Dynamic and versatile: the second-generation Audi Q5 Sportback

Audi is expanding its model range with a sporty coupé, the Q5 Sportback. With its progressive and dynamic silhouette, this derivative appeals to design-savvy customers who also desire the benefits of an SUV. The Audi Q5 Sportback combines characteristics typical of an SUV, such as versatility and a spacious interior, with an even more dynamic silhouette. The unmistakable design exudes sportiness with its characteristic sloping rear and elegant lines. The second generation of the Q5 Sportback boasts a luggage capacity of up to 515 liters or up to 470 liters in the SQ5 Sportback1. When the rear row of seats is folded down, the storage space in the Q5 Sportback increases to up to 1,415 liters or 1,388 liters in the SQ5 Sportback1. The Q5 Sportback has a towing capacity of up to 2,400 kilograms. Sporty design thanks to dynamic, sloping roofline The design of the new Audi Q5 Sportback is sleeker compared to its predecessor. The broad Singleframe is high and flanked by vertical, functional air curtains. The razor-sharp, sculptural headlights lend the car a honed look. A large air intake below the Singleframe houses the sensors. A dynamic rising line runs from above the rocker panel across the wheel arches to the rear bumper, giving the vehicle a dynamic appearance even when stationary. The horizontal shoulder line connecting the front and rear lights rises slightly above the rear lights to visually support the roof arch with its flat rear window. The rear of the Q5 Sportback is visually stretched as far as possible, creating a roofline that slopes from the B-pillar. This enhances the classic proportions of an SUV, creating an even more dynamic profile in the stylish Sportback form. Optional roof rails add utility value to the dynamic lines of the roof. The elegant rear window graphics also help to visually stretch the cabin. With minimal lines, the rear has a crisp design. The smooth surface that flows from the rear window to the lower edge of the sculptural light strip is bordered by a sharp cut across the entire width of the vehicle. Below is an uncluttered, broad surface. A sporty, distinctive breakaway edge at the trunk lid completes the progressive design. The diffuser is integrated into the raised bumpers, creating an island effect. Below are the tailpipes, while the S model features the iconic twin round tailpipes in a new, sharpened design. Exterior advanced comes as standard in the Q5 Sportback The Q5 Sportback is available in two versions: exterior advanced and S line. In addition, the SQ5 Sportback1 has its own distinctive exterior. Compared to the base version, the exterior of the advanced version features dynamic elements with stylish accents. For example, the radiator grille and the inlays in the front air intake come in Scandium Gray, with a contrasting bottom line in Tambora Gray. The diffuser is finished in a grained matte black, and the rear inlays are in Selenite Silver. 18-inch light-alloy five-arm twist wheels are included. The S line exterior and S model have larger front air intakes and a sportier rear diffuser. The Singleframe is surrounded by a chrome-look frame in matte Anthracite (S line exterior) and matte Silver (S model). Large L-wing-shaped side aero tubes accentuate the sporty ambitions of the Q5. On the S model, the Singleframe is further emphasized by vertical chrome-look L-wing ornaments in matte Silver. The chrome-look rocker panel trim in matte Anthracite on the S line exterior and chrome-look matte Silver on the S model further contribute to the dynamic character. The window trim comes in an aluminum look as standard. The second-generation digital OLED rear lights and the new projection light in the spoiler above the rear window enhance safety. The latter projects a graphic onto the top of the rear window, increasing the size of the brake light area. Complementing the exterior: the interior design philosophy The interior of the new Q5 Sportback is systematically tailored to the needs of the occupants and epitomizes the new Audi design philosophy. Material properties were considered at a very early stage in the design, and together with the Audi MMI panoramic display and the MMI passenger display, form a visually distinct digital stage. The high-contrast interior design purposefully places elements in the foreground or background, creating a three-dimensional spatial architecture that blends aesthetics with ergonomics. The interior has a markedly cozy ambiance. The “Softwrap” extends from the doors through the entire cockpit to the center console, creating a homogeneous and welcoming sense of space. In addition to being user-focused, the interior is sustainable. Materials such as Cascade upholstery and Dinamica microfiber are primarily made from recycled polyester, demonstrating Audi is also committed to using resources sustainably and efficiently in the Q5 Sportback. State-of-the-art