CANADA - Nissan unveils 2015 Micra to mark a new era of value for Canadians

• 2015 Nissan Micra will combine Japanese quality, European style and heritage with unbeatable value

This week, at the Montreal Auto Show, Nissan debuted the car that will mark a new era of unbeatable value for Canadians when it arrives this spring - the all-new, 2015 Nissan Micra. Combining Japanese quality with European styling and heritage, Micra will provide Canadians with more fun, more attention to detail and more value than they've ever expected in a small car.

"Micra will change the automotive landscape and provide Canadians with the value and fun they deserve in an entry-level car," said Christian Meunier, President, Nissan Canada Inc. "With great visibility, impressive agility and excellent turning radius, Micra is designed for Canadian drivers.  It will offer a small and fuel efficient, yet spacious and fun choice - at a great price."

Available in three models, the Micra S, SV and top-of-the-line SR will be available with either a 5-speed manual transmission, or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Each model is equipped with an advanced 1.6-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine with dual fuel injection and Twin CVTC. With no plans for the United States, Micra will truly be a Canadian car and has been extensively tested and perfected for the Canadian driver with features like heated outside mirrors, rear heater ducts (to keep backseat toes warm), 60/40 split rear seats and either 15 or 16 inch wheels – sizes that are widely available as snow tires.

"Micra will truly be a car for every Canadian," said Meunier. "It's been specifically designed for this market and has been thoroughly tested right here in Montreal in driving conditions Canadians typically face. It's ready for Canada. And we think Canada is ready for Micra."

Nissan Presents 2015 Nissan JUKE NISMO RS and NV200 Taxi
In addition to Micra, the 2015 Nissan JUKE NISMO RS also made its debut in Montreal, demonstrating the performance and styling potential that Nissan's NISMO team excels at.

With horsepower and torque increased to 215 and 210 lb-ft respectively, a new manual transmission, larger brakes, stiffer chassis and unique RS interior treatments featuring Recaro front seats,  this new model will take the already popular Nissan JUKE NISMO to an even higher level and join the Nissan lineup later this spring with pricing to be announced at a later date.

"The Nissan JUKE NISMO RS does exactly what it is meant to do – it takes a great Nissan product and makes it even more stylish and more fun to drive," said Meunier. "It's a great example of our commitment to bring new and innovative products to the market and we're excited to see welcome it to our line-up."

Rounding out Nissan's debuts was the first Canadian showing of the Nissan NV200 Taxi, demonstrating the versatility of Nissan's commercial vehicles. Currently being used in New York, the NV200 Taxi provides residents and visitors with sky views of the city improved leg room, cargo space and safety and much more. Canadian opportunities for the Nissan NV200 Taxi continue to be explored.

Montreal residents can also get up close to the world's best-selling pure electric vehicle, the Nissan LEAF, as part of CAA's EV Ride and Drive event from January 16-27 at the Palais de Congres, Hall Vigor. Powered by a standard 6.6 kW onboard charger that emits zero emissions, visitors to the show will have the opportunity to experience and learn about all the benefits of electric mobility.

CES previews AUDI TT cockpit and dashboard - very futuristic.

• New, slimline instrument panel with driver-focused display
• Audi virtual cockpit and new MMI focus on intuitive use
• Member of the Board of Management for Technical Development Prof. Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg: “Enabling the driver to experience technology”

Puristic, intuitive and fully focused on the driver – for the new TT, Audi is significantly advancing its interior design. At the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas (January 6 to 10, 2014) the brand with the four rings will, for the first time, be offering a preview of the interior of the compact sports car, which will be launched on the market in the course of the year.

As Prof. Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg, Member of the Board of Management of AUDI AG for Technical Development says, “The first Audi TT was the design icon per se, the second generation was even sportier, right through to the TT RS plus with its five-cylinder TFSI and 360PS. And with the new Audi TT, the driver will be able to experience the technology to an even greater extent – just as would be expected from a genuine sports car. And it comes with a new generation of electronics and connectivity features.”

