Koenigsegg Agera R (2012)

Koenigsegg Agera R

At the 2011 Geneva Motor Show Koenigsegg is presenting the brand new Koenigsegg Agera R - Quicker than lightning! The Agera R on the Koenigsegg show stand - production car # 83 - is inspired by the legendary Speed Racer theme, as specified by the owner of the car. Speed Racers main colour is white - so is snow. Equipped with special Michelin tires and a custom made Thule Roof Box - Speed Racer is ready to attack the ski resorts!

In 2010 Koenigsegg presented a pre-production version of the Koenigsegg Agera. Since then the pre-production car and several test mules have continued the Agera development program. The Agera pre-production car has been driven by several influential motoring journals, resulting in raving reviews and awards, such as for example becoming the "Top Gear Hypercar of the Year". Please see attached quotes from these test-drives.

All in all the production versions of the Agera are created to take the Koenigsegg experience to the next level both on the road and the track, still maintaining the largest luggage space in the industry in combination with the unique Koenigsegg door system and detachable/stow-able hardtop.

There are several differences between the pre-production car previously shown and the production versions. For example, the engine and gearbox configurations are different and some revolutionary interior, chassis and aerodynamic features adorn the production version of the Agera that has never been shown before. For more information, please read the full press release below.

TAKE ACTION

Although sharing the same values and philosophies as previous Koenigsegg models, the Agera takes the Koenigsegg experience to a completely new level.

Similar to all previous Koenigsegg hypercars, the new Agera is the brainchild of Christian von Koenigsegg. The Agera has come to life in order to set new benchmarks for Hypercars when it comes to control, handling, speed, comfort, practicality and sheer driving enjoyment, while combining these features with clean, efficient and beautiful design.

The name Agera set the tone for the new project. Agera means "to take action" in Swedish. It is also short for the ancient Greek word Ageratos which means "ageless". These two are very suitable meanings, for the car building the future of Koenigsegg.

THE DESIGN

The Agera is designed with the minimalistic "less is more" philosophy in mind. This philosophy means that the shape of the car has to be purely functional with no added features except those purely needed to meet regulation, added safety, ergonomics, practicality and aerodynamics. We believe that if this philosophy is followed, the car will also be beautiful as it is purely purposeful. A good analogy is the evolution of a dolphin that has had to meet similar criteria in order to reach their present configuration through the evolution of nature.

The Agera is proportionate, compact and muscular. Its timeless, efficient and distinctive shape is truly a testament to time. The original shape and concept of the Koenigsegg CC, created 15 years ago, is still valid, fresh and highly competitive today. The Agera manage to stay true to the original philosophy, shape and size of the original CC. At the same time, it looks, feels and performs like something belonging to the future.

THE ENGINE

Koenigsegg differs from other low volume hypercar manufacturers by the fact that Koenigsegg develops and produces its own engine in-house. This is, by most observers and competitors, deemed as more or less impossible or way too expensive to even consider.

However, year after year Koenigsegg has proved them wrong. Not only are the engines developed in-house, they also have class leading characteristics in many important areas. To mention a few: Lightest and most compact hypercar engine in the world, weighing only 197 kg complete with flywheel, clutch, dry sump system, Inconel exhaust manifold with turbo. The low engine weight is quite astonishing, as the Agera engine also has class leading power and torque characteristics. To give an example, the Koenigsegg 5 litre V8 bi-turbo engine develops more than 900 hp on 95 octane regular fuel, and more than 1100 hp on E85 bio fuel. The Agera produces over 1000 Nm of torque from 2500 rpm and in the Koenigsegg Agera R format the engine has a peak torque of 1200 Nm over a 3300 rpm rev range, showing great flexibility.

These are extraordinary numbers considering the size and reliability of the engine without forsaking drivability or flexibility. This is truly downsizing, without drawbacks. These characteristics make it one of the most flexible and easy to use hypercar engines in the world.

To give a hint of how different the Agera engines are compared to other production car engines, it is easy to look at the BMEP value (Brake Mean Effective Pressure) in the cylinders during maximum power output. The best production diesel and petrol engines from other leading manufacturers have a maximum BMEP of around 22 bar.

The Agera engine has a BMEP of 28 bar running on 95 octane fuel and the E85 Bio fuel Koenigsegg Agera R engines has an astonishing BMEP of 30 bar. These numbers show how extreme the Koenigsegg engines are compared to any other production engine in the world. The reason why Koenigsegg can obtain such BMEP figures is due to some proprietary and critical factors, such as:

• A unique shape of the combustion chambers, improving the resistance against detonation.
• High cylinder head clamp load, enabled by a specially designed engine block. This has proven to give a zero failure rate to combustion overpressure, even considering the extreme cylinder pressures.
• A unique engine block design, where the cylinder sleeves are used to further stiffen the aluminium block.
• A connecting rod design reducing TDC dwell time and therefore enabling higher mean pressures without detonation.
• Exhaust manifold and intake plenum trumpets designed to ensure absence of RPM peak resonance and back pressure.
• An efficient ejector pump system reducing the crankcase pressure and aerodynamic losses.

The Koenigsegg engines also meet all the required emission standards in the world. This is nothing short of astounding, given their size and power output.

Koenigsegg has its own engine lab, with simulation programs, rapid prototyping machines, engine and chassis dynamometers, and a 1.7 km test track adjacent the factory enabling Koenigsegg to take the cars to 0-320-0 km/h at any time. Furthermore, a 25 minute drive away from the Koenigsegg Factory there is Knutstorp Racetrack, which is described by many as a miniature Nordschleife. Here Koenigsegg can put the engine and car through serious testing and make sure they work in perfect harmony. This gives Koenigsegg unique possibilities to develop technologies normally exclusive to much larger companies.

No other production engine in the world, regardless of car type, has the same amount of power potential compared to its EU cycle average CO2 emission(310g of CO2) or cycle fuel consumption( 14,7 litre per 100 km / 16MPG). However, what makes Koenigsegg most proud is how drivable, smooth, responsive, torquey and reliable the engines are - especially given their extreme performance.

The Agera engine complies with the most stringent environmental regulations in the world, EU5 and LEV2, and delivers a significant power increase compared to previous Koenigsegg engines.

Fuel consumption, and thus CO2 emissions, has been lowered. This is an astonishing feat for a 900+ hp hypercar. Turbo response is of vital importance when it comes to driving pleasure and the possibility to control massive amounts of power. Therefore Koenigsegg has joined forces with Borg Warner and adapted to the latest technology when it comes to turbine materials. The Koenigsegg Agera R turbines are made from a material called Gamma-Ti which is an inter metallic compound comprised of aluminium and titanium. This new material drastically reduces the inertia of the turbine wheel and axle and therefore gives improved response. Furthermore Koenigsegg has coupled this latest generation turbo technology with patent pending and proprietary response/back pressure reduction system, invented by Christian von Koenigsegg to really give the Agera engine a competitive edge when combining maximum power while complying with the strictest emission regulations in the world.

Furthermore the large air to air intercooler on the left side of the engine sucks enormous amounts of fresh air, eliminating the need for water in the intercooling system, thereby saving weight and avoiding heat soak issues, during extended performance driving.

Following the Koenigsegg tradition the engine has a dry sump lubrication in order to lower the engine as far as possible in the chassis and have full control of the crankcase oil even given the massive g-forces involved.

The large 80-litre tank ensures long driving range, due to the relatively low average consumption. The Agera follows the previous generation Koenigsegg and has its fuel tank well protected, built-in centrally into the carbon fibre monocoque chassis. Since the fuel is centrally placed in the car, the weight distribution does not change regardless if the tank is full or empty. Thanks to the safe fuel tank position, the challenging US high-speed rear impact test, was passed at first trial.

The Koenigsegg Agera R has four intelligent bio fuel grade return-less fuel pumps to deliver the correct amount of fuel at any given time. This reduces the energy needed to operate the fuel pumps and eliminates the waste of excessive fuel transport.

The inconel/titanium patent pending exhaust system is key in order for the Agera to achieve its remarkable emission and power levels. The exhaust system uses a completely new principle created by Christian von Koenigsegg. The new technology drastically reduces back pressure and gives earlier catalytic light off than any other turbo exhaust system. At the same time the acoustics of the exhaust has been examined carefully in order to maintain the typical Koenigsegg thunderous growl.

THE TRANSMISSION

The newly developed 7 speed gearbox for the Agera features a world's first dual clutch system for a single input shaft gearbox. In order to keep the gearbox light, compact strong and reliable, Koenigsegg together with Cima chose to develop a new gearbox type that enables the use of a combination of a dry and wet clutch system, in order to get class leading shift times. First there is the normal twin disc dry clutch that operates in a traditional fashion. Then there is a hydraulically operated wet clutch-brake inside the gearbox that is engaged during each up shift in order to slow down the input shaft, simultaneously as the gears are changed and prior to the normal synchronisation. This cuts the synchronisation time by two thirds, as the gear is presynchronized. The result is a very sporty, smooth and extremely fast shift. Compared to a traditional DCT system, this gearbox is lighter, smaller, has less moving parts and gives a more distinct shift feel, with almost no interruption to the acceleration. Furthermore, the electro hydraulic shift mechanism actuates the shift forks directly with no intermediate mechanical parts. This brings down the inertia of the shift mechanism and any potential slack is minimized since the shortest possible path of engagement is achieved.

The entire transmission weighs only 81 kg, which is by far the lightest 7 speed Hypercar transmission in the world. The transmission can also be set in full auto mode.

The small size and very low weight, considering the longitudinal 7 speed layout, made it possible to maintain the shortest in class rear overhang, and thereby excellent central mass position and neutral behaviour in extreme conditions.

Koenigsegg E-Diff

The Koenigsegg Electronic Differential (E-Diff) is lighter and faster, compared to traditional E-Diff solutions. The difference lies in the fact that Koenigsegg has retained a limited slip differential with plates and ramps with a built-in amount of analogue limited slip functionality. This means that the active hydraulic element can be smaller, more compact and therefore faster and lighter compared to traditional E-Diff solutions. The analogue part of the functionality also has zero processing time as it reacts directly. The analogue system is supplemented by a digital active system.

This way Koenigsegg has obtained one of the lightest and fastest E-Diff solution on the market. Furthermore the Koenigsegg developed algorithms that control the E-Diff, takes input from; throttle angle, g-force, steering wheel angle, yaw angle, car speed, engine rpm, selected gear, plus weather condition.

The way all this data is analysed and how the car reacts to this data also makes the Koenigsegg E-Diff unique and that makes the Agera very safe on the limit and improves performance and feel.

