known for the extremely luxurious interiors as well as the sturdy engineering, the 2014 Audi Q7 brings to its lovers a lot more of than the previous models, and is anticipated to rule the category the coming year as well!
Audi’s Q7, as mentioned above, remains to be one of the most sought after choices among customers with large families. Its powerful engine and amazing performance enables it to deliver an extremely satisfying ride quality for its size and also gives it a lot of power for towing purposes. However, the Q7 comes with a longer wheelbase as compared to its major competitors. This means that the Q7 isn’t really designed for extreme off road purposes. The road oriented all-wheel drive that the Q7 comes with also points towards the same. However, this also means that the vehicle is capable of delivering some of the most refined on road performances of its class, making it an excellent urban choice. The longer wheelbase only adds to the already amazing ride quality that the SUV is famous for!
The SUV remains to be as elegant on the outside as it was before. With a serious lack of aggressive truck like looks, the Q7 manages to win hearts just by its pure elegance and sophistication. However, step inside and you’ll notice the real difference between the 2014 and 2014 models! The interior cabin of the new 2014 Q7 has been made much more spacious than before. Starting from the front row, you will easily notice the increased leg room, making the seats much more comfortable for taller people. The second row is also quite spacious, and the panoramic sunroof adds to the spacious feeling. However, the third row seems to be dedicated for kids only as the entrance as well as the seating space is relatively lesser. Also, the cargo space floor is set higher, making the cargo space relatively lesser than the other SUVs of the same size.
The company plans to launch the SUV in four different models – Premium, Premium Plus, Premium TDI and the S Line Prestige. Besides the Premium TDI model, all others are petrol driven vehicles. Audi has replaced the old V8 engines with the 3000 cc V6 supercharged engine for the Q7. The first two models boast of a power output of 280 horsepower while the top model delivers 333 horsepower. However, the TDI model takes the victory as it is as capable in terms of performance as the petrol engines but features a much better fuel economy. The 2014 Q7 also comes loaded with a number of amazing luxury features like the Audi’s internet-connected MMI interface with navigation, Wi-Fi hotspot capability, Google Earth Maps, Bang & Olufsen audio systems, etc.
Aston Martin Tries to Make Impression on the SUV Market With the Lagonda SUV Concept
After all the automobile giants like Mercedes, Porsche, Audi, etc. luxury car makers have also decided of making their way into the segment and bring for the SUV world some of the most luxurious (and expensive!) SUVs ever seen! After the news of Bentley, Rolls Royce and Lamborghini stepping into the category, we couldn’t think of any other but Aston Martin, who had signed a deal with Mercedes – AMG some time back.
Aston Martin first revealed its Lagonda SUV Concept at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show, which was not liked very much by the SUV world as critics as well as SUV lovers did not really develop a liking for the vehicle. The company realized that there would have been a lot of changes to be made before they could expect good sales result after launching the SUV. A thing to be noticed is that this was before the company signed the deal with Mercedes – AMG. With access to the latter’s excellent engineering and electronic assets, Aston Martin has planned of making the Lagonda all different. One of the largest changes to be made is that the Lagonda will now feature Mercedes Benz GL Class platform. Earlier it sat on the Mercedes Benz M Class platform.
All that Aston Martin is going through for the Lagonda SUV Concept reminds us of Porsche’s story which happened during the launch of the Cayenne. The SUV was also highly criticized during its concept period. People accused the Cayenne of being ugly as per Porsche standards. However, after the release of the SUV, Porsche reported huge rises in sales, and the Cayenne turned out to be a huge success. A lot of people are saying that the Lagonda is extremely ugly, especially since Aston Martin has presented gorgeous vehicles like the DB9 and the One – 77 to the world. However, the performance and luxury quotients of the Lagonda are unquestionable! It’s an Aston Martin after all!
As far as the engine is concerned, we’re pretty sure that the company will put in a 6000cc V12 engine in the SUV. Lagonda will definitely be a four wheel drive vehicle, and will share motors with the legendary Aston MartinDB9. One admirable thing about the Lagonda is that the SUV will come with a wode number of available powertrains, and customers will be given a choice as per their will. One will be able to choose from a diesel variant, petrol as well as a hybrid option. This facility combined with the capabilities of the all-wheel drive system that comes with the Lagonda makes it a very potential vehicle for off road experiences!
