First Drive: 2010 BMW ActiveHybrid X6

Motor Authority - blog Category: Cabriolet

  • Mcchip liberates 400HP from the Audi TT-RS with ECU mod

    Mcchip liberates 400HP from the Audi TT-RS with ECU mod July 29th, 2009 By Viknesh Vijayenthiran Viknesh Vijayenthiran, Author, July 29th, 2009 Viknesh Vijayenthiran 2 Comments

    Mcchip liberates 400HP from the Audi TT-RS with ECU mod German tuning firm Mcchip specializes in optimizing the vehicle management systems and electronic control units of cars to eke as much performance out of them as possible, and its latest product focuses on giving the new Audi TT-RS a significant boost in the performance department - not that the standard TT-RS was lacking in power to begin with.

    From the factory, the standard 2.5L turbocharged Audi TT-RS has 340hp being cranked out by the five-cylinder engine, and a fairly impressive 325lb-ft of torque. With a rather cheap adjustment from Mcchip, however, horsepower can be increased up to 380hp with a second stage to be unveiled by the... German tuning firm Mcchip specializes in optimizing the vehicle management systems and electronic control units of cars to eke as much performance out of them as possible, and its latest product focuses on giving the new Audi TT-RS a significant boost in the performance department - not that the standard TT-RS was lacking in power to begin with. From the factory, the standard 2.5L turbocharged Audi TT-RS has 340hp being cranked out by the five-cylinder engine, and a fairly impressive 325lb-ft of torque. With a rather cheap adjustment from Mcchip, however, horsepower can be increased up to 380hp with a second stage to be unveiled by the company later on that will lift this figure to around 400hp. Torque, meanwhile, is lifted to a massive 406lb-ft, giving the chipped Audi TT-RS performance to outpace rival sports cars – not bad for an engine displacing just 2.5L. The increases in performance are the result of higher boost pressure and optimization of the engine management system, and the extra power lifts the top speed of the Audi TT-RS to 186mph, rather than the standard vehicle's 155mph. Similarly, the acceleration time from standstill to 62mph is reduced from 4.6 seconds to a cracking 4.1 seconds, and while this is certainly an impressive figure perhaps the most impressive part of the tuned TT-RS is the price tag of the chip - just €899 ($1,275) for unlocking some real supercar rivaling performance. Additionally, Mcchip is offering some other modifications for the car that will be slightly more expensive than the chip - including 20-inch custom alloy wheels from Cargraphic that run for €6,600 ($9,357), as well as an adaptive shock absorber system that will set customers back €1,100 ($1,600).2010 Audi TT-RSMcchip Audi TT-RS Read More

  • Caractere enhances Audi’s A5 Cabrio range with new styling kit

    Caractere enhances Audi’s A5 Cabrio range with new styling kit June 10th, 2009 ByAlex Kaufmann Alex Kaufmann, Author, June 10th, 2009 Alex Kaufmann 0 Comments

    Caractere enhances Audi’s A5 Cabrio range with new styling kit Unlike many of their competitors, the Belgians at Caractere don't do the European version of tacky, flashy tuner cars. Instead, they focus on adding minor enhancements that give the owner a unique look without clamoring for attention.

    The design program for the Audi A5 Cabrio offers a range of front and rear fascias, side skirts and a roof spoiler. The new pieces are designed to fit and enhance the newly introduced drop-top, with special pieces for the high-performance S5 model.

    An exhaust kit is also available, but only on non-quattro models, while the two-piece front spoiler kit only works on non-S-line models. Wheels in both 19 and 20in... Unlike many of their competitors, the Belgians at Caractere don't do the European version of tacky, flashy tuner cars. Instead, they focus on adding minor enhancements that give the owner a unique look without clamoring for attention. The design program for the Audi A5 Cabrio offers a range of front and rear fascias, side skirts and a roof spoiler. The new pieces are designed to fit and enhance the newly introduced drop-top, with special pieces for the high-performance S5 model. An exhaust kit is also available, but only on non-quattro models, while the two-piece front spoiler kit only works on non-S-line models. Wheels in both 19 and 20in sizes are available as part of the program, though since it's a piecemeal system, you can always opt for your own if Caractere's designs don't suit your tastes. Overall, the result is surprisingly tasteful, and a definite step outside the norm for the latest round of German car body kits. For more of Caractere's work, check out the firm's design program for the Audi A5 and S5 Coupes by clicking here.Audi A5 by CaractereCaractere Audi A5 and S5 Cabrios Read More

