Audi's Highlights

Audi's booth featured a number of new models. Some were surprisingly placed in seemingly ordinary areas, prompting exclamations of 'Oh, it's here too!'New R8and surprised many. In 2015, Audi Japan introduced theTTand theA3 Sportback e-tron. Following these, Audi plans to import the R8, the new A4, andNew Q7.

'There are many people who believe in Audi's enthusiasm.' This was stated by Audi Japan's President and CEO, André Braun, at the press conference. He implied that Audi will continue to launch models that appeal to car enthusiasts in Japan.

Audi A4 Avant 2.0t quattro

Audi R18 e-tron quattro

'The model that personally interests me the most is the new A4. Before I was assigned to Japan, I was working very close to where this car was being developed.' Mr. Braun seemed eager to promote the A4, scheduled for introduction in early 2016.

Indeed, its newly developed 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, utilizing the Miller cycle, offers ample torque from low RPMs, runs smoothly, and achieves better fuel economy than the previous 1.4-liter. Audi collectively calls these advancements 'rightsizing engineering.' The company's policy is to apply rightsizing engineering to each model.

The new A4 will initially be launched as a sedan, followed by the Avant station wagon. The diesel variant, initially planned, has been postponed, which is somewhat disappointing given the engine's quality. We hope for an early release of the quiet yet powerful 2.0-liter diesel. With the powerful 'S4' already announced in its home market, 2016 might well be the year of the A4.

Lamborghini'sHuracán, the new R8, which shares many parts with, is also a notable model among rival sports car manufacturers. A Honda engineer commented, 'When developing theNew NSX, we were conscious of the R8.' It features a mid-mounted 5.2-liter V10 engine producing an immense 397kW and 540Nm, or even 449kW and 560Nm. The extensive use of carbon fiber also contributes to its lightweight design. The fastest version accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.2 seconds.

There is one more model that Audi fans should pay attention to.

Audi R8

Flagship SUV to Launch Next Year Also Exhibited

The 'Q7,' a large SUV that Audi Japan will introduce to the Japanese market in 2016, was on display. Unveiled at the Detroit Show in January 2015, the new model is significantly lighter than its predecessor, achieving a weight reduction of up to 325 kilograms. Its build quality is exceptional, often drawing the close inspection of engineers from other automotive manufacturers at shows. This was also evident at the Tokyo Motor Show.

The second-generation Q7 boasts a large body exceeding 5 meters in length and 1.7 meters in height. It is available in both 5- and 7-seater configurations. In its home market, engine options include a 3.0-liter V6 gasoline and a diesel. Two body types are offered: the standard model and the lighter 'ultra' version. The 'ultra' designation represents a new product line, also featured in models like the A4.

Audi Q7 e-tron quattro

Audi prologue allroad

The Q7 planned for introduction in Japan will feature a 3.0-liter V6 gasoline engine with an output of 245kW, paired with the quattro all-wheel-drive system. A plug-in hybrid model, known as e-tron, is expected to follow later. While details are yet to be confirmed, the European version combines a 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine with an electric motor, achieving a remarkably low CO2 emission of 50 grams per kilometer.

Regarding plug-in hybrids, Audi is focusing on expanding its lineup in Japan, starting with the 'A3 Sportback e-tron' launched in the fall. The plug-in hybrid concept model showcased at the Tokyo Motor Show was the ' '.prologue allroadIt features a powertrain combining a 4.0-liter V8 engine with an electric motor, delivering a total system output of 540kW and a maximum torque of 900Nm.

This powerful combination allows for acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds, while achieving fuel efficiency exceeding 41 kilometers per liter. CO2 emissions are also impressively low at 56 grams per kilometer. The 'prologue' series has previously seen the announcement of theSedanand theAvant, effectively covering nearly all conceivable variations for Audi. It is also speculated to be a styling study for the next-generation 'A8.' The character lines of the body are sharper than ever, perhaps signaling a trend towards a more defined aesthetic.