Detroit Auto Show: 2014 Audi R8 and RS5 Cabriolet

The 2014 Audi R8 and RS5 Cabriolet will be unveiled at the 2013 Detroit Motor Show.

The 2014 R8 is offered with three different engine variants: the R8 V8, the R8 V10 and the R8 V10 Plus. The 2014 R8 is now more dynamic and powerful than ever before thanks to numerous improvements, including a newly developed seven-speed S tronic transmission that helped improve the 0-60 mph time by 0.3 seconds on the R8 V10 Plus. At the top of the range is the new R8 V10 Plus with 550 horsepower and 398 lb.-ft. of torque. Equipped with the S tronic, it catapults from zero to 60 mph in 3.3 seconds and reaches a top speed of 196 mph. It weighs approximately 100 lbs. less than the R8 V10 due to utilizing carbon fiber side blades, front splitter, rear diffuser, spoiler; a smaller fuel tank; manual Alcantara seats and ceramic brakes.

The RS 5 Cabriolet shares the same look and specifications as the RS 5 Coupe, though it offers the open top experience. Power comes from a 450-hp 4.2-liter V8 engine that will propel the car from 0 to 62 mph in 4.9 seconds, all while achieving 18 mpg combined, helping it to avoid the gas guzzler tax. For looks, a matte aluminum frame wraps the large front grille and lower lip of the car, while Xenon plus wedge-shaped headlamps and LED strips sit above two large air intaks that are imbedded in the front apron.

Inside, the Audi RS 5 Cabriolet's driver-centric cabin reprises the look of the RS 5 Coupe with chrome, carbon fiber and aluminum accent elements setting off a basic black motif that includes a flat-bottom multifunction steering wheel, deeply bolstered sport buckets trimmed in Nappa leather and Alcantara and alloy sport pedals. When the aft quarters are not occupied, the rear seatbacks can be flipped down to add a touch more practicality to the mix.




Press Release

Debut of the 2014 Audi R8 and Audi RS 5 Cabriolet at the North American International Auto Show

• New 2014 Audi R8 improves in performance and efficiency through new S tronic® transmission
• New 2014 Audi RS 5 Cabriolet now available in the U.S.
• Audi to introduce more models at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS)

Audi of America announces the U.S. debut of the much anticipated 2014 Audi R8 model line and new Audi RS 5 Cabriolet at the NAIAS. The iconic R8 represents the pinnacle of Audi performance while the RS 5 Cabriolet combines track-tested engineering with the freedom of open air driving. The four-seat convertible with a cloth soft top entices with a unique combination of elegance and power. The R8 and RS models are engineered to perform on the track and also for comfortable weekend drives.

“Coming off the momentum we’ve built with the launch of the all-new Audi S models, the new Audi R8 and RS 5 Cabriolet further invigorate the next chapter of our Audi performance models,” said Scott Keogh, President, Audi of America. “We know that driving enthusiasts are excited to have these cars come to our shores, but they will be even more thrilled to know this is just the beginning.”

2014 Audi R8
The R8 is the pinnacle of the Audi model lineup that comprises of three different engine variants: the R8 V8, the R8 V10 and the R8 V10 Plus. The high performance sports car is now more dynamic and powerful than ever before thanks to numerous improvements, including a newly developed seven-speed S tronic® transmission that helped improve the 0-60 mph time by 0.3 seconds on the R8 V10 Plus.

The new seven-speed S tronic double-clutch transmission significantly boosts the performance of the Audi R8.The new S tronic transmission also improves driving comfort with smoother shifts.

At the top of the range is the new R8 V10 Plus with 550 horsepower and 398 lb.-ft. of torque. Equipped with the S tronic, it catapults from zero to 60 mph in 3.3 seconds and reaches a top speed of 196 mph. It weighs approximately 100 lbs. less than the R8 V10 due to utilizing carbon fiber side blades, front splitter, rear diffuser, spoiler; a smaller fuel tank; manual Alcantara® seats and ceramic brakes.