For this reason, the Audi virtual cockpit is the focus of attention for the first time in one of the brand’s production models. The fully digital instrument cluster displays all the information directly in front of the driver, meaning that there is no need for a central MMI monitor. This solution gave the designers the freedom to slim down the instrument panel architecture such that it visually conveys the Audi lightweight construction principle.

With its clear lines and innovative operation, the interior of the next TT generation has been redesigned from the ground up. From above, the instrument panel resembles an airplane wing; set low and with a turbine look about them, the round air nozzles, a classic TT feature, are reminiscent of jet engines. The controls for the air conditioning are also housed in the vents – the adjustment functions for seat heating, and for the temperature, direction and strength of the flow of air are located in their axes, with small displays indicating the chosen setting. Located beneath the central air nozzles, the switches for the hazard warning light and the secondary functions are centrally positioned and easily accessible.

With its brilliant graphics with a 3D impression and highly-detailed effects, the Audi virtual cockpit with its 12.3-inch TFT monitor sets new standards. Drivers can switch between two display modes. In the classic view, the speedometer and rev counter are in the foreground, while in “infotainment” mode, the virtual instruments are smaller. The space that is then created offers ample display space for functions such as the navigation map.

All elements of the new Audi TT operating concept are focused on the driver. The compact sports car’s new multifunction steering wheel features a flat-bottomed rim, with aluminium-look clips framing its spokes. The buttons and controls on the spokes allow you to control almost all functions, including the ultra-modern infotainment system. The menu is structured to reflect that of a smartphone and includes a full-text search function (MMI search). All the main functions are just a few clicks away. The MMI terminal on the centre tunnel console, the second control unit alongside the steering wheel, has also been exhaustively redeveloped. Thanks to the MMI touch, the driver can scroll and zoom in lists and on maps. Accessing other options has been simplified; in future this will be possible using just two rather than four buttons in the area surrounding the rotary pushbutton.

The innovations in the Audi TT interior include the S sport seats with their significantly curved side bolsters, the integrated headrests and the low seating position typical of a sports car. The slender character of the seats is emphasised by bezels on the flanks of the backrest and a cover on the back; the backrest is adjusted using a loop. The side bolsters of the S sport seats can be adjusted pneumatically.

With its clear, sharp lines, the interior as a whole perfectly expresses the sporty nature of the new Audi TT. The centre tunnel console, that supports the lower leg when driving fast through a bend, and the door panels boast flowing mutually-reinforcing contours. All the details highlight Audi’s attention to quality – from the design of the gear knob and the precise functioning of the rotary pushbutton to the Audi virtual cockpit.

USA - Chevy announces new models added to the Sonic range.

Chevrolet has announced two new sedan options to the Sonic lineup in 2014 – the performance-inspired RS and the stylish Dusk – further demonstrating the brand’s commitment to the subcompact segment and to offering younger buyers expressive options at affordable prices.

The suggested retail price for the 2014 Sonic RS sedan starts at $20,530 including $825 destination. Sonic Dusk starts at $20,945 including destination. Title and license fees are extra.

“Keeping the Sonic lineup fresh and offering consumers more choice is a priority for Chevrolet,” said Cristi Landy, marketing director for Chevrolet small cars.  “The Sonic RS and Dusk sedans offer all of the great attributes that have made the Sonic a popular choice in the subcompact segment and they add performance and design cues.”

Sonic RS sedan
The performance-inspired Sonic RS sedan joins the RS hatchback in the lineup and is powered by the Ecotec 1.4L turbo engine rated at 138 horsepower (103 kW) and 148 lb-ft of torque (200 Nm). Unique transmission gearing in the six-speed manual, or a 3.53 final drive ratio for automatic-equipped models, along with a sport-tuned suspension and lowered ride height, enhances the car’s performance feel.

