Geneva Motor Show 2012: Audi

From the Geneva Motor Show we bring you the main novelties from the brand of the four rings. Throughout the morning we were able to see up close the renewed A3, the sportier version and the four-door version of the A1, the RS4 Avant or the A8 Hybrid.

The main novelty presented by Audi and that we were able to see, sit in and get to know first-hand is the A3. One of the best-selling models within the Audi range, and one that arrives completely renewed, especially in its interior, and with greater technological content.

This third generation of the A3 stands out on the exterior thanks to renewed headlights with LED daytime running lights. The front has also been redesigned, giving it a more distinctive look and, overall, it features much more defined lines. At the rear we again find new light clusters and a slightly sportier appearance than the previous generation.

Moving to the interior it gains in the quality of some of its materials and a much more refined feel. It is dominated by horizontal lines, and it also features new controls for the climate system and the option of adding a seven-inch screen. Its optional equipment is very varied, with highlights including adaptive cruise control with radar, the Audi active lane assist and the Audi pre sense basic system.

As for its engines, it will initially be offered with just two petrol engines and one diesel. The petrol units are the 1.4 TFSI, which produces 122 CV, and the 1.8 TFSI with 180 CV of power. The diesel version uses the 2.0 TDI, with 150 CV and 320 Nm of torque. However, before the end of the year a 1.6 TDI will be added.

Leaving the A3 aside, the German brand’s next novelty is the RS4 Avant, a model that will appeal to customers who, having a family, don’t want to rule out a car with sporting performance and handling. Its engine produces 450 CV and it goes from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds, with a top speed limited to 250 km/h. The only drawback is its price, since it is expected to exceed 80,000 euros in our country.

Other novelties are the four-door versions or the sportier version of the A1. The first of these stands out because it means this model gains a little more interior space; however, its rear seats still fall short by being too small. As for the A1 quattro, seeing it up close is quite impressive, with very eye-catching wheels and a rear spoiler that gives it a sportier look.

Finally, there is the TT RS Plus, which fits the 2.5-litre Twin-Turbo engine, with improved electronics, intake and exhaust to achieve a final output of 360 horsepower and 465 Nm of maximum torque, which represents an increase of 20 horsepower and 15 Nm of maximum torque over the standard version. For its part, the A8 Hybrid.

Photos | highmotor