New Audi A4 2.0 TDI with 136HP and 4.4lt/100km [53.5mpg]

Audi is extending its A4 range in Europe with the addition of a new and more fuel efficient 2.0 TDI version that is available in both sedan and Avant (Audi talk for Station Wagon) body styles. This variant of the VW Group's 2.0-liter turbo diesel engine produces 136HP (100 kW) and 320 Nm (236.02 lb-ft) of torque, the latter being available between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm.

In addition, both the A4 Saloon and Avant 2.0 TDI benefit from the use of a six-speed manual transmission with lengthened gear ratios and forged 16-inch alloy wheels shod in 205/60 low rolling resistance tires. The aerodynamic tweaks to the body and a lower ride height complete the package.

The end result of all these changes on the sedan is a combined fuel consumption of 4.4 liters of diesel per 100 km (53.5 mpg US) with CO2 emissions of 115 grams per km (185.07 g/mile). In comparison, the A4 with the 143HP 2.0 TDI consumes 5.0 lt/100km or 47 mpg US. As for the A4 Avant, it returns 4.6 liters (51.1 mpg US) and 120 grams (193.12).

According to Audi, CO2 emissions have been reduced by four and nine grams, respectively, compared with the previous models.

In terms of performance, the sedan accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 9.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 215 km/h (134 mph), while the Avant completes the standard sprint in 9.8 seconds and tops out at 208 km/h (129 mph).

Both the A4 2.0 TDI sedan and Avant models are offered in the Attraction trim line, with prices in Germany starting from €31,600 and €33,250, respectively.

Paris Preshow: 2011 Seat Exeo with Interior Refinements, LED Tail Lights and New 7-Speed CVT

Seat is debuting the 2011 model year versions of its Exeo sedan and ST estate at this week's Paris Auto Show. The VW Group owned company says that both models, which are based on the previous generation Audi A4, are roomier, as there is more space available to backseat passengers after redesigning the front seats and rear bench, while other updates include the introduction of a 7-speed Multitronic transmission on the 2.0 TDI CR Diesel version.

Thanks to some minor revisions to the front seat back and rear bench designs, room in the back is said to have increased by 44 millimeters (+1.7-inches) without affecting seating comfort [according to Seat] or luggage space.

Under the hood, Seat has equipped the 143-hp 2.0 TDI CR Diesel version with the continuously variable Multitronic gearbox. The transmission on this model offers a sport program that delivers gear shifting at higher rev speeds, and a 7-speed manual mode controlled via steering wheel mounted shift paddles.

According to Seat, this combination returns an average fuel consumption of 5.8 liters per 100 kilometers, which is equal to 40.6 mpg US and 48.7 mpg UK.

Other changes include the revised tail lamps featuring LED technology and the addition of a new 230 V socket on the central console.

More details including availability will be released at the Paris motor show.