Audi Q7 2012

 With such powerful engines inside, we can comfortably expect that the performance of the Audi Q7 would be breathtaking. And it does deliver it quietly.     

The Audi Q7 4.2 TDI Quattro diesel has DOHC valve configuration with direct injection fuel supply system coupled with an automatic six-speed transmission that is sufficient for the SUV to be taken on or off the road. The Audi Q7 diesel 4.2 TDI Quattro has a top speed of 240 kmph and it can catch up a 100 kmph mark in just 6.4 seconds. 

The Turbo Charged DOHC CRDi Diesel variant that also has an AWD six-speed automatic transmission on has a top speed of 210 kmph. However, it is a little lazy than the other and catches 100 kmph in 8.5 seconds. 

Fitted with all alloy 18 inches wheels, the Audi Q7 drives well and gives ultimate performance in the city or on the highways. The car’s shape also eases acceleration as it has been aerodynamically designed coupled with adaptive air suspension that raises and lowers itself according to changes in speed infusing in the Audi Q7 the flexibility making it fully auto adaptable for on road or off road capabilities.As the car’s shape has direct impact on its efficiency Audi has worked out the shape very diligently to make the exteriors as aerodynamic as possible. See it from the front, sides or the rear, Audi Q7 impresses the viewer with its superb looks. Sense of admiration overpowers while observing the awesome looks of the car.

The majestic front that has broad chrome lined radiator intake at the middle with the four intertwined circles, the Audi logo that dominates the front of the car. The twin halogen headlamps have automatic activation. The headlamps have daytime LED lights as well. The twelve vertical chrome grills with broad horizontal space for the number plate make the frontage of the Audi Q7 really awesome. The wide bonnet gives an impression that a really powerful machine is hidden inside coupled with the broad body colored bumpers and contrasting lower half of the bumper, that also houses the two fog lamps, make the front really mammoth. The rain sensing wipersat the front register their presence and complement the clean aerodynamic front glass. The aluminium window trim framing the exterior and side windows and aluminium roof rails further compliment the exteriors.

Moving on to the sides of the mighty machine we find that all alloy six arm wheels dominate the sides and add to the robust look of the Audi Q7. There are motorized rear view mirrors with turn indicators on the sides. The side sills too are body colored.
Moving on to the rear of the Audi Q7 is a worth experience. Aerodynamics rules the rear of the Audi Q7 with wavy tail lamps that appears as if they have flown from the sides to the rear. The top of the Audi has Sun and Moon roofsmaking it a perfect rider on a bright sunny day or on a full moon night.

Exterior Measurements

The exteriors measurements are more so dominated by aerodynamics. The Audi Q7 is 5,086 mm long, 1,983 mm wide, 1,737 mm tall and has a ground clearance of 205 mm. The Audi Q7 weighs 2,990 kilos.

Audi Q7 Interior

Audi Q7’s interiors are sporty, elegant and utterly focus functions. Entering the jumbo machine is very easy, thanks to the Advanced Key option in Audi Q7. Even if the key is in the pocket, you need to just pull the door handle and the door will open. To lock the car, just press the small button on the door handle. Just as the door opens, it seems as if a really big space inside is inviting you for an ultimately comfortable ride. The interiors look quite cozy and comfortable; the interior texture too looks soft. The front seats give a feeling of a cockpit and are ergonomically designed. A front centre armrest comes in the S Line equipment with a storage compartment to store tidbits. The side rests on the door have been specially designed to rest the hand during long drives. It also has window controls on it. The standard equipment comes with Cosmo Cloth upholstery available in Black and Paranut brown color. There are varieties of upholstery choices available on payment such as Cricket leather available in Black, Light grey, Paranut brown, Cardamom beige and Savanna beige shades. Besides Verano leather upholstery is available in Black, Light grey, Paranut brown, Savanna beige and Cardamom beige shades. Since it is a sports utility we have no dearth of legroom and headroom inside.

The front interior of the car is ruled by the central console and the 4-spoke multi-function adjustable leather steering wheel. The start–stop button integrated in the centre console starts and stops the engine. In addition there are two 12V sockets – one at front of centre console, besides two at rear of centre console and 1 in luggage compartment. Theautomatic dual-zone climate control occupies most of the part of the central console and it has separate driver and front passenger controls. Moreover, the Multi-Media Interface (MMI) is also there and it displays information about the climate, audio and other functions of the vehicle. There are illuminated vanity mirrors, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror as well. The interior inlays are in glossy black. 