The Koenigsegg E-diff works in harmony with the new traction control system that is the fastest reacting in the industry, with auto adapt functionality to different road conditions and driving styles as well as several manual settings.

THE CHASSIS

The Agera´s unique carbon fibre monocoque chassis is designed to achieve its maximum stiffness without a roof, as the roof is detachable and stow-able in the front of the car. This in itself is an unusual feature for such a compact Hypercar.

The Koenigsegg carbon monocoque chassis has an astonishing stiffness of 65.000 Nm/deg and only weighs 70 kg including the integrated fuel tanks.

The result of constant weight saving exercises is a dry weight of only 1330 kg making the Agera the lightest fully homologated Hypercar presently in production.

THE SUSPENSION

The suspension geometry of the Agera was designed to further enhance the award winning behaviour of the CCX. The Agera track is wider at the front compared to the rear of the car, compensating for the narrower front tires and giving the car a square stance of 2 meters in both the front and the rear.

In typical Koenigsegg tradition, the Agera has the longest wishbones of all hypercars presently in production. Long wishbones have several advantages - for example: less track width deviation during wheel movement or cornering and improved geometry over a longer wheel stroke. This is one of the reason why F1 cars have very long wishbones. The wishbones are produced from seamless aeronautical chrome-molybdenum tubing, in order to minimise weight in combination with maximum strength and stiffness.

The extremely strong and light uprights are machined from 7075-T6 aeronautical grade aluminium, and contains 240 mm SKF dual angle contact bearings, normally only found on Lemans prototype cars. The very large bearings contribute to the overall stiffness of the wheel assembly and therefore give better control, handling and comfort. The uprights have large 4.5" diameter carbon fibre cooling ducts for the brake discs in order to maximise brake cooling.

Brakes

The Agera is equipped with the absolutely latest ABS technology and is based upon, a very lightweight and performance oriented, racing ABS system. The system makes it possible for the ABS function to react to differently depending on performance mode. Furthermore the ABS braking system operates on massive 392×36 mm and 380×34 mm ventilated and drilled ceramic discs, for unparalleled braking performance and zero fade regardless of track or road condition.

RTD (Rear Triplex Damper) Suspension

Christian von Koenigsegg has invented and pioneered a new type of rear suspension system for a road car. The Agera has a shock absorber and spring connecting the right and left rear wheel. This system gives unique benefits as the two rear wheels can influence one another when desired.

There are multiple benefits of this system. For example, the extra spring and damper works in series with the normal spring and dampers allowing their spring and damping rates to be lowered. This results in increased comfort and better handling on rough and wet surfaces without compromising dry track handling.

Furthermore the RTD system has an anti-squat effect. Traditional anti-squat systems are designed into the geometry of the suspension. These systems do not add any components or weight. However they compromise the geometry of the suspension for other aspects of handling than anti-squat.

By adding the RTD system, Koenigsegg can maintain true suspension geometries for handling, but still have the anti-squat feature and harvest other new found benefits. As the RTD system compliments the normal dampers and springs, these can be made lighter. Hence, the added benefit does not significantly affect the overall system weight.

DEDICATED MICHELIN TIRES

Koenigsegg continued its long standing partnership with Michelin in the tire development for the Agera. Hence the Agera features specially developed, latest generation Michelin Super sport tires.

Due to the tires, advanced suspension and aerodynamics, the Agera achieves lateral accelerations up to 1.6 g in dry conditions with improved handling in wet.

The new tires were developed for the Agera through testing at the Michelin Ladoux test centre in France.

The tires fitted to the Agera are rated for speeds over 420 km/h making it the highest top speed rated tire in the world, whilst offering cup tire levels of grip and outstanding wet performance , all in one package.

Koenigsegg are very proud of being a selected development partner of Michelin.

VGR - Vortex Generating Rim spokes

The Koenigsegg VGR wheels are not only for looks. They are real air turbines, increasing the down force of the car by measurable amounts and improve brake cooling. All four wheels are individual so that turbine blades always face the correct direction for extraction. Given that the offset and width is different front to rear, all four wheels have their unique design. The VGR wheels are forged and then fully machined to the final shape. Due to the forging and machining process all excess material has been removed minimising weight, whilst displaying outstanding levels of stiffness.

THE AERODYNAMICS

The Aerodynamics of the Agera has been honed and perfected over many years in CFD and wind tunnel in order ensure best possible outcome. Even with the massive dynamic rear wing, the drag of the Agera is only Cd 0.33, in high speed mode and Cd 0.37 in track mode. Even though the Agera is a full 2 meters wide, it only has a frontal area of 1.87 m2. This results in a Cd*A value of only 0.62 and thus a theoretical top speed of around 440 km/h (Agera R), given the gear ratio and power available. All Agera models are limited to 375 km/h in standard mode, but can be unlocked by Koenigsegg for shorter periods of time, if all necessary conditions are met, such as road condition, tire wear, service level of car etc. The car is set in full speed mode by unlocking the top speed mode in the Infotainment system.

The two large side air intakes greatly add to the Agera´s high speed stability as they ensure that the pressure point of the car is behind the mass centre of the car. This makes the car more directionally stable with increasing speed. This is a crucial safety feature when it comes to driving at extreme speeds. Great care has been taken that the car also is stable under high speed braking. The front splitter and rear diffuser has been designed and optimized with this in mind.

For maximum performance and safety it is important that the down force stays as constant as possible even in yaw situations. Therefore the rear diffuser was developed and evaluated specifically to give substantial down force even at wide yaw angles.

Dynamic rear wing

Hypercars of today generate massive amounts of down force in low to medium speed and less down force in very high speed, in order not to overload the tires and not to create too much drag. Most hypercars therefore have heavy hydraulically operated wings and flaps to cater for this need.

Koenigsegg however, following the "less is more" philosophy, has designed a dynamic system to that take care of the above described needs. The most visual and obvious part of this system is the new dynamic rear wing. The wing changes its angle of attack, not with the help of hydraulics, but with the pressure of the wind. It is therefore dynamically controlled by the speed or wind resistance at any given moment in time and thus actually compensates for headwind or tailwind at the same given speed. This is an intelligent way of dealing with adaptive aerodynamics, as the system becomes lighter, less complex and more intuitive compared to heavy and complex hydraulics systems. Koenigsegg had to work heavily with CFD in order to create the dynamically controlled adaptive aerodynamics of the Agera.

Furthermore, an interesting multifunction feature of the adaptive wing is that the pylons for the wing also act as air extrusion channels. The air channels goes from the engine bay to the back of the pylons, thereby creating an air passage. This causes a venturi effect, from the air rushing past the pylon, evacuating hot engine bay gases, reducing pressure in the engine bay and increasing the flow of cooling air through the side radiators. This also means that the pressure under the car is reduced and giving more low drag down force.

THE INTERIOR

The interior of the Agera is like no other car. No other materials than those deemed worthy by Koenigsegg are allowed in the interior. This means that what you get to touch and see inside the Agera is only aluminium, carbon fibre, precious metals, alcantara and aniline leather. All switch gear is highly bespoke and features wonderfully unique solutions, as for example the Koenigsegg Ghost light, that make solid aluminium buttons gleam with LED powered symbols appearing out of nowhere. A world first in the car industry. The illumination shines through the billet aluminium buttons and surfaces by way of almost invisible micro holes, creating excellent visibility of the symbols as well as a very clean and stylish appearance, framed by an all-new carbon fibre centre console and tunnel assembly.

The new super light full carbon airbag steering wheel incorporates many vital functions directly in front of the driver. Similarly to the CCX, the shifting paddles are mounted directly on the steering wheel to enable shifting without taking your hands off the steering wheel during hard cornering.

The central high-definition touch screen infotainment system controls the audio functions, satellite navigation, Bluetooth phone and secondary functions such as performance meters and car telemetrical data.

The very comfortable and optionally heated carbon seats are great for long journeys but also give excellent lateral support when needed.

The Interior of the Agera is truly minimalistic and efficient in the purest Swedish sense. Nothing in the interior is there only to add visual drama; instead everything is there for a functional purpose. According to Koenigsegg, this is the essence of beauty, as it follows a less is more philosophy that embodies every engineering aspect of the Agera.

CI - Configurable Instruments

The CI is specifically developed for the Agera by Koenigsegg. It features a unique and configurable interface that can be adapted to driver specific demands. As it is connected to the cars CAN bus system it freely communicates with the infotainment screen and all other functions in the car.

By pushing the left stalk button, different priority graphics can be chosen, depending on need. For example in track driving mode, there is a focus on; RPM, pressures, temperatures, lap times, and g-forces. Compared to GT mode, where: car speed, auto shift, satnav, power, music etc is prioritized.

THE LUGGAGE SPACE

The luggage space is something Koenigsegg is very proud of. It is the largest luggage compartment in the hypercar world, with a space of over 120 litres. It is so well shaped that it actually can fit the one piece Agera roof/hardtop, meaning the driver can choose to go open or closed at any given time during a longer trip. Given the fact that Koenigsegg has engineered the roof to fit the car, it is actually also possible fit a set of golf clubs. This is unheard of in the hypercar world. Given the high comfort level and the large luggage space, the Agera can truly been seen as one of the first GT hypercars.

Custom Carbon fibre Thule Lightning Roof Box

At the 2011 Geneva Motor show, Koenigsegg presents the Koenigsegg winter package - the first lifestyle packages offered from Koenigsegg. The main element of this package is the exceptional Lightning Roof Box System.

The Lightning Roof Box is developed together with the Swedish rack and roof box manufacturer Thule. The high performance lightweight box is made completely from carbon fibre and has been through several iterations of CFD simulation to ensure it is safe up to 300 km/h, making it the fastest roof box in the world.

The roof box, which has an incorporated roof panel, replaces the normal roof in under 10 minutes. The standard roof is then stored in the luggage compartment in the front of the car, so that when the driver arrives to his destination, the roof box can be quickly removed and the normal roof can be put in place for a more elegant look.

The Lightning roof box truly enables the driver to use the Agera for longer trips with massive luggage. This gives a whole new spectrum of hypercar utilization.

The winter package also includes Michelin snow tires on forged Koenigsegg wheels and custom designed Koenigsegg skis from the Swedish high end ski manufacturer, Extrem.

Part of the winter package is also a Swedish winter resort experience in Åre - Sweden's most popular skiing resort and the place of manufacture of the Koenigsegg skis.

During the stay in Åre, the Koenigsegg customers will be fitted for their skis and they can witness first hand when they are being hand made in "Åres skidfabrik", a state of the art ski production plant.

While their skis are being made, they will be checked into the delightful Copperhill Mountain Lodge that is towering snow-capped forests and sparkling frozen lakes.

The following day the skis are ready for use and Åre´s many and varied ski slopes are available for test runs, in direct access from the Copperhill Mountain Lodge.

Together with the Golf club options this marks the start of the Koenigsegg extended lifestyle program for Koenigsegg cars.

We would also like to thank Full Tilt, Houdini Sportswear, Sweet Protection, Sport Lodge'n Trysil and Moods of Norway, for assisting us in creating the winter experience at the Geneva motorshow.

THE ELECTRONICS

Not only does Koenigsegg develop their own engines, but also many of the electronic control units, CAN protocols, and management strategies are developed in-house. If you would look closely at many of the circuit boards in the car, inside the control units, you will find the name Koenigsegg in scripted directly on the circuit boards.

Of course there is no self fulfilling need to develop so many critical items in-house, unless it gives the car a competitive edge doing so. This is actually the main reason for Koenigsegg doing it. This, for example, gave Koenigsegg the possibility to pioneer the CCXR and Agera R - the two first environmentally conscious hypercars in the world.

An example of this development is In the Semiconductor Electric Control Central. The ECC controls most of the electronic functions in the car. Most physical fuses or relays have been replaced by software controlled semiconductors which are configurable in function and enable monitoring all power and threshold values. The ECC communicates via CAN with the infotainment system in order to display necessary information to the driver. For example if a door is open, a lamp is broken, or not all roof locks are tight in place, information will appear on the instruments as all electrical functions are controlled and monitored by the ECC.

Intelligent Lifepo4 Battery - ILB

The Agera is the first combustion engine powered production car in the world, with an intelligent Lithium Iron battery as standard equipment. First of all, this battery type saves significant weight and is more compact compared to traditional led acid batteries. Secondly lithium iron cells cannot reach thermal runway, unlike Li-ion batteries, which makes them very safe for automotive use.

Furthermore, the ILB carries many intelligent functions, developed by Koenigsegg together with the battery supplier. Hypercars tend to be parked long periods of time and therefore their batteries can be drained if the car is not hooked up to a trickle charger. Even though all Koenigsegg cars come as standard with a trickle charger it is not always easy to remember, or even possible depending on location, to use it. It is also possible that a driver sometime forgets to turn off all consumers, like parking lights etc causing early battery drainage.

Koenigsegg has therefore implemented a minimum current protection mode, to make the above issues something of the past. The new ILB therefore has an intelligent circuit built into it, so if the car is left on or standing for a long time, the battery shuts down when the voltage drops below a certain threshold. The shut down does not occur sooner than a traditional battery would have been left depleted and useless, so it does not take away any expected battery capacity. Then, if any essential buttons or a door knob is touched, the battery kicks back into life for 5 minutes and has enough power to operate all the functionalities in the car and start the engine and thereby giving charge back to the battery.

Given this strategy, battery concerns are a thing of the past. No matter of the behaviour of the car user. To prove a point you can leave the car with the high beam on and the stereo at full blast in the evening, without the engine running. Wake up in the morning, open the car door, start the engine and drive away. Alternatively, leave the car for a couple of months, open the door, start the car and drive away.

TECHNICAL DATA

• Koenigsegg developed, aluminium/carbon fibre, dry sump, 32 valve, Twin Turbo, V8 engine
• Torque: 1100 - 1200Nm - depending on version and fuel
• Displacement: 5.035 L. Bore: 90.7mm. Stroke: 95.25 mm. Compression ratio: 9.0:1. Max rpm: 7250
• Power: 940-1115hp - depending on version and fuel
• 7-speed, dual clutch, single input shaft, AMT Transmission with E-diff.
• Frontal Area: 1.873 m2
• CD 0.30 (no rear wing) - 0.33 (fixed normal Agera rear wing) - 0.33 to 0.37(adaptable wing)
• Luggage space: 120 litres
• Dry weight: 1330 kg
• Curb weight 1418 kg (all fluids plus 50% fuel)
• Maximum laden weight: 1600 kg(full tank, two passengers, full luggage)
• Length: 4296 mm
• Width: 1998 mm
• Height: 1120 mm
• Wheelbase: 2662 mm
• Front Track: 1700 mm
• Rear Track: 1650 mm
• Front overhang: 885mm
• Rear overhang: 752mm

Audi A6 (2012)

Audi A6

Audi has redesigned its flagship executive class model. With its light body, sporty chassis and a wide array of new assistance and multimedia systems, the full-sized sedan is packed with innovative solutions in every area of technology. The range of available engines and drivetrains is equally extensive. Combining the power of a V6 with the fuel efficiency of a four-cylinder engine, the soon-to-be-available Audi A6 Hybrid will be one highlight of the lineup.

Much of the body of the new Audi A6 consists of aluminum and high-tech steels, rendering it exceedingly light, stiff and safe. State-of-the art design methods and materials ensure extremely low interior noise levels. Precision tuning of all components and systematic hydraulic damping in the axle and drivetrain bearings provide excellent vibrational comfort.

The design of the new Audi A6 embodies athleticism and elegance. The sedan is 4.92 meters (16.14 ft) long and 1.87 meters (6.14 ft) wide, but just 1.46 meters (4.79 ft) high - sporty proportions that are unrivaled by the competition. The long engine hood, the low, sweeping roofline and the prominent lines on the flanks create a dynamic overall appearance. Optional LED headlights emphasize the striking expression at the front.

The roomy interior of the new Audi A6 echoes the sinewy style of the exterior. The salient element is the "wrap-around" - an inlay encircling the driver and the front-seat passenger. The elegantly curved dash panel places the driver at the center of the interior.

Audi A6 (2012)

Every detail of the interior is a testament to the care that Audi invests in carmaking. All materials, including an innovative layered-wood veneer, have been selected and crafted with the utmost care. As an option, the front seats can be equipped with ventilation and massage functions. Classy ambient lighting in the lighting package provides small points of light throughout the interior.

The new Audi A6 features the logical ergonomics concept that distinguishes all of the brand's models. A highly efficient automatic air conditioning system and the latest-generation MMI radio operating system are standard; Audi also offers an optional head-up display, which projects important information onto the windshield. The MMI touch operating system is also available as an option. This enables much of the hard-drive MMI navigation plus system to be controlled by means of a touchpad.

The online services, developed though a partnership between Audi and service provider Google, connect the full-sized sedan to the Internet via the Bluetooth car phone online. A UMTS module pulls images and information from Google Earth up on the monitor and integrates them with the navigation route. A WLAN hotspot provides contact to mobile terminals on board. The top of the hi-fi line is the Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System.

MMI navigation plus works closely together with the optional assistance and safety systems in the new A6. It forwards the route data to the control units for the headlights, the automatic transmission and the adaptive cruise control with stop & go function. This enables these systems to recognize complex scenarios and assist the driver. In many situations, the Audi pre sense safety system is able to reduce accidents and their consequences, or even prevent them altogether. The Audi active lane assist helps the driver keep the Audi A6 on course, and the park assist system relieves the driver of the chore of steering when parallel parking.

Audi offers the A6 with a choice of five powerful, highly efficient engines: two gasoline engines and three TDI units. These powerplants develop between 130 kW (177 hp) and 220 kW (300 hp). All of these engines make use of important technologies from the brand's modular efficiency platform - the start-stop system, the energy recovery system, and the innovative thermal management concept.

Throughout the entire model line, fuel consumption in the Audi A6 has decreased by up to 19 percent compared to the previous model. In terms of consumption figures, the Audi A6 outperforms the competition.

The most powerful unit in the range is the 2.0 TDI. In conjunction with a manual transmission, it requires on average just 4.9 liters of fuel per 100 km (48.00 US mpg) and emits just 129 g CO2 per km (207.61 g/mile). The Audi A6 hybrid will be available from Audi at a later date. Serving up 180 kW (245 hp) of system performance, its 2.0 TFSI plus electric motor will achieve efficient and sporty acceleration with an average fuel consumption of only 6.2 liters per 100 km (37.94 US mpg) (provisional figure).

As was the case with the previous model, the new Audi A6 is also available with a wide range of drivetrains. The choice, based on the engine version, will include a manual six-speed transmission, the continuously variable multitronic, and the brand-new, sporty S tronic. Each unit is precisely tuned and features a wide gear-ratio spread, thereby making a significant contribution to the sedan's efficiency.

Depending on the engine version, power is funneled via the gears to the front wheels or to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive, whose crown-gear center differential and torque-vectoring function achieve the ultimate traction, stability and dynamic response. For the top-of-the-line engines, Audi will offer an optional sport differential.

The chassis of the new A6 combines sporty precision with supreme comfort. Its links are made of aluminum; the redesigned power steering features a highly efficient electromechanical drive. The executive sedan has wheels ranging from 16 to 20 inches in diameter.

The Audi drive select dynamic handling system is standard, and the front-wheel-drive models have the sporty ESP with electronic limited-slip differential on board. For enhanced comfort, adaptive air suspension with controlled damping is available as an option. Dynamic steering will be available soon, also as an option.

Body

Audi has created an intelligent combination of various materials, rendering the body of the new Audi A6 extremely light, safe, and stiff. Thanks to its composite steel-aluminum construction, the body weighs approximately 15 percent less than a conventional steel construction, earning the sedan with the four rings a top ranking among the competition. Providing 130 kW (177 hp) of power, the Audi A6 2.0 TDI tips the scales at just 1,575 kilograms (3,472.28 lb), not including the driver.

Aluminum components make up more than 20 percent of the body. The strut mounts at the front of the car are castings; the struts in the engine compartment and the crossmembers behind the bumpers are sections made of this lightweight material. All add-on parts, such as the front fenders, the engine hood, the rear hatch and the doors, but also the bulkhead and the crossmember in the luggage compartment, are made of aluminum panels.

High-end steels also play a key role in the new Audi A6. The best of these are the hot-shaped steels, which get their extreme tensile strength from a temperature increase during the shaping process. These steels are found in some areas of the passenger cell and at its transition to the front end of the car. In many areas, tailored blanks are used. These are panels of various thicknesses that are thicker and stronger in areas subjected to higher loads.

The new Audi A6 sedan is extraordinarily quiet. Thanks to a sophisticated aeroacoustics system and extensive insulation, the noise level in the interior remains very low even at high speeds on the highway. The excellent vibrational comfort is the result of painstaking tuning of all components, systematic hydraulic damping in the axle and drivetrain bearings, and the extremely stiff body.

The precision aerodynamic tuning, which also includes the paneled underfloor and the airflow through the engine compartment, translates to a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.26 in the base version, an improvement compared with the predecessor. The frontal area of the new Audi A6 measures 2.3 m2 (24.76 ft2).