One of the most dramatic Sonic RS cues is its front fascia, which has a deep air dam design that enhances the car’s road-hugging stance. Vertical intakes at the edges of the fascia reinforce a wide, low proportion and house the fog lamps.  Interior refinements include:

• Aluminum sport pedals
• A sport three-spoke, leather-wrapped steering wheel with contrasting stitching, and a racing-inspired flat-bottom design
• Leather-appointed front bucket seats with red RS accents to the sportier appearance.
• EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings are the same as the Sonic RS hatchback – 27 mpg city and 34 mpg highway with the manual transmission.

The Sonic RS sedan will initially be available in three color combinations: Black Granite Metallic, Silver Ice Metallic or Summit White, all with Jet Black leather-appointed interiors.

Sonic Dusk
The Sonic Dusk sedan, first shown as a concept at the 2011 SEMA Show, brings sophistication and style to the subcompact market. Unique exterior appointments include a ground effects package, rear spoiler, 18-inch aluminum wheels with a Midnight Silver matte finish and four-wheel disc brakes – unique to Dusk and RS.

The Sonic Dusk comes exclusively in Ashen Grey Metallic, with a distinctive matte appearance on the upper and lower grilles, door handle inserts and rear license plate trim. Stainless steel lower window moldings add an upscale accent to the body. Inside are Jet Black leather-trimmed seats with sueded microfiber accents and Mojave tan inserts.

Sonic Dusk is powered by the Ecotec 1.4L turbocharged engine, rated at 138 horsepower (103 kW) and matched with six-speed manual and automatic transmissions. EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings are 29 mpg city and 40 mpg highway, with the manual transmission.

Also new in 2014, Chevrolet is introducing performance parts that enhance Sonic’s handling, braking and performance. The Chevrolet Performance parts include

• 1.4L Turbo Stage Kit with high-flow exhaust boosting the car up 10 horsepower and 15 lb-ft of torque
• Cold-air induction
• Suspension kit with lowered ride height
• Brake package with Wilwood front calipers
• 18-inch wheel-and-tire package. 
• These parts join appearance accessories announced in 2013.

Both models go on sale in spring 2014 and will be manufactured at Orion Assembly in Michigan. Sonic is the only subcompact assembled in America.

The Chevrolet Sonic and Spark are the first vehicles to offer Siri Eyes Free integration. Through the cars' available Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system, customers with a compatible iPhone* running iOS6 or iOS7 can direct Siri to perform a number of tasks while they safely keep their eyes on the road and their hands on the wheel.

Also, the available BringGo navigation app, the most affordable navigation system in its class, offers easy-to-use features that included 3-D maps with lane suggestions, live traffic data, and more.

F-Type coupe caught again in the UK, this is one stunning car.

The Jaguar F-type coupé, expected to launch next year, has again been spotted testing on the M5 motorway showing its retractable rear wing. The car had previously been seen testing alongside the standard convertible.

The F-type coupé is expected to be powered by the same range of V6, V6 S and V8 engines offered on the drop-top, as well as be the initial basis for more extreme versions of the car, ranging from S and RS models through to an extreme 600bhp Jaguar F-type RS-GT road racer.

A hotter, 'R' version of the F-type coupe is also in development and has already been spotted testing.

Comparing the rooflines of the two models, the coupe has an obviously larger, sloping rear end. It is unknown whether Jaguar will change the design of the coupe's rear bumper to make it an overall larger model than the standard roadster.

Recent spy shots have shown the F-type coupé to be almost identical to the original C-X16 concept, which launched the idea of a new Jaguar sports car, and the standard F-type roadster. The shift to on-road testing indicates that the car's launch would typically be 12 months away, towards the end of 2014.

Jaguar insiders have subsequently admitted that the CX-16 concept car was designed after the production versions of the F-type were completed, as they were conscious of not producing a concept car that was more flamboyant than the production version. The unusual decision to launch the roadster first was taken because it was perceived to have a large market and deliver a better image for the firm's halo model.

