Audi is taking the wraps off a glittering array of new products at the motor show in Paris. Sporty, efficient, stylish and with high everyday usability – Audi has the right offering for every customer. The Ingolstadt carmaker is showing the new Audi Q5 and the new Audi RS 3 Sedan to an international audience for the very first time. Other models in the limelight include the Audi A5 and Audi S5 Sportback, flanked by an array of other models from the brand with the four rings.
The Audi Q5 is a genuine success story – it is the world’s top-selling SUV in its class. The new generation follows on seamlessly from its predecessor. In Paris, it also gives a large number of highlight features their first public showing. For instance the new Q5 is even more efficient and dynamic. All thanks to new engines, a reduced weight and the best aerodynamics in its competitive field. The new quattro drive with ultra technology also plays its part. This always disengages the rear-axle drive whenever it is not needed, and if necessary it can predictively re-engage it. The new concept boosts efficiency without diminishing traction or driving dynamics.
The Q5 also redefines the benchmark in terms of comfort and practicality. Customers have various chassis options to choose from, including air suspension. Inside, you are greeted by sophisticated materials, excellent build quality and even more space. A comprehensive range of refined technical features is also included. The Q5 is excellently connected thanks to Audi connect, which brings a wide range of useful services on board. The driver and passengers access these via the Audi virtual cockpit, the MMI center display or the Rear Seat Entertainment. A wide selection of driver assistance systems take care of safety, comfort and efficiency – from exit warning and the predictive efficiency assistant to turn assist or the or traffic jam assist.
The Audi RS 3 Sedan is an impressive demonstration of pure power on the Audi show stand in Paris. This all-new model expands the RS family and takes up its place as the sporty spearhead of the compact category. With a 2.5 TFSI power unit developing 400 hp and a maximum torque of 480 Newton-meters (354.0 lb-ft), the Audi RS 3 Sedan is simply bursting with power. Its sharp looks convey the same message. A wider track than the basic model, the Singleframe grille with quattro logo and the exhaust system’s large oval tailpipes lend the latest addition to the RS range its distinctive character. Its interior, too, is dominated by a motorsport feel.
The circular instrument dials are black with red needles and white scales. As an option, the Audi virtual cockpit comes with a special RS screen: The rev counter now appears in the center. On the left and right, information appears on tire pressure, torque and g-forces.
The new Audi A5 Sportback cuts an elegant figure. The five-door coupe turns heads with its striking design. The dominant features of the front end are a flat, wide Singleframe grille and the stretched front lid with power dome. A characteristic trait of the side view is the shoulder line, which now takes the form of a three-dimensional wave. But the new Audi A5 Sportback is not only attractive, it is also suitable for everyday use. Almost all interior dimensions have grown. The luggage compartment has a capacity of 480 liters (17.0 cu ft). In Germany, there are two TFSI and three TDI engine versions to choose from for the A5. They produce between 140 kW (190 hp) and 210 kW (286 hp). The Audi S5 Sportback is powered by a 3.0 TFSI with 354 hp and propelled by quattro drive as standard. The two-door version of the sporty aesthete, the Audi A5 and Audi S5 Coupe, is also on show in Paris.
The top model of the Q7 car line, the Audi SQ7 TDI, also puts in its first appearance at a show. This SUV is the first Audi production model to be fitted with an electric powered compressor (EPC). The EPC supports the two turbochargers of the 4.0 TDI at low revs. Turbo lag – that’s history. The energy is provided by the 48 volt electrical subsystem, a new technology in this segment. The Audi SQ7 TDI develops an output of 435 hp and a massive 900 Newton-meters (663.8 lb-ft) of torque. This enables it to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in just 4.8 seconds; its top speed is 250 km/h (155.3 mph) (governed).