  • ABT Sportsline adds AS5 package to new A5 Cabrio

    ABT Sportsline adds AS5 package to new A5 Cabrio May 20th, 2009 ByJeremy Weber Jeremy Weber, Author, May 20th, 2009 Jeremy Weber 0 Comments

    ABT Sportsline adds AS5 package to new A5 Cabrio ABT Sportsline is a long-time Audi tuner with very close ties to the German carmaker’s motorsport division. The firm was recently enlisted by Audi to help develop its R8 LMS race car and the experience gained from the high-level of engineering and testing that went into the car has now been transferred into the latest tuning package for the new A5 Cabrio.

    The new AS5 kit has previously been launched for the A5 Coupe but now it is being applied for the full A5 Cabrio range. Under the bonnet is a series of power upgrades achieved via tuning of the different engines’ electronic control modules.

    Starting with the 2.0L TFSI model,... ABT Sportsline is a long-time Audi tuner with very close ties to the German carmaker’s motorsport division. The firm was recently enlisted by Audi to help develop its R8 LMS race car and the experience gained from the high-level of engineering and testing that went into the car has now been transferred into the latest tuning package for the new A5 Cabrio. The new AS5 kit has previously been launched for the A5 Coupe but now it is being applied for the full A5 Cabrio range. Under the bonnet is a series of power upgrades achieved via tuning of the different engines’ electronic control modules. Starting with the 2.0L TFSI model, ABT lifts output to 275hp (202kW). With the 2.7L TDI, the standard 190hp (140kW) output becomes a much stronger 230hp (169kW). Next in line is the 3.0L diesel, which is increased in output to 282hp (207kW). Finally, a special ‘Power S’ kit for the 3.0L V6 turbodiesel sees output increased even further to 310hp (228kW). Logically this power also has to be restrained, so ABT has uprated the Cabrio’s brakes and suspension hardware. Finally, expect ABT to launch an even stronger model based around its AS5-R package that was unveiled for the A5 Coupe at March’s Geneva Motor Show.ABT Sportsline AS5 Audi A5 Cabrio Read More

  • Audi TT-RS Roadster set for Leipzig Motor Show debut

    Audi TT-RS Roadster set for Leipzig Motor Show debut March 24th, 2009 ByJeremy Weber Jeremy Weber, Author, March 24th, 2009 Jeremy Weber 0 Comments

    Audi TT-RS Roadster set for Leipzig Motor Show debut While Audi’s new TT-RS was on display at the recent Geneva Motor Show, only the Coupe variant was showcased even though images and technical details for both the Coupe and Roadster have been available for some time. That is because the first public outing for the TT-RS Roadster is scheduled for next week’s Leipzig Motor Show in Germany, where it will be joined by the A4 Allroad quattro, A5 Cabriolet and R8 V10 FSI.

    Like the TT-RS Coupe, the Roadster variant features a 340hp (250kW) five-cylinder petrol engine with direct-injection and turbocharging technologies. This will see it accelerate from 0-62mph (100km/h) in just 4.7... While Audi’s new TT-RS was on display at the recent Geneva Motor Show, only the Coupe variant was showcased even though images and technical details for both the Coupe and Roadster have been available for some time. That is because the first public outing for the TT-RS Roadster is scheduled for next week’s Leipzig Motor Show in Germany, where it will be joined by the A4 Allroad quattro, A5 Cabriolet and R8 V10 FSI. Like the TT-RS Coupe, the Roadster variant features a 340hp (250kW) five-cylinder petrol engine with direct-injection and turbocharging technologies. This will see it accelerate from 0-62mph (100km/h) in just 4.7 seconds (4.6 seconds for the Coupe), and easily reach an electronically controlled top speed of 155mph (250km/h). Audi’s turbo engines are renowned for their relatively flat torque curves, and this one is no different. It generates 332lb-ft (450Nm) from 1,600rpm to 5,300rpm and should deliver easily accessible performance. A six-speed manual is fitted as standard, as well as ventilated disc brakes with black four-piston aluminum calipers and diameters of 370mm at the front and 310mm at the rear. One RS trademark that has made it to the TT-RS is the addition of the sport button, which alters throttle response and also opens a flap in the left exhaust tailpipe to increase the rumble. The standard electronic stability software has been replaced with a sportier version that is more forgiving to sideways action and can also be switched off completely for maximum fun. Other RS specifics include a quattro permanent AWD system, a sophisticated electronic chassis and suspension management system, a fixed rear wing as opposed to the adjustable spoiler found on more mundane TT models, 18in aluminum wheels, and twin-exit oval exhaust pipes. If you really don’t like the fixed wing, Audi also gives you the option for a more discreet foldaway version. The new TT-RS Roadster will join the Coupe in showrooms in Europe by the middle of the year. Unfortunately, there’s still no word on a U.S. debut.2010 Audi TT-RS2010 Audi TT-RS Read More

