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Audi Q3 The new Audi Q3 is our impressive all-rounder in the compact segment. Now in its third generation, the SUV stands out with its dynamic, muscular look. As a digital companion for everyday life, the Q3 is ideally equipped to deliver an inspiring driving experience thanks to its modern driver assistance systems and lighting technology from the full-size class. On the inside, the modern steering wheel control unit enables a new operating experience and creates even more storage space and a more spacious feel.

The reworked and now more direct steering contributes significantly to the comfortable yet equally dynamic handling of the new A6 Avant. Compared to its predecessor, the entire path from the steering wheel to the wheels is designed to be stiffer. This includes the torsion bar at the steering gear, the rigidly bolted steering rack, and the stiffer control arm bushings. Camber on the front axle has also been slightly increased. All in all, these measures result in a noticeably improved steering response and more feedback from the road, which makes for precise and light-footed vehicle handling. The A6 Avant comes standard with electromechanical progressive steering. The steering ratio varies depending on the steering angle: at small steering angles, such as on the highway, the steering is more indirect to prevent any nervous behavior from influencing the steering. At larger steering angles, the ratio is increasingly more direct, reducing the amount of physical effort required to steer in city traffic and when parking. Moreover, the progressive steering provides a sporty driving feel in tight corners. The Audi drive select dynamic handling system can be used to vary the steering characteristics – specifically steering weight – in several modes. All-wheel steering is optionally available in conjunction with quattro all-wheel drive. It works with a dynamic function whose reaction speed has been improved even further. At speeds of up to roughly 60 km/h (37.3 mph), the rear wheels turn up to five degrees in the opposite direction to the front wheels. This decreases the turning circle by up to one meter (39.4 in), reducing it to 11.3 meters (37.1 ft). The car is thus more agile in city traffic and in tight curves. At medium and higher speeds, the rear wheels turn in the same direction, enabling stable and even more precise handling. The equipment, data and prices specified in this document refer to the model range offered in Germany.

Audi A6 Avant e-hybrid quattro With a system output of up to 270 kW, an electric range of up to 106 kilometers (65.9 mi), standard all-wheel steering, and optimized aeroacoustics, the Audi A6 Avant e-hybrid quattro delivers a sporty and comfortable driving experience with plenty of freedom for everyday flexibility. It also comes with extensive standard equipment.

From A as in all-wheel steering to Y as in yaw moment – steering systems bring a host of technical terms with them. In the glossary for TechTalk Steering, we will explain the most important terms. A for all-wheel steering: Instead of only steering the front wheels, as is customary, vehicles with all-wheel steering can steer the back wheels. For that reason, this is also sometimes called rear-axle steering. At low speeds, the back wheels turn up to five degrees in the opposite direction to the front wheels. This reduces the turning radius significantly and increases manageability. At the same time, the driver feels more comfort and stability at higher speeds because the back wheels turn up to two degrees in the same direction as the front wheels. The signal to turn is electrically transmitted to actuators and the suspension arms in the rear suspension. Dynamic all-wheel steering, which can also vary the steering ratio by using superimposition gearing on the front axle, is an expansion of the system. D for dynamic steering: Dynamic steering varies its degree of implementation up to 100 percent, depending on driving speed, steering angle, and the mode selected in the Audi drive select dynamic handling system. The central component is the superimposition gearing in the steering column. It conveys the driver’s steering commands just as directly as in a vehicle with a conventional steering column. There is also a direct mechanical link to the actual steering gear on the front axle and the associated feedback to the forces on the wheels. When the superimposition gearing is controlled by the electric motor, it increases or decreases the steering angle, which constantly adjusts the steering ratio according to the given driving situation. That improves steering comfort and tracking behavior in accordance with speed and driving situation.

Interview with driving characteristics developer Carsten Jablonowski Basic calibration carried out virtually to create the typical Audi steering feel Different steering systems build on each other Whether driving on winding roads in the Alps, a busy highway, or city streets filled with potholes on the way to the supermarket – a good steering wheel has to cover the entire spectrum of driving situations. In this interview, Carsten Jablonowski, Driving Characteristics Development Team Lead, explains the complex process of fine-tuning the chassis and steering, which is what gives an Audi its unique steering feel. Mr. Jablonowski, how would you describe the typical Audi steering feel? When we’re behind the wheel of a car, its individual steering feel depends on a variety of factors. Among other factors, the overall design, vehicle weight and weight distribution play a role, as do the individual chassis components, the tires, and the steering system used. Now when I get into different Audi models, I get that familiar feeling after only a short time – the car steers effortlessly, smoothly, and precisely with little effort. And this is true regardless of whether I’m parking, driving through hairpin bends, or simply cruising around the city. Because an Audi steering wheel generates greater torque, I’m able to negotiate curves precisely and with agility. Our models change direction with a high degree of precision, especially when driving fast through alternating turns. On the other hand, an Audi will smoothly drive straight ahead at fast highway speeds and isn’t jittery at all. This means I can always feel how the car is interacting with the road. The steering wheel gives me direct feedback regarding the car’s balance, level of grip, and road unevenness such as bumps and ruts. All in all, this is important for a safe and pleasant driving experience. The vehicle development process takes up to five years.

Customers can use Audi drive select to adjust the steering characteristics in various modes. In the “dynamic” driving profile, for instance, they get higher hand moment than in the “comfort” setting. From steel frames to high-tech steering – the evolution of the Audi steering wheel The steering wheel is much more than a tool for changing direction: it is the digital control room and the most important interface between human and machine. Today’s Audi drivers operate up to 18 functions via multifunction buttons – from communication to infotainment to comfort features. Audi steering wheels have therefore turned into real command centers. In that respect, they all have one thing in common: they share Audi’s standard sporty look, lie ergonomically in the driver’s hands, and offer high functionality with intuitive operation. Why do we all actually use steering wheels? The steering wheel has been the dominant feature inside the car for over 120 years. In the beginning, there was a steering lever or handle bar. That is how the occupant would change the wheels’ steering angle. However, steering was anything but precise or flexible. With the steering wheel design, French engineer Alfred Vacheron developed a technical alternative for the first time in order to optimize the controls over the steering precision of the front wheels with his “volant.” The clou: the circular controller enabled the steering angle to be transmitted in multiple rotations. Shortly after it was introduced, the steering wheel evolved into the worldwide standard. How has the Audi steering wheel changed over time? Even Audi’s earliest series vehicles like the Type A and Type B were equipped with wheels like that, which at the time were still oversized steering wheel rims. A lot has happened since then – the steering wheel has developed evolutionarily with the car. Thanks to hydraulic power steering, which Audi introduced in the 1980s, it became smaller and more manageable.

In combination with sophisticated suspension technologies, the A6 Sedan impresses with its qualities for everyday and long-distance driving: both the adaptive air suspension and all-wheel steering combine driving comfort and agile handling to the highest degree.

Whether on long trips or city driving, the adaptive air suspension and all-wheel steering ensure a smooth ride and sporty handling in equal measure. Additional highlights include intuitive operating and infotainment concepts, new digital lighting technology, and intelligent driver assistance systems.