combustion model with MHEV plus The new Audi Q5 Sportback is based on the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC), a platform architecture for conventionally powered vehicles with longitudinal combustion engines. It comes equipped at market launch with highly efficient MHEV plus technology. The new 48-volt MHEV plus electrical system supports the combustion engine and reduces carbon emissions while increasing performance and driving comfort. The vehicle is also capable of limited all-electric maneuvering and parking. The new powertrain generator (PTG) generates additional torque of up to 230 Nm and 18 kW (24 PS). What’s more, the 48-volt electrical system enables the use of an electric air conditioning compressor. This ensures the AC continues operating at full power, maintaining a comfortable interior temperature even when the engine is switched off, such as when coasting or at a red light. The lithium-ion battery for vehicles with MHEV plus is based on lithium ferro-phosphate chemistry and boasts a storage capacity of 1.7 kWh. The primary function of the belt alternator starter (BAS) is to start the engine and supply electrical power to the battery. The BAS enables stretches of electric driving, relieves the combustion engine, and helps reduce consumption. During braking, the BAS returns energy to the battery (recuperation) with up to 25 kW of power. In this way, the Premium Platform Combustion enables partial electrification in the form of mild hybrids. Later in the Audi Q5 Sportback lifecycle, plug-in hybrids will be available with a large battery and external charger. In Europe, the Audi Q5 Sportback will be available with three engines at market launch, with further drive variants to follow. Initially, all versions come equipped with MHEV plus technology, which briefly generates up to 18 kW (24 PS) of additional power. All models in the series also use the S tronic seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The entry-level engine is a 2.0 TFSI with 150 kW (204 PS) and 340 Nm of maximum torque and front-wheel drive. Optionally, quattro all-wheel drive is available. With the 2.0 TDI, the Audi Q5 Sportback is available as generation EA288 evo. It has an output of 150 kW (204 PS) and 400 Nm of torque and is only available with quattro drive. As the top model in the series, the Audi SQ5 Sportback1 will be available at launch. The V6 TFSI with three liters of displacement has an output of 270 kW (367 PS) and a maximum torque of 550 Nm. Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com 1. Audi SQ5 Sportback: Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 8.8–8.1 (26.7–29.0 US mpg); combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 199–184 (320.3–296.1 g/mi); CO2 class: G

The Audi R8: a captivating legend

A super sports car legend takes its leave: In its 17 years, the Audi R8 has captured hearts and celebrated just as many successes. After 45,949 units produced, the final R8 rolled off the line at Böllinger Höfe in March 2024. A look back at an unparalleled success story. Breathtaking design, a tantalizing engine sound, and driving dynamics like no other road-legal Audi ever offered: When it was unveiled in 2006, the R8 was a revolution – in Germany and around the world. A mid-engine super sports car; never before had Audi offered such a vehicle. With the R8, Audi moved into more exclusive segments previously dominated by brands such as Ferrari, Porsche, and Lamborghini. The Audi R8 was developed and built by the former quattro GmbH (today: Audi Sport GmbH). It immediately became the sporty icon in the company’s product portfolio and continues to contribute to the exclusive image of the Audi brand to this day. The R8 name refers to a successful race car that brought Audi more wins at Le Mans than any other manufacturer in history: In 1999, Audi launched its legendary Le Mans program with a sports prototype that started in the LMP900 class. The first name of this racing prototype was R8. It won at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2000, 2001, 2002, 2004, and 2005, making it the Le Mans sports car with the most victories in modern history. The prototype claimed more victories at the 12 Hours of Sebring, a race in the USA, which it won every year from 2000 to 2005. With these victories, Audi increased its prestige in international racing and laid the foundation for the road-legal R8 super sports car. The Audi Le Mans quattro as a preview of the R8 The Audi Le Mans quattro provided a first taste of the series product. First unveiled at the 2003 International Motor Show, the concept car was conceived as a “high-performance sports car suitable for everyday driving, a car that makes no compromises on comfort and user-friendliness,” according to Bernhard Voll, the project’s technical director. The exterior design of the Le Mans quattro came from designer Frank Lamberty, who still designs exciting