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166 MPGe diesel-electric Audi Q7 E-Tron Quattro gets real in Geneva

Despite some warnings that plug-in vehicles would not make a big impression in Geneva this year, the first big reveals from the Peace Capital are indeed PHEVs. For example, the diesel-electric Audi Q7 E-Tron Quattro, which right out of the gate comes at us with some impressive numbers: an all-electric range of 34 miles and the "potential" to hit 166 miles per gallon equivalent. Whatever scale Audi is rating the new Q7 PHEV on, 166 MPGe is a resounding success. As we might guess from the prototypes we've seen and hints we've had, the Q7 E-Tron Quattro is not some auto salon fantasy. The vehicle will go on sale at the end of this year, in the UK, at least. Availability in the rest of Europe and here in the US is likely but unspecified in the press materials we've seen so far. The real-world reality of the Q7 E-Tron Quattro means that specs like a 0-100 kilometers an hour (62 miles per hour) time of six seconds and a top speed of 225 kmh (139.8 mph), CO2 emissions of under 50 grams per kilometer and a total system torque output of 516.3 pound-feet should be ours to test in the not-too-distant future. This whole E-Tron program is turning out to be quite something. Who else is ready? Related Video: AUDI Q7 ENTERS THE VOLT AGE IN GENEVA WITH NEW SUB 50 G/KM Q7 E-TRON QUATTRO 02/03/15 Commanding new Q7 incorporates hybrid drive for a combined 876-mile range and 166mpg potential First diesel plug-in hybrid with quattro drive in its segment First ever plug-in hybrid TDI from Audi Six-cylinder TDI engine develops 373 PS Electric-only range of up to 34 miles, increasing to 876 miles combined Fully charged in two and half hours Maximum efficiency with hybrid management UK ordering expected to open at the end of 2015 Ingolstadt/Geneva, March 2, 2015 - Audi has combined its world renowned diesel engine expertise with its equally widely acclaimed flair for technological innovation to create its first TDI plug-in hybrid with quattro all-wheel drive. Making its world public debut at the Geneva Motor Show, the new Q7 e-tron quattro combines a frugal TDI engine with lithium-ion battery technology for a potential range of up to 876 miles and the ability to travel emission-free for over 34 miles on electric power alone, contributing to an official CO2 figure of less than 50 grams per kilometre. The Q7 e-tron quattro is the second Audi model with a powerful plug-in hybrid drive system.

Audi RS3 spy shots foreshadow an ultra-hot hatch

Not all vehicle prototypes and mules require heavy camouflage - sometimes they can be hidden in plain sight. That's probably what Audi was hoping for while testing its new RS3 wearing S3 duds, but thanks to some visual and audible telltales, our spy photographers were able to recognize this as a precursor to the marque's ultra-hot hatch testing near the Nürburgring.
Our photographer noticed the signature exhaust note of a five-cylinder engine, which suggests the RS3 could borrow its motivation from the excellent TT RS. Producing at least 340 horsepower, this 2.5-liter turbo powerplant could be the perfect answer for the new A45 AMG from Mercedes-Benz. The big brakes on this RS3 mule give us our best idea about the car's high-performance intentions, with Audi RS wave brake rotors and six-piston calipers peering out from behind the oversized wheels.
In production form, the RS3 should have a much different appearance from what you see here, with sportier design cues including oval-shaped dual exhaust outlets and a more aggressive front fascia. While we're still waiting for our first taste of the S3 in the North America, we'll be holding our breath for the RS3 to make its way here, as well.

2015 Audi TT picks up the style, pace with Xcar

With the original TT, Audi arguably valued style over substance. The equation reversed - at least to an extent - with the second-generation model. But with this latest MkIII version, the German automaker appears to have finally imbued its compact sports car with the performance to back up its runway looks.
That is, at least, what the team at Xcar has to say, having driven the latest Audi sports coupe on the rainy roads of Scotland - taking in its crisp lines, sharp handling, nippy performance and impressive technology along the way. But don't let us spoil it for you: Watch for yourself to see how the new TT measures up against its stylish forebears.