Headlights

The headlights give the A6 a distinctive look. Featuring a shallow design that becomes wider toward the fenders, they shift the visual focus outward. A curved panel, or wing, gives structure to their interior, and the bottom edge forms an undulatory contour.

High-intensity halogen headlights are a standard feature on the new Audi A6. Xenon plus units that include new all-weather lights and an LED daytime running light strip are optionally available from Audi. Also available is the adaptive light function, which ensures just the right illumination in all driving conditions. Among its features is the floating headlight range control system, which detects other vehicles and localities with a camera and adapts its own light by swiveling the modules with soft transitions.

The headlight control unit works together with the optional MMI navigation plus system, from which it obtains route data in advance. Using navigation-based vehicle assistance, the system can activate the highway lights while the car is still on the on-ramp, for example, or turn on the cornering light even before the car reaches an intersection.

The new A6 can also be outfitted with all-LED headlights - a major technological innovation from Audi. The white light they emit is similar to daylight; at night, it is gentler on the eyes. The LED headlights are long-lasting, maintenance-free, and highly efficient; at low beam, each unit requires just 40 watts of power.

The high-performance LEDs for the low-beam and high-beam headlights produce striking graphics. The daytime running lights and turn signal, comprising a multitude of LEDs, appear as a homogeneous strip at the bottom edge of the headlight. The high-beam assistant switches automatically between the low and high beams. The cornering light, the all-weather lights and the highway lights round out the system.

Design

The latest Audi A6 is 4.92 meters (16.14 ft) long and has a wheelbase of 2.91 meters (9.55 ft). Measuring 1.87 meters (6.14 ft) in width, it is only 1.46 meters (4.79 ft) tall. Compared to the previous model, it comes in a few millimeters shorter and lower; it width and, most notably, its wheelbase, however, have grown significantly. The harmonious proportions - the long engine hood, the short overhangs, and the sweeping roofline - embody a character of athletic elegance.

Painted a high-gloss black, the large, low single-frame grill featuring beveled upper corners merges neatly with the sculptured front end. The horizontal orientation of the louvers underscores the width of the latest Audi A6, as do the wide, low air intakes.

The interplay between soft surfaces and precise, hard lines dominates the side view of the new Audi A6. Typical for the brand, the sheet-metal body is roughly twice as tall as the greenhouse. The tornado line beneath the window edge runs across the entire flank; it forms a prominent shaded edge, lending strength to the body's shoulders. Above the side sills lies the dynamic line, taking a slight upward turn. A high-gloss package accentuates the area around the windows.

The elegant line ends in a prominent tail end with a subtle spoiler edge. The matt black diffuser insert envelopes the two large, round tailpipes for the exhaust system. As is always the case on an Audi, the surfaces at the tail end are three-dimensional in shape. The styling of the two-part tail lights also echoes the trapezoidal shape of the headlights at the rear of the car.

In combination with the xenon plus and LED headlights, Audi also offers tail lights with LED technology, giving a three-dimensional effect to their light pattern. The rear lighting system forms a visually continuous band in the form of a wide, U-shaped curve; the turn signal lights form a strip that runs across the upper edge of the unit. Incandescent lamps illuminate the back-up lights and the rear fog lights.

The optional S line exterior package gives the car an even sportier look, with more prominently featured bumpers, grills on the air intakes, and diffuser insert. The diffuser and the center edge of the front spoiler are painted gray; the fenders and the door sills sport S line badges. The sill panels stay the same color as the body.

Audi offers the new A6 in 12 paint finishes. The two solid colors are called Ibis White and Brilliant Black. The eight metallic hues bear the names Aviator Blue, Dakota Gray, Ice Silver, Havana Black, Moonlight Blue, Oolong Gray, Quartz Gray and - coming soon - Glacier White. The pearl-effect colors Phantom Black and Garnet Red round out the selection.

Interior

The new Audi A6 welcomes passengers in its interior with an ambiance of airiness and roominess; the sinewy, dynamic quality of the exterior is echoed in the interior lines. The wrap-around inlay defines the cockpit area, beginning at the driver's door and running in one large arc beneath the root of the windshield, then all the way to the front passenger's door. Curved elegantly around the driver's seat, the dash panel with its high-precision trim strip rounds out the taut-line concept.

Every detail in the interior has been executed with the utmost attention and care, on par with the finest handcrafted quality. Take, for example, the brilliant aluminum-look control knobs, which click and engage perfectly. Merely a few tenths of a millimeter wide, the gaps run exactly parallel. The shift gate and the start-stop button feature subtle red backlighting. The optional ambient lighting and lighting package emphasize the lounge atmosphere.

The front seats in the new Audi A6 provide excellent support and guidance for the body. Audi can also install the optional comfort seats, which can be adjusted in 18 different ways. These seats can be equipped with optional, luxurious air-conditioning and massage functions, featuring ten air cushions and five programs to pamper the back. Sport seats with accentuated side bolsters and an extendable thigh support mechanism are available as an alternative.

The seats at the rear of the executive sedan offer ample room for feet, knees, elbows, and heads, with continuously adjustable doors that make getting in easy. As part of the front comfort seating option, Audi can install two individual contoured seats in the rear compartment, but without sacrificing the third seat. Large, practical storage compartments are available at all of the seats, and a special storage package is available as an option.

The seats are upholstered in cloth as standard, with two types of leather and an Alcantara/leather combination available as options. The colors for the seat upholstery are black, goa beige, nougat brown, titanium gray, and velvet beige. Black, gray, brown, and beige hues are available for the interior, and the roof lining comes in black, silver, and beige.

In addition to the standard trims in Micrometallic platinum, the inlays are also available in an aluminum version. The inlays also feature wood veneers made of ash and walnut. In the near future, Audi will also offer a new, exceptionally attractive alternative - a veneer made of layered oak wood.

The new Audi A6 offers a whole host of functions, all of which can be controlled effortlessly owing to the brand's logical ergonomics concept. The latest-generation MMI radio operating system is standard; its terminal is situated on the wide center tunnel, where there is ample space thanks to the electromechanical handbrake. When the system starts up, the central on-board monitor with its high-gloss black frame extends from the instrument panel in an elegant movement; it measures 6.5 or 8 inches in diagonal, depending on the version.

The optional seven-inch driver information system (DIS) sits between the two large dial instruments. It is controlled by means of the multifunction steering wheel, which, like the DIS itself, is available in a number of versions. Among the system's standard features is the on-board computer featuring an efficiency program. The on-board computer provides a gear-change indicator, offers tips for fuel-efficient driving, and displays the current energy requirements of on-board electrical consumers.

A high-efficiency two-zone automatic air conditioning system comes standard in the new Audi A6. One of the most attractive options is the newly developed head-up display, which projects important information onto the windshield. The colored digits and symbols appear to float at a distance of approximately 2.5 meters (8.20 ft), allowing for optimal readability. Drivers can customize the display for specific information.

The luggage compartment, lined with high-quality carpeting, has a capacity of 530 liters (18.72 cubic ft). The rear seat backs can be folded down as an optional feature, a feature that is standard with comfort seats. For the tailgate, Audi offers an optional electric drive that can also be operated with the convenience key. Also available are a load-through hatch complete with ski bag, as well as a reversible mat.

Engines

Audi is launching the A6 with a choice of powerful, sophisticated, and highly efficient four- and six-cylinder powerplants: two gasoline engines and three TDI units. They have outputs ranging from 130 kW (177 hp) to 220 kW (300 hp). They obtain their fuel through direct injection; the 3.0 TFSI employs a supercharger to achieve boost, and the 2.0 TFSI and TDI operate with turbochargers.

Each of these engines makes use of technologies from the Audi modular efficiency platform. Much effort has gone into optimizing these engines, particularly with regard to internal friction, in keeping with the brand's innovative thermal management system. Each of the units operates with an energy recovery system combined with a start-stop system, irrespective of the type of transmission used.

The new Audi A6 is setting the standard for efficiency in the executive class. Throughout the entire model line, fuel consumption in the Audi A6 has decreased by up to 19 percent compared with the previous models - even as its performance has increased. The 2.0 TDI requires on average just 4.9 liters of fuel per 100 km (48.00 US mpg) and emits only 129 g CO2 per km (207.61 g/mile).

The naturally aspirated 2.8 FSI is also equipped with AVS; in this case, it acts on the intake valves. The throttle can usually remain open, allowing the V6 to breathe freely. It has an output of 150 kW (204 hp) and achieves 280 Nm (206.52 lb-ft) of torque in the speed range of 5,250 to 6,500 rpm. Key data (with multitronic): 0-100 km/h (0-62.14 mph) in 7.7 seconds; top speed 240 km/h (149.13 mph); consumption in the EU cycle 7.4 liters per 100 km (31.79 US mpg), 172 g CO2 per km (276.81 g/mile). This represents an improvement of 12 percent, despite the fact that the predecessor delivered 10 kW (14 hp) less.

The most powerful gasoline engine in the A6 family is the 3.0 TFSI; its mechanical charger is situated in the 90-degree V formed by the cylinder banks. The V6 delivers 220 kW (300 hp) of power and 440 Nm (324.53 lb-ft) of torque, the latter at 2,900 to 4,500 rpm. The Audi A6 3.0 TFSI sprints from standing to backroad speed in 5.5 seconds and reaches an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph). It consumes on average 8.2 liters per 100 km (26.68 US mpg) and emits 190 g CO2 per km (305.78 g/mile) - an advance of 13 percent over the previous model, which produced 213 kW (290 hp).

The most efficient engine in the new A6 is the redeveloped 2.0 TDI. This four-cylinder unit develops 130 kW (177 hp). Its 380 Nm (280.27 lb-ft) of torque stand at the ready between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm. In conjunction with a manual transmission, it propels the Audi A6 from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 8.7 seconds, then on to a top speed of 228 km/h (141.67 mph). In the EU cycle, it requires just 4.9 liters per 100 km (48.00 US mpg) and emits only 129 g CO2 per km (207.61 g/mile). That is a 13 percent decrease in fuel consumption.

The newly developed 3.0 TDI is represented with two versions in the Audi A6 family. Both stand out for their low weight, minimal internal friction, ultra high-precision tuning of the auxiliary units, and a highly sophisticated thermal management system that provides separate coolant circuits for the crankcase and cylinder heads.

In the first version, the V6 diesel generates 150 kW (204 hp) and applies 400 Nm (295.02 lb-ft) of torque in the low range of 1,250 to 3,500 rpm. Paired with a multitronic transmission, it accelerates the A6 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 7.2 seconds and achieves a top speed of 240 km/h (149.13 mph). Its average consumption is a mere 5.2 liters per 100 km, a CO2 emissions level of 137 g per km (220.48 g/mile). Compared with the 140 kW (190 hp) predecessor, this represents an advance of 19 percent.