vehicles at Audi to this day. He puts the requirements for a high-performance sports car suitable for everyday driving in this way: “In the Le Mans quattro, you can drive record laps on the track just as easily as you can parallel park in front of the hairdresser’s. That made it quite a challenge for us.” The technical basis of the Le Mans quattro was the Lamborghini Gallardo. The Le Mans quattro marked several technological milestones, such as LED headlights, the carbon fiber Audi Space Frame, the digital cockpit display, and Audi magnetic ride adaptive suspension. An absolute highlight was the double-turbocharged 5.0-liter V10 with gasoline direct injection. It had an output of 610 PS and a maximum torque of 750 Nm, making it a real automotive heavyweight. World premiere of the first Audi R8 in 2006 The first generation of the Audi R8 celebrated its world premiere at the 2006 Paris Motor Show, where its resemblance to the Le Mans quattro was almost perfect. However, there were some technical differences to the concept car. The first-generation production car used a 4.2-liter V8 FSI mid-engine mounted behind the passenger compartment. The engine had an output of 420 PS (later: 430 PS), and except for using dry sump lubrication, which is more suitable for the racetrack, it was almost identical to the engine from the then-current Audi RS 4 (B7). Later, a V10 variant with a maximum output of 570 PS was added, which used the 5.2-liter aspirated engine from the Group’s sister model, the Lamborghini Gallardo. For the suspension, Audi used the then-new Audi magnetic ride, which allows the driver to tighten the shock absorbers at the push of a button. The shock absorbers use a synthetic hydrocarbon oil containing microscopic magnetic particles in the pistons. When the magnetic coils are activated – which was the case in sport mode – the particles in the piston chambers align themselves perpendicular to the oil’s direction of flow, obstructing the flow. The first-generation R8 initially featured a manual transmission with an open gearbox. The all-wheel quattro drive transferred power to all four wheels, with a maximum of 30 percent going to the front axle. Other transmission options included the R-Tronic, an automatic transmission, and the S-Tronic dual-clutch transmission from 2012. What’s more, in 2008, the R8 became the first car available with full LED headlights. In 2009, Audi added an open variant to the Coupé, the R8 Spyder. All Audi R8 models were built at the Böllinger Höfe plant – largely by hand. Audi built the plant near the Neckarsulm site specifically for its first super sports car. Special models and concept cars The first-generation R8 continued to captivate fans long after its premiere, thanks partly to several special models and concept cars. The most well-known special models are the Audi R8 GT Coupé and the R8 Gt Spyder with an aspirated V10 engine upgraded with 560 PS. The models weighed around 100 kilograms less than the standard R8 V10 models and were designed much more for use on the racetrack. For instance, they featured roll bars and a firefighting system. Both the Coupé and the Spyder variants were limited to 333 units. One concept car that never made it to series production was the R8 with a turbocharged V12 diesel engine; the R8 V12 TDI concept. Background: In the 2010s, Audi was successful at Le Mans with the R10 TDI and wanted to establish diesel technology for sports cars, which had not existed until then. With 500 PS and a maximum torque of 1,000 Nm, the concept went from zero to 100 km/h in about four seconds – with an average consumption of less than ten liters. The final evolution of the first-generation R8 was the Audi R8 LMX, a special edition released in 2014 that was limited to 99 units and – like the R8 GT a few years earlier – was inspired by racing. With 570 PS, the R8 LMX raced from zero to 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds, making it the fastest Audi production car at the time. Another unique feature was the laser high beams, which the R8 LMX was the first production car to use. A laser module in each headlight generated a light beam with twice the illumination range of full LED headlights. In eight years, Audi produced just over 26,000 units of the first R8 at the Neckarsulm plant. The Audi R8 as a movie star Thanks to its movie-star looks and Hollywood flair, the Audi R8 was featured in numerous blockbusters. The R8 made its most famous cameo as the companion of Marvel hero Tony Stark, alter ego Iron Man. In all three movies, Stark, played by Robert Downey Jr., drove a first-generation Audi R8; in the third installment, it was an electric R8 e-tron. The second-generation R8 also starred in Marvel movies, such as “Captain America: Civil War” in 2016 and “Spider-Man: Homecoming” in 2017. In the 2004 sci-fi thriller “I, Robot,” the main character, Del Spooner, played by Will Smith, drove a super sports car