Following in the footsteps of Volkswagen, Audi also came out with an announcement detailing new models and pricing for its 2013 Model Year range in the United States.
The brand with the four rings is introducing six new models and multiple freshened products including the A4 Allroad estate priced from $39,600, the 444hp (450PS) RS5 Coupe that starts at $68,900 and the S6, S7 and S8 saloons with a new 4.0-liter turbocharged V8 delivering from 414hp to 513hp (420PS-520PS).
Keep in mind that the aforementioned prices do not include an $895 destination and handling fee.
Other notable additions to the range include the updated Q5 with a 3.0-liter supercharged V6, a lighter and more fuel efficient 240hp 3.0 liter V6 TDI engine for the Q7 that now returns 19mpg city and 28mpg highway, and a 3.0-liter supercharged V6 that replace the 4.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 on the S5 Coupe.
Audi is also planning to launch the facelifted R8 Coupe and Roadster models later this year following their world premiere at the Paris Motor Show.
For more details on pricing and the changes to the range, head over the break for the official press blurb.
[From Audi Press Release]
New Model Introductions
Audi allroad – the return of an icon
The Audi allroad returns following a seven year hiatus with a new modern design and class leading technology. It is powered by the 2.0T four-cylinder engine mated to an efficient eight-speed Tiptronic® transmission that makes it faster and more fuel efficient than its predecessor.
It retains its multipurpose design cues such as unique grille, headlamps and LED design, front and rear bumpers, roof rails and side sills as well as stainless steel front skid plate and rear diffuser. The allroad also has a one inch wider track and 1.5 inches of more ground clearance to better manage gravel or snowy terrain.
The interior offers excellent functionality as well as the latest technology through adaptive cruise control and Audi connect. Audi connect is available as part of the latest Audi MMI® Navigation plus system that provides Google Maps, Google Voice Local Search, real time fuel prices, weather, news and travel information as well as a Wi-Fi connection for up to eight devices.
The Audi S6, S7 and S8 models – performance for everyday use
The successful Audi A6, A7 and A8 will add impressive performance to the model line through the Audi S6, S7 and S8.
The Audi S8 delivers incredible performance and refinement through the new 520 horsepower 4.0T twin-turbo V8 engine mated to a responsive 8-speed automatic Tiptronic transmission delivering an impressive 0 – 60 mph acceleration time of 3.9 seconds. The S6 and S7 also are fitted with the 4.0T twin-turbo V8 and deliver 420 horsepower and are fitted with a seven-speed double clutch S tronic transmission.
All three S models are equipped with cylinder on demand technology that shuts down four cylinders during highway driving conditions in order deliver better fuel efficiency. Audi engineers optimized the system through active engine mounts and active noise cancellation, making the transition between four- and eight-cylinder modes seamless. A rear sport differential along with quattro® all-wheel drive are standard for superior handling and performance on all three S models. Of course each of the S models offer incredible interior design and craftsmanship such as Atlas carbon fiber inlays, diamond-stitched sport seats and the highest levels of technology through the Audi MMI Navigation plus system with Audi connect.
The Audi RS 5 – the track-tested RS performance coupe
On the heels of the reintroduction of the RS performance brand last year with the incredible TT RS, the next track-tested RS model to be come to U.S. shores is the RS 5. Performance design, a high-revving naturally aspirated 4.2 liter V8 engine and a sport tuned suspension deliver impeccable performance. The RS 5 goes from 0 – 60 in just 4.5 seconds. With a rear sport differential and crown gear standard, the RS 5 epitomizes the next level of quattro performance. Each RS model undergoes 8,000 kilometers of durability testing and tuning at the treacherous Nuerburgring to ensure it can perform at the limit as well as simply enjoy a weekend drive. Combined with RS design elements such as the honeycomb Singleframe® grille, unique front and rear bumper, front splitter and rear diffuser as well as offering the latest in technology through Audi connect and Audi MMI Navigation plus, the RS 5 is sure to attract many customers who appreciate having performance under foot whenever they choose.
The Audi A8 model line – the Audi flagship expands its offering
The Audi A8 has set new standards for the luxury sedan in terms of interior and exterior design, technology, efficiency and performance through the S8. The 2013 A8 model line represents a dramatic expansion of the flagship sedan offering by moving from two models (V8 and W12) to a four vehicle model line-up (3.0T V6, new 4.0T A8, new 4.0T S8 and the W12).
New for the 2013 model year are introduction of the award-winning 3.0T Supercharged V6 and the all-new 4.0T V8 twin-turbo engines. The 3.0T V6 engine generates 333 horsepower that delivers better performance and makes entry into the A8 model line available to more buyers. It also benefits from being available in normal and long wheelbase versions, with virtually the same level of equipment as the previous 4.2 liter entry model.
The all-new 4.0T V8 is faster and more powerful than the outgoing 4.2 liter. Utilizing efficiency technologies such as cylinder on demand that convert the A8 from an eight-cylinder to a four-cylinder engine during highway driving conditions, it combines refinement with flagship performance. In order to avoid any unwanted vibrations or audible differences when switching between eight and four-cylinder modes, active engine mounts and active noise control eliminate any unwanted vibrations or audible changes.
