Audi Malaysia begins production of the Q7 SUV in Pekan

Audi Malaysia has recently started the assembly process for the Audi Q7 SUV model at its factory in Pekan, Pahang.

This means that the Audi Q7 is the only Audi model that is assembled locally for the Malaysian market and the Southeast Asian region.

According to Dr. Susanne Lehmann, Managing Director of Volkswagen Group Malaysia, “This achievement is not just about the launch; it symbolizes vision, partnership, innovation, and progress.”

“Customers will continue to enjoy the same experience of quality, performance, and luxury that Audi is known for—now made in Malaysia,” she added.

In addition to the Q7 model, the Pekan factory is also expected to assemble other Audi models, with a production capacity of around 5,000 units per year.

Over RM12 million in initial investment has been made to realize this vision, further strengthening Audi’s presence in the premium luxury vehicle segment in Malaysia.

Meanwhile, Denyu Bostandzhiev, Managing Director of PHS Automotive Malaysia, stated, “By assembling several key vehicles here, we can offer more competitive pricing and shorten delivery times for our customers.”

“With the increasing demand for D-segment SUVs, we believe this is the perfect time to add the locally assembled Q7 to our model lineup,” he explained.

The 2025 Audi Q7 is expected to be offered in the S line variant, with an estimated retail price ranging from RM469,000 to RM489,000.

It is a mild hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV) powered by a 3.0-liter V6 TFSI engine that produces 340 PS and 500 Nm of torque, paired with an 8-speed Tiptronic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive system.

Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is achieved in just 5.6 seconds, before reaching a top speed of 250 km/h.

 

2025 Audi Q7 open for booking – CKD units, estimated price RM469k-RM489k

PHS Automotive Malaysia (PHSAM), the official distributor of Audi vehicles in Malaysia, has announced the opening of bookings for the flagship Audi Q7 SUV for the local market.

This locally assembled (CKD) Audi SUV is the first of its kind in Malaysia and Southeast Asia, and it will be offered at a sale price ranging from RM469,000 to RM489,000.

From an exterior standpoint, the Audi Q7 features a sporty S line styling package, complemented by the Black Styling Package Plus, which includes the Audi Singleframe, Q7 badge, anthracite grey Audi logo, rear spoiler, and 22-inch Audi Sports rims.

Additionally, the vehicle is equipped with advanced HD matrix LED headlights, which consist of Audi Laser Light and OLED Digital, an adaptive air suspension system, and all-wheel steering capabilities.

The Audi Q7 is powered by a 3.0-liter V6 TFSI engine that produces 340 PS and 500 Nm of torque, paired with an 8-speed Tiptronic transmission and a quattro all-wheel-drive system.

It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.6 seconds, reaching a top speed of 250 km/h.

This powertrain is also enhanced by a 48V mild hybrid (MHEV) technology system for operational efficiency and emissions.

Drivers can choose from up to seven different drive modes through the Audi Drive Select function.

In terms of the cabin, the Audi Q7 features Sports Seat Plus, Valcona leather upholstery, a flat-bottom leather-wrapped steering wheel, paddle shifters, a 30-color ambient lighting package, and a head-up display.

Other features include doors with a soft-close function, a massage function for the front seats, four-zone climate control, wireless smartphone charging slots, and a Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system.

The cargo space is generous, measuring 780 liters, and can extend up to 1,908 liters to accommodate family needs.

There are four color options available, including Glacier White, Waitomo Blue, Mythos Black, and Daytona Grey with a pearl finish.

At the same time, PHSAM announced the appointment of six new dealers across the country, with details as follows:

Additionally, the 2S Audi showrooms in Kota Kinabalu and Audi Kuching will begin operations by the end of this year.

Malaysians can visit any of the listed 4S centers, including the Audi Centre in Glenmarie and Juru, for more information regarding the upcoming launch of the Audi Q7.

Audi Q6 e-tron Offroad Concept comes with portal axles

Who would have thought that the premium-looking Audi Q6 Sportback e-tron electric SUV could transform into a more serious off-road vehicle?

That’s what Audi aims to showcase with the Q6 e-tron Offroad Concept, featuring a higher ground clearance and a wider body dimension.

Audi has also hinted that this model is ready to be realized as a production vehicle.

In terms of power, the Q6 e-tron Offroad is equipped with two electric motors producing 510 hp, driving all four wheels.