The top-of-the-line version of the 3.0 TDI delivers 180 kW (245 hp), providing 500 Nm (368.78 lb-ft) of torque between 1,400 and 3,250 revolutions. The standard sprint takes just 6.1 seconds, and top speed is limited to 250 km/h (155.34 mph). On average, this top-performing diesel powerplant uses just 6.0 liters of fuel per 100 km (39.20 US mpg) and emits 158 g CO2 per km (254.28 g/mile). As such it outperforms the previous engine, which achieved 176 kW (240 hp), by 16 percent.

Drivetrain

As was the case with the previous model, the new Audi A6 is also available with a wide range of drivetrains. Depending on the engine version, these include front-wheel drive and quattro drive, the manual six-speed transmission, the continuously variable multitronic, and the seven-speed S tronic - the lightning fast dual-clutch transmission is a new addition to the large series. Audi offers optional shift paddles.

The transmissions are a major factor in the efficiency of the new A6. They stand out due to their low internal friction and high efficiency; with their wide gear-ratio spread, they are high geared for high speeds. The automatic transmissions have access to predictive route data from the navigation systems and are integrated into the engine's thermal management system. The differential is in front of the clutch and immediately behind the engine. Accordingly, the front axle on the Audi A6 is positioned farther forward, making for a long wheelbase and a harmonious axle load distribution.

The four-cylinder TDI transfers its power to the front wheels. It is fitted as standard with a manual transmission or, alternatively, with the multitronic. These transmissions are also available for the front-wheel-drive version of the 2.8 FSI. The manual transmission will also be available soon after for the 150 kW (204 hp) 3.0 TDI. The FSI gasoline engine can also be coupled with quattro permanent all-wheel drive and the S tronic. The 3.0 TFSI and the 180 kW (245 hp) 3.0 TDI come with a standard all-wheel drive, always in combination with the S tronic.

All quattro versions of the new A6 implement the latest development stage of the permanent all-wheel drive with the crown-gear center differential. This system distributes power in an especially flexible, dynamic manner, while also featuring a compact, lightweight construction. The basic ratio of power distribution between the front and rear axle is 40:60 - a sporty, rear-biased characteristic.

The new quattro drivetrain features the integrated torque-vectoring function, which recognizes when the inside wheels are about to lose their grip during fast cornering. Before this can happen, it brakes the wheel very slightly - almost imperceptibly - making the handling even more fluid and traction even stronger. Rounding off the top-of-the-line version, Audi offers the optional sport differential, which actively distributes the power between the rear wheels.

Chassis

The chassis of the new Audi A6 combines sporty precision with supreme comfort. The wheel control arms and many other components are made of lightweight aluminum. Each of the front wheels is guided by five control arms, with self-tracking trapezoidal-link suspension operating at the rear.

The standard alloy wheels are 16 or 17 inches in diameter, depending on the engine version. Audi and quattro GmbH offer wheels with up to 20-inch rims as an option. Tire formats ranging from 225/60 to 265/35. A tire-pressure monitor display is standard, and certain tires can be optionally equipped with emergency running properties.

The four disk brakes - internally ventilated at the front - are generously sized and powerful. The brake light operates on an adaptive principle; when the brakes are fully applied, it warns the traffic behind by pulsating rapidly.

The redesigned power steering has an electromechanical drive that operates in a highly efficient manner. The degree of support it provides is based on the speed. With a ratio of 16.1:1, the steering is sporty and direct, providing precise feedback from the road. It cooperates closely with the optional Audi active lane assist system and also proves useful with braking when the car has traction on only one side: The steering impulses it gives in this case make it easier for the driver to steer in the right direction.

Audi has equipped the new A6 with steel springs that ensure a high level of ride comfort. Sport suspension as well as S line sport suspension from quattro GmbH are alternative options. Air suspension with four electronically controlled shock absorbers is also optionally available. The adaptive air suspension has been redesigned, with spring struts up front and separate air springs and dampers in the back. The system sets the ride height of the body to one of three levels. On the highway, it lowers the body, increasing stability and decreasing fuel consumption.

All front-wheel drive models of the Audi A6 have the ESP electronic stabilization program with electronic limited-slip differential on board. This software solution operates much like the torque-vectoring function in the quattro train; however, it focuses its light brake applications solely on the inside front wheel. This braking action ensures that the sedan remains neutral longer during fast cornering, practically eliminating understeering, improving grip, and making handling more dynamic.

Among the high-end solutions in the new A6 is the Audi drive select dynamic handling system. In its standard version, it controls the engine management, power steering, and the automatic air conditioning system. The driver can vary the function of these components between the five modes "comfort," "auto," "dynamic," "individual," and "efficiency." For all TFSI and TDI models, the "efficiency" operating level supports a driving style that provides for optimum fuel consumption by customizing the characteristics of various vehicle systems.

Audi A6 customers can expand the system to include the automatic transmission, adaptive air suspension, ACC with stop & go function, adaptive lights, and ambient lighting options. Soon to come are the sport differential and dynamic steering, which varies its ratio according to the speed at which the car is traveling.

Equipment and trim

The new Audi A6 will arrive at dealerships with an array of standard equipment, including the Audi pre sense basic system, alloy wheels, the high-efficiency two-zone automatic air conditioning system, the front center armrest, the engine start-stop button, the tire pressure monitoring system, the adaptive brake light, the MMI radio complete with 6.5-inch monitor, and the electromechanical parking brake. The safety package consists of two front, side and head airbags, four belt tensioners, and the integral Audi head restraint system.

The portfolio of new assistance, safety, and infotainment systems is particularly attractive. In terms of music, a number of components are available, such as a DVD changer, a digital radio tuner, the Audi music interface for integrating a mobile player, a TV module, and the Bose surround sound system. The pinnacle of all sound systems is the 1,300-watt Advanced Sound System from Bang & Olufsen. Its 15 speakers, which include two acoustic lenses that extend from the instrument panel when the system is switched on, have elegant housings made of aluminum.

The optional Bluetooth car phone online connects the executive sedan to the Internet, in partnership with service provider Google. A UMTS module allows the car to retrieve news, weather, and travel information; it also pulls images and information from Google Earth up on the monitor and integrates them with the navigation route. A WLAN hotspot provides contact to mobile terminals on board. Drivers can make use of all these services with their mobile phone contract; the services are charged via the SIM card, which in many cases already has a flat-rate plan.

The MMI radio and CD drive are standard in the infotainment systems in the new Audi A6. Available options include the MMI radio plus, MMI navigation, and MMI navigation plus with MMI touch. The top-of-the-line version offers, among others, a 3D graphics chip for an elegant map display, a high-resolution eight-inch color monitor, a large hard disk, a convenient voice control system, and a Bluetooth interface.

The groundbreaking feature of MMI navigation plus is the touchpad - MMI touch. It allows the driver to perform a great many functions easily and intuitively, for example, writing the digits of telephone numbers and the letters of the navigation destination with a finger or scrolling lists and maps. The driver's eyes can stay on the road because the system acknowledges every input acoustically. MMI touch also recognizes the characters of Asian languages. When the driver is not using the touchpad to enter data, it turns into a radio keypad with six station buttons.

MMI navigation plus in the new Audi A6 is closely networked with the optional assistance and safety systems. Data from the route is utilized in the control units for the headlights, the automatic transmission, and the adaptive cruise control with stop & go function. This enables these systems to recognize complex scenarios and predictively assist the driver.

The Audi pre sense safety system is available in various versions. In many situations, it is able to minimize accidents and their consequences, or even prevent them altogether, by warning the driver and applying the brakes with increasing force to slow the sedan down in an emergency.

At the same time, the system closes the windows and the sunroof, tightens the seat belts, activates the hazard warning lights, and stiffens the dampers of the optional adaptive air suspension.

Audi pre sense front works closely with the adaptive cruise control with stop & go function. The radar-based distance control accelerates the new A6 and decelerates it within certain limits. The system uses the data from two radar sensors, a video camera and the ultrasonic sensors, incorporates navigation data, and analyzes a multitude of additional signals. With its precisely variable function, the range of use of the ACC stop & go extends from rolling in city traffic all the way to top speeds.

The new Audi active lane assist helps the driver keep the Audi A6 on course with ease at speeds of 60 km/h (37.28 mph) and above. A camera detects the lines on the road; if the sedan crosses over one of them, the system guides it back by gently intervening in the steering.

The parking system, also new, takes over steering from the driver when parallel parking or parking perpendicular to the road. It detects suitable spaces and automatically guides the A6 into and back out of parallel parking spaces - in several moves, if necessary. Alternatively, Audi also offers conventional parking assistance with and without a reversing camera.

At speeds of 30 km/h (18.64 mph) and above, Audi side assist observes the area behind the sedan via radar, thereby ensuring it is safe to change lanes. The speed limit display detects important speed restrictions and shows them in the driver information system or on the optional head-up display. Night vision assistant works with a thermal-imaging camera. It projects its black-and-white images onto the display of the driver information system, highlighting any pedestrians it detects in front of the vehicle. If it anticipates a potential dangerous situation, it highlights the pedestrian in red.

A multitude of additional equipment is available on customer request. Special mention should be made here of the convenience key for keyless vehicle entry, the electric closing assist function for the doors, the comfort and sport seats, the insulating/acoustic glazing, the roller sunblinds for the rear of the vehicle, the four-zone deluxe automatic air conditioning system, the head-up display, the parking heater, the power-adjustable steering wheel, and the two ambient lighting packages. Xenon plus and LED headlights enable clear night vision.

Those who prefer an even sportier look can opt for an S line sport package, immersing the interior in an elegant shade of black. The package is combined with sport seats, a designated leather steering wheel, special inlays, sport suspension from quattro GmbH and 19-inch wheels. The S line exterior package provides the visual complement. The Audi exclusive range will offer a whole host of additional custom solutions.

Delivery of the new Audi A6 will being in early 2011. Its base price in Germany is 38,500 euros.

Porsche 918 Spyder Concept (2010)

Porsche 918 Spyder Concept

The Porsche 918 Spyder concept combines high-tech racing features with electric-mobility to offer a fascinating range of qualities. For example, it is planned to provide an emission level of just 70 grams of CO2 per kilometer on fuel consumption of only three liters/100 kilometers (equal to approximately 78 mpg U.S.), which is truly outstanding, even for an ultra-compact city car. This car, however, is intended to offer the performance of a super sports car with acceleration from a standstill to 100 km/h in just under 3.2 seconds, top speed of 320 km/h (198 mph), and a lap time on the Nordschleife of Nurburgring in less than 7:30 minutes, faster than even the Porsche Carrera GT.

