New info about the launch of the Audi Q3

Audi fans have been eagerly awaiting the official launch of the Q3 crossover from Audi and details are being revealed as the unveiling nears. The Audi Q3 is designed to meet head on the BLK or GLC from Mercedes-Benz and the X1 from BMW.

Spy images are very scarce on the internet but the Q3 is expected to have the design lines of the Cross Coupe concept that was exhibited during the Shanghai auto show back in 2007. Earlier spy photos of the Q3 protoype hint of a prominent grille, distinct headlamps, and sloped roofline. The smalles SUV will be deriving its DNA from the platform of the VW Tiguan with a suspension system tuned to make the riding experience sportier.

The Audi Q3 will have three engine options. Consumers can opt for the 2.0L TFSI that gives out 168 hp or 208 hp. Another option will be the 2.0L TDI that produces 168 hp. These powerplants will be mated to the usual Audi transmisision choices. Carbon dioxide emissions may hit 158 grams per kilometer through 184 g/km.

The Audi Q3 might be unveiled during the upcoming motor show in Frankfurt with first deliveries in Germany on September or October. The Audi Q3 will be marketed side by side Audi’s bigger SUVs the Q5 and the Q7. Production will likely take place at the Seat plant in Spain.

Audi unveils upgraded S5 Lineup

While the Audi A5 continues to get a revamped look every now and then, the German automaker recently revealed the upgraded versions of the S5 lineup, which is the bolder and sportier version of its 2012 A5 lineup. The S5 lineup is available in 3 types—sportback, cabriolet, and coupe. Perhaps the most significant upgrade the S5 lineup got is its new 3.0-liter V-6 supercharged engine, the same one that’s attached to the S5s Convertible and the Sportback. The S5 used to carry a 4.2-liter V8 engine that has 354 ponies and 324.5 lb-ft of torque.

The new S5 engine, which is a 3.0 TSI, is packed with 333 ponies and the same torque value. This new engine pushes the revamped S5 Coupe to an impressive 62mph in just 4.9 seconds, which is significantly 0.2 seconds faster compared to the old V-8 engine model. With the new S5 engine in place, the car has a top speed of 155mph or 250 km/h.

The amazing part is that the new V-6 engine model not only improves the car’s performance in terms of speed but also lowers the fuel consumption by up to 20 percent per 100 kilometers.

We’ve spent enough time under the hood, now let’s talk about other upgrades on the S5 model. The old model has a 4-wheel drive system. The new model now has the so-called “crown-gear center differential.” There’s also a new electromechanical power steering mechanism involved in the new model plus some distinct changes in the body details, front lights, pain finishes and trim.

Audi R8 GT Photoshoot in Daytona Grey

My good friends at Audi North Scottsdale recently got in a very rare car – the all new Audi R8 GT, one of just 90 Audi R8 GTs that Audi will import into the US.

What makes this R8 GT even more rare is the color – it was special ordered in Daytona Grey, an Audi Exclusive color.

In my opinion, this could be the most perfect color combination for this car. The Daytona Grey compliments the matte carbon fiber so nicely, resulting in a subtle yet beautiful marriage of several shades of grey.

This car is currently for sale, so if you’re interested give Brian McCauley at Audi North Scottsdale an email at bmccauley@penskeautomotive.com or call him at 480.538.4036 if you’re interested.

Audis on Porsche Wheels

If you haven’t already noticed, I’m a big fan of the OEM+ look – something that looks like it could have come direct from the factory, but it didn’t.

I’ve showcased Audis on Lamborghini wheels before, but equally as stunning can be OEM Porsche wheels on our cars.

I’ve collected a sample of photos of Audis rockin’ Porsche wheels – if you have any others, let me know!

Here’s a clean B6 A4 with black Turbo Twists – this is his winter setup!

And here is a super unique, stanced B5 with orange Porsche wheels:

On the Radar: Audi R8 Spyder

2012 Audi R8 GT Spyder

Ah, the Audi R8. You really can't get a better-looking sports car. Forget the "mid-life crisis phase", this car is for anyone at anytime. The R8 Spyder in particular has been on the radar of car enthusiasts around the world.


Audi announced this week that it has unveiled the R8 GT Spyder. Highlights of this limited edition model include:

* Output has been increased to 412 kW (560 hp)
* Weight of the vehicle has been reduced by 85 kilograms (187.39 lb)
* Accelerates from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 3.8 seconds
* Reaches a top speed of 317 km/h (196.97 mph)

Is the R8 Spyder "The Best of the Best"? Well, according to Robb Report it is. Earlier this month the magazine launched an iPad application to coincide with its signature “Best of the Best” June issue.

Within the issue’s Wheels section, “Best of the Best” editorial selections include: