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Audi A1 Quattro works it out in the snow
Audi has announced that the first Audi A1 quattro prototype has started testing on the snow-laden roads around Montreal. An Audi A1 quattro prototype currently undergoing baptism grappling with freezing conditions on Canada’s densely snow-packed roads. The one-off development car is one of the stars of the ‘Fascination of quattro’ event taking place in Montreal to celebrate the past, present and future of the legendary four-wheel-drive system, which reached its 30th anniversary in 2010. Packing a 182bhp 1.4-litre supercharged and turbocharged engine, along with four-wheel-drive traction, this is the fastest and most capable Audi A1 yet.
The latest member of the burgeoning quattro family uses technology very similar to that used in A3 and TT models. At its core is an electronically controlled, hydraulically actuated multi-plate clutch located in front of the rear axle for an optimized distribution of weight. Inside is a package of plates that rotate in an oil bath.
During normal driving, the clutch sends most of the engine’s power to the front wheels. If the front axle loses grip, the clutch can instantly transfer torque to the rear axle by forcing the plate packages together. A pressure reservoir helps the electric pump to develop the necessary oil pressure.
Following in the wheeltracks of the range-topping front-wheel- drive A1 1.4 TFSI – revealed at the Paris Motor Show in September and on sale later this year – the A1 quattro, which uses the same engine, is aimed at buyers who want maximum traction in all conditions.
And it certainly delivers. With the engine’s impressive power output going to every wheel, the car gives you so much more confidence than a regular front-wheel-drive version, even with ESP.
The A1 quattro uses the latest version of quattro all-wheel drive for smaller cars, first seen on the TT and hotter TT-RS, so it is a dynamic package. But in a smaller car, it’s even more fun.
Power and torque can be swapped 100 per cent front to rear instantly – and there was no time on either the cold, hard tarmac or on the snow-packed ice track when we felt out of control, the A1 behaving predictably and safely. The engine is very impressive, too. There’s a wide power band and really punchy performance all the way to the 7,000rpm red line. Audi quotes a rapid 0-62mph time of only 6.9 seconds, and it feels every bit as quick as the figures suggest, while 250Nm of torque available from only 1,500rpm makes for easy overtaking manoeuvres.
Beyond the performance improvements over the standard car, the body gets a sinister extended rear roof spoiler. On the inside, the backs of the seats are coloured the same as the exterior paintwork – rust orange in the case of our car. The cabin is also available in sporty S line trim. With Alcantara suede touches, it really is a smart place to be.
When the A1 quattro arrives in the UK next year, it will be available with 16-inch alloy wheels as standard, with 17- and 18-inch rims as options – the same as on the front-wheel-drive machine.
The quattro set-up is not solely planned for the 1.4 TFSI engine trim, but also for the 1.6 TDI. Expect to pay about a £1,500 premium for all-wheel drive. That’s certainly not cheap, but if you live in the wetter or colder parts of the country – or you simply want the security that quattro brings – this little machine comes highly recommended.
Buick LaCrosse Sedan CX 2009
The Buick LaCrosse is a sophisticated mid-size sedan, seating up to six passengers in comfort while providing confident handling and a smooth ride.The front-wheel drive LaCrosse is available in three trim levels: CX, CXL and Super.
The standard 200-horsepower 3.8 liter V-6 engine supplies adequate acceleration, while the lightweight 3.6 liter V6 engine offers a nice bump up to 240 horsepower with sprightly pickup. With the new Super trim line, a 5.3 liter V-8 engine is offered pumping out 300 horsepower for effortless thrust. The CX is equipped with 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control, satellite radio and a power driver’s seat; CXL trims add heated front seats and leather upholstery. A wireless cell-phone link is newly available, and heated power mirrors are standard on all models. A wireless cell-phone link is newly available, and heated power mirrors are standard on all models.
The CX and CXL enjoy considerable takeoff speed. However, once up to highway speeds, the LaCrosse is unable to provide sufficient power for immediate passing. To harness any engine power, the driver must really use the gas pedal, reducing fuel economy. The Super, of course, offers improved performance, but still suffers from the sheer weight and bulk of the vehicle. CXL and CX models are able to provide 21 mpg during highway driving, while the larger engine of the Super reduces this by a significant amount.
Steering and handling on the LaCrosse is an interesting conundrum. Buick’s power steering system makes the wheel feel too light, but the vehicle is responsive during turns. However, aggressive turning does result in nosedives, while the vehicle also suffers from body lean during even moderate turning.
Exterior
Apart from the portholes on each front fender, dual exhaust tips and a small rear spoiler, the LaCrosse Super looks much like the other trims. At 198.1 inches long, it’s longer than both the Milan and the 300.
Exterior features include:
- 16-inch aluminum wheels (standard on CX)
- 17-inch chrome wheels (standard on CXL; optional on CX)
- Scarlett Red paint no longer available
Interior
The interior of the LaCrosse is comfortable but predictable. Drivers will find no luxury touches here. The vehicle is capable of seating five, though that increases to six with the addition of the front bench seat.
With a front bench seat — an uncommon offering in this class — the LaCrosse can seat up to six. A five-seat model with front bucket seats is also available. The top-of-the-line Super gets a silver-colored center stack and unique gauges. The LaCrosse has roughly the same interior volume as the Milan and is 8 cubic feet smaller than the 300.
Interior features include:
- Bluetooth wireless phone communication now standard
- XM Satellite Radio
- Dual-zone automatic air conditioning
- Remote start
- 16 cubic feet of trunk space
- Split, folding rear seat available in an optional package
Available 5-passenger leather-appointed heated seats are the perfect wintertime companions. Available magnetic variable-assist power steering adjusts steering effort based on speed, which in turn increases on-road feel. Dual-zone climate control is also available with individual controls for driver and front passenger. Super models add standard Ultrasonic Parking Assist, which uses sonar to detect objects behind the vehicle to make parallel parking a snap.
The suspension offered on the LaCrosse is capable, but not sporty. Rough roads, bumps and potholes result in wallowing and swaying that can affect driving. The vehicle is quiet during most driving, though wind noise can be pronounced at higher speeds and rough roads induce considerable noise in the cabin.
Safety features include standard anti-lock brakes with traction control to minimize wheel lockup and enhance traction on slippery surfaces. Dual front airbags, dual side-impact airbags, and head-curtain side-impact airbags protect both rows of passengers in a collision. CXS and Super models feature StabiliTrak stability control that enhances vehicle control and handling in emergency maneuvers.
The Buick LaCrosse is an adequate vehicle. Designed for moderate comfort and room, the vehicle lives up to expectations, though does not exceed them. This is an excellent vehicle for driving around town, but lacks the brute power for aggressive driving on the open highway.
Infiniti Essence Concept
Infiniti Essence Concept – the most attractive car ever come from Nissan – introduced at 2009 Geneva Motor Show. It is no accident that a Japanese halo concept car makes its debut at Geneva, as Infiniti is primed and ready to bring its thrilling product line to the European market.
The Infiniti Essence uses a similar engine to the GT-R at its heart, but adds a newly-developed Nissan corporate electric motor to produce an extra 158 horsepower. The setup allows the car to drive in congested urban traffic with the electric motor alone. Once the driver finds a wide open road, the electric motor and gasoline engine work in harmony delivering the full power.