whose basic shape was reminiscent of the Audi R8. The futuristic sports car was an Audi RSQ Concept, designed for the movie by Audi’s design team and then Head of Design Walter De Silva. Second-generation R8 unveiled in 2015 At the Geneva International Motor Show in 2015, Audi presented the successor to the R8, which had already made its mark in the super sports car world. Like the first generation, the new R8's primary features were based on a Lamborghini, the 2014 Huracán. In terms of its appearance, the R8 was an evolution of the previous model. The distinguishing features remained the front with the new full LED headlights and the characteristic side blades. The new design was much more angular and harmonious than the first generation. What characterized the second generation above all was the V10 engine from Lamborghini. In both versions, the R8 used the aspirated engine with two output levels, 540 or 610 PS, and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The 610 PS R8 went from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds, with a 330 km/h top speed. Before the 2019 model update, the new R8 also transferred power to all four wheels via quattro all-wheel drive. For the first time also with rear-wheel drive However, one thing about the second generation was new to road-legal Audis: With the R8 V10 RWS, Audi offered a rear-wheel-only variant that was slightly lighter than the all-wheel version for the first time in the company’s history. Following the 2019 facelift, a 570 PS version of the V10 engine became available, while the all-wheel-drive Audi R8 V10 Performance was upgraded to 620 PS. Customers could choose between different all-wheel and rear-wheel drive variants. The Audi R8 V10 GT RWD was a true track specialist. It was a rear-wheel drive special model limited to 333 units with a host of aerodynamic features, including a front splitter, flics, and a large rear wing. With an output of 620 PS, the R8 V10 GT RWD remains the most powerful rear-wheel drive Audi of all time. Series of global wins in customer racing The sports car delighted fans off the road as well. Based on both generations of the Audi R8, Audi Sport built 454 racecars for the newly established customer racing area in 2009. Of these, 313 were the GT3 variant, which dominated the sports car sector. Customer teams from Audi Sport customer racing claimed victory at no fewer than seven 24-hour races at the Nürburgring and 11 additional overall victories at international 24-hour races. With the differentiation for the GT3, GT2, and GT4 categories, Audi was a formidable force in championships worldwide, with teams in America, Australia, Asia, Europe, and Africa celebrating 368 championship titles in 16 years. The GT racecars have helped Audi sharpen its sporty profile, giving the public a chance to experience the brand on the racetrack and continue to be fast and famous ambassadors of the Audi brand in private use. On March 22, 2024, the final Audi R8 was built at Böllinger Höfe. The R8 in Vegas Yellow is destined for the hallowed halls of the Audi Museum in Ingolstadt. Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com 1. Audi R8 Coupé V10 GT RWD Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km (62.1 mi) - NEDC; 15.0 - 14.9 (15.7 – 15.8 US mpg) (WLTP); combined CO2 emissions in g/km: - NEDC; 341 - 339 (548.8 – 545.6 g/mi) (WLTP)Only consumption and emissions values are only available according to WLTP and not according to NEFZ for this vehicle 2. Audi R8 Coupé V10 performance quattro: Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 13.1 (18 US mpg); combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 297 (478 g/mi) Information on fuel consumption and CO2 emissions as well as efficiency classes in ranges depending on the tires and alloy wheel rims used

New SUV from Wolfsburg: the Volkswagen Tayron is now rolling off the production line at Volkswagen’s main plant

The newest member of the Volkswagen portfolio – the Tayron – was given a grand reception this week when employees from nearly all the different disciplines joined Wolfsburg Plant Manager Uwe Schwartz and Works Council member Jürgen Mahnkopf for the symbolic start of series production. The SUV all-rounder, which is optionally available with seven seats, is the fourth model to be produced at the Volkswagen Group’s largest plant, alongside the Golf, Tiguan and Touran. To date, more than 48 million cars have been produced in Wolfsburg – more than any other car factory in the world. "Wolfsburg has always been a role model within our production network – and will continue to fulfill this role even in challenging times," says Christian Vollmer, Board Member for Production and Logistics at the Volkswagen brand and also a member of the extended Group Management Board. “Other locations look to what happens in Wolfsburg. The successful Tayron SoP [Start of Production] sends a strong signal.” Plant Manager Uwe