First spy shot of third generation AUDI TT

Photographers have caught their first glimpses of Audi's third-generation TT coupe, expected to go on sale in Europe in the second half of 2014 and in the United States the next year.

The photos suggest evolutionary styling changes for the model, which will shed weight and get better fuel economy with a move to the MQB architecture and more efficient turbocharged gasoline engines used in the Volkswagen Golf and Audi A3.

REPORT HERE

Strongest residual value prediction in the UK SUV sector for first ever Audi RS ‘Q’ model

• Leading trade guide CAP Monitor predicts segment-leading 52% residual value  for latest Audi RS model based on three-year/60,000-mile usage
• Overall the Porsche Cayman is the only car currently on UK sale which holds its value more effectively according to CAP Monitor  

‘Slow’ is not a word that will often be associated with the new 310PS Audi RS Q3, but it certainly applies to the pace at which it depreciates according to leading trade guide CAP Monitor. The first ever Audi RS SUV is notable for achieving a higher percentage of estimated value retention after three years than all-bar-one of the thousands of new cars currently available on the UK market.

Experts at CAP Monitor expect the new departure for Audi high performance division quattro GmbH, which is now available to order priced at £43,000 OTR, to retain 52% of its original value after three years/60,000 miles. This outstanding prediction positions the RS Q3 ahead of not only every other SUV currently available on the UK market, but every car currently rated by CAP Monitor with the exception of the Cayman sports car produced by Volkswagen Group sister company Porsche.

Commenting on the very positive forecast for the latest addition to the Q3 family, Head of Sales Paul Sansom said: “All Audi models are characterised by strong residual values, but the RS Q3 sets a particularly high benchmark. This prediction not only reflects the perceived quality, reliability and desirability of the Q3 range, but also the respect the RS badge commands, particularly among UK buyers. These factors, combined with the inherent strength of the Audi brand, make the Q3 flagship one of the most compelling propositions not only in SUV terms but in the UK performance car market as a whole.”

At the heart of the new RS Q3 is a 2.5-litre, five-cylinder TFSI engine linked exclusively to a seven-speed S tronic twin-clutch transmission. Producing 310PS and maximum torque of 420 Nm (309.78 lb-ft), it gives a gloriously distinctive five-cylinder rasp as it powers this unique RS Q model from 0-62mph in just 5.2 seconds and on to a top speed electronically limited to 155mph. Despite its ability to thrill, fuel economy sets a new precedent for an RS model – up to 32.1mpg is possible according to the combined cycle test, equating to CO2 output of 206 g/km.

RS-specific sports suspension and quattro drive

True to Audi RS tradition, quattro permanent all-wheel drive system underpins the RS Q3, and in conjunction with lowered, RS-specific sports suspension helps to deliver composed, flat cornering without forsaking equally important everyday ride comfort. Electromechanical rack and pinion steering offers quick and accurate turn-in, and ventilated disc brakes with a weight-saving wave contour design provide progressive and steadfast stopping power.

The exceptional performance and incisive handling are channeled through striking 20-inch Twin-spoke V-design alloy wheels, and the very special status of the RS Q3 is also underscored by RS-specific body detailing.

Inside, the RS theme is continued by the instrument cluster with its grey gauges overlaid with white scales and red needles, heated and Fine Nappa leather-upholstered front sports seats embossed with RS Q3 logos, a flat-bottomed RS multi-function sports steering wheel complemented by aluminium race inlays and bright aluminium pedals. The Driver’s Information System also includes additional boost pressure, oil temperature and lap timer modes.

In addition to the RS-specific touches, standard equipment also includes the Audi parking system plus, light and rain sensors, the Audi sound system with ten loudspeakers incorporating Audi Music Interface (AMI) iPod connection, a Bluetooth phone interface, xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lamps and LED tail lights which have a dark red tint when they are not lit.

