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Audi stealthily tests RS4 Avant

With S3s, R8s and RS7s aplenty, Audi offers no shortage of performance models in North America. But one of our favorites is always kept just out of arm's reach. That of course is the RS4 Avant, and here we see Audi Quattro GmbH testing the latest version. Though it may look like a plain old S4 – and even wear S4 badges – the wider fenders and bigger wheels suggest that this is in fact a prototype for the upcoming RS4 Avant. For those unfamiliar, that nameplate connotes the best of all worlds within the A4 range: maximum power, maximum traction, and maximum luggage space. All the ingredients, in short, to make us wonder why anyone would rather drive a crossover. After the first-gen RS4 employed a twin-turbo V6, the subsequent two generations went with a 4.2-liter V8. This model, however, could adopt an electric turbocharger setup to give it all the power it needs (and then some) with a new form of hybrid setup that will soon be spreading across the industry. The bigger question on our mind, of course, is whether the new performance wagon will make the transatlantic voyage to North American showrooms. We're holding out hope that Ingolstadt may make a real run down American roads at the likes of the Mercedes-AMG C63 and BMW M3. Whether it brings the wagon body-style along with it is another matter entirely, but we can always dream. Related Video:

Audi TT most likely to breed crossover derivative

Audi has been rolling out successive concepts based on the new TT. Aside from the production coupe and convertible, we've seen the Shooting Brake concept in Detroit, the Offroad concept in Beijing and, most recently, the Sportback concept in Paris. The clear message is that Audi plans on actually producing more derivatives of its stylish two-door, but the question is which one will come first?
Speaking with Britain's Car magazine in Paris this past week, Audi technical chief Ulrich Hackenberg indicated that, while the decision has still yet to be made, the crossover is the most likely candidate.
Producing the TT Offroad concept - or something like it - would give Ingolstadt another addition to its growing crossover lineup that already includes the Q3, Q5 and Q7. Whether this would come in addition to or instead of the rumored Q1 and Q4 models remains to be seen, but crossovers have become increasingly popular and profitable for German automakers like Audi.

Recharge Wrap-up: Ford Fusion and Toyota Highlander named Best Hybrids for Families; Funky Prius motorhome

Tesla Model S customers in China will receive a "Universal Mobile Charger" with their vehicle. The charger will allow drivers to charge their Tesla anywhere, without having to search out a Supercharger when out in the wild. It allows Model S drivers a bit more freedom and helps alleviate worries about traveling too far from home. It could also help sway potential customers who suffer from range anxiety. The charger will be free to new and existing customers when it becomes available this summer. Read more at Car News China. US News & World Reports' list of Best Cars for Families includes two hybrids. The 2015 Ford Fusion Hybrid was chosen as the Best Hybrid Car for Families, while the 2015 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was picked as the Best Hybrid SUV for Families. The Fusion hybrid was chosen for its roomy, comfortable cabin, as well as the MyKey system's features for new drivers. The Highlander Hybrid offers eight seats - good for carpooling - as well as good mileage and a quality infotainment system. Read more at US News & World Reports or at Hybrid Cars. Audi plans to give its electric vehicles looks that differentiate them from the rest of the lineup. "In early 2018, we will launch a battery-powered sports activity vehicle in the large premium segment with a range of more than 500 kilometers," says Audi's head of development, Ulrich Hackenberg. "It will have a new, very attractive design, which we are developing especially for the E-Tron range and for battery-electric vehicles." According to analysts, part of the reason the Toyota Prius was so successful was because it was easy to distinguish from other Toyota models with conventional powertrains. Read more at Automotive News Europe. An Australian man turned his Toyota Prius into a miniature motorhome. James Lawler used mostly scraps to build the tiny house – complete with tin roof, chimney, and stained glass window – for just $150 Australian. It took him about a week to finish. Lawler made use of his creation at the Meredith Music Festival so he didn't have to sleep in a tent. He was, however, fined by police for driving the makeshift motorhome. See pictures and read more at the Herald Sun.