Schwartz used the SoP to thank colleagues from across the different specialisms that have been involved in the project: "A car launch is always a team effort, involving the entire production team. With the Tayron, many cogs meshed perfectly: from the press shop to body construction, painting, assembly, and vehicle completion." According to Schwartz, collaborations with other departments, such as Procurement or Technical Development, also worked smoothly. This was the only way it was possible to adhere almost exactly to the long-planned SoP schedule, especially with the challenge of integrating the Tayron into the processes of Assembly Line 4 while Tiguan production was ongoing. "Our colleagues can be proud of this achievement,” adds Schwartz. “In the coming weeks we will do everything we can to ramp up Tayron production successfully.” Jürgen Mahnkopf, Deputy Chairman of the General and Group Works Council: “The Tayron SoP marks an important milestone for the Wolfsburg site. I am sure that our new SUV will build on the success of its predecessor, the Tiguan Allspace, and make an important contribution to job security. Customers in China are already excited about this car and the Tayron will also find many buyers in Europe. Our colleagues in production have done a great job in challenging conditions. In parallel with the pre-series production of the Tayron, they had to manage the launches of the new Tiguan and the Golf product upgrade. They achieved this together, as a team, and I’d like to thank them on behalf of everyone working at the site." The first Tayron to roll off the line this week was an Ultra Violet Metallic example with a 2.0 litre TDI engine01 and a panoramic roof. Over the coming weeks, show and demonstrator cars for European Volkswagen dealers will be produced in Wolfsburg. The second-largest SUV of the Volkswagen brand in Europe, after the Touareg, will go on display in showrooms from March, with the first cars being delivered to customers shortly after. Customers will soon be able to choose from seven efficient engines, including two next-generation plug-in hybrid drives (eHybrid). These offer electric ranges of more than 100 kilometres and long travelling distances of up to 850 km between fuel stops. Article source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com 01. Tayron 2.0 TDI 4MOTION, 142 kW (193 PS) | Combined consumption: 6.8-6.1 l/100km | Combined CO₂ emissions: 180-162 g/km | CO₂ class: F

New engines for in-demand Volkswagen Golfs

Two of the most popular trims in the entire UK Golf line-up are set to be enhanced with new engines and a plug-in hybrid drive. They come at a time when the Golf is already the UK's biggest-selling car in its class so far this year, and all three new additions can be ordered at any Volkswagen UK Retailer from Thursday 21 November. New Golf Black Edition engines Two engines are being added to the stylish Golf Black Edition trim that was unveiled in July this year: a petrol 1.5 eTSI mild hybrid and a diesel 2.0 TDI. Both engines have a 150 PS power output and are paired with an automatic seven-speed direct-shift gearbox (DSG). The 1.5 eTSI can propel the Golf Black Edition from standstill to 62 mph in 8.4 seconds, whereas the 2.0 TDI completes the same sprint even quicker, in exactly eight seconds. The new engines add to what is already a stylish and well-specified package. Sitting one step below the exciting GTE trim in the UK Golf line-up, the Black Edition includes smart 18-inch Leeds alloy wheels, upgraded IQ.Matrix headlights, illuminated door handles and Volkswagen logo at the front, heated front seats and head-turning black styling elements. Prices for the Golf Black Edition 1.5 eTSI and 2.0 TDI are £33,690.00 and £35,500.00 respectively (on-the-road recommended retail prices including VAT). New Golf Match eHybrid A frugal eHybrid is being added to the Golf Match line-up – the most popular Golf derivative in the UK. The Match trim was re-introduced across much of the Volkswagen range in early 2024; it’s a package famous for combining affordability with generous levels of equipment. The newly developed second-generation Volkswagen plug-in hybrid drive builds on this with extra efficiency and enhanced performance. Electric-only driving of more than 88 miles is possible with the car’s 19.7 kWh battery, which can be charged at home with up to 11 kW AC and at rapid public stations with up to 40 kW DC. When the engine is engaged, drivers are rewarded with a system output of 204 PS and a 0-62 mph dash of just 7.2 seconds. Together, the electric drive and petrol engine work in perfect harmony to deliver super-efficient fuel economy of 141.2 miles per gallon. Features that come as standard include 17-inch Nottingham alloy wheels, LED headlights, a rear-view camera, adaptive cruise control, Lights and Vision package, Discover navigation system, Park and Comfort technology package including Park Assist Pro, Lane Assist and Climatronic air conditioning. The Golf Match eHybrid is priced at £36,140 (on-the-road recommended retail price including VAT). Article source: www.vwpress.co.uk

