A key idea to delivering Reil's goals of improved dynamics comes not from the Quattro division, however, but from Audi. Earlier
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| Reil wasn't specific as to whether Audi would cease offering its 450 horsepower twin-turbo V8 as an upgrade or if it would only stop increasing power to match its rivals. (Photo: Audi Canada) |
this year VAG boss Bernd Pischetsrieder encouraged Audi's engineers to improve the way that the automaker's cars handled and rode. The way that its engineers solved this problem was to shift the engine towards the center of the car, similar to Infiniti's front-midship rear and all-wheel drive architecture that currently places its G35 sedan and coupe at the forefront of the compact luxury class for driving dynamics. The technique used, which improves a car's weight distribution while reducing the mass slung over the front wheels, is also often seen in hotrod and sports car circles.
On what car will Audi's Quattro division exercise its new school of thought? Analysts say that the next vehicle up for the
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| Audi is still expected to release a hotter version of the new 2005 A6, but whether it will be able to go head-to-head with BMW's new M5 is another question. (Photo: Audi Canada) |
supercar treatment is the A3, however a hotter version of the new 2005 A6 is also said to be on the way. Rumors of the car utilizing Lamborghini's 5.0 liter V10 to counter the new 507 horsepower M5 could very well be proven false if Reil's statements are indeed true. But one thing is for sure, we will know the vehicle when it arrives. A new naming scheme for high performance Audis is reportedly being created, one that steps away from the R and S logo types.