Audi Q7 comes with a seating capacity for seven, two at the front, three in the middle, and two at the rear. There are cargo nets on backs of front seats, cup holders– 2 at front of centre console, 2 in rear armrest and 2 in side trim of third seating row as well. There is a rear centre armrest in the rear-seat that makes seating at the rear comfortable. There are also two cup holders embedded in the hand rests to let you enjoy your drink en route. The headrests are perfectly placed and give ultimate cushioning. The scuff plates have metal inlays. There is equally enough legroom and headroom for the rear passengers as well. The third row has a capacity to seat two people and the entry for the third row is from the middle seat and there is considerably enough legroom and headroom at this seat as well. The front and rear seats have heating option the temperature can be individually controlled. Besides, the front seats can beelectrically adjusted (height, forwards and backwards position, backrest angle and lumbar support, as well as there is memory option for electrically adjusted steering) with driver and front passenger seat memory. Overall, the Audi Q7 interiors have been specifically designed to abode seven people giving them a comfortable ride.

Interior Measurements

There is 1030mm headroom at the front and 990mm in the middle and 789mm at the rear. The luggage compartment capacity is 765 litres and it goes to 2035 liters with the middle and rear seats folded. Audi Q7 also has a roof load limit of 100kg and it has a maximum trailer load of 750Kg.

Audi Q7 Engine and Performance

The Audi Q7 has two diesel variants available in India and both of these have Quattro technology enabled with six-speed automatic transmission. The Audi Q7 4.2 TDI Quattro’s 4.2L, 4134cc, V8 engine gives out 345bhp to power this machine. This is surely enough to fire this car on road or off the road. The 200PS it generates at 4000 rpm and the 760Nm maximum torque it delivers at 1750 to 3000 rpm is unbeatable. This just falls short of the 407 bhp at 5500~6400 rpm produced by 4.4L, 4395cc 407bhp, 600 Nm, engine in BMW X5. However, it is far more than the 165bhp produced by the 3.0L Mercedes M class SUVs. The diesel version of the Audi Q7 which is a 3.0 TDI Quattro pumps out 232.5PS of power at 4,000 rpm which is also sufficient enough to give thrust to this 2,990 kilo car. Both the engines are silent even at the peak torque. Besides, the Audi Q7 engines are fitted with engine Automatic Start-Stop function for greater fuel and CO2 efficiency, in addition to recuperation for optimal energy utilization.

The Audi Q7 has an oil-change Service interval every 14,484 Kms or one year and an inspection service every 30577 kms or two years whichever is earlier.  The Audi Q7 comes with two-year unlimited kilometers and up to 96560 kms in the third year warranty.
In order to match the power inside with the performance delivery in Audi Q7, Audi has fitted 18 inch x 8J, ‘6-arm’ design alloy wheels with 225/55 R18 Y tyres. However, there are over nine optional wheel size and design choices ranging from 19” x 8.5J ‘5-arm V’ design alloy wheels to 21” x 10J ‘7-double-spoke’ design polished alloy wheels to subtly enhance the looks and drive of the Audi Q7. The spare wheel which is part of the standard third row removed version comes with 18” alloy wheel with 18” 235 tyres.Braking & Handling

The Audi Q7 is equipped with Automatic Start-Stop function which means that whenever you are in heavy traffic and you stop the car the engine also stops and as soon as you release the brake pedal, the engine restarts thus saving fuel and limiting CO2 emissions as well.

In addition to it, the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) automatically regulates the distance with the help of radar sensors and maintains a preset distance. In the course it uses braking and accelerating to maintain the distance. This system works between 0 and 120mph speeds. This system also has Audi braking guard that triggers a visual and acoustic alarm as soon as it detects that there is a risk of rear end collision with the car at the front.
The Audi Q7 also comes with standard in the series braking systems such as Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). Besides, the parking brake in the Audi Q7 is foot operated.

