Audi will unveil three new vehicles at Frankfurt’s International Motor Show (IAA): the remarkably dynamic S5 Sportback, the extremely low-emission A4 3.0 TDI clean diesel quattro, and the especially efficient A3 1.2 TFSI. These innovative engines boast some very different key data, yet they share something in common: They embody Audi’s conviction that dynamics and efficiency are not mutually exclusive; on the contrary, they go hand in hand and are mutually complementary.
2010 Audi S5 Sportback
Elegant dynamics: Audi S5 Sportback
The S5 Sportback is the pinnacle of the new Sportback model line. This elegant, five-door coupé is propelled by a three-liter V6 with a mechanical compressor. From a displacement of 2,995 cm3 (182.77 in3), the small turbo engine delivers 245 kW (333 hp) and 440 Nm (324.53 lb.-ft.) of torque between 2,900 and 5,300 rpm. The S5 Sportback sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 5.4 seconds [provisional figure]; its top speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph) is limited by an electronic governor. It averages just 9.7 liters of fuel per 100 km (24.25 mpg) [provisional figures] — the best in this power-output category.
Concerning the powertrain, the Audi S5 Sportback similarly underscores its superiority: a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission and quattro permanent all-wheel drive are standard equipment. Upon request, Audi will include the sport differential. It variably distributes power on the rear axle between the rear wheels. This new “top model” has a sportily configured chassis with 18-inch aluminum wheels fitted with 245/40 tires; black brake calipers bear S5 emblems at the front. Speed-dependent servotronic steering is also standard.
Small yet striking exterior and interior features visually distinguish the Audi S5 Sportback. Equipment highlights include electrically adjustable S sports seats covered with Silk Nappa leather. Sales of the Audi S5 Sportback will start in Spring 2010; its basic price will be 57,900 euros.
Extremely clean: Audi A4 3.0 TDI clean diesel quattro
Audi debuted the 3.0 TDI clean diesel engine in its large Q7 SUV; now, the world’s cleanest diesel technology will also be available in the best-selling A4.
A package of technologies boasts an array of innovative solutions for engines and the after-treatment of exhaust gas.
At the engine, a new common-rail injection system (which generates up to 2,000 bars of pressure), innovative pressure sensors in the combustion chamber, and an especially high-performance exhaust recirculating system collectively ensure a highly efficient and low-emission combustion process. A novel DeNOX catalytic converter, integrated within the end of the exhaust system, reduces residual nitrogen oxides. Just upstream of it, a pump injects an additive named AdBlue into the hot exhaust flow; there, this aqueous solution decomposes into ammonia — which splits the nitrogen oxides into nitrogen and water.
The A4 3.0 TDI clean diesel quattro already complies with the emission limits of the EU’s Euro 6 standard, expected to become law in 2014. It is also very fuel-efficient, averaging only 6.7 liters (Avant: 6.8 liters) of fuel per 100 km (35.11 and 34.59 miles per U.S. gallon). And this TDI engine is indeed a powerful performer, needing only 6.2 seconds (Avant: 6.3 seconds) to go from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph). Top speed is electronically governed to 250 km/h (155.34 mph).
In conjunction with a six-speed tiptronic and quattro permanent all-wheel drive, this vehicle guarantees a high degree of comfort and superior traction.
Efficient Downsizing: Audi A3 and A3 Sportback 1.2 TFSI
Downsizing is a cornerstone of Audi’s efficiency strategy — and Audi is relentlessly committed. The A3 model line will soon introduce yet another turbocharged gasoline engine featuring lower displacement. It unites maximum performance with minimum consumption.
Designed from scratch, the new 1.2 TFSI generates 77 kW (105 hp) from a displacement of 1,197 cm3 (73.05 in3). And as is typical of Audi, turbocharging and direct gasoline injection once again perfectly comprise a technological one-two punch. Thanks to an aluminum crankcase, this four-cylinder engine weighs just 89.5 kilograms (197.31 pounds); this remarkably low weight also boosts its efficiency.
The 1.2 TFSI has been optimized to minimize friction. Eight valves are actuated by a single camshaft. A common-rail system injects the fuel. An electric control valve operates the turbocharger’s wastegate valve; boost pressure builds up spontaneously and scavenging losses drop.
This small engine generates 175 Nm (129.07 lb.-ft.) of torque between just 1,500 and 3,500 rpm. It propels the three-door A3 1.2 TFSI from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62.14 mph) in 11.1 seconds; the Sportback, in 11.3 seconds. Both versions reach a top speed of 190 km/h (118.06 mph) and, on average, consume just 5.5 liters of fuel per 100 km (42.77 mpg) — emitting just 127 grams of CO2 per kilometer (204.39 g/mile).
Sales of the A3 and A3 Sportback 1.2 TFSI will begin in the first quarter of 2010. The new engine will initially be paired with front-wheel drive and a six-speed manual transmission.