New models, expand AUDI family to eight RS models

New 310PS RS Q3 and 560PS RS 7 Sportback will expand Audi RS family to an unprecedented eight models

• RS Q3 opens for UK order priced at £43,000 OTR – first deliveries in early 2014
• RS 7 Sportback also now available priced from £83,495 OTR – first deliveries in early 2014
• Newcomers take RS model line-up to eight models – TT RS, TT RS Roadster, RS Q3, RS 4 Avant, RS 5 Coupe, RS 5 Cabriolet, RS 6 Avant, RS 7 Sportback
• RS Q3 powered by 2.5-litre, five-cylinder TFSI petrol engine delivering 310PS and 420Nm – 0-62mph in 5.5 seconds, governed 155mph top speed, combined MPG 32.1, CO2 206g/km
• RS 7 Sportback powered by V8 biturbo petrol engine with cylinder-on-demand technology – 0-62mph in 3.9 seconds, top speed governed at 155mph but can be increased on demand to 174mph or 189mph, up to 28.8mpg possible

Coupe, Roadster, Cabriolet, Sportback, Avant and SUV – very soon the UK introductions of the RS Q3 and the RS 7 Sportback will broaden the Audi RS range to a total of eight models with six body styles and one clear goal – to deliver breathtaking performance without compromising everyday all-weather usability. The new RS Q3 – the first Audi SUV ever to wear the RS badge – is now available to order in the UK priced at £43,000 OTR, as is the RS 7 Sportback, which takes the acclaimed RS 6 Avant as its technical basis and is priced at £83,495 OTR. Both will reach their first UK customers in early 2014.

The Audi RS Q3

At the heart of the new RS Q3 is the 2013 International Engine of the Year in the 2.0-litre to 2.5-litre category – the characterful Audi 2.5-litre, five-cylinder TFSI engine, here linked exclusively to a seven-speed S tronic twin-clutch transmission. Producing its 310PS peak at between 5,200 and 6,700 rpm, and maximum torque of 420 Nm (309.78 lb-ft) between 1,500 and 5,200 rpm, it gives a gloriously distinctive five-cylinder rasp as it powers this pioneering RS Q model from 0-62mph in just 5.5 seconds and on to a top speed electronically limited to 155mph.

A standard Start-Stop-System, and a regulated oil pump that only supplies lubricant when needed, contribute to fuel economy that sets a new precedent for an RS model – up to 32.1mpg is possible according to the combined cycle test, equating to CO2 output of 206 g/km.

Audi drive select as standard

Drivers can influence the way the RS Q3 feels using the standard Audi drive select system, which offers auto, comfort and dynamic modes controlling throttle response, steering weighting and transmission shift points. In the dynamic mode the engine note takes on an even more bass-heavy tone.

True to Audi RS tradition, quattro permanent all-wheel drive system underpins the RS Q3, in this case the version based on an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch located on the rear axle. The system provides swift and proportionate distribution of torque between the front and rear axles for optimum power management in all weathers. It works with RS-specific sports suspension which lowers the body by 25 mm, and which is tuned to deliver flat cornering without forsaking equally important everyday ride comfort. A specially tailored electronic stabilization control (ESC) also stands guard – it offers a sport mode which raises the limit at which it intervenes, and it can also be deactivated entirely.

Electromechanical rack and pinion steering provides quick and accurate turn-in, and ventilated disc brakes provide progressive and steadfast stopping power. The perforated 365mm front discs have a wave design with wave-shaped outer contours, which saves approximately one kilogram of weight at the front wheels. They are gripped by eight-piston calipers painted black with RS logos. An electromechanical parking brake and hill hold assist are also standard.

The exceptional performance and incisive handling are channeled through striking 20-inch Twin-spoke V-design alloy wheels, and the very special status of the RS Q3 is also underscored by RS-specific body detailing, including a high-gloss black honeycomb front grille and RS bumpers, a special front treatment including a quattro emblem in the air intake and a distinctive rear diffuser insert flanked by large elliptical tailpipes. A roof spoiler, roof rails in matt aluminium and special door sill plates and door trim strips also add emphasis.

