Audi TT RS, 2010

Audi TT RS, 2010

The Audi TT RS has a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine with direct gasoline injection; it produces 250 kW (340 bhp) and 450 Nm (331.90 lb.-ft.) of torque. The blazing five-cylinder engine enables the Audi TT RS to perform extraordinary feats. In conjunction with quattro permanent all-wheel drive and a high-performance chassis, the engine makes the compact Audi TT RS a top-notch sports car - available as a coupé or roadster.

Sporty five-cylinder gasoline engines have a long legacy at Audi. The most famous is arguably the turbocharged 2.1-liter engine in the Audi quattro. The first version, which was launched in 1980, offered an impressive 147 kW (200 bhp). And the Audi Sport quattro from 1984, directly inspired by motorsport, delivered a whopping 225 kW (306 bhp). For 25 years, turbochargers and quattro have been a dynamic formula for success.

Audi has resumed using this recipe. Designed from scratch, the five-cylinder engine combines a turbocharger with FSI direct gasoline injection to elevate the Audi TT RS to a high-performance sports car. The TFSI delivers 250 kW (340 bhp) from a displacement of 2,480 cc (151.34 cu in): a specific output of 100.8 kW (137.1 bhp) per liter.

The power-to-weight ratio is also outstanding. In the case of the Coupé, which weighs in at a mere 1,450 kilograms (3,196.70 pounds), the power-to-weight ratio is just 4.3 kilograms per bhp. The Audi TT RS Roadster has a weight of 1,510 kilograms (3,328.98 pounds) and a power-to-weight ratio of 4.4 kilograms per bhp - thanks to its extremely lightweight and largely aluminum body constructed as per the Audi Space Frame principle.

The Audi TT RS Coupé rockets from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62.14 mph) in 4.6 seconds; the Audi TT RS Roadster needs just a tenth of a second longer. The limited top speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph) is merely the official figure for both versions; as an option, Audi can increase it to 280 km/h (173.98 mph).

Compact and Lightweight: The Five-cylinder TFSI
The ultra-powerful five-cylinder engine is extremely fuel-efficient, requiring an average of just 9.2 liters/100 km [25.57 mpg] as regards the Coupé (Roadster: 9.5 l/100 km [24.76 mpg]). Switchable flaps in the intake manifold mix the incoming air in a calculated configuration. Injected at a pressure as high as 120 bar by the common-rail system, the gasoline swirls intensely in the combustion chamber - which in turn cools the walls. This subsequently facilitates a compression ratio of 10.0:1, which is very high for a turbocharged engine. Both of the adjustable camshafts, controlled via chains, also enhance charging efficiency with respect to the air-fuel mixture.

The large turbocharger generates up to 1.2 bar of boost pressure. The intercooler, fed air ideally by the lower segment of the single frame radiator grille, reduces the temperature of compressed air by over 80 percent at full load.

When an Audi TT RS driver pushes the standard Sport button on the center tunnel, a flap installed in the left exhaust tailpipe renders the exhaust noise even more robust and intense while boosting engine responsiveness. An optional Sport exhaust system is available with matt black tailpipe trims and sound flap.

For Purists: The Driveline
The Audi TT RS is the first classic sports car in the Audi RS family. Like the Audi RS4 and the Audi RS6, the Audi TT RS was developed by quattro GmbH as a pure, no-holds-barred driving machine. A new six-speed manual transmission conveys the engine's tremendous power, and permits easy and precise operation thanks to a specially designed shift lever boasting particularly short shift travel. The transmission's defining characteristics are a high efficiency ratio and a sportily narrow spread of the gear ratios.

The Audi TT RS features quattro permanent all-wheel drive as standard equipment. Its heart lies at the rear axle: an electronically controlled, hydraulic multi-plate clutch. If a situation calls for it, the clutch redirects a majority of the torque input from the front wheels to the rear wheels.

High-tech Excellence from Audi: Chassis and Body
The chassis of the Audi TT RS builds on the cutting-edge foundation of the base Audi TT design. The four-link rear suspension, which handles longitudinal and lateral forces separately, plays a crucial role. The electromechanical steering is highly efficient and the power steering adjusts to the vehicle's speed. With aluminum in the front and sheet steel in the back, the body's innovative mixture of materials results in a well-balanced axle-load distribution, excellent crash safety, and the outstanding rigidity which lays the cornerstone for the car's precise handling.

The Face of Power: The Exterior
At just 4.20 meters (13.78 feet) in length, the vigorously compact Audi TT RS hints at its explosive potential from the very first glimpse. The front spoiler tapers downward into a splitter, reminiscent of a racing car. The large and squared air inlets have diamond-shaped inserts. And the high-gloss black single frame grille with a frame in matt aluminum look and the TT RS badge bear the same styling. The xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights notify faraway drivers that an Audi TT RS is approaching.