The Porsche 918 Spyder is one of three Porsche models with hybrid drive making their world debut at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show. This trio - made up of Porsche's new Cayenne S Hybrid SUV with parallel full-hybrid drive, the 911 GT3 R Hybrid race car with electric drive on the front axle and a flywheel mass battery, and the two-seater high-performance Porsche 918 Spyder mid-engined sports car with plug-in hybrid technology - clearly demonstrates not only the great bandwidth of this new drive technology, but also the innovative power of Porsche as a genuine pioneer in hybrid drive.

The highly-innovative Porsche 918 Spyder concept car combines Porsche's Intelligent Performance philosophy with the high-technology from motorsport, with classic but modern design to make a truly convincing statement.

Innovative powertrain combines race-bred V8 engine with electric drive

This open two-seater is powered by a high-revving V8 developing more than 500 horsepower and a maximum engine speed of 9,200 rpm - as well as electric motors on the front and rear axle with overall mechanical output of 218 horsepower (160 kW).

The V8 combustion engine is the next step in the evolution of the highly successful 3.4-liter power unit already featured in the RS Spyder racing car and positioned mid-ship, in front of the rear axle, giving the car excellent balance and the right set-up for supreme performance on the race track.

Power is transmitted to the wheels by a seven-speed Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) transmission that feeds the power of the electric drive system to the rear axle. The front-wheel electric drive powers the wheels through a fixed transmission ratio.

The energy reservoir is a fluid-cooled lithium-ion battery positioned behind the passenger cell. The big advantage of a plug-in hybrid is that the battery can be charged on the regular electrical network. A further point is that the car's kinetic energy is converted into electrical energy fed into the battery when applying the brakes, thus providing additional energy for fast and dynamic acceleration.

Driver's choice of four distinct driving modes

A button on the steering wheel allows the driver to choose among four different running modes: The E-Drive mode is for running the car under electric power alone, with a range of up to 25 km or 16 miles. In the Hybrid mode, the Porsche 918 Spyder uses both the electric motors and the combustion engine as a function of driving conditions and requirements, offering a range from particularly fuel-efficient all the way to extra-powerful.

The Sport Hybrid mode uses both drive systems, but with the focus on performance. Most of the drive power goes to the rear wheels, with Torque Vectoring serving to additionally improve the car's driving dynamics.

In the Race Hybrid mode the drive systems are focused on pure performance with the highest standard of driving dynamics on the track, running at the limit to their power and dynamic output. With the battery sufficiently charged, a push-to-pass button feeds in additional electrical power (E-Boost), when overtaking or for even better performance.

With the hybrid drive system offering this wide range of individual modes and applications, the Porsche 918 Spyder is able either to achieve lap times comparable to those of a thoroughbred racing car, or the extremely low emissions and high fuel economy figures of a plug-in hybrid.

Advanced body structure and design offer more than just good looks

Like the drivetrain, the lightweight body structure of the Porsche 918 Spyder also bears out the car's DNA carried over directly from motorsport: The modular structure with its monocoque bodyshell made of carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFP) and liberal use of magnesium and aluminum not only reduce weight to below 1,490 kg, or 3,285 lb, but also ensure supreme driving precision thanks to a high level of torsional stiffness.

Reminiscent of highly successful, legendary racing cars such as the Porsche 917 and the current Porsche RS Spyder, the 918 Spyder, with its design concept so typical of Porsche arouses powerful emotions. The combination of racing car dimensions, clearly structured design with perfectly balanced surfaces, and innovative details throughout, creates an ideal synthesis of form and function - following Porsche's design DNA.

The smooth balance of tradition and progress gives the car a powerful stance on the road. Variable aerodynamics, typical of Porsche, ensures both visionary and traditional highlights especially around the rear spoiler. The striking rear hoods extending out of the headrests, in turn, not only fulfill an aerodynamic function on the Porsche 918 Spyder, but also accommodate retractable air intakes with a ram air function.

High-tech interior provides glimpse into the future

The driver and passenger are not only embedded in contoured sports bucket seats but also form part of the cockpit, which provides a synthesis of efficient functionality and ergonomic high-tech operation. Additionally, the cockpit offers a glimpse at the potential interior architecture of future Porsche super sports cars. The three free-standing circular dials for road speed (left), engine speed (middle) and energy management (right) would appear to come directly from a racing car in the '60s, bearing out that unique philosophy of driver orientation so characteristic of Porsche.

The center console rises up towards the front in the Porsche 918 Spyder and houses a touch screen for intuitive control of the car's functions, serving to reduce the number of visible controls and maintain the principle of direct operation.

The control units relevant to the driver are mainly concentrated on the three-spoke multifunction sports steering wheel, while the variable driving modes are supplemented by a switch enabling the driver to call up various drive programs and serving as the push-to-pass button for E-boosting. Instrument illumination, finally, varies from green for the consumption-oriented running modes to red for the performance-oriented driving programs.

The Porsche 918 Spyder concept also comes with further innovative functions such as the Range Manager. After being activated in the Center Display, the Range Manager uses the map in the navigation system to present the remaining range the car is able to cover, naturally allowing the driver to influence that range through the appropriate choice of power and performance.

In cities with environmental alert areas the Range Manager also states whether the driver is able to reach a certain destination on electric power alone.

Applying this information and using further info on the availability and location of special energy filling stations, the driver is then able to choose his personal style of driving as well as the right battery charge and filling strategy.

Offering a unique combination of extremely low fuel consumption, supreme performance and long electric range, the Porsche 918 Spyder concept represents an essential milestone in Porsche's strategy on the way to genuine electric-mobility.

BMW M5 (2012)

 

BMW M5

A change in leadership is nigh in the exclusive segment that brings together ultra-dynamic business saloons with track-oriented drive and chassis technology. The new BMW M5 is poised to build on the tradition of its predecessors and once again redefine the performance experience available in a four-door car. Displaying the conceptual harmony, state-of-the-art technology and astonishingly dynamic handling for which BMW M cars have become renowned, the fifth-generation BMW M5 stirs the passion of keen drivers for top performance and blends it, in inimitable style, with the universal qualities of a top-class premium saloon. The most powerful engine ever fitted in a series-produced model from BMW M GmbH, the innovative Active M Differential - which optimises power transfer to the rear wheels - and model-specific chassis technology developed on the back of extensive racing expertise all secure the BMW M5 a dominant position in the high-performance saloon market.

The new BMW M5 is a high-performance sports car whose exceptional dynamic potential is geared squarely to the demands of track use yet which also sets a new benchmark in everyday driving with its supreme touring comfort and innovative equipment features. It also sets the pace in its class in terms of efficiency. The car's history of success in a segment founded more than 25 years ago by the original BMW M5 is set to continue in thrillingly contemporary style.

Under the bonnet of the new BMW M5 lies a newly developed, high-revving V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo (consisting of Twin Scroll Twin Turbo technology, a cross-bank exhaust manifold, High Precision Injection petrol direct injection and VALVETRONIC fully variable valve control), maximum output of 412 kW/560 hp at 6,000 - 7,000 rpm and peak torque of 680 Newton metres (502 lb-ft) between 1,500 and 5,750 rpm. The instantaneous power delivery and sustained thrust familiar from M cars are the key to acceleration of 0 - 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.4 seconds (0 - 200 km/h/124 mph: 13.0 seconds). Average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle stands at 9.9 litres per 100 kilometres / 28.5 mpg imp (CO2 emissions: 232 g/km). While output has increased by around 10 per cent and maximum torque is up by more than 30 per cent, the new BMW M5 burns over 30 per cent less fuel than its predecessor.

 

The significantly improved balance between the performance-focused M experience and the car's fuel consumption stems from the exceptionally impressive efficiency of the new V8 engine and from far-reaching Efficient Dynamics technology including the Auto Start-Stop function in conjunction with the standard seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission Drivelogic. In order to channel the engine's imposing power development into inspiring performance characteristics, the new BMW M5 boasts chassis technology - including electronically controlled dampers, M-specific Servotronic steering, a stability control system with M Dynamic Mode and high-performance compound brakes - developed on the back of racing expertise and tuned to the output profile of the powerplant.

This technology combines with model-specific design features - which make a direct contribution to optimising the supply of cooling air and enhancing aerodynamic characteristics - to create the conceptual harmony typical of BMW M cars. The precise interplay of the drive system, chassis and design has been refined in extensive and detailed testing on the Nordschleife circuit at the Nürburgring, to ensure unbeatable longitudinal and lateral acceleration, handling characteristics and braking performance.

The interior design, control concept and innovative equipment features of the new car also play their part in creating the exclusive M experience. Sports seats, an M leather steering wheel, and an M-specific instrument cluster and centre console lend the cockpit a classical sports car feeling. For the first time, two M Drive buttons have been fitted as standard for the driver to call up the ideal car set-up for the situation at hand. High-quality, precisely finished materials, generous levels of space and the extensive range of equipment fitted as standard generate the premium ambience - laced with cutting-edge luxury - of a BMW 5-Series model. Added to which, customers can also give their car the personal touch, since virtually the full range of options for the BMW 5-Series Saloon are also available for the M5, including a host of driver assistance systems and mobility services from BMW ConnectedDrive.

Body design: hallmark M design elements make a genuine contribution to meeting technical requirements.

The design of the body faithfully showcases the standout characteristics of the new BMW M5. The dynamic proportions and stylishly authoritative appearance of the BMW 5-Series Saloon has been further enhanced by the addition of M-specific design features. The carefully selected modifications are geared precisely to meeting the technical demands of the car, making them a central element of the high-performance Saloon's overall concept. The car's extraordinary potential is highlighted subtly and with impressive authenticity by the distinctive design elements on its front, sides and rear end.

The design of the front apron clearly embodies the supreme power of the new V8 engine. The contour lines of the bonnet converge in a V to the brand's hallmark double-kidney grille. The wide-spread arrangement of the customary M black slats - like the three air intakes in the lower section of the front apron - emphasise the cooling air requirement of the engine behind the grille. The arrangement of the air intakes over various levels creates an impressive depth which underlines the dynamic, forward-thrusting appearance of the Saloon.

Dynamically formed intakes ensure precise airflow and optimum cooling.

The functional significance of the forward-projecting central aperture is emphasised by the width of the car, which spreads out towards the road surface, and the protruding form of the contour lines. The two side air intakes, meanwhile, have a dynamically curving form. Positioned far to the outer edges of the car, they emphasise its wide track and fill the spaces in the front apron the BMW 5-Series Saloon normally reserved for foglamps. At the lower edge of the front end, air-channelling flaps developed on the race track ensure optimised aerodynamics.

