Audi is due to release a brand new, unique version of the Audi A1 in 2012 which they claim to be the fastest accelerating and most powerful car of its type ever created. The new subcompact is called the Quattro and boasts 256Ps (252bhp) and 350nm of torque as well as being an exclusive line, with only 333 being approved for production.

The Quattro contains a turbo charged, directly injected, two litre engine providing 0-62 in an estimated 5.7seconds, incredibly fast for its class, as well as having a top speed of 152mph and Audi hope that it will be a defining model for subcompact cars. It will be on sale and distributed to customers in Europe in late 2012 however it will only be available in a left hand version, not right side. The new exclusive A1 is unique as it is the first to include brand new Quattro all-wheel-drive, which helps the A1 to more efficiently put its power down on the road, and it also includes a larger capacity fuel tank and six speed manual transmission in order to further increase the cars potential power.

Including a brand new clutch and chassis system that allow the car to transfer the majority of power to the front of back wheels depending on the environmental situations whilst driving it’s not only the mechanics of the A1 Quattro which make it unique. The interior has also has an exclusive tune – up; high gloss effects on the interior and Silk Nappa leather seats accompany the stainless steel pedals and aluminium finish controls. Those who are fonder of technological extras Audi have added some exclusive extras with Xenon headlights, adaptive brake lights and interior goodies like a DAB radio, CD changer. Bluetooth enabled car phone with internet capabilities and the Audi music interface.

The left-hand-drive only Audi A1 Quattro will be available in mainland Europe in the second half of 2012 and a final decision on whether or not Audi UK will import the car will be based on customer reaction.

The Audi A8 Hybrid which will go into production early 2012.

It’s another exciting week for Audi this week, as the go ahead has been given for series production of the Audi A8 hybrid.

Production is set to begin in the beginning in 2012, and will reach the UK late next year.

The car will offer a four-cylinder petrol engine for the first time in an Audi model at this level, the Vorsprung durch Technik brand’s latest paragon of economy will offer performance befitting its 245PS and 480Nm outputs.

The Audi flagship model is designed as a highly efficient parallel hybrid. It has a 2.0-litre TFSI engine, which generates an output of 211PS and makes a 350 Nm torque peak available between 1,500 and 4,200 rpm.

The smooth and fast-shifting hybrid transmission guides the torque to the front wheels, and its wide gear spread adds to the efficiency of the Audi A8 hybrid.

The Audi A8 hybrid will be able to go from 0 to 62mph in 7.7 seconds and continuing to a top speed of 146mph while returning in excess of 44mpg in the EU combined cycle test, along with CO₂ emissions of less than 148 g/km.

The Audi A8 hybrid can drive at up to 62mph purely on electric power and has a range of up to 1.86 miles at a constant 37mph.

The driver the choice of three modes: The ‘EV’ setting gives priority to the electric drive, while the ‘D’ option efficiently controls both the engine and the electric motor. The ‘S’ mode and the tiptronic gate place the emphasis on optimal acceleration.

The hybrid saloon has five operating states: with the TFSI engine alone, with electric drive only or in hybrid mode; recuperation and boosting are also possible.

The lithium-ion battery, weighs 36.7 kilograms and is located in a crash-proof area in the boot. It provides 1.3 kWh of nominal energy and up to 40 kW of power.

Two different methods are used to air-cool the battery: air is either blown from the passenger compartment by a fan or via a separate cooling circuit coupled to the automatic air conditioning system. These methods ensure the battery is kept within the temperature window required for it to perform to its full potential over a wide range.

In visual terms, the Audi A8 hybrid has distinguishing features such as its 18-inch or optional 19-inch ten spoke alloy wheels which resemble turbine blades, hybrid badges and an exclusive Arctic Silver paint finish. The metallic paint finish is a standard feature, as are three-zone automatic air conditioning, LED headlights and a BOSE sound system.

The Audi A8 hybrid will be one of the lightest saloons in its category.

And now, Audi’s Urban Concept has been revealed on the web ahead of its official unveiling at September’s Frankfurt Motor Show.

Snapped in Berlin (or Munich, depending on which ‘exclusive’ you read) on a test run, exposure of the photos on the internet has meant that Audi had to bring forward release of information on what has been described as a ‘futuristic city vehicle’.

