Audi in "AutoWeek"

[KWHines@aol.com]

Fellow Q-listers:

The 6/3 and 6/10 issues have some interesting Audi content.  6/3 has a nice
shot of A3 (looks great!) w/ info on new VW platforms.  Next Golf and Jetta
plus TT and TTS will be based on the same platform as the A3 (I know, this is
old info).

6/10 has great photo of S6 Avant pace/safety car in the rain at Spanish Grand
Prix w/ two F1s spun off the track on the right (p. 57).  6/10 also has spy
shot of what they claim is the next Passat (coming here next April) wearing
Audi badge (p. 12)!  I think this might actually be the new A6 in disguise -
it's hard to say.

AW says next A4 and A6 will share platform w/ new Passat.  This is not
correct.  The current A4 is the platform base for the next Passat.  The next
A6 will be a stretched and re engineered version of this same platform.  New
Passat will be available w/ AWD and VR5 engine among others.  VR5 is, I
believe, transverse meaning that AWD will be syncro, not quattro.

BTW, I think Volvo is suffering from a severe case of Audi envy.  It seems
the Swedes subconsciously wish they had four rings.  According to AW they are
dropping RWD for good and will offer FWD and AWD (viscous-coupled).  They
will also continue to offer 20-valve turbo 5s.  Gee, what original,
ground-breaking ideas.  Why do I get the feeling that aluminum and 5-valve
cylinder heads aren't far off?

Regards,

Kennon Hines
1990 Coupe Quattro
Atlanta, GA