Volkswagen Group’s premium brand Audi is expanding its ultra strategy with 11 new A4, A5 and A6 variants with a new two-liter TDI turbodiesel engine in 100kW/136hp, 120kW/163hp or 140kW/190hp tune emitting 104-119g of CO2/km depending on model. A new seven-speed twin clutch transmission has also been launched.

Audi said ‘ultra’ designation “stands for sustainable mobility that is fully available for everyday use”. With a combined fuel consumption of 3.9-4.6 litres/100km and those uber-low CO2 emissions, the new variants are claimed to be among the most efficient cars in their segments.

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Development chief Ulrich Hackenberg cited “the latest TDI technology, ultra-efficient transmissions, advanced exhaust aftertreatment” as the main reasons for the efficiency.

Powertrain development head Stefan Knirsch added: “An innovative, highly efficient SCR system removes nitrogen oxides from the exhaust. This measure means that the new ultra models will of course meet the future Euro 6 emission standards while achieving lower fuel consumption.”

The ultra models have a standard manual transmission that makes the gear ratio somewhat taller in the upper gears. The A6 has a new, optional seven-speed ‘S tronic’ twin clutch automatic that further reduces the average consumption rate to 4.4l/100km with CO2 emissions of 114g/km.

The automaker said the completely redesigned dual-clutch transmission heralds a new generation, distinguished by high efficiency as well as by especially fast and comfortable gear changing. Innovations include minimised internal friction, highly efficient oil supply and a centrifugal pendulum-type absorber that counteracts undesirable vibrations and allows low-noise driving at very low engine speeds.

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A standard start-stop system and the driver information system with efficiency programme are included. A4 and A4 Avant models have detail aerodynamic changes and a lowered body to optimise fuel consumption.

The new ultra models go on sale from this first quarter of 2014.

The A3 1.6 TDI, launched in autumn 2013, was the first Audi ultra model. It consumes on average 3.2l/100km and emits 85g/km of CO2.

All ultra models have discreet tail badges.