Handling & Safety

Packed with 200PS and 232.5PS diesel engines and automatic six-speed transmission, the Audi Q7 ensures ultimate handling features even in the most difficult driving conditions. The Audi Q7 4.2 TDI Quattro has a top speed of 240 kmph while Audi Q7 3.0 TDI Quattro has a top speed of 210 kmph. There are various features that make the powerful yet elegant Audi Q7, safe and secure. We have already discussed the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). In addition, the door exit lights at the front ensure that you enter and exit the SUV safely. Besides, Electronic Differential Lock (EDL), Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) with extended on and off-road functions also enhance its handling ease. It has a unique Trailer Stabilization system to keep the trailer stable on road, off road or up the hill. The Audi Q7 comes with a first-aid kit for immediate medication at the time of medical crisis. Moreover, there are front passengers, second and third row seats come with passenger airbags. With this you can be sure that even a fierce accident cannot touch you. So as to park the car, there is rear acoustic parking. The Service key automatically stores particular car settings and service information to keep track of car’s health.

There are side airbags for the driver and front passenger besides side-impact protection and side guard head airbagsystem to protect front and the side rear passengers in the case of a side collision. There is a tool kit and car jack to keep the car going in case of a flat tyre or a minor repair need. And there is the warning triangle that reminds you of any real error in your car. Furthermore, anti-theft alarm protects your car from being stolen. There are also some optional handling and safety products that are also available viz. Audi parking system plus, Audi parking system advanced, Audi lane assist, Audi side assist, Privacy glass, VW8 Double glazing, Double glazing with Privacy glass, High-beam assist, and Tyre pressure loss indicator. But these are available on order and are not part of the standard equipment.

Stereo & Accessories in Audi Q7

If it’s Audi, believe that it has the best in the series audio and other accessories. There are two optional technology packages offered by Audi. The technology package– Low, has Satellite Navigation system – DVD-based, Power-operated tailgate, MMI Radio Plus, DSP sound system, Color Driver’s Information System with efficiency program, Voice dialogue system, CD changer, Audi parking system plus (front and rear) with acoustic warning and visual display on MMI monitor. Similarly, the technology package-High has Satellite Navigation system–HDD-based, DSP sound system, Single CD/DVD player, Mobile phone preparation with online services, Power-operated tailgate, Color Driver’s Information System (DIS) with efficiency program, Voice dialogue system, and Audi parking system advanced.

Audi Q7 Specifications

Audi Q7 Variants

Variants	Transmission	Engine Description	Mileage		Power	AC	Power Steering	Central Locking
			City	Highway
3.0 TFSI Quattro(Petrol)	Automatic	2967cc 6 Cylinder 24 Valve	6.8	8.8	328bhp @ 5500-6500rpm	Standard	Standard	Standard
3.0 TDI quattro(Diesel)	Automatic	2967cc 6 Cylinder 24 Valve	9.31	12.62	241bhp @ 3800-4400rpm	Standard	Standard	Standard
4.2 TDI quattro(Diesel)	Automatic	4134cc 8 Cylinder 32 Valve	7.0	10.1	335bhp @ 4000rpm	Standard	Standard	Standard

Audi Q7 Price

Audi Q7 Variants Price

Variants	New Delhi	Bangalore	Mumbai	Chennai	Pune	Hyderabad	Kolkata
3.0 TDI quattro(Diesel)	58,25,000	-	57,16,000	56,59,000	-	59,29,000	55,84,000	Get On Road Price
4.2 TDI quattro(Diesel)	75,25,000	-	73,84,000	-	-	76,58,000	67,15,000	Get On Road Price
3.0 TFSI Quattro(Petrol)	61,18,000	-	60,03,000	-	-	-	-	Get On Road Price

 

Read More

BMW 3 Series 2012

The Bangle era of design is over at BMW, and the revised 3-Series reflects this fact with a new, more elegant look. Other updates include a redesigned cabin and the addition of a powerful and efficient turbocharged four-cylinder as the standard motor, but one thing that doesn't change is the sporty character and fine handling of this small luxury sedan.

For the time being, the latest redesign will only apply to the four-door 3-Series, as the 3-Series Coupe and 3-Series Convertible are expected to arrive in one year's time, and possibly wearing the 4-Series moniker.Those in need of more cargo space will be pleased to hear that the BMW 3-Series Wagon will return to the U.S. as well.

Visually, the new 3-Series adopts the same design language first seen on vehicles like the 5-Series and 7-Series. However, the new 3 is longer and wider than the outgoing model, giving the car an overall athletic look. The new 3-Series is nearly 2-inches wider than the outgoing car and over 3.5 inches longer.