To further enhance the Audi R8 design, several aesthetic adjustments are added throughout the vehicle. Some of the most noticeable changes are the newly structured LED headlights that are now standard on all models, the hexagonal Singleframe® grille, new side mirrors and the large, round tailpipe trims are the most obvious elements. The rear lights of all models include the innovative dynamic turn signals.

The Audi R8 V10 with the S tronic completes the 0-60 mph sprint in 3.4 seconds and generates 525 horsepower with 391 lb.-ft. of torque. It has a top speed of 195 mph. The Audi R8 V8 FSI® produces 430 horsepower and 317 lb.-ft. of torque. In combination with the seven-speed S tronic, it accelerates the R8 V8 from zero to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds on its way to a top speed of 186 mph.

All Audi R8 models have the option of the gated 6-speed manual transmission or the S tronic transmission. The Audi R8 Spyder is available with the V8 and V10 engine. The R8 V10 Plus is available as a coupe only.

2014 Audi R8 Specifications:
Engine Horsepower
R8 V8 4.2 FSI 430 hp
R8 V10 5.2 FSI 525 hp
R8 V10 Plus 5.2 FSI 550 hp

2014 RS 5 Cabriolet
The highly successful RS 5 coupe extends its model series with the addition of this high-end soft-top, which entices with a unique combination of prestige and power. With nearly identical performance numbers as the coupe, the RS 5 Cabriolet is powered by a high-revving, naturally aspirated V8 engine with FSI direct injection. Its 4.2 liter engine outputs 450 horsepower at 8,250 rpm and produces a maximum torque of 317 lb.-ft. between 4,000 and 6,000 rpm. With a curb weight of 4,420 lbs., the Audi RS 5 Cabriolet launches from zero to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds. The car’s top speed is limited to 174 mph; while at the same time having a class leading fuel economy* and no gas guzzler tax.

The exterior and interior of the Audi RS 5 Cabriolet retains the essence of the RS 5 Coupe. When the top is down it only requires 2.12 cu-ft. of its 13.42 cu-ft. trunk volume. The split rear seatbacks can be folded over individually, and a load-through hatch from the trunk to the rear seating area improves ease of access functionality. Special reinforcements contribute to the convertible body’s high rigidity, and aluminum front fenders compensate for some of the added weight of the reinforcements.

The new LED light strips illuminate the headlights and taillights without any conventional incandescent lamps. Like the lights, the rear bumper was also redesigned; its diffuser is now much higher, and a honeycomb screen insert encloses the two large elliptical tailpipes of the exhaust system. On the trunk lid there is a subtle matte carbon spoiler lip for additional downforce.

The sport seats have power adjustments, high side panels for optimal lateral support, integrated head restraints, a lumbar support and a pull-out thigh support. They are upholstered in a combination of leather and Alcantara or in the optional black or lunar silver Fine Nappa leather. All leather types are pigmented to reduce heating by sunlight. At the press of a button, the soft top opens and closes automatically in 15 seconds and 17 seconds respectively – even when driving at speeds of up to 30 mph. On hot summer days when the top is down, drivers can select the optional climate-controlled seats for added comfort.

2014 Audi RS 5 Cabriolet Specifications:
Engine
4.2 FSI

Horsepower
450 hp

Fuel Economy
16 city / 22 highway / 18 combined

The Audi R8 and RS 5 Cabriolet will both go on sale in Spring 2013.

2015 Audi Q7 More Detailed Review

The German company Audi is currently working on a new generation of the popular SUV which is 2015 Audi Q7. The car itself was caught on camera during the tests in Spain. surrounded by the heavily camouflaged, the car seems walk elegantly with the new features attached inside. in the outside, we can see they are using larger alloy wheels and undisguised bumper, which leads us to assumption that this undisguised bumper was there to make the air flow to the engine run smoothly. According to some rumors, This new 2015 Audi Q7 will be developed using MLB Platform (modular longitudinal architecture). The platform itself was already become a based to some popular vehicle brand such as, Porsche Cayenne, Lamborghini Urus, Volkswagen Touareg, and Bentley SUV. from the source that we've got this popular platform could reduce the weight of the car to 700 kg which would increase the efficiency of the engine its use, and also increase the aerodynamics of vehicles automatically which will leads to the fuel economy.

