Voice recognition technology...
Voice recognition technology is creeping into the car and, in particular, the new generation of sat-navs ò€“ with Garminò€™s nüvi 860T the latest to benefit.
A stunning grand tourer...
A stunning grand tourer that offers seating for four and ample luggage space, it will go on sale this time next year.
Based on Audi"s all-new adjustable platform, which can be adapted for nearly any size of car and will underpin the next-generation A4, the model will see Audi take on BMW"s 6-Series and the Jaguar XK in the premium coupé class for the first time.
As you can see from our pictures, prepared using insider information, the newcomer will have styling based on the firm"s 2003 Nuvolari concept.
At the front, the A5"s nose draws its inspiration from the new TT, with narrow headlights and a prominent square grille that extends from the bonnet. A high shoulder line, small glass areas and huge alloys - likely to measure 18 inches as standard - give the car real visual presence.
The looks are enhanced by a wheel-at-each-corner stance, bulging arches and a chunky tail featuring a subtle boot spoiler. Our spy photographers have already caught early development mules testing on the road. Larger than the new BMW 3-Series Coupé but smaller than the 6-Series, the A5 will have more room for passengers and luggage than either, thanks to Audi"s new platform system. And because the layout places the engine as far back towards the centre of the car as possible, the newcomer should be very stable, with excellent agility and sharp responses.
Range-topping models are likely to get Audi"s Magnetic Ride system. This uses dampers filled with a fluid that increases in thickness when a magnetic field is applied to it, allowing their stiffness to be constantly adjustable.
The entry-level front-wheel-drive model will be powered by a 161bhp 1.8-litre turbo engine, while quattro four-wheel-drive versions get either a 197bhp 2.0-litre turbo or 247bhp 3.2-litre V6 units. Diesels will include Audi"s 230bhp 3.0-litre V6 TDI. Manual, auto and DSG sequential manual gearboxes will be on offer.
The A5 makes its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March, with sales starting later in the year. Expect prices to kick off from ÷£30,000. A 339bhp 4.2 V8-engined S5 will arrive in 2008, with an even more potent RS5 following in 2009.