Škoda Octavia Combi RS wins prestigious 2024 Golden Steering Wheel award in the mid-sized car category

The Škoda Octavia Combi RS has been awarded the coveted 2024 Golden Steering Wheel in the mid-sized car category. In a first step, readers of German “Auto Bild” and the country’s largest-selling national Sunday newspaper “Bild am Sonntag” voted Škoda’s bestselling model series’ sporty range-topper into the top three out of 16 cars in this category. A jury of experts then subjected these three finalists to a challenging test drive on the German Lausitzring race track. This victory marks the Czech car manufacturer’s ninth Golden Steering Wheel win. Škoda Auto CEO Klaus Zellmer accepted the accolade at yesterday’s awards ceremony in Berlin. “Škoda always strives to give our customers more than they expect, and this illustrious award from Auto Bild and Bild am Sonntag readers and the expert jury reflects that ambition. I’m grateful. Our bestseller Octavia is a true icon of our brand, consistently scoring points for typical Škoda virtues: spaciousness, practicality, and an excellent price-performance proposition. These characteristics have helped make the Octavia Combi the best-selling estate car in Europe last year and in the first half of 2024. The fourth generation of the model continues on this path, with the Octavia Combi RS as the sportiest version. I’m honoured to have driven it up onto the awards ramp!” Klaus Zellmer, Škoda Auto CEO Octavia Combi RS triumphs over 15 competitors This year saw 78 new cars compete for one of the coveted Golden Steering Wheel awards. Each manufacturer was able to nominate up to three models. The readers of “Auto Bild” and “Bild am Sonntag” then decided which of these would ultimately make it into the final round with expert test drives on the Lausitzring. Vehicles competed in seven different categories. 16 new models entered the field in the mid-sized segment. The Škoda Octavia Combi RS wowed readers with its overall package and was awarded a ticket to the finals at the Lausitzring. During the demanding test drives, the bestselling model series’ sporty range-topper also impressed the 21-strong jury of racing drivers, journalists and celebrities with its driving characteristics. The judges included rally world champion Sébastien Ogier and motorsport legend Hans-Joachim Stuck, a former Formula 1 driver and Le Mans winner. The vehicles had to score points in numerous areas such as brake feel, acceleration, agility, steering and many more. Škoda Octavia Combi RS: successful overall package delights readers and customers The Octavia Combi RS offers 195 kW (265 hp) of power. It has a 7-speed automatic DSG transmission and delivers a top speed of 250 km/h. Its turbocharged four-cylinder petrol unit comes from the EA 888 engine family. The top version of Škoda’s bestseller, which has sold over seven million units to date, features black exterior accents and the RS Design Selection for the interior. The equipment includes LED Matrix beam headlights, heated sports seats and a modern infotainment system incorporating ChatGPT for enhanced voice assistant functionality. Representing an excellent value proposition, the Octavia Combi RS is equally suitable as a comfortable fleet vehicle and as a versatile family car. Ninth Golden Steering Wheel in total for Škoda The first Golden Steering Wheel was awarded by “Bild am Sonntag” in 1976. In 2009, the German Sunday paper started awarding the prize in collaboration with the “Auto Bild” car magazine. This year’s success for the Octavia Combi RS marks Škoda’s ninth victory in the automotive competition. The Czech car maker received its first Golden Steering Wheel for the first-generation Fabia in 1999, with the successor repeating this feat in 2007. The second Octavia generation won in 2004, while the second-generation Superb received the trophy in 2008. In 2017, the Karoq left behind its competitors and in 2019, the Kamiq was honoured with the coveted award. In 2021, the Golden Steering Wheel went to the Enyaq, followed a year later by its coupé variant, the Enyaq Coupé RS. Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com

Double victory for Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles at the Fleet News FN50 awards