With an increased track width of 250 mm and a ground clearance raised by 160 mm, thanks to the use of four portal axles directly connected to the wheel hubs, this SUV is designed for enhanced off-road performance.

The newly designed portal axles allow this SUV to increase wheel torque by 50% compared to the 20 to 30% achieved with conventional designs.

As a result, the torque at all four wheels can reach 13,400 Nm, though the top speed is limited to just 175 km/h.

Overall, these upgrades enable this off-road SUV to tackle steep slopes with angles of up to 45 degrees.

The original design of the Q6 Sportback e-tron has been retained, but the front bumper has been fitted with extra LED lighting units, and the wheel arches have been enlarged to accommodate off-road tires.

Audi has previously unveiled several off-road concept models, such as the Activesphere and the AI:Trail Quattro, and they also participated in the 2024 Dakar Rally using the RS Q e-tron.

Audi Malaysia announces new prices, complete with Audi Assurance Package (AAP)

Effective January 1, 2025, Audi Malaysia has announced a new retail price list for its range of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and electric vehicles (EVs).

The new pricing structure also includes the Audi Assurance Package, which now offers a five-year maintenance service (up from three years in the previous package), along with a five-year warranty (with a mileage limit of 150,000 km) and five years of roadside assistance.

The following is the new pricing for the 2025 model year vehicles involved:

  • Audi Q3 Sportback S line 2.0 TFSI quattro – RM358,990
  • Audi Q5 Sportback S line 2.0 TFSI quattro – RM388,490
  • Audi e-tron GT quattro with Dynamic Package – RM412,890
  • Audi SQ8 Sportback e-tron quattro – RM511,990
  • Audi RS e-tron GT – RM515,290
  • Audi A7 Sportback S line 3.0 TFSI quattro – RM740,390
  • Audi A8 S line 3.0 TFSI quattro – RM1,103,790
  • Audi RS6 Avant Performance 4.0 TFSI quattro – RM1,338,690

For a limited time, from January 1 to February 28, 2025, there are eight vehicle models offered at special prices (excluding AAP), as follows:

  • Audi A3 S line 2.0 TFSI – RM279,990
  • Audi Q8 e-tron advanced 50 quattro – RM339,990
  • Audi Q8 Sportback e-tron advanced 50 quattro – RM349,990
  • Audi Q8 e-tron S line 55 quattro – RM373,990
  • Audi Q8 Sportback e-tron S line 55 quattro – RM382,990
  • Audi A5 Sportback S line 2.0 TFSI quattro – RM419,990
  • Audi RS3 Sedan 2.5 TFSI quattro – RM499,990
  • Audi RS Q8 4.0 TFSI quattro – RM1,400,000

For more information regarding the price list, special offers, and the Audi Assurance Package, please visit www.audi.com.my or visit your nearest Audi Centre.

Audi Q5 Sportback price slashed by RM145k, now priced at RM370k

PHS Automotive Malaysia, the official distributor of Audi vehicles in Malaysia, has announced an updated retail pricing for the Audi Q5 Sportback.

Available in the sole S-Line TFSI 2.0 Quattro variant, the Q5 Sportback is now priced at RM370,223.60 on the road, without insurance. This makes the coupe-style crossover RM145,000 cheaper than before.

For extra peace of mind, customers can opt for the Audi Assurance Package, which offers an additional warranty of three years (bringing it to five years/150,000 km) and a three-year/45,000 km maintenance service. All Audi vehicles come with a five-year roadside assistance.

The Q5 Sportback features a 2.0-litre TFSI four-cylinder engine that produces 249 PS from 5,000 to 6,000 rpm and 370 Nm from 1,600 to 4,500 rpm.

Coupled with a seven-speed S tronic transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive system, it can achieve fuel consumption as low as 8.0 L/100 km.

The exterior design of the Q5 Sportback is highlighted by an S-line kit that gives it a masculine appearance, a Singleframe grille, LED headlights with washers, and 20-inch alloy wheels.

Stepping inside the cabin, you’ll find Nappa leather upholstery, a premium Bang & Olufsen audio system with 19 speakers and a 16-channel amplifier, 12-way electric front seats, complete with electric lumbar support and memory function for the driver, as well as a three-zone climate control system.