2015 Audi Q7 Interior and Exterior

So far, we know that its predecessor 2014 Audi Q7 was equipped with lots of high tech features such as, Panoramic sunroof, Parking system with rear sensors, Leather seating surfaces, Audi premium sound system, Audi side assist which will help you monitor your blind spot, Audi MMI which is a Navigation plus with voice control system and also a safety features attached inside this vehicle. all this high tech features build inside the predecessor 2015 Audi Q7. Therefore, we all hope that any kind of improvement that been made to the latest 2015 Audi Q7 would surpassing its predecessor. From the exterior, not much to talk about since this car was spotted using heavy camouflage all over its body while doing some test in sapin. But, for sure the exterior wil definitely got more powerful and wider stance, new LED headlights, new bumper, new grille, and much more comfortable, spacious and weight less build in this vehicle.

2015 Audi Q7 Under the Hood

2015 Audi Q7 engine line up will include a 3.0-liter V6 TFSI with 310 hp and a 4.2-liter V8 TDI that could generates 385 hp. Among the new features there may be a new entry-level engine use by this car which is 2.0-liter TDI diesel engine for the top of the range version of SQ7. Another source claimed that Among the new engine options that been found on Audi Q7, there is also hybrid version That using a 3.0-liter TDI and an electric motor that would add more to the total power of 115 hp.

2015 Audi Q7 Release Date and Price
For the release date of this vehicle was merely still a rumors, some said this 2015 Audi Q7 will present at at the Geneva Motor Show in march next year, and another source saying that this vehicle will show off at the Paris Motor Show in September 2014. While we still assumed that this vehicle will be launched towards the end of next year. the basic price also still become a rumors, some source said it will be around $ 47,695 and some said it will be about $ 50,000 and going up to $ 60,000 depend on the features attached inside. Anyhow, the release date and price will be update as soon as we've got more accurate info regarding this vehicle, we also believe that when this 2015 Audi Q7 offered in the SUV market, it will become the strongest competitor to Range Rover, Mercedes Benz GL-class and also VW Touareg, Just wait.

Audi S6 by SKN

SKN has released a new performance package for the Audi S6. First, the stage one package features an optimized ECU which enables the twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine to generate 543 HP – 399 kW and 687 Nm (507 lb-ft) of torque. It enables the model to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62mph) in 4.6 seconds and reach a top speed of over 309 km/h (192 mph).

Exterior-wise, the Audi has been restyled by a decent bit, now featuring a redesigned front fascia and a rear sports diffuser. Upon request, SKN will also be able to fit the Audi with a suspension lowering module, which reduces the ride height of the car by up to 40 mm, alongside a new set of wheels measuring 20 or 21 inches in diameter.

Powered by the V8 twin-turbo engine with only reprogramming ECU and now able to produces 543 horsepower and 687 Nm of torque, giving the car ability to accelerates 0-100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 309 km/h.

The most powerful package is the Stage 3, allowing the engine to deliver a respectable 560 HP (412 kW) and 701 Nm (517 lb-ft) of torque. It permits an acceleration from 0-100 km/h (62 mph) 0.1 seconds faster, in 4.5 seconds, while the top speed reaches 311 km/h (193 mph).

Pricing for the conversions are €2,990, €3,449 and €3,990 respectively.

Audi RS4 Avant by ABT Sportsline

ABT Sportsline has releases a new upgrade package for the Audi RS4 Avant.

The wagon version of the Audi RS4, the Avant, is now getting 25 mm wheel spacers and a fresh set of 20-inch turbine style alloy wheels. Changes also include some other minor tweaks to its exterior design which are contributing to that overall aggressive look and to the model’s elegance.

The RS4 is powered by a 4.2l V8 with 450 hp (331 kW) and accelerates faster than previous generations, one essential number hasn’t changed: its top speed of 250 km/h. That’s because of the factory electronic speed limiter.