  • Audi's new TT-RS will hit 100km/h in just 4.6s

    Audi's new TT-RS will hit 100km/h in just 4.6s March 3rd, 2009 ByJeremy Weber Jeremy Weber, Author, March 3rd, 2009 Jeremy Weber 8 Comments

    Audi's new TT-RS will hit 100km/h in just 4.6s Last year we saw Audi take the wraps off several variants of its sporty TT, with the unveiling of the TT-S, 2.0L TDI diesel-powered TT, and finally, the entry-level 1.8L TFSI model. However, there’s one more TT variant in the works and it could potentially be the fastest production TT ever. The new variant is the performance RS version of the TT, which has officially been revealed ahead of its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show next week.

    Simply called the TT-RS, the latest model sees the return of an Audi five-cylinder powerhouse as well as the introduction of a host of other features. The new 2.5L petrol engine delivers a stunning... Last year we saw Audi take the wraps off several variants of its sporty TT, with the unveiling of the TT-S, 2.0L TDI diesel-powered TT, and finally, the entry-level 1.8L TFSI model. However, there’s one more TT variant in the works and it could potentially be the fastest production TT ever. The new variant is the performance RS version of the TT, which has officially been revealed ahead of its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show next week. Simply called the TT-RS, the latest model sees the return of an Audi five-cylinder powerhouse as well as the introduction of a host of other features. The new 2.5L petrol engine delivers a stunning 340hp (250kW) and features both direct-injection and turbocharging technologies. This will see it accelerate from 0-100km/h in just 4.6s for the coupe and 4.7s for the roadster, and easily reach an electronically controlled top speed of 155mph. The top speed can be raised to 174mph if you pay Audi extra to remove the limiter. Audi’s turbo engines are renowned for their relatively flat torque curves, and this one is no different. It generates 450Nm from 1,600rpm to 5,300rpm and should deliver easily accessible performance. All models are fitted with a six-speed manual and ventilated disc brakes with black four-piston aluminium callipers and diameters of 370mm at the front and 310mm at the rear One RS trademark that has made it to the TT-RS is the addition of the sport button, which alters throttle response and also opens a flap in the left exhaust tailpipe to increase the rumble. The standard electronic stability software has been replaced with a more sporty version that is more forgiving to sideways action and can also be switched off completely for maximum fun. Other RS specifics include a quattro permanent AWD system, a sophisticated electronic chassis and suspension management system, a fixed rear wing as opposed to the adjustable spoiler found on more mundane TT models, 18in aluminum wheels, twin-exit oval exhaust pipes. If you really don’t like the fixed wing, Audi also gives you the option for a more discreet foldaway version. Both a new TT-RS Coupe and Roadster will be available at launch, with the first cars scheduled to hit showrooms in Europe by the middle of the year.2010 Audi TT-RS2010 Audi TT-RS Read More

  • Audi’s handsome A5 and S5 cabrios bare all in new images

    Audi’s handsome A5 and S5 cabrios bare all in new images February 23rd, 2009 By Nelson Ireson Nelson Ireson, Author, February 23rd, 2009 Nelson Ireson 12 Comments

    Audi’s handsome A5 and S5 cabrios bare all in new images The new A5 and S5 Cabriolet range was quietly revealed late last year during the holiday period between the Los Angeles and Detroit Auto Shows, but with production of the handsome duo kicking off in Germany this month Audi has released a flood of new images and details.