The standard-fitted bi-xenon headlights of the new BMW M5 generate daytime running light with visually unique LED light rings. The indicator lights positioned on the car's outer edges each consist of 10 LED units. LED accent lights cut across the top of the customary BMW twin round headlights to perfect the intent look - both during the day and in night-time driving - characteristic of BMW models.

Prominently flared wheel arches, three-dimensional gills, eye-catching side skirts.

The long wheelbase, set-back passenger compartment and High-gloss Black side window borders clearly accentuate the stretched silhouette of the new BMW M5. Muscular flared wheel arches spotlight the wide track, which helps gives the car its unshakable roadholding and impressive lateral acceleration. Wheels sitting flush with the bodywork and lowered suspension - a gift from the specially tuned chassis - enhance the car's sporting presence when viewed from the side. The model-specific 19-inch M light-alloy wheels in double-spoke design also assist in this regard. The lightweight construction of the optional 20-inch forged rims is highlighted by their five slim double spokes. This design clears a line of sight to the high-performance brakes with six-piston fixed callipers, hinting at the precision with which the driver can adjust the car's handling.

Elsewhere, the front side sections carry a fresh take on the hallmark M gills. The three-dimensional shaping, a wide chrome frame and the free-floating look of the indicator bar, which bears the M logo, give the intakes an extremely deep-set look. The mirror casings are painted in body colour, the mirror base and lower edge in High-gloss Black.

The side skirts of the new BMW M5 also have a design very much of their own. A particularly powerful bulge at the back end of the skirts and a crease rising slightly to the tail divert the eye to the rear wheel arches - and therefore to the driven axle of the high-performance model.

Broad, powerful tail generates optimum airflow.

The design of the tail provides an effective expression of the superior sports performance and supreme roadholding of the new BMW M5. As with the BMW 5-Series Saloon, the focus on the car's width through the predominance of horizontal lines is lent additional emphasis by an athletically formed rear apron. The bespoke rear apron of the M5 provides a fluid transition into the wide wheel arches, drawing even more attention to the drive forces channelled through the rear wheels.

A diffuser integrated into the lower edge of the rear apron provides efficient airflow through the back end of the underfloor section. A signature M feature of the new BMW M5 is the twin-pipe exhaust system, whose tailpipes are positioned wide to either side of the diffuser and have likewise aerodynamically formed surrounds. The subtle gurney-style rear spoiler on the boot lid also aids the car's aerodynamics by providing additional downforce at high speeds, in particular, and therefore contributing to the Saloon's assured handling at all times.

The L-shaped rear lights fit the brand's template, down to the distinctive night-time look. Three LED-powered light strips shape the face of the characteristically homogeneous units, and the direction indicators and braking light are also fed by LED units. The reflectors are arranged immediately below the rear lights. This is higher up within the rear apron than they find themselves on the regular BMW 5-Series Saloon and accentuates the car's powerful, muscular form particularly strongly.

The drive system: high-revving V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology sets new standards in output and efficiency.

The new BMW M5 adds a fresh, contemporary and fascinating angle to a variety of distinctive features. This applies to both a vehicle concept now in its fifth generation and the car's engine technology. For the first time, a BMW M5 has a turbocharged engine to thank for its outstanding dynamics. The high-revving V8 unit with M TwinPower Turbo technology lends a whole new intensity to the powerful thrust sustained into the higher rev ranges for which M cars are renowned. The 4.4-litre engine develops top output of 412 kW/560 hp at 6,000 - 7,000 rpm, while its maximum torque of 680 Newton metres (502 lb-ft) is on tap between 1,500 and 5,750 rpm. The rev limiter intervenes at 7,200 rpm. The rev band, which offers extremely dynamic acceleration between the arrival of peak torque and the availability of maximum output, is therefore almost three times as wide as that of the predecessor unit.

The drive unit in the new BMW M5 mobilises the highest output ever generated by a BMW M car, and at the same time provides the most efficient balance yet between performance and fuel consumption. The new engine produces around 10 per cent higher output than its predecessor and torque is up by over 30 per cent. Fuel consumption and CO2, meanwhile, have been cut by more than 30 per cent. This progress in terms of both driving dynamics and efficiency marks the new BMW M5 out as an extremely pioneering interpretation of a premium high-performance saloon.

The driver can use a button on the centre console to adjust the engine's performance characteristics to the demands of the situation and his own individual preferences. "Efficient", "Sport" and "Sport Plus" modes are available.

Racing know-how and unparalleled development expertise: the ideal basis for maximum output and unbeatable efficiency.

The M TwinPower Turbo package of technology developed for the engine powering the new BMW M5 combines design features derived directly from motor racing with innovations spawned by the rigorous implementation of the Efficient Dynamics strategy. It comprises a turbocharging system based on the Twin Scroll Twin Turbo principle, including cross-bank exhaust manifolds, High Precision Injection petrol direct injection and VALVETRONIC variable valve control. Added to which, the engine has an extremely powerful cooling system. This is a combination without parallel worldwide and produces the suitably exclusive performance characteristics you would expect from a BMW M car. The experience is defined by instantaneous responses and extremely impressive torque developed from extremely low revs and maintained into the higher reaches of the engine speed range.

Concentrated power: turbochargers positioned in the V-shaped space between the cylinders, cross-bank exhaust manifold.

The two turbochargers of the eight-cylinder engine are accommodated, along with the catalytic converters, in the V-shaped space between the cylinder banks, which are positioned at a 90-degree angle to one another. This arrangement produces an extremely compact construction and allows model-specific positioning of the intake and exhaust ducts. Their reduced pipe length and larger cross section minimise the pressure losses on the exhaust side of the engine. There is also a smaller distance between the combustion chambers and the catalytic converters, which helps the "cats" reach their optimum operating temperature soon after the engine has started.

BMW's patented and globally unique cross-bank exhaust manifold ensures additional optimisation of the gas flow on the way to the two twin-scroll turbochargers. It is made up of four separate exhaust ducts, which are connected with the exhaust ports of two combustion chambers - one on the left-hand cylinder bank and one on the right. Identical pipe lengths and a combustion chamber arrangement mirroring the firing sequence ensure the gas flows through the exhaust ducts at an even rhythm. In each case, two of the four exhaust gas ducts supply one of the two turbos, having been channelled together shortly before they reach the turbine. The result is a consistent level of pressure acting on the two turbochargers, without any kind of counter-flow. This ensures the turbines respond extremely rapidly and charge pressure remains constant.

The turbochargers developed specially for the engine powering the new BMW M5 stand out with their particularly high level of compressor and turbine efficiency, and deliver maximum charge pressure of 1.5 bar. Their innovative construction principle uses the potential of turbocharging to deliver an efficient output boost of unprecedented potency. The latest version of M TwinPower Turbo technology provides a level of responsiveness, intensity and smoothness in its power delivery unmatched in the segment. The engine's intoxicating thrust gives the new BMW M5 impressive acceleration. The sprint from rest to the 100 km/h (62 mph) mark is all over in 4.4 seconds, and from that point progress continues with barely any let-up. Indeed, the M5 needs just 13.0 seconds to race from 0 - 200 km/h (124 mph). Maximum speed is electronically restricted to 250 km/h (155 mph); if the optional Driver's Package is specified, this limit is raised to 305 km/h (190 mph).

The construction principle of M TwinPower Turbo technology also shapes the development of the V8 engine's soundtrack. The concept of cross-bank exhaust manifolds plays a key role in delivering a multilayered collage of sound. The twin-tailpipe exhaust system of the new BMW M5 runs largely in a straight line and has a large cross section. The two exhaust gas ducts feed into a single muffler, from which the customary M twin tailpipes jut out through the far left and right-hand sides of the rear apron.

Direct injection system uses new type of injectors to ensure precise fuel supply.

The engine developed for the new BMW M5 combines its outstanding power development with an unsurpassed level of efficiency in this output class. Credit for the progress made in this area should go to the other components of the M TwinPower Turbo technology package. High Precision Injection petrol direct injection ensures an extremely precise supply of fuel to the combustion chambers. Injectors positioned centrally between the valves within immediate range of the spark plugs spray the fuel into the combustion chambers with maximum pressure of 200 bar, providing smooth and clean combustion.

Innovative solenoid valve injectors in the new BMW M5 engine use multiple injections to achieve an extremely precise mixture preparation. Plus, the cooling effect of the direct injections enables an extraordinarily high compression ratio for a turbocharged engine, which further increases the efficiency of the V8 engine.

VALVETRONIC gives an additional boost to responsiveness and efficiency.

The M TwinPower technology of the new eight-cylinder engine also includes VALVETRONIC fully variable valve control. This system controls the amount of lift of the intake valves. Throttle losses in the gas cycle are therefore minimised, which has a positive impact on both the efficiency of the powerplant and its torque development. The integration of VALVETRONIC therefore sharpens both the responses and efficiency of the V8 engine in the new BMW M5.

Double-Vanos fully variable camshaft control plays its part both in optimising the engine's efficiency and generating high torque at low engine revs. In addition, the volume-controlled oil pump and a range of other Efficient Dynamics measures deliver an extra boost to efficiency. The new BMW M5 is fitted as standard with Brake Energy Regeneration and an Auto Start-Stop function, which automatically switches off the engine when the car comes to a halt at junctions or in a traffic jam. The extensive use of efficiency-enhancing technology produces fuel consumption and emissions values unmatched in this output class. The new BMW M5 records average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of 9.9 litres per 100 kilometres (28.5 mpg imp) and CO2 emissions of 232 grams per kilometre.

High performance applies to power transfer as well: the seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission with Drivelogic.

The new BMW M5 is kitted out with a seven-speed double-clutch transmission to ensure that the transfer of engine output to the rear wheels serves up the time-honoured M experience. The M DCT Drivelogic system developed specially for the M5 has been tuned precisely to the performance characteristics of the V8 engine. Both in automated mode (D) and manual (S) it delivers exceptionally fast and clean gear changes. The system's control concept follows similar lines to the sequential M transmission in the predecessor car. Again, no clutch pedal is required for manual gearshift, and the driver can keep his foot on the accelerator during gear changes. The driver uses the model-specific M gear selector to choose between D and S mode, and to engage reverse. The transmission offers a sequential shift pattern for the manual gearshift mode. Alternatively, the driver can also change gear manually using the standard-fitted shift paddles on the steering wheel - the right-hand paddle for upshifts, the left-hand paddle for downshifts. Comfort is further enhanced by the new Low Speed Assistance function, which keeps the car moving at minimal speed through stop-start traffic with a light nudge of the accelerator pedal.

