Audi R8 Review

2008 Audi R8 quatrro Coupe

There I was, having fun, fun auf die Autobahn, when nature called. A location southeast of Stuttgart, I took the wrong exit and found myself outside the door of Audi's Neckarsulm plant. A large sign proclaimed the brutally Bauhaus industrial complex ground zero for the German auto maker's R8 supercar. I was immediately convinced I was destined to park one in my garage. Of course by then I had been chasing R8 ownership for more than three years. So do good things come to those who wait?

Flash forward to Vegas. I look at a number of carefully prepped aluminum-bodied R8's shimmering in the desert heat, HUNC low to the ground, looking clearly sinister in the winter sun. The German coupe's over-large mal occhi stare out from a form is not entirely unlike a Ferrari F430, but obscured by all kinds of dents, immediately and intake.

The R8's "blades" - contrasting colored tape Halving the R8's profile like enormous pieces of duct tape looks just as jarring in real life as they do in the pictures. But the car's rear end is a thing of beauty; a synthesis of the Italianate style and Germanic precision projecting pure power.

The R8's interior shares the family very similar to the upcoming TT for my taste, from its door pulls to the undersized, satellite navigation screen for the dreaded Multi-Media Disconnect unit. Despite the haptic sky-buttery leather, textured aluminum, carbon fiber accents, plush Alcantara-It is a bit like sitting inside a Zero Halliburton.

Thanks to the R8's panoramic front windshield, at least feels like a BIG briefcase. For a mid-engine sports car, rear visibility is better than expected, somewhere between terrible and really bad. Backup sensors and the camera comes standard. Very grateful.

The 3,439 pounds. Holsters Audi R8's 4.2-liter FSI V8, good for 420 horsepower and 317 lb.-ft. of torque. Helping well heeled potential customers do the math, Audi's product specialists, who set a 200-mil route through Nevada's Valley of Fire, and gave access to Las Vegas Raceway.

On the open road, the R8 is a serene machine. Despite low gearing, road and engine noise levels are subdued enough for everyday wear. My tester was hit with a couple of squeaks and rattles; an early indication of problems or provide journalists the opportunity to abuse Audi's horsepitality. Anyway, in a roadway, the R8's ride quality is excellent, even without the optional 'Audi magnetic ride' adaptive damper system.

When you press the R8 exhaust note morph from metallic rasp to the barrel chested roar of the Banshee wail. The endless mechanical aria is a welcome alternative to standard-issue audio system, which is slightly better than an A4's ICE. And while we are here, the R8's armrest is poorly positioned for long-term comfort and cupholders are useless.

The Lamborghini Gallardo donated his paddle shift transmission to the R8. At low speed, smooth shifts are quick unmöglich. While Audi's R-electronic system is not as bad as BMW's SMG cog swap (what is?) Is it far less comfortable as Audi's DSG world. To make it worse, the R8's paddles are too small and made ugly ass plastic. I briefly drove the six-speed manual version and prefer it for expanded civilian Jaunt.

Cruise Passengers note: storage is notable by its absence. Audi will sell you a fantastic seven piece set of fitted luggage for around 5,000 euros (which is more beautiful than anything else in the car). But hey, long-distance love is not the R8's main mission.

The track is the R8's true métier. Zero to sixty in 4.2 seconds says this sucker moves. Equally important, the Coupe changes direction with sufficient to elicit an refloating gleeful cackle from the most jaded track addict. Even with the ESP traction control disengaged, have Quattro-equipped mid-engine motor's back-end out of alignment is almost as hard as trying not to.

Too much speed into a corner? Back from the accelerator and nose Tucker neatly in line. Composure through long sweepers at speeds of 100 + km / h is just as exemplary. And the R8's binders are phenomenal: endlessly reassuring combination of power, feedback and measured graduation.

At the Vegas circuit, max attack e-gear shift was fast yet smooth. Unfortunately, Audi put the e-gear indicator in the witness protection program. Yet flogging the R8 around a track and then run the home may be the new owner's new favorite pastime.

The R8's handlers claimed the R8 will open a new automotive segment: affordable exotica. Yes, yes, as quickly and conscientiously as the car is that the R8 is struggling to surpass the dynamic benchmark set by the equivalent price Porsche 911 Turbo.

While the rear-engined German is faster than the R8, the visual malicious Audi definitely possess the X factor needed to make a suitable alternative to the father of all daily Super Cars. In time, the battle lines will move closer. Call me a speed-crazed way victim, but I can not wait.

