Wednesday, May 12, 2010

2011 Audi A4, A5, Q5 get 8-speed automatic, Q5 also gets 2.0L TFSI

Audi Q5

Audi Q5

http://www.autoguide.com/gallery/d/157534-4/10A5Cab20TFSI_07_hrgb.jpg

2011 order guides are out at Audi dealers, and the important numbers are eight and four. In addition to the updated 2011 Q7 and new-for-2011 A8, some models of the A4, A5, and Q5 will be getting eight-speed transmissions. The guides also confirm a new, turbocharged four-cylinder Q5 model.

Six Gears Versus Eight

The new ZF-sourced eight-speed will be labeled Tiptronic and take the place of Audi’s six-speed unit in Quattro-equipped vehicles with the turbocharged, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. This includes the A4 2.0T Quattro sedan and Avant and also the A5 2.0T Quattro coupe and cabriolet. All Q7s—both strengths of supercharged 3.0-liter V-6 as well as the 3.0-liter V-6 turbo-diesel—as well as the A8 and A8L, will get the ZF eight-speed.

Auto-equipped models sticking with either a CVT or the six-speed automatic include the front-wheel-drive A4 and A5, all A6 and S6 models, the S5 coupe, and the 3.2-liter Q5. Other cars currently using dual-clutch automated manuals—S5 cabriolet, A3, TT, etc.—are unaffected.

Q5 Goes Turbo Four

Another interesting tidbit gleaned from the order guide is the appearance of a new Q5 model equipped with a 2.0-liter TFSI engine for 2011. It’s likely the newer 211-hp EA888 engine, which develops 258 lb-ft of torque, and it too will be paired with the eight-speed automatic. With less weight, more torque, and better fuel economy than the 3.2 V-6, we’ve found the 2.0T to be a better match for the A4, and we expect the same to be true with the Q5.

All of the new 2011 models will be on sale this fall.

No comments:

Post a Comment