Made from carbon fibre reinforced plastic (the snappily acronymed CFRP) it’s a 1+1 car with driver and passenger getting in through the tailgate and sitting pretty much in a straight line like in a fighter plane and, you’ve guessed it greensters, it’s electric. In fact, the batteries are the heaviest part of the car without the people in it!

It does look a bit weird with the ‘cockpit’ design but I suppose that’s the futuristic design bit as one designer described it as a cross between a single seat 1950s racing car, a Messerschmitt bubble car and a leftover vehicle from Logan’s Run. To combat this, Audi say that it “combines the elements of a racing car, a roadster, a fun car and an urban car into one radical new concept”. But I seem to remember a certain Mr Sinclair saying a very similar thing in the 80′s!

But that’s pretty much all the information that Audi are giving out, save that the wheels are freestanding and 21″ diameter.

The Urban Concept isn’t based on any other Audi and is aimed to provide an example of the manufacturer’s ultra-intelligent philosophy which they suggest has every ounce of unnecessary mass removed. Even the driver?

It’s just a concept at the moment, like many cars at Frankfurt, but Audi want to get it moving as soon as possible into a sector that is sure to be bursting with entrants like Renault’s Twizt electric scooter and VW’s XLR concept.

The future’s quiet, the future’s electric.

Backed by the usual trumpets of marketing including the stern voice-overed “Vorsprung durch Technik” as the tagline (‘Advancement through technology’ if you are interested), the Q3 is intended as a rival to the Nissan Qasqai, Ford Kuga, BMWX1, Mitsubishi ASX and the forthcoming Range Rover Evoque.

Audi’s smallest ever SUV is only available initially with a selection of 2.0litre, 4-cylinder turbocharged and direct-injection engines, and is pretty much guaranteed to be a successful seller for Audi, especially amongst the ‘school-run’ brigade.

You may ask yourself “Why them”? Just a personal opinion, but mainly the look. It’s very rounded, and a bit ‘soft’ – not so much a sporty look that you could expect from an SUV; so maybe, rather than being described as an SUV, WUV (WAG version) or PUV (Poseur version) could be a better description – although maybe not a bigger seller! I can certainly see the likes of Mrs Gerrard, Mrs Terry and Mrs Rooney picking up kids from school in it after a whiz round the latest trendy boutiques (or maybe Primark.) Mind you, there’s not that much boot space to put a load of shopping bags in in comparison to other 4x4s. For us mere mortals, there’s 460 litres when all 5 seats are up and 1365 with the rear seats folded down.

The WAG factor means that stylishly the Q3 is up to date and desirable; Sloping roof, sharp lines, xenon-plus headlights, LED-strip tail units and large hexagonal grill. What’s there not to like for the urban socialite?

And inside? Five adults is a bit of a squeeze but the steering wheel has been redesigned in comparison to other Q class Audis, and there’s the Concert system as standard with a 6.5″ screen rising up from the dashboard. There is the opportunity (of course) to upgrade to the all-dancing all-singing MMI navigation plus where the standard maps are replaced with satellite images – hours of fun for kids and a notable distraction for the driver!

Safety-wise there’s front-side and curtain airbags as standard (rear side are an optional extra) and has a deactivating front passenger airbag (for kids safety) and ISOFIX child seat anchor points in the back/ ABS and ESP come as standard too. Pretty safe then!

Almost forget; How does it drive? The steering is light, it corners confidently but predictably and everything is carried out with the minimum of fuss. I wouldn’t suggest off-roading it, so keep it on the tarmac, but overall, if you are looking for comparisons, it’s an A3 that’s been working out in the gym for a bit (or possibly on steroids.)

As I said before, it’s only available at the moment in 2.0litre versions (174bhpTDI, 138bhp diesel, 208bhp TFSI and 168bhp TFSI) but all of them look as good, and perform pretty much as you would expect from them.

All-in-all, it has earned the right to at least be considered in the ‘most desirable small 4 x 4′ category. Admittedly  more atuned to couples with children who don’t give lifts to more than another couple on nights out (So that’s Stevie, Alex, Wayne and Coleen and no more), the Audi Q3 offers the versatilty and economy of a hatchback with premium 4 x 4 style and luxury.

With prices starting at £24.,560, it’s a hole in the wallet for the purchaser who doesn’t want to wait for the Q3′s main competitor – the Range Rover Evoque – when it arrives at the latter end of this year, but until then, the Audi Q3 will do.