The estate's top speed at 250 km/h, courtesy of the factory fitted limiter, has been increased. Speed demons out there would be glad to know that ABT can actually forego the limiter for the 'proper' top speed of 290km/h.




Press Release

ABT Sportsline 2012 – Press release CW50
Audi RS4 – ABT can do 290 km/h and tunes the sound

Every new generation of the Audi RS4, having been on sale since 1999 and traditionally tuned by ABT Sportsline, has seen an uprating. Incidentally, even its legendary forefather, the RS2 (315 hp/232 kW), is still at a par with many modern sports cars. Although the RS4 is now powered by a 4.2l V8 with 450 hp (331 kW) and accelerates faster than previous generations, one essential number hasn’t changed at all: its top speed of 250 km/h. The reason is its factory electronic speed limiter. But the globally largest tuner of cars produced by the Volkswagen Group has filed down the electronic speed chain, as it were, and the ABT RS4 now reaches a top speed of almost 290 km/h.

You could almost think the new car from Bavaria would “roar” out of excitement and joy, but its full bass comes from the optionally available stainless-steel exhaust system. From the catalytic converter, ABT Sportsline replaces the system with optimised components on which the serially very musical V8 always seems to find the right tone. It goes without saying that the Bavarians also offer a TÜV approval for this “brass instrument”.

In visual terms, the standard RS4 Avant is certainly not a nobody, but the tuning company has discovered more potential for a better look in its wheel houses. ABT uses one size larger alloy wheels in its ABT DR design in 9 x 20 inches. These dimensions aside, their design also means more dynamism. There is the cool gun metal finish and the spokes arranged like a turbine blade. To make the car’s muscular appearance perfect, the Bavarian car tuner also installs 25mm wheel spacers on each side. And finally there is the ABT boot mat and the matching set of floor mats. After all, your foot on the pedal should feel comfortable: It will now be able to take the car beyond 250 km/h...

Audi R8 China Edition

Audi has announced plans to produce the super Audi R8 China Edition

The China Edition is based off the pre-facelift R8 V10 borrowing exterior and interior elements from the friskier GT, such as the front bumper winglets, alloy wheel designs, the carbon fiber mirrors, rear wing and the part leather, part Alcantara interior with carbon fiber trimmings.

The interiors are further decked up in luxurious materials including shark skin and colored stitching; the handbrake and steering wheel are draped in Alcantara, and the instrument shield is finished in carbon matte. R8 emblems can be seen adorning the interiors of the car.

Power for the Audi R8 China Edition comes from a 5.2 liter V10 engine making 525-hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. Mated to the R tronic transmission and a quattro all-wheel drive system, the model runs from 0 to 62 mph in 3.9 seconds.

The entire cost of the R8 China Edition hits at 2,628,000 yuan, which is around $420,000 based on current exchange rates.

2014 Audi RS6 Avant

Audi has releases details and new photos for the 2014 RS6 Avant. The RS6 Avant continues the styling evolution introduced by the RS4, pushing the design further with a new front bumper and a nested-frame grille design. The side mirrors and roof rails receive a silver finish while a new set of alloy wheels fitted with high performance tires is available as well.

The model is powered by a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine that produces 560 HP (412 kW) and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque. Matched with all-wheel-drive and an eight-speed auto, Audi promises the potent V8 will push the big wagon to 100km/h in 3.9 seconds - again bettering the 4.3-second M5.

Inside, the new RS6 Avant comes with carbon fiber trim, leather and Alcantara, sport seats and a flat-bottom steering wheel. Full details on the 2014 Audi RS6 Avant will be released soon.

The RS6 Avant will be launched in the U.K. next summer and pricing is expected to start at approximately £77,000.





Press Release

Groundbreaking performance: The new Audi RS 6 Avant

• Powerful twin-turbo V8: 4.0 TFSI with 412 kW (560 hp) and 700 Nm (516.29 lb-ft)
• Reduced weight for greater efficiency and stronger performance

• 0 – 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 3.9 seconds, top speed 305 km/h (189.52 mph)

The new Audi RS 6 Avant stands for groundbreaking performance. It is lighter and more efficient than the previous model, and performance has been improved once again. The sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) takes just 3.9 seconds, and top speed is 305 km/h (189.52 mph). The 4.0 TFSI develops 412 kW (560 hp), but is content with an average fuel consumption of just 9.8 liters per 100 kilometers (24.00 US mpg).

