NAIAS 2015: Audi

The 2016 Audi Q7 world premiere was in Detroit, and it should go on sale early next year. Despite having a shorter overall length, it claims to have more passenger space, although third row seats remain cramped. A couple 3.0L V6 engines are expected, a TDI diesel or TFSI, as well as a four-cylinder option. Performance and fuel economy should benefit from the 700-pounds it loses from the outgoing Q7. A plug-in diesel hybrid has been teased, but not yet confirmed for the US market.

The Audi Q3 is a relatively new model in the US, but it has been selling for nearly five years in other countries. It receives a minor facelift which includes subtle changes to front and rear fascias, as well as some engine updates to improve performance and efficiency.

The redesigned 2016 TTS was on display, along with its new interior layout. A large digital display replaces the conventional instrument cluster, and there is no more central screen. HVAC controls located right in the vents are an interesting touch.

New LED lights front and rear give the RS7 an even more aggressive look. The brown interior is a nice change from the usual black.

If a standard R8 is just not enough, Audi brought along the limited-edition R8 Competition with a paltry $229,925 price tag. Exterior changes are subtle, but lots of carbon fiber bits should give it away. The exclusive interior upgrade alone adds over $10k to the price, but that Alabaster White Fine Nappa Leather with Crimson Red Stitching does look amazing. The 5.2L V10 has been tuned to 570 hp with a top speed of 199 mph, and it does 0-60 in 3.2 seconds, making it Audi’s most powerful production car. Only 60 will be sold in the US.