TC engines are about torque@rpm figures. No point flexing all the hp figures w/o looking at the overall car package.

Let's look at the torque figures:

Audi 1.8L TFSI: 320Nm @ 1400rpm ~3700rpm

Merc 1.8L TC: around 310Nm @ 2200rpm

BMW 2.0L TC: 270Nm @ 1250rpm (I know this is not apple to apple, but it's close)

In terms of acceleration and throttle response, you can see Audi & BMW is almost instant. For the Merc you got to push the 1.8L NA to 2200rpm before you feel the boost kicks in. IMO it's a far cry from the other 2 engines.

What can I say? I'm not a hp guy like most ppl. It's all in the twisting power call torque.

Why does Audi 'still have some catching up to do'? This engine looks really impressive overall and I doubt any of the other brands' 1.8s can match its fuel efficiency.