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles emerges triumphant at the 2024 Fleet News FN50 Awards, after being named ‘Most Reliable Van Maker’, and picking up ‘Most Reliable Van’ with the Volkswagen Transporter. This marks the fourth time Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has taken home the overall title, outperforming its rivals in the contract hire and leasing sector. The Transporter was named 'Most Reliable Van' in recognition of its exceptional reliability as a work vehicle, minimising downtime and helping keep the UK's van drivers on the road. Also recognised were the Volkswagen Caddy, which took the third spot, and the Crafter, which came in at number eight – ensuring Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles had more vans in the top 10 list than any other manufacturer. Announced at the annual FN50 Dinner, which took place in London last night, the prestigious FN50 Awards celebrate achievements from across the UK’s fleet sctor, and are recognised as a benchmark of industry excellence. Craig Cavanagh, National Fleet Manager, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, said: "We are incredibly proud to once again be named ‘Most Reliable Van Maker’, and to have gained further recognition for our Transporter, Caddy and Crafter vans. These awards are a testament to our commitment to supporting fleet customers with the reliability they depend on to keep their businesses moving.” For more details on Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ award-winning range of products and services, or to find your nearest Van Centre, please visit www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk. Article source: www.vwpress.co.uk

Impressive appearance: the new Audi A5 family on the Côte d'Azur

The new Audi A5 impressed numerous media representatives and many potential customers with its qualities at its world premiere. Now it is proving its qualities in the south of France: the model variants of the Audi A5 unfold their full potential on the winding roads of the Côte d'Azur. The scenery is straight out of a James Bond movie: a narrow road winds through the French Maritime Alps between rugged, overgrown mountains. It leads through tunnels carved into the rock and features bends of all kinds, alternating between tight turns and long sweepers. The hinterland of Nice, France, offers the perfect setting to get to know the character of the new Audi A5 models. The roads of the Côte d'Azur are particularly challenging for the chassis and drivetrain of the new mid-size models based on the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) due to their profile. Powerful and partially electrified gasoline and diesel engines with MHEV plus The new A5 model series marks the launch of the first engines with the new MHEV plus technology from Audi – a 48-volt mild-hybrid system with powertrain generator, belt starter alternator and lithium iron phosphate battery. The MHEV plus system raises the performance and efficiency of the new Audi A5 TDI and Audi S51, 2 models to a new level. While the systems ensure dynamics on the mountain passes at Saint-Paule-de-Vence thanks to the additional electric power of up to 18 kW (24 hp), they also excel in the city traffic of Nice with purely electric driving during stop-and-go. When decelerating, the powertrain generator feeds energy back into the compact lithium iron phosphate battery with up to 25 kW of regenerative braking. A perfect symbiosis: thanks to the high charging capacity, there is usually enough power in the battery for the next rapid acceleration. The MHEV plus system also offers numerous advantages in urban traffic. On the one hand, the electric support for the combustion engine significantly reduces fuel consumption, especially when driving slowly. On the other hand, the stored energy helps to supply systems that have high power draws with electricity, even when the combustion engine is not in operation - at traffic lights, for example. At a sufficient state of charge, the electrically powered air conditioning compressor, for example, continues to operate and keeps the interior at a comfortable temperature. More dynamic chassis and steering design The decisive factor for a driving experience that is true to the Audi DNA is not only the drive, but also the chassis. When developing the new Audi A5 and S51, 2 models, the driving characteristics typical of the brand were right at the top of the specifications. These characteristics include effortless and precise driving. The new Audi A5 should impress with its dynamic and agile handling, but also with its comfort. To achieve this, Audi has revised the chassis with a number of detailed improvements. For example, the steering has been mounted directly to the body and also uses a significantly stiffer torsion bar. These measures reduce the elasticity between the steering wheel and the wheel. As a result, the driver receives precise feedback from the road conditions in every situation. When cornering, the Audi A5 family benefits from a more rear bias in the anti-roll stabilization and a stiffer connection to the rear axle, allowing it to be steered with agility. The integrated brake control system with brake torque vectoring enables a dynamic build-up of brake pressure. It also supports dynamic cornering through targeted braking interventions at the wheels on the inside of the corner. The new Audi A5 rolls off the