The new Audi RS 6 Avant is a high-performance sports car for everyday use. Its character and uncompromisingly sporty tuning is the work of quattro GmbH, a wholly-owned subsidiary of AUDI AG. The company’s RS models with their powerful engines form the dynamic spearhead of the model program. The abbreviation “RS” stands for the most powerful version of a model series, for quattro permanent all-wheel drive, for extreme handling, for an understated appearance and for full everyday utility.
The 4.0 TFSI, which debuted last year, is a perfect example of Audi’s downsizing strategy in the high-performance category. In the new Audi RS 6 Avant, the twin-turbo V8 delivers confidence-inspiring power in every driving situation from its displacement of 3,993 cc. Peak output of 412 kW (560 hp) is reached between 5,700 and 6,700 rpm, with a constant 700 Nm (516.29 lb-ft) of torque available between 1,750 and 5,500 rpm.

Pulling power develops quickly due in large part to the two large twin-scroll turbochargers. They are mounted together with the intercooler in the inside V of the cylinder banks. The exhaust side of the cylinder heads is also on the inside, the intake side outside. This concept allows for a compact design and short gas paths with minimal flow losses.

The RS-specific engine management and unthrottled intake system also contribute to the eight-cylinder engine’s spontaneous response. The 4.0 TFSI delivers a sporty, full-throated sound. Switchable flaps in the exhaust system make the sound even fuller, if desired. Audi also offers an optional sport exhaust system.

The powerful twin-turbo V8 accelerates the new Audi RS 6 Avant from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in a best-in-segment 3.9 seconds. In the standard configuration, top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155.34 mph). This is increased to 280 km/h (173.98 mph) with the optional Dynamic package. With the Dynamic plus package, Audi reigns in the engine only upon reaching 305 km/h (189.52 mph). According to the European driving cycle, the high-performance Avant consumes on average just 9.8 liters of fuel per 100 km (24.00 US mpg). Among the factors contributing to this figure are the new, standard start-stop system and innovative thermal management. Fuel consumption has been reduced by roughly 40 percent compared to the previous model.

One pioneering efficiency technology in the new Audi RS 6 Avant is the cylinder on demand (COD) system. At low to intermediate loads and engine speeds, it shuts down the intake and exhaust valves of cylinders 2, 3, 5 and 8. The 4.0 TFSI then runs as a four-cylinder engine until the driver accelerates more strongly again. Efficiency in the active cylinders is increased because the operating points are displaced toward higher loads.

The changeover from four and eight-cylinder operation takes just a few hundredths of a second. About the only thing noticeable to the driver is an indication in the instrument cluster. The COD technology reduces ECE fuel consumption by roughly five percent. Even greater savings of approximately 10 percent are possible when driving at moderate speeds. Active engine bearings use out-of-phase counter-oscillations to compensate for the vibrations that occur during four-cylinder operation.

The 4.0 TFSI is paired with an eight-speed tiptronic featuring shortened shift times. The automatic transmission offers D and S modes. Drivers who wish to shift for themselves can use the shift paddles on the steering wheel or the selector lever, which sports a unique RS design. The lower gears of the tiptronic are tightly spaced for sporty performance, while a tall eighth gear reduces fuel consumption.
At the heart of the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system with torque vectoring is a self-locking center differential with an elevated locking value. An oil cooler regulates its temperature. If desired, the sport differential distributes the power steplessly between the rear wheels to further increase agility and stability.

The new RS 6 Avant is the first RS model from Audi to come standard with a specifically tuned air suspension. The dynamic setup of the RS 6 adaptive air suspension lowers the body by 20 millimeters (0.79 in). The system combines the air suspension with controlled damping and takes into account the road conditions, the driving style and the mode chosen in the driving dynamics system Audi drive select, with which the driver can influence the function of key components in multiple steps.