As fans patiently await its official unveiling at the Frankfurt Motor Show later this year, Audi has released further details of the 2012 model updates to the Audi A5.

Featuring a revamped exterior design, an improved engine range (including a completely redesigned 1.8 TFSI engine) and upgraded trim levels, the new generation Audi A5 looks set to continue its success throughout 2012.

Kick starting the changes is a revamped exterior design boasting a sportier look with sharper and more precise lines. The 3D revised and new curved grille dominate the A5’s front end while the S line models benefit from striking new headlights with a new ‘wave’ LED design. Changes have also been made to the fog lights and paint colours.

Inside, the air conditioning control panel, MMI control unit, electric window switches, CD slot and mirror adjustment switches boast an all-new chrome trim, whilst minor changes have also been made to the speedometer design including an increased spread between 0-100mph and the top speed now set at 160mph.

Under the bonnet, the new engine range boasts improved CO2 levels (and average of 11% across the range) as well as increased power and torque. The entry level 1.8L TFSI engine has been completed redesigned offering a power increase from 160PS to 170PS, as well as subtle changes to the thermal management, fuel injection and turbocharging system. Start/Stop technology, a new electromechanical power steering system and break recommendation has also been introduced as standard across the range.

Trim levels have been standardised with the Sport trim no longer available on the Coupe. From launch, Bluetooth will also be standard on all trims SE and above. The 2012 Audi A5 is due to hit UK showrooms later this year.

The new R8 V8 Limited Edition has a striking new titanium-effect paintwork option and enhanced standard equipment to make it truly stand out amongst the rest.

The new model has been created in honour of the tenth victory for Audi in this month’s gruelling 24 Hours of Le Mans marathon race. It will be available to order next month priced from £93,935.

The race was first won in 2000 by the R8 sports prototype, the new feature-rich special edition road car is based on the hugely successful R8 V8 Coupe.

The car will be reserved solely for UK R8 customers, and there will are just 100 examples scheduled for production to offer further exclusivity.

Titanium finish 19-inch ‘5-arm double-spoke Y design’ alloy wheels inspired by the R8 GT Coupe, and embellished by red brake callipers, will be the key differentiating feature of the exterior of the R8 Limited Edition in its standard form.

To further exceed the standard R8 V8 Coupe specification, the Limited Edition model includes satellite navigation, the Audi Music Interface (AMI), an interior light package, a Bang and Olufsen sound system and mobile phone preparation through a Bluetooth interface with integrated seat-belt microphones.

The much praised Audi magnetic ride adaptive suspension system also makes a special appearance as standard equipment in the Limited Edition. It uses sensors to monitor road conditions and adjusts the damping effect to suit them.

It freely revs to its 8,250rpm limit, while the directly injected 4.2-litre engine dispenses with the zero to 62mph sprint in 4.6 seconds in both manual and R tronic automated manual versions of the R8 V8 Limited Edition.

On the inside, the Limited Edition is marked out by crimson red accents to the sides of its Black Fine Nappa Leather-upholstered seats and headrests, which also feature red contrast stitching. To complete the sporty look, the knee pads and passenger door handle are also finished in red leather, and the floor mats have a red surround and feature the R8 logo in silver.

For even greater visual distinction, the R8 V8 Limited Edition is also available with an optional Carbon Package, adding carbon sigma side blades, door mirrors, monoposto, inlays and door sill trims.

The R8 Limited Edition also includes one special standard feature that isn’t so immediately apparent –a bespoke R8 Driving Experience at Silverstone Circuit which will allow owners to acquaint themselves with the dynamic characteristics of the R8 in controlled conditions.

Regular non car fanatics usually require very little when they look to their new car; they just don’t need a lot. It has to be cheap, it has to do a reasonable amount of miles to the gallon to save petrol costs and it has to get from A to B comfortably, safely and without breaking down. Occasionally a really fussy person may come along hording a passion for speed and looks, perhaps in an attempt to win the respect of their peers with their new motor.

These Regular Joes then will be delighted with the new revamped and updated Audi A1 1.6 litre TDI. Available from a mere £14,480 and boasting an impressive 74.3mpg, outputting jus 99g of carbon dioxide per kilometre, the Audi provides an affordable, comfortable car to suit those without an inherent desire for an audacious or auspicious supercar.