We agree that the exteriors of the car are not as good as is expected from the company, but they have definitely set a new bar when it comes to luxurious and elegant interiors. However, Aston martin will definitely face extreme competition as it is entering a segment where giants like Porsche, Audi, Volkswagen, etc. have already made deep impressions. Beating legendary SUVs like the Cayenne, Touareg, Q7, etc. would definitely be very tough. We would love to see how the improved Lagonda fares in the SUV market.
7 Best New Family Cars For 2013
If you need to shuffle kids around all day, then you not only need space in the backseat, but you need room in the trunk for groceries, backpacks, camping gear, and anything else you lug around. Of course, interior and cargo room are not your only concerns. Family vehicles must be safe. They need airbags in all the right places and innovative features. A peppy engine is appreciated so you don’t have to grip the steering wheel with white knuckles every time you merge and pass on the highway. If the vehicle manages to give you the power you need without guzzling gas, this is an added bonus too. All these needs add up to one tall order, but rest-assured that there are vehicles available that fit the description. Below are seven that are either new or have seen a significant refresh in the past two years.
Fully resigned for 2013, the Nissan Altima Sedan is a popular pick with families for a long list of reasons. In government crash test ratings it received a perfect score in front, side, and overall crash protection. The 2.5 model gets a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that delivers 182 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque, so it has plenty of get-up-and-go. It also manages to return 27 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. If you need a little more power, a 3.5-liter V6 is available that yields 25 mpg combined. Inside, there is plenty of space. The rear seat is a little tight for six-foot passengers, but for kids it is just fine. There is also plenty of room in the trunk, as it gives you 15.4 cubic feet of cargo space.
If you are on a budget as most families are, you really can’t go wrong with the Dodge Dart. This brand new vehicle has a lot to offer, and has a starting MSRP of only $15,995. The standard 160 horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder won’t win you any races, but at 24 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway with a six-speed automatic transmission, you can hardly complain. When tested by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, it received a “Good” rating in front, roof, and side-impact protection, and it can stop from 60 mph in 118 feet, which is one of the best numbers in the segment. Don’t let the exterior fool you; there is a ton of room in this cabin. In fact, it has one of the most welcoming rear seats in its class. Trunk space is average at 13.1 cubic feet.
If you don’t mind spending a little more than the average buyer, the Audi A6 offers a nice all-wheel drive option. It was fully redesigned for 2012 into a vehicle that proves you don’t have to choose between sport and luxury. The base engine is a 2.0-liter inline-4 that delivers 211 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, yet yields 28 mpg combined. As far as safety goes, it received top scores on all crash tests, and it can stop from 60 mph in only 111 feet. It also boasts some very innovative safety features, including the optional Audi Pre-Sense Plus System that can activate the brakes, if the system feels a crash is imminent.
Despite its upscale exterior and sophisticated passenger cabin, Verano is priced rather modestly. It received a “Good” rating in all three crash tests, and comes equipped with OnStar for peace-of-mind. Although a small sedan, occupants never feel pinched for space. There is even plenty of room for extra-tall drivers. In the rear, three decent-sized adults can sit comfortably, so children will have plenty of space to stretch out. The trunk is even generous at 15.2 cubes. The base engine in Verano is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder good for 180 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque. It returns 21 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. A turbocharged engine is also available.
For 2013, the Malibu has been completely redesigned, and it is definitely turning heads on the road. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder generates 197 horsepower and 191 pound-feet of torque while yielding 22 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. Like the others listed, Malibu also boasts “Good” crash test ratings. When it comes to braking, it is ahead of most of its competition, stopping from 60 mph in a short 119 feet. OnStar emergency communications is standard, as are rear side airbags. The cabin is every bit as nice as what you get in luxury models, and not only is there plenty of room in the rear seat, the trunk is an enormous 16.3 cubic feet.
A full redesign was given to Impreza for 2012, and since it comes as sedan and hatchback, it should appeal to just about anyone. It is powered by a 2.0-liter boxer four-cylinder good for 148 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque. The engine is also available wearing the Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle certification label, making it ideal for those needing to meet California emissions standards. It gets perfect crash test scores, has a spacious interior, and if you opt for the hatchback, you get 22.5 cubes of space.
Fully redesigned for 2013, Honda Accord offers efficient powertrains, fantastic acceleration, a roomy and attractive interior, and fantastic fuel economy. The available LaneWatch blind-spot system available on higher trims is worthy of an honorable mention. The cabin is significantly quieter than its predecessor, and the trunk is 15.8 cubic-feet, which is 1 cube larger than what was in the 2012 model. The standard 2.4-liter inline-4 is all you really need, providing 185 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque, and fuel economy is smile-worthy at 27 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
2014 Audi A8L TDI Spotlight
2014 Audi A8 L
The 2014 Audi A8 L is due to hit showroom floors in the United States in spring 2013. At $83,395, the base MSRP may seem high to some, but this car is loaded with more options than you could possibly want or need. If its gorgeous styling does not reel you in then perhaps its strong performance and exceptional fuel economy will.