Safety and driver assistance features include adaptive cruise control, lane change warning, lane change assist, parking assistance, and a 360-degree camera. At the back, there’s a 510-litre boot space that offers ample room for all travel essentials.

For the Malaysian market, the Q5 Sportback is available in six colours – Mythos Black, Navarra Blue, Glacier White, Chronos Grey, Daytona Grey and Floret Silver.

2025 Audi A5 revealed, serves as A4 replacement

Welcome the all-new Audi A5 model, replacing the executive sedan/wagon A4 generations that has been in the market since 1994.

The use of this new name is Audi’s step in standardizing the names used, where even numbers refer to electric power models, while odd numbers indicate that the model will be offered with internal combustion engine (ICE) options.

Here is a brief overview of the luxurious executive model Audi A5 2024:

 

1. Sedan or wagon

 

For the A5 model, Audi still maintains the tradition of offering sedan (Limousine) and station wagon (Avant) body shapes.

Unlike the traditional three-box sedan body shape of the Audi A4, the Audi A5 Limousine is basically a five-door liftback coupe sedan model that offers a more dynamic design.

As usual, Audi also offers the S5 Limousine and S5 Avant variants with 20 mm lower suspension, black package, and 20-inch rims.

 

2. Cargo space

 

As standard, the Audi A5 Limousine provides a cargo space of 445 liters, smaller than the cargo space of the Audi A4 (480 liters). However, it can be expanded up to 1,299 liters when the rear seats are folded.

Meanwhile, the A5 Avant model offers a space of 476 liters, or up to 1,424 liters when the second-row seats are folded.

 

3. A5 dimensions larger than A4

 

Audi positions the A5 model above the A4 model, with an overall length increased by 67 mm, followed by an 80 mm increase in wheelbase dimensions.

With the mentioned dimensional increases, this means the Audi A5 offers a larger cabin space compared to the Audi A4.

 

4. Exterior design

 

From an exterior perspective, the Audi A5 brings together elements of modern sportiness and premium proportions, with thinner LED headlights, a single-frame grille, a low center of gravity, and real exhaust tips based on customer feedback.

The OLED taillights consist of 364 segments with eight programmable lighting sequences through the central infotainment screen, and with graphics that can be changed according to the situation.

 

5. Cabin space

 

As standard, the Audi A5 cabin is equipped with a 14.5-inch MMI center screen, an 11.9-inch digital cluster screen, a head-up display screen option, a small screen for the front passengers, and Smart Door Panels borrowed from the Audi Q6.

Following current trends, Audi also emphasizes the use of sustainable materials in the cabin, such as ‘Softwrap’ fabric available on the dashboard and door panels.

 

6. Engine

 

The Audi A5 is built on the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) platform, offering support for various diesel and petrol engines, as well as plug-in hybrid engines.

The basic version of the Audi A5 is equipped with a 2.0-liter TFSI engine with 148 hp, or up to 201 hp with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive quattro options.

There is also a 2.0-liter TDI mild hybrid diesel version with 201 hp, with an MHEV system capable of providing an additional 24 hp for a short period.

Finally, the most powerful engine is the 3.0-liter TFSI mild hybrid V6 engine with 362 hp, paired with electronic differential and torque vectoring functions tailored for the S5 Limousine/S5 Avant models.

Audi customers looking for the PHEV version can expect the model to debut in 2025 with power options of 295 hp or 362 hp, quattro all-wheel drive system, and an all-electric range exceeding 100 km.

 

Audi A5/S5 Limousine

 

Audi A5/S5 Avant

Audi RS Q8 performance takes Nurburgring fastest SUV title

WHAT you are looking at is Audi Sport GmbH’s most powerful series-produced combustion model, the RS Q8 performance.

Under its bonnet sits a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine tuned to produce 640 PS and 850 Nm of torque. Paired with an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission and the quattro all-wheel-drive system, it only takes 3.6 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h.

Even more impressively, this powerhouse has also claimed the title of the fastest SUV at the Nürburgring with a time of 7 minutes and 36.698 seconds, two seconds quicker than the previous record holder, the Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT, and almost six seconds faster than the previous RS Q8.

In addition to the potent engine, a significant part of the RS Q8 performance’s on-track capabilities is contributed by the adaptive air suspension system with specific tuning for the RS model.

Furthermore, it is equipped with a mechanical center differential as part of the quattro all-wheel-drive system. It is tasked with distributing engine power to the front and rear axles at a ratio of 40:60.