The new A1 even goes a little further, providing those with a hankering for speed an acceleration of 62mph in just 10.5 seconds, and sprinting on to a eventual top speed of 118mph. It even looks pretty classy too.

Its carbon dioxide output, arguably its most impressive update, drops from the 105g/km outputted by the previous A1 and also has the added bonus of making the A1 exempt from the London congestion charge. So feel free to cruise London Town in your new A1 laughing snootily at the drivers who have to pay such fees, until you inevitably have to park and join the heavily charged once again of course. An even bigger bonus from the sub 100g/km emissions rating is owner’s escape of road tax from year two onwards; thats right, no road tax. The Audi store’s just on the left, I believe.

The A1 includes up to date gadgets and functions to improve the driver’s comfort and convenience with alloy wheels for a little bit of flash, air conditioning, CD player with MP3 connectivity (essential for setting a good driving mood) and ESP with innovative differential lock system to prevent the car skidding. Features such as start stop engine and energy recuperation all contribute to the A1’s impressive mpg ration.

So, the A1 provides everything you need, and more, in a good looking modern package, and you help save the environment. Even if you do so to avoid giving Mr Johnson your hard earned money.

Audi has announced the new 2012 model changes across their popular line-up.

Effective from May 30, a new range of exterior paint colours, transmission options and personalised extras will be available across the entire Audi range. Audi has also made some significant improvements to their engine range, offering more power and lower CO2 emissions on selected models. Check out what’s new for 2012…

Audi A1:

Audi’s newest supermini is more efficient than ever in 2012, boasting reduced CO2 emissions of just 99g/km on the 1.6 TDI engines. The new A1 gets a range of new paint colours including a metallic Glacier White and a new LED light for the rear licence plate. Audi A1 fans will also be pleased to hear that a new range of optional extras are also available from May including a new mobile telephone preparation system with online services.

Audi A3:

The Audi A3 3-door, Sportback & Cabriolet all benefit from three striking new metallic colours (Glacier White, Estoril Blue & Panther Black), along with a new silk beige interior with Vienna leather. The Audi A3 Cabriolet is also available with a beige coloured hood for those who really want to make an impact. It’s not all good news however. From May the space saver spare wheel (which is currently offered as standard) will be replaced with a Tyre Mobility System – and it’s not even possible to order the space saver wheel as a factory fitted option. Boo!

Audi A4:

The Audi A4 boasts three striking new colours for Summer with metallic Monsoon Grey and Moonlight Blue available across the A4, S4 and Allroad editions. The Allroad also gets Audi’s new Glacier White metallic as an option, all priced at £615 RRP.

Audi A5:

If you’re a fan of the A5, you’ll be pleased to hear Audi haven’t tinkered too much with the popular model. All Audi A5 models will remain MY11 until later in the year however there are some changes to colour availability including three new metallic paints; Monsoon Grey, Moonlight Blue and Glacier White which will replace some older colours such as Meteor Grey and Sprint Blue.

Audi A6:

The Audi A6 Saloon gets the biggest amount of changes for 2012 with a range of new paint, transmission and engine options. From May, the A6 2.0 TDI engine will be available with multitronic gearbox and the A6 3.0 TDI & 3.0 TDI Quatrro engine will see a reduction in CO2 emissions. A range of new comfort options are also available including new Oakwood Beaufort Inlay (RRP £700), Audi Exclusive Aluminium Gear Stick (RRP £145), Digital TV Reception with MMI Navigation Plus (RRP £1,125) and Digitial TV & DAB radio Reception with MMI Navigation Plus (RRP £1,535).

Audi A6 Avant and Allroad models will remain unchanged until later in the year.

Audi A8:

Glacier White certainly seems like this season’s colour with the Audi A8 boasting the striking new metallic paint. A range of new options including high-gloss application on multi-function steering wheel, a revamped Audi parking system and an improved TV digital reception are also available on 2012 A8 range.

Audi TT:

Everyone’s favourite roadster is available in Panther Black or metallic Glacier White for 2012. Audi has also made changes to the model and technology designation, along with the addition of new LEDs to light the TT’s rear licence plate.

