The German manufacturer continues to crank out high-performance cars, and at the Detroit Auto Show, a concept version of its R8 has been presented, powered by a diesel engine.With a turbocharged 6.0-liter V12 that develops 500 horsepower and 738 ft-lbs of torque, the oil-burning R8 could reach production is there is demand for it.
Also presented is the TT-S, a high-power version of Audi's small coupe and roadster models. Using the Euro-market S3's TFSI 2.0-liter engine, the TT-S gets 272 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque that peaks as low as 2,400 rpm. Audi claims 0-100 km/h times of 5.4 seconds with the coupe and 5.6 with the roadster.Six-speed manual and S tronic automated manual gearboxes are available with the TT-S, and quattro is standard equipment.The 2009 A4 also made its American debut, as the new model is already on sale in Europe.
photo: Audi, Sébastien D'Amour