M DCT Drivelogic offers three shift programs in both automated and manual mode. The driver selects his desired mode using the rocker switch positioned immediately behind the shift lever on the centre console. The D1 program is selected automatically when the engine is started, tailoring gear selection to deliver the most efficient possible driving style. D2 mode supports laid-back cruising with gear changes carried out according to engine revs and load. And, to promote a sporty driving style laced with dynamic acceleration, shift times in D3 mode are set up to delay gear changes until the engine has climbed higher up the rev range.

The driver can also adapt the shift characteristics to his requirements in manual mode. S1 mode generates extremely comfortable and jolt-free gear changes. In S2 the gear changes are completed noticeably faster and accompanied by significant shift jolts at higher revs. And S3 is the one to choose for maximum dynamics; it enables even sportier gear changes and also brings the Launch Control function into play. When the stability control system is switched off, Launch Control allows the driver to achieve the maximum acceleration force possible from a standstill - as permitted by the condition of the road - by pressing the accelerator down with maximum force. Each gear change takes place automatically and at the optimum engine speed.

Innovation for unbeatable traction in dynamic driving situations: the Active M Differential.

BMW M cars are equipped with a specially developed differential for the rear axle to allow the driver to enjoy the benefits of rear-wheel drive to the full - in the form of the sharpest possible driving dynamics. A variable locking function splits engine power between the right and left rear wheel to generate maximum traction. Another innovation in this area that is fitted in the new BMW M5 ensures even more precise distribution of drive according to the situation at hand; the Active M Differential optimises stability with the help of an electronically controlled multi-plate limited-slip differential, which intervenes at an early stage to prevent wheel spin.

The rear axle's multi-plate limited-slip differential works with extremely high precision and speed. Its control unit is connected with the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system via FlexRay high-speed data transfer technology and constantly cross-checks the data collected by its sensors with the feedback from DSC. It then uses this information to calculate the locking force required to deliver optimum traction and stability. The data recorded by DSC sensors is also passed on if the stability control system is switched off. The locking force within the differential can be set between 0 and 100 per cent. The Anti-lock Braking System retains full functionality in all situations.

In addition to its own data and that provided by DSC, the Active M Differential's control unit also takes into account the position of the accelerator pedal, the rotational speed of the wheels and the car's yaw rate. Every driving situation is therefore precisely analysed and an impending loss of traction on one side of the car identified at an early stage. The degree of lock is adjusted as required within a fraction of a second, enabling wheel spin to be prevented on slippery surfaces, in instances where the right and left rear wheel have widely differing friction coefficients, in tight bends and when changing direction extremely dynamically. Optimising traction in this way also provides unbeatable driving stability in challenging conditions and allows impressively dynamic acceleration out of corners. Plus, the Active M Differential also counteracts - to great effect - a loss of traction during double lane changes at high speed and a tendency to understeer under sudden load alterations during dynamic cornering.

M-specific chassis, electronically controlled dampers, M Dynamic Mode.

The new BMW M5 comes with bespoke chassis technology whose construction and set-up are defined by extensive expertise from the race track. Specially developed axle kinematics and newly developed components boasting impressive strength and minimised weight meet both the requirements of everyday road driving and the specialised demands of track use. Chassis mountings using large panels at the front and rear axle ensures dynamic forces are passed evenly through to the body. The chassis transfers the potential wrapped up in the engine's remarkable output onto the asphalt with assurance and a finely-honed sense of dynamic drama. All of which allows the BMW M5 to set new benchmarks in its segment not only in terms of sprinting power and elasticity, but also lateral acceleration, handling properties and braking performance. As with every BMW M car, the engineers carried out the fine-tuning that underpins the perfect M experience during extensive testing on the Nürburgring's Nordschleife circuit.

The new BMW M5 is equipped as standard with electronically controlled dampers. Dynamic Damper Control uses electrohydraulic damping force adjustment to provide a set-up suited to the driving situation or the wishes of the driver. The damper settings can be adjusted at the touch of a button. In "Comfort" mode the dampers respond adaptively to the condition of the road surface and the driver's style. "Sport" mode activates a noticeably stiffer damper set-up, while "Sport Plus" allows further stiffening of the suspension to achieve maximum longitudinal and lateral acceleration in ultra-dynamic driving situations.

At the touch of a button the driver can also select from three settings for the Servotronic speed-sensitive power steering system, which has been fitted in the M5 in an M-specific configuration. "Comfort" mode requires only a small amount of steering force when parking or manoeuvring, but still provides the brand's hallmark direction-changing precision at higher speeds. "Sport" ensures the driver enjoys more intensive feedback across all speed ranges. This steps up another notch in "Sport Plus". With this mode selected, the driver is called on to use greater force with the steering wheel.

In addition to applying brake impulses and reducing engine output to stabilise the car, the DSC system in the new BMW M5 also employs the services of the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), Brake Assistant, Fading Compensation, Brake Drying function and Start-Off Assistant. M Dynamic Mode (MDM) can be activated to override the basic setting by pressing the DSC button on the centre console. This mode generates the familiar M self-steering response by raising the intervention thresholds of DSC. "DSC Off" mode can also be activated at the touch of a button.

High-performance compound brakes, extensive safety equipment, extremely impressive power-to-weight ratio.

The high-performance braking system of the new BMW M5 guarantees outstanding stopping power. The further development of the remarkable compound construction has resulted in further optimised braking performance - resisting fade even under heavy loads - and an enviable degree of feel. The six-piston fixed-calliper brakes are radially bolted to the pivot bearing. The M-specific light-alloy wheels for the new BMW M5 come in 19-inch format as standard and are fitted with 265/40 R19 tyres at the front and 295/40 R19 items at the rear. 20-inch forged M light-alloy wheels can be ordered as an option.

Hallmark M handling and occupant protection both benefit from the extraordinary strength of the BMW M5 body structure. Incredibly durable load-bearing structures and large, precisely defined deformation zones keep the forces released in a collision away from the extremely stiff passenger compartment. The safety equipment fitted as standard in the new BMW M5 includes front and side airbags, side curtain head airbags for both rows of seats, three-point inertia reel seat belts on all seats, front belt force limiters and belt tensioners, and ISOFIX child seat attachments in the rear.

An intelligent mix of materials containing a high proportion of high-tensile and ultra-high-tensile steels, as well as aluminium, help to minimise the car's weight. Like the bonnet and front side sections, the doors of the new BMW M5 are also made from aluminium. With a power-to-weight ratio of 3.3 kg (approx. 7lb)/hp, the high-performance Saloon represents a substantial step forwards from its predecessor in this area as well.

Interior and controls: sports car cockpit with premium ambience.

The interior of the new BMW M5 brings together an inimitable combination of the driver-oriented cockpit design of a sports car, the spaciousness of a prestige saloon and the luxurious feel of a premium model. Bespoke M sports seats, fine-grain Merino leather upholstery with extended features, door sills with "M5" lettering, an M driver's footrest, exclusive Aluminium Trace interior trim strips and the BMW Individual roof liner in Anthracite are all standard equipment, as is the iDrive control system with an up to 10.2-inch Control Display. This screen is centrally positioned and, like the controls in the central section of the instrument panel, tilted slightly towards the driver.

The instrument cluster with black-panel-technology includes classical circular instruments in traditional BMW M car style, with red needles and white illumination, as well as model-specific displays and the M logo in the rev counter. The shift program currently selected and gear engaged are shown in the centre of the instrument cluster. Feedback from all the drive and chassis settings selected at the touch a button is also displayed in the cockpit.

Two M Drive buttons now included to activate the individually configured set-up options.

The multifunction buttons on the M leather steering wheel in the new BMW M5 allow the driver, among other things, to operate the cruise control system and the audio and telephone functions. On the left-hand steering wheel spoke the driver will now find two M Drive buttons, which he can use to call up a pre-configured set-up for the car. For example, the driver can save a sporty configuration using the "M1" button and a comfort-biased set-up via the "M2" button. The set-up selected will remain activated until the driver either cancels it by pressing the button again or switches to another M Drive setting. Once the system has been switched off - as when the engine is started - it reverts to a default configuration focusing on efficiency and ride comfort.

The M Drive system in the new BMW M5 allows the driver to adjust no fewer than six parameters: the engine management, the responses of the Servotronic steering system, the M DCT Drivelogic shift program, the DSC mode, the responses of Dynamic Damper Control and the information in the Head-Up Display. The desired settings for the engine, chassis systems and Head-Up Display can be configured in any combination via the iDrive menu. Plus, the driver can also save the current set-up configuration selected earlier using the buttons on the centre console by holding down one of the two M Drive buttons for a few seconds. For safety reasons, a set-up involving the DSC settings "MDM" or "DSC Off" requires confirmation from the driver - by pressing the M Drive button again - before it can be activated. The set-up configuration selected is shown by a clear symbol displayed in the instrument cluster.

Head-Up Display with M-specific information comes as standard.

The M Drive configuration also includes the information shown on the Head-Up Display, which comes as standard on the new BMW M5 and projects important information onto the windscreen directly in the driver's field of vision. The full spectrum of colours is used to display graphics and symbols, and this all-colour capability means road sign symbols can be reproduced extremely realistically. In addition to a digital speed readout and tips from the optional Speed Limit Info, the M-specific version of the Head-Up Display also shows the gear currently engaged and a multicolour rev counter symbol, complete with Shift Lights.

As well as the Head-Up Display, numerous other driver assistance systems and mobility services available from BMW ConnectedDrive are also unique in the segment occupied by the new BMW M5. The selection of optionally available systems includes Park Distance Control, a rear view camera, High-Beam Assistant, Speed Limit Info, the Lane Change Warning System, the Lane Departure Warning System, Surround View and BMW Night Vision with pedestrian recognition. Plus, innovative technologies optimise the integration of the Apple iPhone and other smartphones, as well as music players, including the use of internet-based services. The apps option allows iPhone owners to receive Web Radio stations, for example, and display Facebook and Twitter posts on the on-board monitor. The likewise new real-time traffic information function keeps the driver supplied with impressively accurate traffic bulletins and diversion recommendations.

The new BMW M5 also comes as standard with four-zone automatic climate control, heated seats and electric seat adjustment including memory function for the driver and front passenger, xenon light with Adaptive Headlights, ambient light, an alarm system and the BMW Professional radio including CD player, AUX-IN socket and six speakers. In addition, almost all of the items of optional equipment available for the BMW 5-Series Saloon can be ordered as an option. Among the highlights are the Navigation system Professional with a hard disk for storing maps and personal music collections, the electrically operated glass roof, the M multifunction seats, the active seats, active seat ventilation, Comfort Access, the Soft Close Automatic function for the doors and a trailer coupling with electrically pivoting trailer hitch ball.