Audi Q5:

New Monsoon Grey and Moonlight Blue metallics replace the Meteor Grey, Deep Sea Blue and Dakar Beige colour options on the 2012 Audi Q5. No other changes have been made on this popular model.

Audi Q7:

Thankfully, it’s not all about new colours on the Audi Q7. The Q7 3.0 TDI 245PS engine has been given a power boost by +5PS whilst the 3.0 TDI 245PS Clean Diesel receives the same power increase but with the added benefit of Start/Stop technology. CO2 emissions have also been reduced to 195 g/km on the 3.0 TDI 245PS Clean Diesel model.

Changes have been made to the comfort options including new functionality on the DAB model and improvements to the mobile telephone preparation package, Tech Pack High package and multi-function steering wheels.

Audi R8:

Finally, the sleekest and sexiest Audi of them all – the stunning R8 – hasn’t been left out. The sporty coupe gets a new Black Styling Package priced at £600 RRP. Audi are also launching an exclusive Audi R8 driving event for customers who order an MY12 R8 to tickle your tastebuds for the new 2012 model.

Orders for the 2012 Audi range starts from next week.

The new Audi A3 will be revealed this week at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show. For the first time in its history the successful premium compact car not only has a striking ‘notchback’ saloon body shell, but also combines it with a power output of over 400PS for epic performance.

Known simply as the A3 concept, the fastest ever factory-produced A3 is the latest in a long line of one-off Audi design studies, and is laden with technological advances in everything from construction to infotainment.

Apart from the new body shell, the most immediately obvious highlight of the A3 concept is its five-cylinder Turbo FSI petrol engine, whose 408PS output outnumbers its closest series production relative, the potent RS 3 Sportback, by 68PS. Top speed is electronically limited to 155mph.

Fuel economy in this latest Audi study looks all the more impressive when these remarkable figures are taken into account, with up to 31mpg possible on the combined cycle, giving CO₂ emissions of 212g/km.

A compact seven-speed S tronic twin-clutch transmission helps to optimize efficiency, while delivering the trademark lightning-quick gear changes that are especially appropriate here.

At 4,440mm long, 1,840mm wide and just 1,390mm high, the A3 concept has a dynamic stance that suggests great agility.

The Audi drive select dynamic handling system appears for the first time in an A3, giving the driver five modes with which to fine-tune engine characteristics, power steering feel and gear shift points for the seven-speed S tronic transmission. As well as the more familiar comfort, auto, dynamic and individual settings, the latest iteration of the system features an efficiency mode designed for maximum economy.

To gain access to all this in the Audi A3 concept, the driver need only touch the door handle with its brushed aluminium clasp. It then power extends outwards, opening the door to a futuristic cabin which, thanks to the best-in-class 2,630mm wheelbase, is also suitably spacious. This applies to the ‘boot’ as well, which offers an impressive 410-litre capacity.

Front sport seats with prominent side bolsters enable high- performance driving. The high-quality sound system features speakers in the doors and the rear shelf with aluminum trim panels.

A design study reinterpreting the Audi A3 as a four-door ‘notchback’ saloon debuts this week at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show. The A3 concept will be known as the fastest ever production A3 thanks to its 2.5-litre, 408PS Turbo FSI petrol engine.

The latest in Audi’s range of e-tron concept studies is an all-electric, 1:2 scale version of their 1936 Auto Union Type C Grand Prix car. It’s set to be unveiled at the International Toy Fair in Nuremburg which runs from 2 to 8 February.

This electrically-propelled half-sized model is based on the limited edition pedal car. Whilst it’s electric motor develops but 1.5 PS and a top speed of just 18mph, this bad boy can cover up to fifteen miles on just two hours’ of battery charge from a standard 230v household socket.

Perfect, then, for those quick runs to the shop, though motorway travel is inadvisable. I’m thinking David Sinclair here – but much cuter and much less ridiculous. Obviously.

The hand-finished body is made from aluminium and carbon-effect material. It’s 2.32m long and 97 cm wide. This, Audi insist, makes it suitable for children and adults of up to 5’11” tall. I think, therefore, that I’m but one inch too tall. Nuts.

There are currently no plans to offer the Type C e-tron for sale in the UK. Double nuts! There goes my vision of an autopia utopia in which we all glide along at a graceful 18mph in elegant down-sized vintage sports car replicas.

But still, how utterly adorable does it look?