Audi also offers the tauter sport suspension plus with Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) as an alternative to the RS 6 adaptive air suspension. This system uses steel springs and three-way adjustable shock absorbers that are interconnected diagonally by means of oil lines and a central valve for improved body roll stability. Another option is dynamic steering, which features steplessly variable steering boost and ratios. This system can also be integrated into Audi drive select and, just like the standard electromechanical power steering, is tailored specifically for the RS 6 Avant.

The brakes offer uncompromising performance. The four internally vented discs feature a weight-saving wave design with a wave-like outer contour. The front discs measure 390 millimeters (15.35 in) in diameter and are gripped by black, six-piston calipers. Customers can also opt for red brake calipers. Also available as an option are carbon fiber-ceramic brake discs measuring 420 millimeters (16.54 in) in diameter. Their calipers are painted anthracite gray. The electronic stabilization control (ESC) has a Sport mode and can also be deactivated entirely.

The new Audi RS 6 Avant comes standard with high-gloss, 20-inch, forged wheels in a seven twin-spoke design. Optional 21-inch cast wheels are available in three versions: high-gloss silver, polished black and polished titanium-look.

The body plays a major role in the handling. It is roughly 20 percent aluminum and includes numerous components made of high-strength steel. The new Audi RS 6 Avant weighs roughly 100 kilograms (220.46 lb) lighter than its predecessor. The improved power-to-weight ratio contributes to even better handling with improved performance coupled with reduced fuel consumption.

Numerous RS-specific design details underscore the distinctive appearance of the high-performance Avant. Most noticeable are the matte aluminum applications on the body, the high-gloss black protective grille at the front of the car, the bumpers, the fender, sill flares and the large roof spoiler. At the rear of the car, the diffuser and the two large, elliptical exhaust tailpipes make a bold statement.

Two optional appearance packages – Matte Aluminum or Carbon – further customize the look and include such things as quattro badges on the central front air inlet. With the Carbon appearance package, the front splitter and the diffuser are even more boldly shaped. The new Audi RS 6 Avant is available in nine exterior colors, including the exclusive shade Daytona Gray matte. Additional options from the Audi exclusive range offer numerous opportunities for customization.

The sportily elegant cockpit of the new Audi RS 6 Avant is singularly tailored to the driver. The dial instruments feature black faces, white dials and red needles. The key; the flat-bottomed, three-spoke, multifunction steering wheel; the illuminated entry sills; the tachometer and the displays for the MMI as well as the driver information system (DIS) sport RS logos.

A new feature in the RS menu of the DIS is the shift light. Green segments are illuminated as revs increase. The bar turns red and begins to blink when revs approach the red line. Displays for the gear selected, boost pressure, oil temperature and a digital speedometer round out the RS 6-specific driver information system.

The footrest, pedals and switches in the MMI navigation plus terminal shine in an aluminum-look finish. The decorative bezel surrounding the retractable monitor sports a piano finish; the interior door openers feature a delicate double-bar design – a classic RS feature. Carbon inlays are standard; six additional materials are available as options. A black headlining is standard; Moon Silver or black Alcantara are optional.

RS sport seats with pronounced side bolsters, integrated head restraints and RS 6 logos are standard. They are covered in a combination of black Alcantara and leather, and the center sections feature diamond quilting. The seats can also be covered in high-grade, honeycomb-quilted Valcona leather in either black or Moon Silver. Audi offers optional power-adjustable deluxe seats with memory function.
The Audi RS 6 Avant comes standard with two sportily molded rear seats. A three-person bench seat is available as an option. The luggage compartment holds up to 1,680 liters (59.33 cu ft).

The new Audi RS 6 Avant comes with a generous list of standard equipment, including xenon plus headlights, LED rear lights, a tire-pressure control system, illuminated entry sills and the custom driver-information system. Also on board are the parking system plus, cruise control, three-zone automatic air conditioning, MMI navigation plus with MMI touch and the 10-speaker Audi sound system.