For even more differentiation, RS Q3 customers can choose an exclusive body colour – Sepang Blue pearl effect – from the list of eight available, and can also add one of two optional styling packages – matt aluminium or black. In each case the chosen colour enhances the flaps in the side air intakes, the trim on the diffuser and the fins on the roof spoiler.

Additional RS gauges

The RS accents continue inside, where the instrument cluster features grey gauges with white scales and red needles, the heated and Fine Nappa leather-upholstered front sports seats are embossed with RS Q3 logos, the flat-bottomed RS multi-function sports steering wheel with contrasting rock grey stitching is complemented by aluminium race inlays and bright aluminium pedals and the Driver’s Information System includes boost pressure, oil temperature and lap timer modes.

In addition to the RS-specific Driver’s Information System, standard equipment also includes park assist plus, light and rain sensors, the Audi sound system with ten loudspeakers incorporating Audi Music Interface (AMI) iPod connection, a Bluetooth phone interface, xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lamps and LED tail lights which have a dark red tint when they are not lit.

In the infotainment area, a modular component system offers a wide range of options, including the hard-drive based MMI navigation plus system and mobile phone preparation with Audi connect, which brings internet access via mobile devices and internet-based services such as Google earth, Google Street View and real time local fuel prices to the car. A BOSE surround sound system driving 14 loudspeakers can also be added, bringing up to 465 watts of output power.

The luggage area has a capacity of 356 litres with the rear seats in place, and 1,261 litres with the seat backs folded. A practical reversible load liner is standard, and customers who have even bulkier loads to transport can specify a towing bracket.

The Audi RS 7 Sportback

Combining the finesse of the A7 Sportback with the ferocity of the twin-turbo V8 at the heart of the acclaimed RS 6 Avant gives the new RS 7 Sportback the same exceptional 3.9-second 0-62mph acceleration potential, 189mph top speed capability and scope for 28.8mpg economy.

With the help of its two turbochargers, the 4.0-litre TFSI engine delivers its formidable peak power of 560PS between 5,700 and 6,700 rpm, and peak torque of 700 Nm between 1,750 and 5,500 rpm. The two large twin-scroll turbochargers located, along with the intercooler, inside the ‘V’ of the cylinder banks, produce up to 1.2 bar of boost pressure, helping to generate incredible accelerative force. The RS-specific engine management and unthrottled intake system also contribute to the engine’s dramatic response, which is delivered with all the charisma expected of a V8. Switchable flaps in the exhaust system can make the sound even fuller at the touch of a button, and customers seeking an even more dramatic drive can choose a sports exhaust system from the options list.

Variable top speed

‘Standard specification’ in performance terms for the new RS 7 Sportback – although anything but standard – is a phenomenal 0-62mph acceleration time of just 3.9 seconds and a governed 155mph top speed. Customers with Autobahn aspirations can increase the latter to 174mph by specifying the optional Dynamic package, and boost it even further still with the Dynamic plus package, which calls a halt to acceleration at 189mph.

Despite performance of this magnitude, the RS 7 Sportback nevertheless manages to maintain a firm grasp on reality where economy is concerned. Thanks partly to an engine start-stop system and innovative thermal management technology, but primarily to the new engine’s cylinder on demand (COD) system, it can cover up to 28.8mpg according to the combined cycle test. At low to intermediate loads and engine speeds, the cylinder-on-demand system shuts down the intake and exhaust valves of cylinders 2, 3, 5 and 8. The engine then runs as a four-cylinder until the driver demands strong accleration. Efficiency in the active cylinders is increased because the operating points are displaced toward higher loads.

Active engine mounts

The switch between four and eight-cylinder operation takes just a few hundredths of a second, and the only real indication to the driver that it is taking place is a visual signal within the instrument cluster. Active engine mounts use out-of-phase counter-oscillations to compensate for the vibrations that occur during four-cylinder operation.

