From this month the crisp creases and beautifully balanced proportions across the Audi model range will be brought into even sharper relief following a schedule of updates for the 2023 Model Year. Applicable to orders placed from May 23, the programme has brought improvements to the exterior colour palette, and the wider availability of striking matte finishes, as well as detail enhancements for several model lines.
“The Audi range in the UK is already a model of modernity on every level, from interior and exterior design to powertrain capability and in-car technology, so we’re undoubtedly in a fortunate position as we transition into the 2023 Model Year,“ said Director of Audi UK Andrew Doyle. “Our low-key update programme, therefore, majors on further refining elements of specific ranges as well as maximising the visual appeal our model lines are renowned for.”
Audi customers craving maximum exclusivity have traditionally had the opportunity to set the tone with a variety of optional Audi Exclusive paint finishes that stand apart from the core colour range. As part of the update, this opportunity becomes available again for all versions of the Q2, A3, Q3, A4, A5, Q5, A6, A7, Q7, Q8 and TT.
For even greater impact, the Audi Exclusive programme also includes stunning matt finishes, which were previously reserved for the uppermost tier of Audi Sport models, but are now also available to add appropriate visual drama to RS Q3 and RS Q3 Sportback, TT RS Coupé and TT RS Roadster models. Choices include Floret silver matt and Daytona grey matt and the particularly spectacular Python yellow matt for TT RS and Dew Silver for RS Q3.
Adding a splash of colour
Gains in the high-tech, high-efficiency A1 Sportback range as a result of the update programme include the introduction of the distinctive paint shade Dew Silver as an option for all versions, and the availability of the ever-popular Navarra Blue for Technik and Sport models.
In the A4 Saloon and Avant model lines, the subtly distinctive shade Chronos Grey can now be specified for S line and high-performance S4 variants, while the standout District Green is newly available to make its mark in all A4 and S4 versions bar the Black Editions. RS 4 Avant models can also now be rendered even more visually arresting by the bold and beautiful shade Ascari Blue.
The picture is similar in the A5 Sportback, Coupé and Cabriolet ranges, which adopt Chronos Grey as a new S line and S5 option, but now offer the distinctive District Green in conjunction with Sport and S Line trims as well as the performance-focussed S5. The RS 5 Sportback and Coupé also benefit from the addition of the lustrous Ascari Blue finish to their colour menus.
The colour palette has also been expanded across a range of SUV models; Chronos Grey can now be specified on the Q5 and Q5 Sportback, while Satellite Silver, Tamarind Brown and Waitomo Blue are now offered across a variety of trims on the larger Q7 and Q8 SUVs.
City, slicker
The update programme also brings a new convenient and cost-effective equipment bundle called the Driver Assistance Pack – City to all A4 models bar the Technik variants, and also to the S4 and RS 4 flagships.
It includes a 360-degree camera, the Audi pre sense basic and pre sense rear safety systems, the rear cross traffic and lane change assistants and the park assist function, which enables the A4 to steer autonomously into parking spaces with only throttle and brake inputs required from the driver. An exit warning system which optically alerts occupants to other road users approaching from the rear when they begin to open the doors completes this comprehensive package.
Sustainability is the beneficiary of the changes to Vorsprung versions of the Q7 and Q8 SUVs, which now incorporate the more environmentally focused microfibre material Dinamica in place of the original Alcantara fabric in their seats.
Seen first in the Q4 e-tron SUVs and the e-tron GT models, the breathable material is manufactured using a significant proportion of polyester fibres obtained from recycled PET bottles, old textiles and other residual materials that would otherwise be consigned to landfill or incinerated.
Last but not least, for devotees of unadulterated luxury the recently further refined A8 Saloon range also benefits from the inclusion of powered sunshade blinds for the rear window and rear side windows on the standard equipment list at no additional cost.