The Interior and Equipment Packages
The dynamic exterior of the Audi TT RS is matched by the interior. The leather multifunction sports steering wheel has an especially thick rim, is flat-bottomed, and is covered with perforated leather. Integrated in the instrument panel, the driver information system can display boost pressure and oil temperature as well as a lap timer for chronicling feats at the racetrack. The door handles consist of two slim strips - typical of Audi RS models. An automatic climate-control system and the concert sound system are standard, as are an electrohydraulic soft top and an electric wind deflector for the Audi TT RS Roadster.

Audi S5 Cabriolet, 2010

Audi S5 Cabriolet, 2010

The engine in the Audi S5 Cabriolet is a newly developed, supercharged, three-liter V6. The pressure in the 3.0 TFSI is generated by a mechanical supercharger - with impressive results: The power output tops out at 245 kW (333 hp), the torque between 2,900 and 5,300 rpm remains constant at a generous 440 Nm (324.53 lb-ft). The powerful thrust and the spontaneous, aggressive response make for a fascinating driving experience. The Audi S5 Cabriolet is catapulted in 5.6 seconds from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) and accelerates up to a preset top speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph). Yet at 9.6 liters per 100 km (24.5 US mpg), its fuel efficiency is highly impressive (preliminary values).
Standard equipment of the Audi S5 Cabriolet includes the servotronic, the seven-speed S tronic and the quattro drive system package. The sport differential is optional. A sport suspension keeps the body close to the road. The 18-inch cast aluminum wheels are equipped with 245/40 tires. The black brake calipers are emblazoned with S5 emblems. The acoustic top, xenon plus headlights, electrically adjustable sport seats with Alcantara leather upholstery, and a multifunction sport steering wheel are also standard equipment.

Audi A5 Cabriolet
Dynamic and wonderful to look at, the new Audi A5 Cabriolet is a real Audi, and an especially exciting one at that. The four-seater with the fabric top combines a sporty character with the fascination of open-top driving, refined comfort, and great everyday utility. Seven powerful engines, an agile suspension and a wide range of high-end options make the new Audi model the most attractive mid-range convertible. The top-of-the-line model of Audi's new family of convertibles is the Audi S5 Cabriolet. The engine of the S5 Cabriolet is the newly developed, supercharged three-liter V6 with gasoline direct injection. Prices start at EUR 37,300 for the 1.8 TFSI with 118 kW (160 hp) and six-speed manual transmission. Delivery of the first Audi A5 Cabriolet models will begin in the second quarter of 2009.
Like all open-top Audi models, the new Audi A5 Cabriolet too has a classic fabric top - which endows it with a striking silhouette of dynamic elegance. The lightweight softtop opens in 15 seconds - and closes in 17 seconds. The fully automatic open/close drive comes as standard. An acoustic top is optionally available, which reduces wind noise almost to the hardtop level.

When opened, the Audi A5 Cabriolet top folds down so effectively that very little trunk space is used up - leaving 320 liters (11.3 cu ft) of unused storage volume, clearly the best value in its field of competitors. The softtop compartment lowers itself automatically when the top is opened.
Equally useful is the fold-down rear seat backrest with the large pass-through between the luggage space and the interior, which increases the storage volume to a generous 750 liters (26.49 cu. ft.).
Automatic seat belt extenders round out the comfort in the interior. Neck-level heating is optionally available for the front seats. The optional leather seats are coated with a special layer to reduce solar heating. There is comfortable room for four persons. The refined ambiance combines with exemplary ergonomics to convey an atmosphere of sporty elegance. Ultra-high-strength steels and selective reinforcements of the body ensure maximal rigidity and crash safety.

Fascinating dynamics: Audi drive select
The perfect addition to this technology package is the Audi drive select vehicle dynamics system, which enables the driver to chose among three different engine maps controlling the characteristics of the fuel feed, the shifting points of the seven-speed S tronic and multitronic, and the mode of operation of the servotronic steering system.

Audi drive select is only available in combination with one or more of three additional technologies - the sport differential, the adaptive control for the shock absorbers, and dynamic steering. This is an additional high-tech solution: Its superposition gear varies the gear ratio as a function of the driving speed by up to 100 percent.
The new Audi A5 Cabriolet features a rich array of equipment, including 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic air conditioning, and an audio system with a CD player. One of the highlights among the optional equipment is the third-generation MMI operating system, which provides many attractive navigation and entertainment functions.
As the dynamic top-of-the-line model of the new production series, the Audi S5 Cabriolet occupies a very special position. Its three-liter TFSI - a V6 with turbocharger - unfolds its 245 kW (333 hp) and 440 Nm (324.53 lb-ft) of torque impressively: It responds tenaciously to the throttle and delivers excellent driving performance. The quattro drive, a sport suspension with 18-inch wheels and a number of special equipment details underscore the athletic power of the Audi S5 Cabriolet.