Despite a bigger footprint, the latest 3-Series retains a perfect 50/50 weight distribution and is actually 88 pounds lighter than the model it replaces.

As a result of those expanded dimensions, the new 3-Series boasts more cabin space, particularly for rear-seat passengers. BMW also says that the 3-Series trunk can comfortably hold three-golf bags.

But perhaps the biggest news is the return to a four-cylinder powerplant. The 328i model is powered by BMW's TwinPower turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, developing 240 horsepower and 260 lb-ft or torque. As a result, the 328i scoots from zero-to-60 in a relatively brisk 5.7 seconds.

BMW's 335i remains on offer, delivering 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque from its turbocharged 3.0L six-cylinder. That added grunt is good for a zero-to-60 time of 5.4 seconds.

BMW has gone to great lengths to ensure the 2012 3 is more fuel efficient than the current model and has included such technologies as auto stop-start, Brake Energy Regeneration and even an air conditioning system that can disconnect completely from the engine. The 328i offers 23 city, 33 highway, with the eight-speed automatic, or 23 city, 34 highway with the six-speed manual transmission.

BMW is the first automaker to offer an eight-speed gearbox in this class.

BMW has yet announce the M3 version of the new car, but buyers can opt for an M Sport package in the meantime (more information below).

ActiveHybrid 3
Marking a first for the segment, BMW will launch a hybrid version of its new 3-Series during the fall of 2012. The ActiveHybrid 3 will be powered by BMW's 300 horsepower 3.0L turbocharged six-cylinder paired to an electric motor that can boost power by as much as 55 horsepower. BMW says to expect performance on par with the 335i.

Packaging explained
BMW offers the latest 3-Series Sedan in base configuration and four optional "Design Lines:" Sport Line, Luxury Line and Modern Line, as well as an M Sport Line (late introduction).

All models will come with goodies like a 6.5-inch color display with iDrive, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, step-up wheels (17-inch on 328i, 18-inch on 335i), while the 335i adds HID headlamps, wood interior trim, a moonroof, powered front seats and an anti-theft alarm.

Sport Line models come with black exterior styling bits, a 10mm-lowered suspension, red piped-and-stitched leather or leatherette seats, a black headliner and various red accents throughout the cabin. Luxury Line 3-Series models substitute the Sport's gloss black or aluminum interior trim with inlayed wood, wile the exterior receives additional chrome styling bits including more grille slats and chromed grille surrounds. Luxury and Modern Line 3-Series models will be offered exclusively with leather seats with a specific seam pattern and either contrasting stitching (Luxury) or piping (Modern). Modern builds on Luxury with matte chrome exterior and interior trim, a choice of aluminum, pearl metallic or textured wood interior trim and a "dark oyster" dashboard and steering wheel.

Options for most models include navigation (part of the Technology Package), a rearview camera with surround view, SiriusXM and Harman/Kardon audio, as well as an M-tuned suspension, variable sport steering and 19-inch alloy wheels.

Key Competitors
Often used as the benchmark in the small premium sedan segment, the 3-Series is directly in the crosshairs of competing models like the Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sedan, the Audi A4, the Infiniti G37 and the Cadillac CTS.

Read More

BMW X5 2012

The BMW X5 is a fairly large and luxurious SUV -- or sport activity vehicle (SAV) asBMW likes to call it. Like its more performance-oriented sibling, the X5 M, this Bimmer provides surprisingly sharp handling given its size and weight.

Compliments of the latest refresh, the X5 is sporting a fresh front fascia that with a sportier appeal. The black trim at the bottom edge of the body is now considerably narrower. A matte-finished silver protection plate extends across the entire width of the central air intake, emphasizing the muscular features of the SAV

The dual round Xenon Adaptive headlights and foglamps are now situated higher and closer to the kidney grille. The newly conceived rear fascia matches the style of the front end, while the surrounds of the dual exhaust pipes are painted in body color.

xDrive35i
The new X5 xDrive35i receives a brand new inline-6 gasoline engine, internally dubbed "N55." The new engine features the same 3.0-liter displacement and 300horsepower output of its predecessor (the "N54"), but features a single twin-scroll turbocharger in place of the previous twin, low-mass turbocharger units. Furthermore, the new inline-6 of the X5 xDrive35i is the first BMW inline-6 to combine BMW's Valvetronic throttle-less intake technology, High Precision direct fuel injection and turbocharging.