When you look at the exterior of the A8 L, you can’t help but have an epiphany; finally you realize what luxury should look like.
- LED headlights look like diamond necklaces perched beside a bold horizontal Singleframe® grille
- Aerodynamic styling
- Aggressive stance is complemented by simple and curved lines
- Sweeping hood
- Squared corners in the rear emphasize the wider stance
The interior of the A8 L literally echoes of sophistication.
- 22-way multi-contour seats, including massage capabilities and front seat ventilation
- Rear window power sun shade
- Sweeping dashboard design with wood finish
- Premium leather seating surfaces
It has been said that 2014 will be the year of the diesel engine; Audi agrees.
- 3.0-liter TDI engine offers 240 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque
- Zero to 60 mph in 6.4 seconds
- Fuel economy yields 24 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway
- Legendary Audi Quattro® all-wheel drive provides greater handling precision
- Eight-speed Tiptronic® transmission
Don’t expect to add on too many bells and whistles with this car; it comes pretty loaded already.
- Audi MMI® navigation system that touch responds to handwriting
- Audi Connect™ can turn vehicle into a Wi-Fi hotspot for eight electronic devices
- Optional 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen® advanced sound system available that offers 1,400 watts of power
- Rear seat entertainment system available with dual 10-inch screens
Audi never disappoints, when it comes to safety features.
- Blind spot monitoring system
- Lane-departure warning system
- Audi Pre-Sense Plus, which can monitor traffic and apply brakes if driver ignores its alerts
It is virtually impossible to not get excited over Audi’s diesel-powered flagship sedan. It gives you everything you could want in a luxury sedan, plus it boasts fantastic fuel economy. Some might say it is the perfect vehicle.
The New 2013 Audi S3 – A Little Beast!
Audi Motors has been among the top rated automobile manufacturing companies. It is a German company and has been owned largely by the Volkswagen Group. Now known for manufacturing and selling sports cars and bikes under the names of brands like Lamborghini, Ducati, etc., Audi has grown a exponentially over the time period of its existence. Audi is also known for the strong and excellent vehicles it produces. The company recently added the highly efficient A3 Sportback to its already magnificent collection of products that it offers to its customers.
Audi had recently launched a three door machine with the same concept some time ago in the United Kingdom, and now unveiled the five door version at the Paris Motor Show of 2012. The car features the traditional Audi looks that any car freak can recognise from a mile away, and the body is quite lean and stylish. Audi never leaves behind any chances of adding the little things in the designs of its cars. This five door version also features unparalleled comfort to all of its passengers and the boot space is also very impressive. The unique thing about the A3 Sportback is that it is a part of the Audi e-gas project and features a peculiar fuel system.
The car features a 13 gallon petrol or diesel tank, which is also accompanied by a ‘carbon neutral’ fuel system. In this technology, hydrogen gas is generated by the process of electrolysis, which is then made to combine with carbon dioxide, resulting in the production of methane gas (also called natural gas). Methane is known for its high calorific value and low pollution emission statistics. The A3 Sportback also offers very fine and impressive interiors. Everything about the interiors is lean and sophisticated. The controls and the steering wheel are quite smooth, and Audi offers interiors with colours matching that which is used on the exteriors!
Audi A3 Sportback would be coming in 6 different models in the coming future. However, only 3 of these models would be available for some time, and the remaining 3 would be launched later. The 3 models that are to be launched are – 2 TFSI turbocharged engines and one TDI diesel engine. One can choose from the basic SE trim, the Sport trim, and the high-end S Line trim. These three models feature a 1400cc, 1800 cc and 2000cc engines respectively. The 2000cc TDI engine is capable of thrusting the machine to a speed of 60 miles per hour (almost 100 kilometres per hour) in a time interval of 8.5 seconds. The fuel economy offered by this engine is more than a baffling figure of 60 miles per gallon! Audi’s carbon neutral feature has indeed worked well!
Audi has planned of launching one more TFSI model and two TDI models in the near future. All these models would feature strong and efficient engines. The high fuel economy accompanied by the comfort that the car offers make the A3 Sportback one of the best cars available in its price range!