The exterior design
The Audi A5 Cabriolet combines Audi's progressive styling with the fascination of an open-top car. The long engine hood, the sharp lines, the sweep of the shoulder contour, the elegantly curved surfaces, the large wheels, the distinctive front end, and the expressive tail all interact to create a sculptural, sensuous whole. The Audi A5 Cabriolet is 4.63 meters (15.19 ft) long and 1.85 meters (6.07 ft) wide, but only 1.38 meters (4.53 ft) tall: the sportiest proportions in its class.
The styling of the front end is dominated by the single-frame grille, which is flanked by large air intakes. The exquisite design of the headlights makes them look like technical jewels. The daytime running lights of the optional xenon plus headlights consist of LEDs. An aluminum molding lends high gloss to the windshield frame.
The looks of the tail end are sharpened by horizontal lines, broad tail lights, straight tailpipes, and a distinctly colored diffuser insert. The trunk lid bears an unobtrusive spoiler lip. The xenon plus headlight option comes complete with LED taillights, which create a distinctive light pattern.

The convertible top
The fabric top with the large glass rear window fits smoothly into the design profile. This is one of several reasons why Audi preferred it to a folding steel roof. What's more, its construction is much lighter in weight, which reduces the overall weight of the Cabriolet and lowers its center of gravity. The outer skin of the top is available in a choice of four colors, the inside in three.
The softtop consists of three layers. The intermediate layer is a cushioning pad. In the optional acoustic top, which reduces wind noise almost to hardtop level, this is replaced by a foam layer up to 15 millimeters (0.59 in) in thickness. The acoustic top comes with a ceiling light for the rear seat - a solution usually only found in the topmost convertible luxury segment.
In both versions, a hydraulic pump and four operating cylinders that move the top are actuated when a pushbutton on the central console or on the optional remote access assistant is depressed. It takes 15 seconds to open the top, 17 seconds to close it. Both actions can also be actuated while driving at up to 50 km/h (31.07 mph) - which makes driving much more comfortable.

When opened, the top is retracted underneath a fixed cover, where it is folded down into an extremely compact shape. Its storage compartment, which automatically lowers itself into the trunk space, only takes up a few centimeters in height - and only 60 liters (2.12 cu ft) of the 380 liters (13.42 cu ft) of luggage space. The remaining 320 liters (11.3 cu ft) with the top open are by far the best value among comparable vehicles. What's more, the low position of the loading lip makes loading and unloading easier. The wind deflector, which is supplied as standard, can be stored in the spare-wheel well to save space.
A very convenient feature in the Audi A5 Cabriolet are the split folding rear seat backrests. They can be easily unlocked by actuating levers in the trunk and drop automatically onto the seat cushions. The standard pass-though is 70 centimeters (27.56 in) wide. The loading space behind the front seatback is 1.76 meters (69.29 in) long, providing a total storage volume of 750 liters (26.49 cu ft).

Audi TT GT4 Concept, 2010

Audi TT GT4 Concept, 2010

On the occasion of the DTM race in Shanghai, Audi presented the concept of a GT4 car based on the Audi TT. The TT, developed by the Technical Development and the Production divisions plus quattro GmbH, is intended to extend Audi's new modular customer sport program from 2012 forward.

With the production-based TT GT4, Audi wants to offer potential customers a base option for affordable motorsport. The vehicle's platform is a motorsport body with a roll-over cage, a safety-optimized fuel tank box and further modifications which will be identical for all future customer sport versions. The Audi TT is equipped with a TFSI engine delivering about 250 kW (340 hp). The front apron, rear apron and the rear wing stem from the production Audi TT RS. The hood, doors and trunk lid are made of CFRP and the windows of plastic. The TT is fitted with a S-tronic transmission with a differential lock, a modified production suspension with adjustable dampers, plus 9.5 x 18 inch light alloy wheels.

The Audi TT GT4 is planned to sell for about 120,000 euros. Audi is not only targeting Europe but also the Asian market. On the occasion of the DTM race in Shanghai the Audi TT is being launched in the Chinese market as well.

The five-time Le Mans winner Frank Biela did some demo laps in the new Audi TT on the street circuit in Shanghai. Other cars that could be seen in action in Shanghai as well were the SP4T version of the TT RS and the Audi R8 LMS.

Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland UK Version, 2008

Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland UK Version, 2008

Jeep has thoroughly updated its Grand Cherokee range for 2008, with a range of new features and a new interior that makes this Jeep the most luxurious Jeep ever.

New soft-touch interior dashboard materials, interior colours and new textures all help to make the new Jeep Grand Cherokee even more desirable while a host of new features - tilt and telescope steering column, improved steering wheel and armrests for improved ergonomics and comfort, new instrument clusters and floor console with improved cup holders - all add to the high-class ambience.

On the exterior, a new front fascia and grille surround with a new body-colour front sill and air dam give the latest Jeep Grand Cherokee a more modern look, together with a new range of alloy wheels and a new headlamp design.

The latest Jeep Grand Cherokee is also still hard to beat off-road. Hill Descent Control now comes as standard on diesel models and is designed to mimic the safe downhill control offered by the ultra-low gearing usually found in hard-core off-road vehicles like the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon.

STYLING - EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR
The Jeep Grand Cherokee's design offers an athletic and contemporary appearance. The exterior design has a high belt line with deep doors and shallow glass for a reduced glass-to-body proportion. The wide track pushes the wheels out to the body edges, giving Grand Cherokee a secure appearance of being planted on the road.

Signature features of the vehicle remain, such as the famous seven-slot grille that boldly dominates the front view and the traditional trapezoidal wheel arches.

For the high-performance halogen headlamps, designers adopted a rounded traditional Jeep appearance and gracefully integrated them into a powerful bonnet form. The bonnet, air dam and exterior mirrors were developed in Chrysler's full-size leading-edge wind tunnel in Auburn Hills, Michigan, to minimise wind noise and drag, and maximise aerodynamic benefits. The air dam is removable for serious off-road driving.

Interior Design is both elegant and functional
The latest Jeep Grand Cherokee takes capability and refinement to new levels, proving there is no reason why a hugely capable off-road vehicle can't also be immensely comfortable and polished. An inviting interior awaits occupants with rich leather fittings, a dark colour scheme, new instrument panel treatment, new door trims and up-market interior finishes.

In the cargo area, versatility and storage reign. A reversible load floor panel is carpeted on one side and offers easy-to-clean plastic on the other. The plastic side includes a large shallow tray for added utility. The rear seat cushion and backrest are split 60/40 and fold almost fully flat to create a wide uncluttered load area.

3.0 V6 CRD engine
The compact and lightweight 3.0 CRD engine is a 'next-generation' power unit producing class-leading levels of torque and towing ability. Based on the latest Mercedes-Benz technology, this all-new diesel engine offers outstanding performance along with the refinement and efficiency European buyers are looking for.

With Bosch high-pressure fuel injection (1600+ bar), a variable geometry turbocharger and four valves per cylinder, the new engine meets Euro 4 emissions standards. Maximum power is 160 kW (215 bhp) and peak torque is 510 Nm (376 lb.ft.) from just 1600 rpm.

The choice of materials, design, fuel injection and engine management system reflect the state of the art. Unlike many other diesel engines in this displacement and output class, the 3.0 CRD features an aluminium crankcase with cast-in grey iron cylinder liners, which make a major contribution to weight reduction. As a result, the V-6 weighs a total of only approximately 208 kg (459 lbs., according to DIN).

This engine is an exceptionally smooth running power unit due to features such as low-friction valve gear, larger bearings for the crankshaft, connecting rods made from a new alloy and a counter-rotating balancer shaft between the cylinder banks. A quick-start glow system shortens preheating time to just a moment, so that the diesel is nearly as quick to start as a petrol engine.

In addition, for the diesel engine, a kick-down switch is added to the accelerator pedal. This detent, reached before the full travel of the pedal, is intended to reduce transmission kick-downs during normal driving but still allow for full pedal travel when a quicker acceleration is wanted by the driver.

The W5A580 five-speed automatic transmission offers smooth shifts and optimum fuel economy with the 3.0 CRD engine. This transmission features Electronic Range Select driver interactive shift control for the first time on Jeep Grand Cherokee. The shifter provides fully automatic shifting in the 'Drive' position or the driver can manually select each gear sequentially by moving the shift lever left or right from the 'Drive' position. This gives the driver the control to precisely match any on-road or off-road driving requirement.

SUSPENSION AND STEERING SYSTEM
An independent front suspension provides the driver with a greater sense of precision and control, more precise steering, and reduces head toss. Front suspension wheel travel is increased by more than 10 percent over the previous generation vehicle, and a tight turning diameter of 11.2 m (36.7 ft.) provides for even more nimble handling. The five-link rear suspension geometry, including a track bar, also offers lateral stiffness to match that of the front suspension for optimum handling.