The result of combining this new inline-6 with the new 8-speed automatic is an X5 with improved responsiveness thanks to more available power, in addition to improved efficiency. The new X5 xDrive35i will perform the zero-to-60 mph sprint in6.4 seconds, coincidentally on the same pace as the outgoing V-8 powered X5 xDrive48i. Fuel economy is rated at 16 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.

The new 8-speed transmission found on the xDrive 35i is standard on the X5 xDrive50i as well. The new transmission weighs no more than its six-speed predecessor, yet offers closer ratios in the lower gears for improved acceleration and two additional "tall" gears for relaxed, efficient cruising.

The X5 xDrive35i Premium includes new standard equipment like 18-inch light alloy wheels, roof rails and panoramic moonroof, power adjustable steering column, iPod / USB adapter interface and privacy glass. For the first time, Premium trim also includes standard Nevada Leather.

In addition, buyers of the Premium model may choose up to four packages, including the Active Ventilated Seat Package, Convenience Package, Cold Weather Package and Technology Package. Each package includes features that enhance comfort and convenience, allowing buyers to better customize the X5 to personal taste. Third Row seating, which enables the X5 to accommodate up to 7 passengers, also becomes available on this model.

The X5 xDrive35i Sport Activity trim level brings additional standard equipment over the Premium model. The Premium trim level's 19-inch wheels are replaced with 20-inch light alloy wheels, sport seats, Shadowline exterior trim and Anthracite headliner. In addition to the packages available on the Premium model, customers may add the popular M Sport Package to the X5 xDrive35i Sport Activity model. The M Sport Package includes 20" wheels with performance tires, the Adaptive Drive system, aluminum roof rails, M door sill plates, M driver footrest, M steering wheel, M aerodynamic enhancements and increased top speed limiter (150 mph).

xDrive50i
BMW's naturally-aspirated V8 xDrive48i has given way to a new xDrive50i with the twin-turbo V8 also seen in the X6. It puts out 400 horsepower and 450 lb-ft. of torque and is most notable for its broad and flat 1,750-4,000 rpm torque curve. The powertrain helps the X5 sprint to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds. Fuel economy is estimated at 14/20 mpg.

xDrive35d
The BMW Advanced Diesel X5 xDrive35d was first introduced to the United States as a 2009 model, and carries on as the fastest, most fuel efficient diesel-powered vehicle in its class. Torque output is 425 lb-ft at 1750-2250 rpm, along with peak power output of 265 horsepower. The diesel X5 will go from zero-to-60 in 6.9 seconds. It returns EPA mileage estimates of 19 mpg city and 26 highway.

Options
A lengthy list of options is available on all models, including satellite navigation, rear seat entertainment system, back-up camera, full-roof sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, driver's seat massage, front and rear climate zones, and many others. A Sport Package includes anti-roll stability control and run-flat tires.

For the latest model year, exterior colors include metallic Deep Sea Blue, Platinum Grey, and Sparkling Bronze are now available for the BMW X5. Inside, the available Nevada Leather can be chosen in new Oyster or Cinnamon Brown colors in addition to the familiar Sand Beige, and Black, and matte Satin Silver interior trim strips are added if the owner does not select from the available Brushed Aluminum, Dark Bamboo, Light Poplar or Burl Walnut wood trims.

Safety
Safety equipment includes two-stage dual front airbags, side curtain airbags, front-seat side-impact air bags, anti-lock brakes with electronic traction control, adaptive headlights and cornering lights.

Key Competitors
Lauded crossover rivals to the X5 include the Mercedes-Benz M-Class, the Audi Q7as well as the Porsche Cayenne.

Read More

Audi A1 2012

Audi is crowning its successful A1 model series with an exclusive top-of-the-line model. The dynamic A1 quattro, limited to just 333 units, moves to the head of the compact class. Its two-liter, turbocharged engine produces 188 kW (256 hp) and 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) of torque, which is delivered to all four wheels. The Audi A1 quattro sprints from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 5.7 seconds and has a top speed of 245 km/h (152.24 mph).

The A1 quattro is powered by the 2.0 TFSI engine. The 1,984 cc, four-cylinder engine combines gasoline direct injection with turbocharging in the classic Audi manner. Among its highlights are the adjustable intake cam shaft and the two balance shafts, which ensure smooth operation. Maximum torque of 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) is continuously available between 2,500 and 4,500 rpm, and peak power (188 kW/256 hp) is developed at 6,000 rpm.

