Audi is always a popular stand at motor shows and its presence at this year’s Johannesburg International Motor Show showcased the power and prowess of the Audi model range with the South African debut of several high performance machines.

Striking model line-up

Although there’s a bit of disappointment that the Audi Nanuk Quattro Concept didn’t bless us with its presence, Audi more than compensated by presenting the pinnacles of its performance vehicles such as the A3 Sportback, the A8 RS7 Sportback, RS5 Cabriolet, RS4 Avant, and S6.

Prior to the show we reported on the refreshed 2014 A8 and S8 models which are due in South Africa earlier next year. However, we only got to see the exclusive Audi A8 L W12 Security – the long wheelbase high-security version of the Audi A8 which features a host of special security modifications in addition to its heavy armouring.

Audi also presented to the crowd the powerful RS 7 Sportback and their first high-performance model in the A SUV segment – the RS Q3. The later is equipped with an engine that produces 228kW and 420Nm of torque while mated to a seven-speed S tronic gearbox. While the 4.0T FSI engine in the RS 7 Sportback delivers 412kW and 700Nm. Audi announced that both the RS 7 Sportback and RS Q3 will be introduced to the market in January 2014.

Further on, Audi revealed the A3 Sedan which is the third model in the successful Audi A3 range, combining striking and sporty styling with impressive handling abilities – also due to arrive in 2014. There was also the highly-anticipated new generation Audi A3 Sportback fitted with a powerful engine delivering 206kW and 380Nm. Audi says this model will be introduced to the market in time for the festive season.

Other models completing the stand were the Audi R8 V10 plus, S6, S3 Sportback, RS4 Avant, and RS 5 Cabriolet.

Famous faces at Audi stand

In the mix of all the stunning cars, Audi A1 ambassadors and media personalities Anele Mdoda and Cameron van der Burgh were there to support the brand, so was international motorsport icon Emanuele Piro who has won the Le Mans 24 hour race five times and is now an international Audi Ambassador.

Audi JIMS 2013 gallery