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Audi A6 Review

2008 Audi A6 3.2 Quattro Sedan Shown

Luxury-car customers who love value has long Hurray Audi A6. And in true Audi fashion, the medium-sized A6 gives you a lot for a very competitive price.

One of the A6's main strengths is its luxury cabin. Materials are first rate and the overall design is nothing less than class leaders. Its winter-weather capability is another plus. A6s is available with Quattro all-wheel-drive system, which distributes power to all four wheels, making icy roads more manageable.

But the car's most compelling asset value concerns. In terms of overall quality, the Audi A6 is right up there with other medium-sized luxury cars, but it costs thousands less. A used A6 represents an even more affordable proposal.

There have been three generations of the Audi A6, and all are worthy choices. If there is a disadvantage to the A6, it is that it has not been the most athletic choices in its segment. Its engines were a little light on low-end torque through the years, and compared to other athletic sports sedan and wagon, handling is skewed towards more luxury than performance. But these quibbles pale in the face of this car's undisputable merits. Offering premium refinement at a respectable price, A6 is an excellent choice.

Current Audi A6

With its clean lines and over dimensional lattice, the current Audi A6 is one of the most significant medium-sized luxury cars on the market. It exists both as a sedan and a wagon. A6 wagon - called Avant - is one of the few medium-sized luxury cars on the market, and with a 34-cubic-foot cargo bay behind its rear seat, it makes a practical yet elegant choice for families with a large dog or double stroll in tow.

Those who buy A6 sedan can choose between two trim: base 3.2 and top-of-the-line 4.2. Carts are available only in the 3.2 trim. Standard equipment is generous, and as we have come to expect from the Audi A6's interior is a case study in attractive designs and quality materials. LINEUP The options include a high-end audio system, voice-activated navigation system and Bluetooth phone connectivity. Most can be accessed via Audi's easy to use Multi Media Interface (MMI) vehicle management system. It sounds complicated, but with its logical menus and ergonomically designed, all-in-one control knob, MMI is relatively easy to learn.


As for performance, Audi A6 is available with either a 255-hp V6 or a 350-horsepower V8 engine. The engines are smooth and refined, though the V6 is taxed by the A6's 4000-pound curb weight. Acceleration is certainly acceptable, but most other V6-equipped luxury cars are faster. A6 rides comfortably on the highway, and while it is not the most sporting car in its class, our editors like its predictable, mobile sensor through the corners. As far as transmissions go, both a constant variable transmission (CVT) and a six-speed automatic are offered. A6 can be equipped with either front-wheel-drive or Audi's Quattro system.

The current Audi A6 is representative of the third generation model, which goes to 2005. Overall, the third generation car is by far the best package of weight-gain style, entertaining driving dynamics and opulent furnishings. They are considering use third-GEN models must remember that the car's V8 (available in 4.2 trim) got an upgrade a couple of years in the cycle. A6's current 350-hp V8 does not debut until 2007 and prior to that V8 models are delivered 335 horsepower. Model 2007 also marks the debut of the car available iPod integration and a rearview camera.


Former Audi A6 models

The second generation A6 sedan came on the market in 1998 and has benefited from a ground-up redesign, a new version of Avant wagon debuted the following year. This was the first Audi A6 to ride on a stretched version of the highly regarded A4 platform. For the first two years, only a naturally aspirated V6 was available, but in 2000, Audi added a spirited twin-turbo-charged V6 and a torque-rich V8 engine LINEUP sedan. Since the acceleration tend to be sluggish with the base V6, especially on hefty A6 Avant Quattro Wagon, Audi began offering a larger and more powerful 3.0-liter six-cylinder in 2002. Transmission choices included a five-speed automatic and a CVT (which was introduced in 2002). In our editorial reviews, we praised the heavenly cabin, and all-wheel-drive utility offered by the second generation A6, and nothing panned its nonlinear steering. Taken together a solid choice for used car shoppers.

The original A6 came out in 1995 as an easily revised version of the old Audi 100 sedan and wagon. Although prices on used A6 models from this era are convincing low, consumers should be aware that only one engine - a 172-hp V6 - is available on these cars. With the lightest A6 sedan weighing from 3,400 pounds, acceleration is modest at best. But much like newer Audi, the A6 was nicely appointed, and offered a choice of front-wheel-drive or Quattro all-wheel drive.