In case of slippage, no more than 70% of the drive torque is applied to the front and up to 85% to the rear axle, giving the SUV more precise cornering, less understeer, and more exact turn-in.

Audi also offers the RS Q8 performance with an electromechanical active roll stabilization system (eAWS) that essentially minimises lateral movements of the body.

As an alternative to the performance version, customers can opt for the base RS Q8 with 600 PS and 800 Nm on tap.

For this version, acceleration from 0-100 km/h is completed in 3.8 seconds. The standard electronically limited top speed is 250 km/h but customers can have it increased to 280 km/h or a maximum of 305 km/h as an option.

For more potent performance, the base RS Q8 can be fitted with the available dynamic package plus, which includes eAWS, the quattro sport differential, and the RS ceramic braking system (standard on the RS Q8 performance).

There’s also an all-wheel steering system, which is standard on both versions, that functions to reduce the turning radius.

In Germany, the RS Q8 can be ordered starting from June 27 this year with prices ranging from 141,900 euros (RM716,317) for the base version and 155,700 euros (RM785,960) for the performance model.

Audi RS6 Avant GT is a 630-PS, 850-Nm super wagon

You may have forgotten about it but about three years ago, Audi introduced the RS6 GTO Concept that took inspiration from the Audi 90 quattro IMSA GTO race car.

That concept car now has made it to production through a limited edition model known as the RS6 Avant GT.

Only 660 units of the GT will be offered, all of which will be assembled at Böllinger Höfe, where the R8, e-tron GT quattro and RS e-tron GT are built in small-series production.

As you can see, the RS6 Avant GT is not exactly a carbon copy of the RS6 GTO but there are some elements that have been carried over from the concept car.

These include the Singleframe and the air intakes finished entirely in high-gloss black, integrated air outlets behind the front wheels, and the distinctive double wing.

The livery on the RS6 Avant GT appears slightly different from that of the RS6 GTO but still retains the traditional Audi Sport colours of black, grey, and red.

In addition, the wagon also comes with a fully redesigned hood and fenders manufactured from carbon fibre, marking the first time the RS6 Avant has received such addenda.

The wheels come in 22-inch sizes and are available in glossy white, glossy black, or matte black, depending on the chosen body colour.

Meanwhile, the black interior is enhanced by numerous accents in the red and copper, which can be found on the steering wheel, the sides of the center console, the center armrest and door armrests and the floor mats.

The RS6 Avant GT comes standard with RS bucket seats wrapped in leather and Dinamica upholstery. The seats are also adorned with Express Red honeycomb stitching in the center and copper trims on the outer seams.

Included are also Dinamica microfibre trims on the dashboard, centre console, and doors, red seat belts, and the car’s serial number on the centre console.

Like the RS6 Avant Performance, the GT is powered by a 4.0-litre bi-turbo V8 TFSI engine that produces a whopping 630 PS and 850 Nm.

However, in terms of performance, this one is even more impressive, accelerating from 0-100 km/h in just 3.3 seconds, making it 0.1 seconds faster than the Performance version.

For the 0-200 km/h sprint, the GT needs only 11.5 seconds to accomplish, while the maximum speed is rated at 305 km/h.

To make it more agile on corners, Audi has installed an adjustable coilover suspension system as standard. It lowers the ride height by 10 mm compared to the RS6 Avant and offers a perfect combination of dynamics and comfort.

Alternatively, customers can opt for the RS sport suspension plus with Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) or the RS adaptive air suspension.

Other goodies found in the GT include stiffer stabiliser bars (30% in the front, 80% in the rear), reworked quattro sport differential on the rear axle, and 285/30 Continental Sport Contact 7 tyres

Audi SQ8 e-tron and SQ8 Sportback e-tron unveiled in Malaysia, first EV with three motor setup

PHS Automotive Malaysia (PHSAM) today launched two new electric (EV) models for the Malaysian market, namely the Audi SQ8 e-tron and SQ8 Sportback e-tron. Both models are distinguished by their body shapes, with the Sportback being the more sporty coupe version.

The Audi SQ8 e-tron is offered at a starting price of RM519,990, while the SQ8 Sportback e-tron is priced at RM529,990.