    The most exciting variant, the S5 Cabriolet, gets a new supercharged 3.0L TFSI V6 engine with direct injection, good for 333hp (245kW) and 324lb-ft (440Nm) of torque. Quattro all-wheel drive, a sport suspension and 18in wheels plus a range of special equipment features peg the S5 Cabrio as the clear head of the new range. The car vaults from a stop to 62mph (100km/h) in... The new A5 and S5 Cabriolet range was quietly revealed late last year during the holiday period between the Los Angeles and Detroit Auto Shows, but with production of the handsome duo kicking off in Germany this month Audi has released a flood of new images and details. The most exciting variant, the S5 Cabriolet, gets a new supercharged 3.0L TFSI V6 engine with direct injection, good for 333hp (245kW) and 324lb-ft (440Nm) of torque. Quattro all-wheel drive, a sport suspension and 18in wheels plus a range of special equipment features peg the S5 Cabrio as the clear head of the new range. The car vaults from a stop to 62mph (100km/h) in just 5.6 seconds, carries on to an electronically limited top speed of 155mph (250km/h) and still manages fuel efficiency of 24.5mpg (9.6L/100km). Pricing for the S5 variant hasn't yet been released. Base A5 Cabrios will feature a 1.8L TFSI engine rated at 160hp (118kW) and will come with a manual transmission as standard, for a base price of €37,500 ($47,625) in Europe. There's no word yet on when the first models will arrive in U.S. showrooms. Performance figures for the mid-range 265hp (195kW) 3.2L FSI V6 rate at 6.9 seconds for the 0-62mph (100km/h) sprint, with a top speed of 153mph (246km/h). The standard 2.0L TFSI manages 8.9 seconds 0-62mph with its 180hp (132kW) engine and a top speed of 136mph (219km/h), while the uprated 2.0L TFSI unit, rated at 211hp (155kW) cuts acceleration time by 1.4 seconds and raises top speed to 150mph (241km/h). Fuel efficiency of the petrol range is respectable, starting at 27.3mpg (8.6L/100km) for the standard 3.2L V6 FSI, rising to 31.8mpg (7.4L/100km) for the standard 2.0L TFSI and - somewhat counterintuitively - 34.5mpg (6.8L/100km) for the more powerful variant. A pair of V6 TDIs are also available, featuring 240hp (176kW) in 3.0L guise and 190hp (140kW) in 2.7L form, and both are suitably efficient, rating 34.6mpg (6.8L/100km) for the larger of the two, and 37.3mpg (6.3L/100km) for the smaller. Unlike many of its competitors, the A5/S5 cabrio won't come with a folding hard top, instead favoring the traditional Audi soft top, which requires just 15 seconds to open and 17 seconds to close. An acoustic top, which reduces wind noise to near-hardtop levels is available as an option. The automatic raising or lowering functions can be triggered whether moving or stopped as long as speeds are below 31mph (50km/h), obviating the need to pull over to change between open and closed modes. When the top is down, it folds into an area at the top of the rear luggage area, absorbing 2.12cu ft (60L) of the 13.4cu ft (380L) available space, leaving 11.3cu ft (320L) for gear, placing near the front of the class of its competitors. Other standard features of the A5 cabrio include 17in alloy wheels, automatic climate control, and CD stereo system with the third-generation MMI operating system, offering a range of navigation and entertainment functions. In terms of exterior design, the new A5 Cabriolet gets most of the familiar cues of the hardtop sister car, plus a slightly redesigned rear deck to accommodate the folding top. The overall length of the car is 15.2ft (4.6m) and width is 6.1ft (1.85m) while it sits satisfyingly low at 4.5ft (1.4m) tall. A trunklid spoiler lip is standard. Rigidity has been preserved, though likely at the cost of some additional weight, as is usually the case with open-top cars made from hardtops. A range of three transmissions are available: the six-speed manual, which can be had with the 211hp 2.0 TFSI; the multitronic continuously variable automatic available as an option on 2.0L and 3.2L FSI variants; and the seven-speed S tronic which is standard on the 3.0L TDI model, and optional on the 2.0L TFSI and 3.2L V6 FSI.2010 Audi A5 Cabriolet2010 Audi S5 Cabriolet2010 Audi A5 Cabrio driving footage Read More

More Headlines


  1. 1
  2. 2