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Audi A5 Review

 Where Audi really needs to improve his game was in the driver's involvement department. With A5, it has done so. The coupe features a long road, its steering has been engineered from scratch, the Quattro 4WD is biased towards the rear and front axle has been moved forward 120mm to counteract during teas. All this work has had the desired effect.

The A5 offers meaty steering, good turn-in and impressive, a better sense of balance than the company's storage RS4. Thanks to its 4WD traction, the car is also very efficient through corners - especially slow them. The problem is, it does not provide the same feedback and sharpness as its arch-rival, BMW 3-Series. If you choose the optional Sport pack would improve things - but would also hurt the ride quality. By default, Audi is comfortable, especially on highways where it has a quiet ride forgiving. As for engines, the 3.0-liter TDI has been developed, and now delivers more power. It does not feel like a normal diesel - it is more flexible, with good and minimal diesel-like rattles. It draws interest from less than 1500rpm and chastened to an impressive 5200rpm. 0-60mph in 6.2 seconds is potent, but the gearbox is springy and sends vibrations.

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The A5 is impressive in the metal. It is best viewed from a distance, where you can appreciate the subtle line that forms the car's shoulder, and the radical currents that roof down into the trunk, which ends in a very small lip spooler. If anything, we believe that the reverse is more successful than the generic nose, and the front-end is distinguished from other Audi by the standard xenon headlights with their dramatic LED lights running. Up close, the first thing you see is how little the A5 is the roof. When you open one of the relatively short doors, you seem to have to dip much lower to get within inches but it's a full four-seater - finally, it is a return to a market left Audi in 1996. Built on the Modular Longitudinal Platform that will underpin the next A4, the Audi offers a wide range of engines, including the 3.0-liter TDI we tested, plus a 2.7-liter TDI, a 3.2-liter V6 petrol and the magnificent 4.2 - liter V8 S5. There simply is the only body style. His rival is the BMW 3 Series Coupe - this car is a competitor of this model in absolutely every respect, and you know Audi has benchmarked its Munich counterpart to the nth degree. The Mercedes CLK is an alternative, such as the Peugeot 407 Coupe left field.


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The interior is completely new for the A5. We expect that elements of the design to appear on the next A4, but in the meantime, the Audi's cockpit looks and feels unique. But that's not to say it's perfect. The new key is rather clumsy, the switches for the electric windows click uncomfortable and the heating controls are fiddly. Nevertheless, the cabin of a quality is of the opinion, while the wraparound dash is strengthened this effect and gives a feeling of space. You will not benefit if you sitting on the rear bench tight, but while you struggle to your feet under the front seats. But what are taken from the rear legroom is given to the load bay - the A5 of the 455-liter luggage compartment is huge. It's pretty economical too, while retained values very beautiful.

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2009 Audi A5

Audi has been making a concerted effort in recent years to broaden its product line. One of its newest products are medium-sized A5 Coupe. Inspired by its stunning 2003 Nuvolari grand touring concept, the A5 is a little less practical but very sexy two-door alternative to the mainstream luxury sports sedan. It boasts standard V6 power, all-wheel drive, a refined interior and lots of standard or optional luxury features.

Those shopping for a sport-oriented luxury coupe would be wise to look at the Audi A5. Its combination of striking good looks, all-wheel drive and everyday practice is hard to ignore.

Audi A5 was introduced for the 2008 model year. Mechanically, it is in connection with the latest generation A4 sedan. Motivation is powered by a 3.2-liter direct injected V6 that puts out 265 horsepower and 243 pound-feet of torque. Power is directed through either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic. (The S5 Coupe is similar, but comes with a sturdy V8.)

An important advantage for them, as they are subject to slippery weather is A5's Quattro all-wheel drive, a feature not available from this Audi's peers. With a 40/60-percent front-to-rear power split, the Quattro system gives a rear-wheel car's crisp handling dynamics with the extra grip in all-wheel drive.

Those who appreciate sophisticated design as much as performance will feel right at home in the Audi A5. This is arguably one of the best long-term coupe on the market. The sporty Silhouette, a characteristic Audi-piece grille and shapely tail end team up to create an exceptionally attractive appearance.

The same is true of the A5's beautiful four-place cabin. The interior materials are first rate, and A5 multi-adjustable front seats offer daylong touring comfort with an appropriate degree of support during spirited motoring. Expanding on the limited capacity of the company's TT roadster, the rear seat area provides space for two extra passengers, although more individuals can expect a fairly tight fit. The generous trunk offers more than 16 Cubic of space, and rear Flips down to allow for more freight.

