This year marks the...
This year marks the 25th anniversary of Audi"s quattro system, and the RS4 gets the latest generation of the four-wheel-drive layout. Previous RS models have also used all-wheel drive for maximum traction, including the twin-turbo RS6 and RS4. The first car to wear the RS badge was the RS2 Avant of 1993, which had a Porsche- modified five-cylinder engine with 315bhp. At the time it was the world"s fastest car, racing from 0-30mph in 1.5 seconds.
Radical gadgetry is...
Radical gadgetry is being lined up that enables the next-generation family challenger - which is due in 2008 - to take the strain out of accelerating, braking and steering during rush-hour traffic.
Similar in style to active cruise control, the advanced equipment works at speeds of up to 60mph and "reads" road conditions as it follows the vehicle in front. The system, called Traffic Assist, can bring the car to a standstill and accelerate away, too. "The purpose is to offer support to the driver and make commuting more comfortable. We don"t intend to create a Big Brother that takes over his responsibilities," said electronics engineering chief Bruno Praunsmandel.
The technology, which employs lasers, a video camera and computers, is simple to control. Everything is based around a steering wheel button and a switch on the indicator stalk. An icon on the speedometer shows when the set-up is active, with bars indicating the distance being kept behind the car in front.
The system is unique in that it "sees" traffic signs and bends, as well as lane markings and vehicles. It processes information from seven sensors to make sure the car stays in the correct position on the road, while maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle in front.