Three electric motors

The Audi SQ8 e-tron becomes the first officially introduced EV model in Malaysia with a three-electric motor setup – one at the front axle and two at the rear. These three electric motors are asynchronous, operating independently.

The front motor generates 166hp, while each of the rear motors produces 131hp. The total output for the SQ8 e-tron reaches 496hp and 973Nm of torque.

This allows the heavy SUV EV to accelerate to 100km/h in just 4.5 seconds, with a maximum speed of 210km/h.

The two independent rear electric motors are used to precisely distribute power based on driving conditions such as uneven roads or corners.

Charging

The Audi SQ8 e-tron and SQ8 Sportback e-tron can be charged up to 170kW for DC, enabling the battery to reach from 10 to 80 percent in just 31 minutes. With a full charge, this SUV can be driven for up to 471km.

For AC charging, it uses a 22kW capacity, requiring nine to 11 and a half hours depending on various factors.

Luxurious and sporty aesthetics

Both models come in an S package, indicating a sportier design. The widened bumper design is now more expressive, while the wheel arch panels with optimized air flow present a more muscular image.

The Singleframe grille, which is an Audi signature (with projector lights), is further emphasized by the Digital Matrix LED headlights. Interestingly, these lights have 1.3 million micro mirrors that can be adjusted up to 5,000 times per second to provide optimal illumination without dazzling other drivers.

Aerodynamics are crucial for EVs, and the Audi SQ8 e-tron has a low drag coefficient (Cd) of between 0.24 and 0.27, helping to achieve longer driving distances.

Other features include red brake calipers, carbon fiber side mirror housings, black roof rails, and 22-inch Interferenz Audi Sport rims.

“With the introduction of the new SQ8 e-tron through the classic SUV design and the more sporty Sportback design, we are now offering a high-powered Q8 e-tron variant for those seeking a more exhilarating driving experience with Audi’s dynamic and efficient technology,” said PHSAM CEO, Denyu Bostandzhiev.

“The Q8 e-tron and e-tron GT model families were launched in Malaysia in June last year and have received positive feedback,” he added.

The SQ8 e-tron comes in seven color options – Magnet Gray, Ultra Blue, Chronos Gray, Mythos Black, Plasma Blue, Daytona Gray, and Glacier White.

Both models are covered by a 5-year warranty, a 3-year scheduled maintenance package, and 5-year roadside assistance.

Audi Q8 e-tron edition Dakar boasts off-road ruggedness

AUDI will be competing in this year’s Dakar Rally with a RS Q e-tron designed specifically for the gruelling endurance race. To mark its participation, the automekr has introduced the new Q8 e-tron edition Dakar, inspired by the rally car.

According to Audi, only 99 units of the edition Dakar will be made available. It will open for booking in the first quarter of this year, with a starting price of 120,000 euros (RM608,211) in Germany.

The Q8 e-tron edition Dakar is based on a Q8 advanced 55 e-tron quattro. It is equipped with a 114 kWh battery offering a driving range of up to 487 km. The battery powers a pair of electric motors making 402 hp (300 kW) and 664 Nm of torque.

With standard tyres, the Q8 e-tron edition Dakar can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.8 seconds. All-terrain General Grabber AT3 tyres increases the century sprint time by a tenth of a second to 5.9 seconds. The top speed is limited to 200 km/h.

While the chunky tyres render the SUV a little slower, they provide a higher ground clearance (+31 mm) and better grip on rocky or snowy surfaces.

The edition Dakar also comes standard with a roof rack capable of carrying up to 40 kg of load. Included are a bag for the rack and straps for attaching accessories.

In the base setting, the vehicle has a ground clearance of 206 mm. At higher speeds, it gradually lowers – by 15 mm at 85 km/h, 17 mm at 100 km/h, and 13 mm at 120 km/h.  Audi says the control strategy for the air suspension was revised for off-road driving.

Meanwhile, its approach, ramp, and departure angles are 20, 26, and 19 degrees, respectively. Audi also claims a water wading depth of up to 300 mm.

The four rings brand also offers plenty of optional acessories, which include decals inspired by the RS Q e-tron, ambient light package plus, second high-voltage heater to monitor heating power, Bang & Olufsen Premium Sound System with 3D sound and virual side mirros.

In addition to the AT rubbers, each unit of the Q8 e-tron edition Dakar comes with a set of summer tyres along and 20-inch wheels in 5-V spoke S design.