January 2008 Archives

It has the following characteristics:

• Computer-generated image
• 340bhp 3.2-litre engine
• On sale late 2009 or early 2010

The car is currently under development, but reports suggest it will be powered by a 3.2-litre engine with 340bhp, making it comfortably the most powerful TT derivative on sale.

It will also make it more powerful than the BMW Z4 M coupe, which it is set to rival.

As with the 268bhp TTS, which is due to go on sale later this year for around $70,000, buyers will have the choice of either a standard six-speed manual or a seven-speed version of Audi's S-Tronic double-clutch gearbox. Four-wheel drive will be fitted as standard.

The TTRS is expected to cost from $90,000.

Audi is working on a range of measures to improve the carbon dioxide emissions of its vehicles.

Company officials have revealed that the firm is working on its own version of stop-start, weight-saving programmes and innovative ideas such as closing flaps on the grille when the radiator doesn't need air, all aimed at improving aerodynamics and cutting emissions.

The programme is similar to BMW's Efficient Dynamics initiative, which resulted in stop-start technology being fitted to most of the company's new cars last year. As a result, the average carbon dioxide emissions across its range dropped significantly.

However, Audi officials admit these programmes are still two years away from being put into production.

In addition, a hybrid version of Audi’s new A1 is also under development, but is not expected to be put into production until 2010 at the earliest.

Audi has also revealed that the front of its A3 cabriolet will differ from the hatch model when it goes on sale this spring.

With a higher bonnet and extra cushioning behind the bumper, Audi hopes to provide better pedestrian protection as well as a more modern look.

The A3 hatch will also undergo a comprehensive facelift later this year, when it will adopt the same front end as the cabrio. The company hopes this will improve the A3's pedestrian protection score in Euro NCAP crash tests from one star to three.

More information available at whatcar.com.

By Richard Dredge

The A4 is the perfect choice if you're looking for a classy and luxurious compact executive machine. It's seriously capable - especially when equipped with Audi's famed quattro four-wheel-drive transmission.

When it comes to discreet efficiency, few cars can rival the Audi A4. Whether you want a saloon, estate or a cabriolet, it's more than up to the job.

What to look for

If you are buying a 2.5 TDI or 2.0 petrol model which has had a new cambelt fitted, make sure that the water pump was also replaced - if it wasn't and the existing unit fails, the engine could be wrecked. Both the S4 and RS4 variants are very quick, but check that you can afford the running costs before buying. Service, fuel and insurance premiums are all certain to be high.

And if you are thinking of going for an A4 Cabriolet, take a look at the state of the fabric roof, because even the slightest damage can be very costly for a trimmer to put right. Ensure, too, that the frame is in good condition, as replacing a damaged one will be expensive.

History

The second-generation A4 was launched in December 2000 as a saloon. The Avant estate followed in July 2001, coinciding with the first 2.4-litre petrol and 2.5 TDI diesel engines. In May 2001, 100bhp and 115bhp versions of the 1.9 TDI joined the existing 130bhp model. A 2.0-litre FSI petrol arrived in July 2002.

The big news was a major facelift in September 2004, which included fresh front and rear styling, plus additional engines. These comprised the 2.0T and 3.2 V6 petrol units, plus 2.0 and 3.0 TDI diesels. Within a month, the V8-powered S4 was on sale, and by April 2005 the rapid RS4 arrived. In February 2006, a 2.7 TDI V6 diesel came along and from May of the same year, a 168bhp 2.0 TDI was available.

More information available at autoexpress.co.uk