The Audi A5 sized luxury sports coupe is offered in a single trim level, equipped with standard features such as automatic tri-zone climate control, a 10-speaker audio system and fine custom leather and wood trim. Popular options include Bi-Xenon headlamps, park assist with a rearview camera, a navigation system, a Bang & Olufsen premium audio system and an S line package offers sports suspension with 19-inch alloy wheels, unique front and rear fascia, sport seats and Aluminum interior accents.

As smart as it is, the Audi A5 faces some tough competition from rivals such as BMW's 3 Series Coupe, Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class and Infiniti G37. All are excellent choices, but customers who desire the Coupe, which offers a pleasant blend of style, performance and all-wheel-drive security would do well to look at A5.

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2009 Audi R8

The most high-performance road going Audi ever. If there were any questions about what the Audi R8 is, it is the answer. Designed to give Audi an honest competitor to the best species the world has to offer, the R8 is the first production vehicle midengine Audi has ever sold, and it includes all the brand has taught more than 70 years of racing history.

Audi R8 happened as a production version of Le Mans Quattro concept car. The name itself references Audi R8 racecar, which won several 24-hour Le Mans races. Performance of the R8 road car starts with a rigid and light all-aluminum space frame chassis. Much of it resembles the space frame used for the Lamborghini Gallardo. The R8 is advanced in other areas as well as having a direct injected V8 engine with dry-sump lubrication, two-mode active dampers, and of course, Quattro all-wheel drive.

Although many high-performance species can be challenging to drive, Audi took action to ensure its R8 is comfortable enough for everyday use. The R8 really stands out from its interior, which is spacious and high quality while maintaining a modern design flair, not normally associated with high-performance species.

Current Audi R8

Audi R8 debuted for the 2008 model year. It is powered by a 4.2-liter V8 that uses direct injection to produce 420 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. Transmission choices are a standard six-speed manual gearbox or a six-speed "R Tronic" sequential-shifting manual with an automatic function. Power is sent to all four wheels via Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system, specially tuned for the R8 to provide a genuine rear-wheel-biased power delivery.

As with most vehicles, which has the engine mounted behind the driver, the R8 has a shortened nose, which is adorned with the current corporate Audi grille and Bi-Xenon headlamps. The exotic appearance of the R8 is further enhanced through a series of 12 LED lights that underscores the headlamp housings and act as daytime running lights. The styling of the aluminum body is composed of chiseled flanks, which leads the eye to the "side blades" to highlight the mid-mounted engine. The rear styling is accented by a glass engine cover and further use of LED lighting.

Standard equipment on the Audi R8 is comprehensive, just a short list of available options. Standard features include active dampers, 19-inch alloy wheels and power and heated leather / Alcantara sport seats. Major options include a premium Bang & Olufsen audio system, navigation, upgraded leather upholstery and other clothing to hand blades.

In declarations, we have found the R8 sublimely balanced in terms of handling. This is one of the rare vehicles with enough straight-line traction and cornering grip to match its high-performance engine, so the Audi's V8 actually feel less powerful than it is. It is also worthy of a sports car, thankfully free of those elements that make other super cars impossibly taxation in the real world use. It has not Goofy Scissor doors, and 6-footers will fit comfortably with room to spare. Audi R8 even rides surprisingly well, thanks to its two-mode adaptive dampers. Meanwhile, the interior is typical Audi, with strong controls and an ergonomic design.

Audi plans to import only a limited number of R8s in the United States each year. As can be expected, demand is currently greater than supply. But for those lucky owners who have the financial means to acquire one, Audi has produced a vehicle that proudly live up to the legacy of the Auto Union badge.

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2009 Audi S5

The luxury coupe market has not always been Audi's bag. Most associate the German mark with solid, reliable sports sedan. But as competitors expand their model lineup to fit what seems like every possible niche, Audi has increasingly begun to keep pace with the launch of several two-door models - not least as Audi S5.

True to Audi nomenclature, the S5 is the performance version of the A5 Coupe. That means a larger engine, more horses and a stiffer suspension. The outer set out from his more mild-mannered Sibling of a chrome-trimmed grille, quad tailpipe and more robust bumpers. The resulting package is refined yet athletic, with luxury appointments, providing comfort matched with a powertrain that will not disappoint.