Every detail of the sporty, sonorous four-cylinder engine has been optimized for high performance and low fuel consumption. Common rail injection, a turbocharger with intercooler and a regulated oil pump are just a few examples. The Audi A1 quattro is expected to consume on average 8.6 liters of fuel per 100 km (27.67 US mpg). Yet it performs like a top-notch sports car: The standard sprint takes just 5.7 seconds, and top speed is 245 km/h (152.24 mph).

The 2.0 TFSI delivers its power to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system via a precisely shifting six-speed transmission, bringing Vorsprung durch Technik to the small-car class. The heart of this system is an electronically controlled, hydraulically actuated multi-plate clutch whose package of plates rotates in an oil bath.

During normal driving, the clutch sends most of the engine's power to the front wheels. If traction decreases there, the clutch can transfer torque steplessly to the rear axle in just a few milliseconds by forcing the packages of plates together by a defined amount. A pressure reservoir helps the electric pump to develop the oil pressure. If a wheel on one of the axles should slip, it is braked by the electronic differential lock (EDL).

The placement of the multi-plate clutch at the rear axle provides for a harmonious distribution of the axle loads, and the chassis of the Audi A1 quattro has been adapted to the dynamics of the drivetrain. It is much more tautly tuned than that of the production model. The front suspension is a McPherson construction; a four-link axle is used at the rear. The sensitive and efficient electrohydraulic power steering has a sporty, direct 14.8:1 steering ratio.

The Audi A1 quattro rolls on 8.0 J x 18 cast alloy wheels. They are Glacier White, feature an exclusive turbine design and are fitted with 225/35-series tires. The internally vented front brake discs measure 312 millimeters (12.28 in) in diameter and are gripped by black calipers. The ESP stabilization program includes a sport mode and can be switched off entirely for a trip to the race track, for example.

One look is all it takes to see that the Audi A1 quattro is a very special vehicle. It is available only in Glacier White metallic, and its roof is painted high-gloss black. The front bumper is muscular, the frame and grate of the single-frame grille are high-gloss black. The curved bars in the headlights - the wings - are red. The grille, the roof arch and the rear hatch sport quattro badges.

The rear windows are tinted; the roof flows into a large, two-color wing. The color black accentuates the rear hatch and the diffuser. The LED rear lights are tinted; the rear bumper sports a distinctive look. The exhaust system terminates in two polished dual tailpipes on the left and the right, each measuring 100 millimeters (3.94 in) in diameter. The A1 quattro is 3,987 millimeters (13.08 ft) long, 1,740 millimeters (5.71 ft) wide and 1,416 millimeters (4.65 ft) tall, making it somewhat longer than the model on which it is based. Luggage capacity is 210 liters (7.42 cu ft); folding down the rear seats increases this to 860 liters (30.37 cu ft).

Cool, sporty black dominates the interior of the Audi A1 quattro. The seats and the armrests on the doors are covered in Silk Nappa leather with contrasting red seams. The S sport seats up front have pronounced bolsters, integrated head restraints and a quattro badge on the backrest covers. The seats feature multi-way adjustment. The lower section of the center console shines in high-gloss black; the footrest and the pedal caps are made of brushed stainless steel. Red seams frame the floor mats, and the door sill trims bear A1 quattro badges.

The instrument cluster has a number of eye-catching features, including white needles, a red tachometer, the quattro logo and the color display for the driver information system. The multifunction sport steering wheel is flattened at the bottom, wrapped in leather with contrasting red stitching and sports the car's serial number. The shift lever knob is made of aluminum. Many control elements have an aluminum-look finish.

The Audi A1 quattro will be available from the second half of 2012 and will be supplied to customers with a full range of equipment. It includes many features taken directly from the luxury class, including xenon plus headlights, high-beam assistant, adaptive brake lights, LED interior lighting package, light and rain sensor, automatically dimming interior mirror, rear parking system, automatic air conditioning, alarm system, storage package, convenience key and cruise control.

The infotainment equipment likewise leaves nothing to be desired. It includes a CD changer, a digital radio tuner, the Audi music interface and MMI navigation plus. The Bose sound system drives 14 speakers with 465 watts of power; the woofers in the doors are indirectly lit with light guide LEDs. Audi connect uses the Bluetooth online car phone to connect to the Internet and deliver special web services, including Google Earth, to the car. Passengers can also connect their mobile devices to the integrated WLAN hotspot.