production line with dynamically tuned steel suspension as standard. Alternatively, S sports suspension (standard on the Audi S51, 2 ) and S sports suspension with electronic damper control are also available. Both optional variants lower the body by 20 millimeters. The optional adaptive S sports suspension with damper control offers a significantly wider spread between the individual driving modes that can be selected via the Audi drive select dynamic handling system. The dynamic mode is noticeably firmer and more dynamically tuned, while the comfort mode offers more reserves for a relaxed drive. New operating concept with two interior displays On entering the car, the new displays immediately catch the eye: the 11.9-inch Audi virtual cockpit and the 14.5-inch Audi MMI panoramic display in a curved design. Optionally, the 10.9-inch MMI passenger display complements the Digital Stage. Outstanding ergonomics and simple, driver-centered operation were key elements in the development of this concept. The curved panoramic display is designed so that it can be reached and operated effortlessly. The new Audi A5 models feature the Audi assistant, a voice assistant that understands natural language and also learns independently. The driver activates the assistant via the voice command "Hey Audi" or via a button on the steering wheel. This can be used to execute various vehicle functions, start navigation, or request general knowledge. If the Audi assistant cannot answer the question, the AI-chatbot ChatGPT, provided via Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service, is used, which accesses millions of data records and provides answers. This is seamless for drivers, as all functions are integrated into the Audi assistant. The head-up display (HUD) in the new Audi A5 models was also newly developed. Thanks to the maximum utilization of the installation space and the adapted display technology, the visible image area is more than 85 percent larger than before and the display is even more precise. In addition, the HUD is now configurable and displays additional content on request. The HUD displays information such as speed, assistance systems, navigation instructions and media data in a clear way. The newly designed steering wheel controls allow users to scroll through lists and make direct selections without taking their eyes off the road. Calls can also be received and made via the HUD. Depending on the model and equipment, there are further display modes. Audi offers the optional Bang & Olufsen Premium sound system with 3D sound and headrest speakers for all those who like to enjoy music in the car. This impresses with maximum acoustic precision and a natural sound. A total of 20 loudspeakers and two amplifiers with 810 watts of power provide a unique audio experience. Four loudspeakers are integrated into the front headrests of the optional sports seats. They enhance the personal surround sound experience and provide an immersive sound experience. They also create a much more balanced sound between the front and rear rows of seats. The acoustics when making phone calls also benefit from the headrest speakers, because phone calls cannot audibly penetrate to the outside of the car and the occupants in the front seats can conduct personal phone calls. Navigation prompts can also be transmitted directly to the driver's headrest upon request, so no one in the other seats will be disturbed. New standards in digital light In the class of the new A5 models, Audi is underlining its leading role in the chapters of lighting design and lighting technology. At the front, the Audi A5 family offers digital, optionally customizable daytime running lights with LED technology and, at the rear, second-generation digital OLED rear lights. With around 60 segments per digital OLED panel, they are increasingly developing into a display at the rear of the vehicle on the A5. This enables car-to-x communication and increases safety on the road. This includes, for example, the new communication light, which warns other road users during automated parking and in the event of an accident or hazard by means of a specific light symbol within the digital light signature. The dynamic lighting effects when unlocking and leaving the vehicle reflect the aesthetics of movement as part of the Audi DNA. The same is true of the active digital light signature, which sets the light in the headlights and rear lights in motion in an unprecedented way. The headlights and rear lights are three-dimensionally drawn and offer optional digital light signatures, bringing the physical and digital worlds together. Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com 1. Audi S5 Sedan TFSI: Fuel consumption (combined): 7.8–7.4 l/100 km; CO2 emissions (combined): 178–169 g/km; CO2 class: G–F 2. Audi S5 Avant TFSI: Fuel consumption (combined): 8.0–7.6 l/100 km; CO2 emissions (combined): 182–171 g/km; CO2 classes: G–F