While the 3.0T and 4.0T are available in normal and long wheelbase versions, the S8 and the A8 W12 are available only in normal and long wheelbase versions respectively
The Audi A4 and A5 models – more dynamic design and technology
The A4 and A5 model lines represent the heart of the Audi model offering and receive an updated design that makes each vehicle distinct and more dynamic. All models receive a modified grille, front and rear bumpers, and new hood design as well as new unmistakable headlamp and LED daytime running light designs. The interior receives several thoughtful changes such as alu-optic MMI controls and optimized audio controls as well as chrome accents that add to the premium feel of the interiors. While all other engine offerings remain the same, the S5 coupe will benefit from the award-winning 3.0T Supercharged V6 that is faster and more efficient than its 4.2 liter predecessor.
For the 2013 model year, Audi connect will be available on A4/S4 and A5/S5 models that represent a demographic that appreciates the latest in connectivity and access to information. Audi connect is part of the Audi MMI Navigation plus system and uses a 3G connection to provide Google Maps with realistic satellite imagery to the navigation experience. Google Voice Local Search enables Google search functionality via voice recognition, real-time fuel prices, weather forecast including current radar, news and travel information and a Wi-Fi connection for up to eight wireless enabled devices. Whether for business, to stream music or to provide entertainment for the kids while traveling, Audi connect offers a level of flexibility and technology that is changing the way people travel.
The Audi Q5 – the first Audi hybrid, new V6 engine and freshened design
The Audi Q5 model line has proven itself an absolute success as the second best-selling model line. For the 2013 model year, the Q5 receives a freshened design that includes new unmistakable LED headlamp design, new front grill, bumper and new rear tail lamps and lift gate. It also marks the introduction of the Q5 hybrid which utilizes lithium-ion batteries and the 2.0T four-cylinder engine drive the standard quattro all-wheel drivetrain via an eight speed automatic transmission.
The 3.2 liter naturally aspirated engine is replaced by the award-winning 3.0T Supercharged engine that delivers 272 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The fuel efficient and powerful 2.0T engine will continue to be available as the entry to the Q5 model line.
A very exciting addition to the Q5 is the available Audi connect system. Audi connect is part of the Audi MMI Navigation plus system and uses a 3G connection to provide Google Maps with realistic satellite imagery to the navigation experience. Google Voice Local Search enables Google search functionality via voice recognition, real-time fuel prices, weather forecast including current radar, news and travel information and a Wi-Fi connection for up to eight wireless enabled devices. Whether for business, to stream music or to provide entertainment for the kids while traveling, Audi connect offers a level of flexibility and technology that is changing the way people travel.
The interior receives some additional changes that give it a richer feel by adding chrome and alu-optic finishes on the window and MMI controls respectively. Track skip and back functions have now been integrated into the volume knob to simplify controls.
The Q5 2.0T, 3.0T and the Q5 hybrid will go on sale this fall.
The Audi A6 – the intelligent performance sedan
The Audi A6 was introduced with the 3.0T Supercharged engine with quattro all-wheel drive and the 2.0T with front-wheel drive delivering an impressive fuel economy of 25 city / 33 highway. For the 2013 model year, the 2.0T four-cylinder will also be available with quattro all-wheel drive delivering more traction on any surface along with smooth shifts and elasticity through the eight-speed automatic transmission.
The Audi A7 – impeccable design and technology
The Audi A7 has impressed through its incredible design esthetic, refined performance and class leading technology. For the 2013 model year, the A7 will now be available with a five passenger seating option that provides a rear middle seat for those customers wanting to take more passengers.
The innovation package has also been expanded to include active lane assist and corner view. Active lane assist uses a camera mounted in the mirror housing and optical lane recognition to warn the driver if the car is crossing a lane when the turn signal is not activated. It then actively uses the dynamic steering system to bring the A7 back into its lane. Corner view allows the driver to see around the corner on the front or rear of the car when pulling out of parking spaces or alleyways.
Start/stop technology has been added to the A7 that automatically shuts off the engine when coming to a standstill. Following the principle of turning the light off in a room that you are not using, the engine saves fuel by shutting itself off when at a standstill and then turning itself on seamlessly when pressing the accelerator. The start/stop system can be turned off if so desired via the push of a button that holds its setting when starting the vehicle the next time.
As an added convenience, keyless entry via the advanced key is now available on Premium Plus models.
The Audi Q7 – functional design and fuel efficient TDI technology
The Audi Q7 TDI has been a great success with take-rates exceeding 40% since its introduction through very strong demand. For the 2013 model year, the Q7 will receive a new generation 3.0 liter V6 TDI engine that delivers 240 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque while coming in 55 pounds lighter than the previous engine. The new TDI engine delivers greater performance and 12 percent better fuel efficiency (19 city / 28 hwy).
In addition to the available Bang & Olufson® Sound System and Audi MMI Navigation plus with Audi connect offering Wi-Fi for up to eight devices, a new integrated twin-screen rear seat entertainment system also will be available.
The Audi TT – iconic performance design
The TT model line will see new wheel and exterior color additions as well as a new S line® competition package that includes performance enhancing interior and exterior elements such as 19-inch Rotor design wheels in matte black with 255/35Y performance tires, S line interior, sport edition black exhaust finishers, rear spoiler, side mirror housings, front splitter and rear diffuser as well as headlamp washers. In addition, a bi-color exclusive leather interior is available on the TTS and TT RS. New exterior paint colors have been added to freshen the color pallet of the TT model line.