Read More

VW Passat 2012

 Unlike the previous Passat midsize sedan, which occupied a niche in terms of sophistication and price between mass-market and luxury models, the latest version is aimed right at the heart of the market and priced far more modestly. While that lower MSRP entails a few sacrifices, the Passat is still a smart buy thanks to an attractive and generously sized interior, capable handling and an available class-exclusive diesel motor that returns 43 mpg on the highway.

Stylistically, the Passat features an understated, slightly bland look characterized by Volkswagen's horizontal corporate "face." Underneath its clean but conservative exterior, the Passat boasts a comfortable and commodious cabin. Passengers in the back seats benefit from best-in-class legroom, and up front the dashboard is simple and elegant.

While there are more cheap plastics to be found than in the previous-generation model (particularly in the bottom-half of the interior), there are still enough soft-touch materials to impart a high-rent feel. One quirk is a steering wheel that is curiously offset slightly to the right.

The suspension is composed of struts up front and a multilink setup at the rear, and the handling is responsive and composed.

Buyers have the choice of three different engines, with the entry-level mill being a 2.5-liter inline-five with 170 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a standard five-speed manual, the motor is good for 22 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway, while an optional six-speed automatic returns the same city mileage but saps one mpg on the highway.

For those willing to drop a little more coin for a lot more fuel economy, the 2.0-liter TDI turbodiesel four-cylinder is certainly the engine of choice in the Passat. The only diesel in its segment, the TDI is rated to net 31 miles per gallon in the city and 43 mpg on the highway when equipped with a six-speed manual. A six-speed DSG dual clutch automatic is also available, although it lowers mileage to 30/40 mpg. Rated at 140 horsepower and 236 lb-ft. of torque, the four-cylinder diesel engine is seemingly ubiquitous in VW's lineup.

While most buyers opt for the four or five-cylinder engines, VW also offers a 3.6-liter VR6 rated at 280 horsepower and 258 lb-ft. of torque. The VR6 is exclusively mated to VW's DSG automatic transmission, and fuel economy checks in at 20/28 mpg.

Trim Level Breakdown
The Passat offers a small galaxy of trim levels - S, SE and SEL all of which break down into sub-trim levels as well. While the five-cylinder engine is available with all trim levels, the TDI and VR6 can't be had in base model "S" form.

The entry-level S model includes dual-zone automatic climate control, power windows and locks, Bluetooth connectivity with audio streaming, an AM/FM/CD stereo with an AUX-in jack, cruise control, an anti-theft system and 16-inch steel wheels with hubcaps. The S with appearance package adds 16-inch "San Jose" alloy wheels, a foldable rear armrest, front visor vanity mirrors and a standard automatic transmission.

The SE includes the S' features and adds a leatherette upholstery, premium touchscreen-activated sound system, a leather wrapped height-adjustable steering wheel, Sirius satellite radio and 17-inch "Sonoma" alloy wheels. The SE with Sunroof adds - wait for it - a sunroof. Proving that there is truth in advertising, the SE with Sunroof and Navigation adds a navigation system.

To those features, the SEL adds a premium Fender-branded sound system, a rearview Camera a folding rear seat with a pass-through, chrome exterior accents and 17-inch "Salamanca" wheels. The SEL Premium brings Keyless access with push-button start, remote start, leather upholstery, power adjustable front seats and foglamps.

Occupant Safety
All Passat models feature dual front, front side and full-length side curtain airbags in addition to traction and stability control systems. Also included is an intelligent crash response system, which automatically unlocks all doors, disconnects the battery terminal from the alternator cable, shuts off the fuel supply and turns on the warning hazards and interior lights in the event of a crash.

Key Competitors
The Passat's rivals include the oft-lauded Honda Accord, the winter-ready AWDSubaru Legacy and the recently revamped and newly stylish Chrysler 200. Other mid-size sedan options include the fine driving Ford Fusion and the ever-popularToyota Camry.

