2012 Audi S5

Along with the introduction of the regular versions of its refreshed A5 series, Audi also presented the updated S5 range. The most important change concerns the S5 Coupe in which the outgoing model’s naturally aspirated 4.2-liter V8 engine with 354-horses and 440Nm (324.5 lb-ft) is replaced with the same 3.0-liter supercharged V6 found in the Sportback and Convertible S5s.

The 3.0 TSI makes 333-horses and 440Nm (324.5 lb-ft), accelerating the S5 Coupe from 0 to 100km/h (62mph) in 4.9 seconds or 0.2 seconds faster than the V8-powered model, while its top speed is electronically governed at 250 km/h (155mph).

Audi says the supercharged V6 not only offers improved performance over the naturally aspirated V8 unit, but also consumes on average 20 percent less fuel per 100 kilometers returning 8.1 liters (29.04 US mpg) on the combined cycle.

Across the range, Audi updated the S5’s quattro all-wheel drive system with the crown-gear center differential and electromechanical power steering, while visual changes include the new front lights, modified body details and new crystal-effect paint finishes on the outside, and refreshed trim and material options on the inside.

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U.S.-Spec 2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class

Mercedes-Benz’s all-new 2012 M-Class (or ML) makes its on-the-road debut in the U.S. this week so the German company decided to drop a new batch of images for our viewing pleasure.

The Stuttgart firm’s new luxury SUV enters the 2012 model year in the U.S. with a choice of two models. First up is the diesel-powered ML350 BlueTEC delivering 240 horsepower and 455 lb.-ft. of torque, while averaging 20mpg in the city and 25mpg on the highway.

The second choice for U.S. buyers is the gasoline-fueled ML350 4MATIC equipped with a brand new direct-injection 3.5-liter V6 rated at 302 hp and 273 lb.-ft.), with an estimated fuel economy of 17mpg city and 22mpg highway.

Mercedes-Benz has not yet announced U.S. pricing.

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2011 Australian International Motor Show Photo

Even though it’s not as famous as its Frankfurt, Paris, Tokyo or Detroit counterparts, this year’s edition of the Australian Motor Show, which takes place in Melbourne from July 1 to 10, has some interesting debuts including the Mad Max Concepts pictured above as well as a number of new production and prototype models from the local divisions of General Motors (aka Holden) and Ford.

You can take a look at all the vehicles in our comprehensive photo gallery right after the break. For those of you interested in learning more about the Ford-badged Mad Max Interceptor prototypes

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