Options include LED headlights with a unique design, ceramic brakes front and rear, the sport differential on the rear axle and the sport suspension plus with Dynamic Ride Control (DRC). The Dynamic package, Dynamic package plus, Comfort package and practically every high-end option available in the model series are also available for the RS 6 Avant. These include the head-up display and the high-performance driver assistance systems as well as the Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System with 15 speakers and 1,200 watts of total power. The Bluetooth online car phone – the perfect complement to the MMI navigation plus – delivers web-based Audi connect services to the car.

Here's Why You Shouldn’t Give a Truck Driver the Finger…

We've already shown you the painful consequences of flipping off a Russian driving instructor, so how about we see what happens when you perform the same gesture to a truck driver in the world's largest country that covers more than an eighth of the Earth's inhabited land area?

The incident begins with an obnoxious driver of an older Audi A6 sedan illegally and dangerously overtaking a truck and then being a -insert whatever word works for you here- constantly slamming on the brakes.

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Mercedes Still Trailing Behind BMW and Audi in Premium Sales Race for Number 1 Spot

A year ago, Mercedes-Benz CEO Dieter Zetsche sent a letter to his employees claiming that the three-point star brand must regain the top spot that it lost in 2005 in the premium segment.

“We are Daimler – we should be ahead of the pack!” proclaimed Zetsche who added at the time that in no way should they “be content with a solid second or even third place”.

Unfortunately, Mercedes’ global domination plan doesn’t seem to bear fruit. If anything, the company has fallen even further behind BMW and Audi, which are the number one and two premium carmakers in the world respectively.

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Scoop: What's Audi Doing with This Modified R8 GT on the Nürburgring?

Earlier today, our man with the long lens photographed what he described as a "strange looking" Audi R8 GT performing some test runs on the Nürburgring Nordschleife racetrack.

The reason why the test car captured our spy photographer's attention is that, while based on the hardcore 2012 R8 GT of which only 333 units are to be made, it featured some visible upgrades, but not of the sort seen on the recently facelifted R8 series.

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Euro Debt Crisis Reaches VW's Front Door, Cuts 2012 W. European Sales Target by 140,000 Vehicles

It was bound to happen sooner rather than later. The European sovereign debt crisis that started in Greece and spread to other countries including Cyprus, Portugal, Ireland and Spain, is beginning to have a deeper effect on companies like Volkswagen.

The continent's largest carmaker has cut its internal 2012 sales target for Western Europe by up to 140,000 vehicles, the German news daily Handelsblatt reported on Friday.

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ABT Sportsline Drops New Details on Upcoming 2013 Audi A3 Tune

As ABT Sportsline is nearing the end of the development phase of its new aftermarket parts for the 2013 Audi A3 hatchback, the German tuning brand of all things related to the Volkswagen Group wants to share new details on the performance and styling packages that will be bundled under the AS3 moniker. Read more »

U.S. Car Sales Increase by 13 Percent in September, Market is on its Way to Reach 15 Million Units

September auto sales were up 13 percent compared to the same month in 2011, according to sales tracker Autodata. This is the best result in the last four years and exceeds even the most optimist analysts’ expectations.

It also raises the automotive industry sales’ Seasonally Adjusted Annual Rate (SAAR) projection to 14.9 million. SAAR is determined by dividing the unadjusted annual rate for the month by its seasonality factor, resulting in an adjusted annual rate for the month.

September was the fourth consecutive month, and the seventh month this year, that the SAAR has exceeded 14 million.

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Audi Reportedly Kills Quattro Sports Car in Favor of an Evoque-like Coupe Crossover

Audi's automobiles have long been praised for their immaculate interior quality and ultra-safe road manners, but they have also been labeled as too clinical.

The R8 supercar changed all that mixing everyday usability with supercar-like performance and entertaining driving dynamics, but it is far too expensive for most buyers.

Having celebrated the original Quattro rally car’s 30th anniversary at the 2010 Paris Auto Show with the Quattro Concept, Audi fans hoped that a production version of the prototype would eventually hit the streets.

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