Available styles for the 2012 Volkswagen Passat

Style	Original MSRP / Invoice	Engine	Horse Power	City MPG / Hwy. MPG	Trans.	Drive
4dr Sdn 2.5L Manual S	$20,590.00 / $19,746.00	Gasoline Fuel	170	22 / 32	5-Speed M/T	FWD
4dr Sdn 2.0L DSG TDI SEL Premium	$32,195.00 / $30,876.00	Diesel Fuel	140	30 / 40	6-Speed A/T	FWD
4dr Sdn 2.5L Manual SE	$23,725.00 / $22,752.00	Gasoline Fuel	170	22 / 32	5-Speed M/T	FWD
4dr Sdn 2.5L Auto S w/Appearance	$22,690.00 / $21,760.00	Gasoline Fuel	170	22 / 31	6-Speed A/T	FWD
4dr Sdn 2.5L Manual S PZEV	$20,590.00 / $19,746.00	Gasoline Fuel	170	22 / 32	5-Speed M/T	FWD
4dr Sdn 2.5L Auto SEL Premium	$29,895.00 / $28,670.00	Gasoline Fuel	170	22 / 31	6-Speed A/T	FWD
4dr Sdn 2.5L Auto SEL	$28,395.00 / $27,230.00	Gasoline Fuel	170	22 / 31	6-Speed A/T	FWD
4dr Sdn 2.5L Auto S	$21,690.00 / $20,802.00	Gasoline Fuel	170	22 / 31	6-Speed A/T	FWD
4dr Sdn 2.5L Auto S PZEV	$21,690.00 / $20,802.00	Gasoline Fuel	170	22 / 31	6-Speed A/T	FWD
4dr Sdn 2.0L Manual TDI SE	$25,995.00 / $24,929.00	Diesel Fuel	140	31 / 43	6-Speed M/T	FWD
4dr Sdn 3.6L V6 DSG SEL Premium	$32,950.00 / $31,600.00	Gasoline Fuel	280	20 / 28	6-Speed A/T	FWD
4dr Sdn 3.6L V6 DSG SE w/Sunroof	$28,995.00 / $27,806.00	Gasoline Fuel	280	20 / 28	6-Speed A/T	FWD
4dr Sdn 2.5L Auto S w/Appearance PZEV	$22,690.00 / $21,760.00	Gasoline Fuel	170	22 / 31	6-Speed A/T	FWD
4dr Sdn 2.5L Auto SE w/Sunroof PZEV	$25,625.00 / $24,575.00	Gasoline Fuel	170	22 / 31	6-Speed A/T	FWD
4dr Sdn 2.0L DSG TDI SE w/Sunroof	$27,895.00 / $26,752.00	Diesel Fuel	140	30 / 40	6-Speed A/T	FWD
4dr Sdn 2.5L Manual SE PZEV	$23,725.00 / $22,752.00	Gasoline Fuel	170	22 / 32	5-Speed M/T	FWD
4dr Sdn 3.6L V6 DSG SE w/Sunroof & Nav	$30,595.00 / $29,341.00	Gasoline Fuel	280	20 / 28	6-Speed A/T	FWD
4dr Sdn 2.0L DSG TDI SE w/Sunroof & Nav	$29,495.00 / $28,286.00	Diesel Fuel	140	30 / 40	6-Speed A/T	FWD
4dr Sdn 2.5L Auto SE	$24,825.00 / $23,808.00	Gasoline Fuel	170	22 / 31	6-Speed A/T	FWD
4dr Sdn 2.5L Auto SEL Premium PZEV	$29,895.00 / $28,670.00	Gasoline Fuel	170	22 / 31	6-Speed A/T	FWD
4dr Sdn 2.5L Auto SE w/Sunroof	$25,625.00 / $24,575.00	Gasoline Fuel	170	22 / 31	6-Speed A/T	FWD
4dr Sdn 2.5L Auto SE w/Sunroof & Nav PZEV	$26,795.00 / $25,696.00	Gasoline Fuel	170	22 / 31	6-Speed A/T	FWD
4dr Sdn 2.5L Auto SE PZEV	$24,825.00 / $23,808.00	Gasoline Fuel	170	22 / 31	6-Speed A/T	FWD
4dr Sdn 2.5L Auto SE w/Sunroof & Nav	$26,795.00 / $25,696.00	Gasoline Fuel	170	22 / 31	6-Speed A/T	FWD
4dr Sdn 2.5L Auto SEL PZEV	$28,395.00 / $27,230.00	Gasoline Fuel	170	22 / 31	6-Speed A/T	FWD

Read More