The 4.0-litre TFSI is paired with the familiar, and highly favoured, eight-speed tiptronic transmission featuring shortened shift times and offering ‘Sport’ and ‘Manual’ modes in addition to the standard ‘Drive’ setting. For manual shifts drivers can use the paddles on the steering wheel or the RS-specific selector lever. The lower gears of the tiptronic are tightly spaced for optimum performance, while a tall eighth gear reduces fuel consumption.

In the RS 7 Sportback the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system which is one of the hallmarks of the RS lineage incorporates torque vectoring, a self-locking centre differential with an elevated locking value and a sport differential on the rear axle to distribute power steplessly between the rear wheels.

RS 7 adaptive air suspension

Adaptive air suspension with RS-specific settings works in harmony with the quattro system. The specially tuned set-up lowers the body by 20 millimetres, and incorporates damping with configurable settings. As an alternative, sports suspension plus with Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) is available as an option. This system employs steel springs and three-way adjustable shock absorbers that are interconnected diagonally by means of oil lines and a central valve for improved stability.

Both set-ups are controllable via the Audi drive select adaptive dynamics system, which enables the driver to choose between Comfort or Dynamic modes depending on their preference, or an Automatic mode in which sensors automatically adjust the settings based on driving style, speed and prevailing conditions. An Individual mode is also available in which the driver can assign one of these three settings to each individual component of the driving experience, from the suspension or steering weighting to the throttle response and the sport differential. A dynamic steering option, which allows the driver to steplessly vary the system’s actual ratio and boost, can also be controlled via the Audi drive select system.

Behind the standard 20-inch seven twin-spoke design alloy wheels are four internally vented discs with weight-saving wave-like outer contours which provide suitably resolute and reassuring stopping power. The sizeable discs are gripped by six-piston calipers and are available in either black or red. Also available as an option are carbon fibre-ceramic brake discs with anthracite grey calipers.

The elegant body, comprising 20 per cent aluminium and considerable high strength steel content, contributes to handling composure with its outstanding rigidity, and is embellished by numerous RS-specific design details. Matt titanium applications, a high gloss black honeycomb radiator grille, exclusive front and rear bumper treatments and a rear diffuser flanked by two large, elliptical exhaust tailpipes provide visual differentiation without overstatement. In common with the other members of the A7 Sportback range, the RS 7 Sportback is also pinned more securely to the road by an electrically extending rear spoiler providing additional downforce.

The interior of the RS 7 Sportback conveys the sporting theme with similar subtlety, but leaves passengers in no doubt that they are travelling in a very special Audi flagship. RS logos appear in the dials with their white faces and red needles, on the flat-bottomed three-spoke multifunction steering wheel, in the illuminated entry sills, in the rev counter and in the displays for the MMI and the colour Driver’s Information System (DIS). This RS 7-specific DIS features a new shift light function in which a bar of green segments is gradually illuminated as revs increase, and the  bar turns red and begins to blink when revs approach the red line. The DIS also integrates displays for the selected gear, boost pressure and oil temperature gauges and a digital speedometer.

RS logos are also punched into the front RS super sports seats with their pronounced bolsters, integrated head rests and honeycomb-quilted Valcona leather upholstery. The two-seat rear bench which is standard for UK models also has pronounced contours for optimum grip. Power-adjustable front comfort seats can also be added at extra cost to replace the more overtly sporting RS originals.

The footrest, pedals and switches in the MMI navigation plus terminal have an aluminium look which contrasts with the piano finish for the decorative bezel surrounding the retractable monitor and the carbon inlays. A black headlining is standard, but Moon Silver or black Alcantara options are also available.

In-car internet

As befits the ultimate incarnation of the A7 Sportback, the RS 7 features a generous list of standard equipment, and it is possible to upgrade this list even further with a portfolio of exceptional driver assistance, driver entertainment and driver information systems, including adaptive cruise control, night vision, the Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System with 15 speakers and 1,200 watts of total power and mobile phone preparation – High with Audi connect, bringing web-based services to the car.