Current Audi S5

Audi S5 sports coupe debuted in the 2008 model year. Beneath its sleek sculpted hood is a 4.2-liter direct-injection V8 engine that produces 354 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. This single trim level is available with either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic with manual shift control. Quattro all-wheel drive is standard. In our tests, manual S5 produced a 0-60-mph time of 4.9 seconds.

Audi S5 platform is largely based on the S4, its four-door counterpart. But the two-door offers trail tier enhancements, such as a longer wheelbase and a new lightweight, aluminum front suspension - changes that are slated to be included in the next version of the sedan. The front end styling takes cues from midengine R8 sports car, while the rest of the exterior design comes from the Nuvolari, an Audi concept that made the auto show circuit rounds in 2003.

Audi S5 is equipped with many standard safety features, such as anti-lock disc brakes with brake assist, stability and traction control. Front-seat side airbags and side curtain airbags also come standard. Many luxury-oriented features are also standard. Major options include keyless ignition / entry, a navigation system and a premium audio system.

Inside the cabin, the four-seat Audi S5 is appointed with sophisticated detail, as finely stitched leather and real aluminum trim. The front sport seats offer plenty of space and support, although legroom could be better in the rear. Audi's MMI (Multi Media Interface) controls the audio, climate and optional navigation systems, and unlike some multifunction controls are relatively easy to figure out. And even if it S5 has the spirit of a sports car, it is still practical enough for everyday life - luggage compartment offers a full 16 Cubic holds, and rear Flips down to make even more space.

In our tests, we found the Audi S5 sports coupe to be an excellent Grand Tour. Steering equipment feels crisp and the suspension, though not adjustable, is firm without being gut-busting. Brakes may seem a little touchy at first, but with practice, they feel sympathetic and business. Thanks to Quattro, the S5 offers excellent traction in all conditions, which makes it an ideal choice for buyers living in colder climes. Power is normally distributed 40 percent to the front and 60 percent to the rear, and this helps give S5 handling characteristics similar to a rear-wheel car.

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2009 Audi S8

 Audi S8 is the German auto maker's flagship performance sedan. Debuting at the beginning of the new millennium, was the third vehicle for the North American market to sustain an "S" badge. Used to produce Audi's engineering achievements, S-and RS-badged vehicles compete directly against other automakers performance models from divisions like BMW's M and Mercedes-Benz's AMG. As a high-luxury, high performance and high-technology platform, the S8 is the standard bearer of Audi's arsenal.

There are two generations of the Audi S8 and each has been based on the A8 luxury sedan from the same period. Based on the A8's lightweight aluminum-frame chassis, the S8 adds a more powerful engine, a sport-tuned suspension, more powerful brakes and a slightly more aggressive look. Despite being Audi's largest sedan, a combination of a relatively light curb weight, muscular and tenacious grip of the car's standard Quattro all-wheel-drive system makes it surprisingly quick and smooth. Audi's Quattro system is a key advantage over S8's competitors by providing more traction, especially in the weather.

Audi has ensured that luxury amenities were not sacrificed in favor of direct speed. A premium leather-trimmed interior, real wood accents and exemplary fit and finish complement both S8 models, which makes a whole gang of safety devices. If there is a mistake to Audi S8, it is certain that it does not quite match the performance potential of some competitive sports sedan. Our editors have described it as an impressive luxury sedan first and a performance sedan second. But for those who need AWD security or simply wishing a speedy, stealthy and relatively rare luxury sedan, either S8 generation will do nicely.

Current Audi S8

Returns to LINEUP for 2007 after a three-year break, the latest Audi S8 is based on second-GEN A8. Its most talked-about feature is its engine. Audi's engineers took advantage of its parent company Volkswagen's ownership of Lamborghini and snagged the Lamborghini Gallardo's 40-valve V10 engine. Audi increased displacement to 5.2 liters and added FSI petrol direct injection to optimize the delivery. The result is an operatic 450 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque. All this sonorous power is pushed through a six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, so you can happily keep my fingers tapping the steering wheel paddle shifters. The sound of the engine wailing through four exhaust pipes are so sweet, you can ask premium audio system to take five.

The current Audi S8 delivers performance products, while rewarding the driver with a rich experience filled with techno-gadgetry. It is easy to learn Multi Media Interface with Bluetooth navigation, a 350-watt, 12-speaker Bose audio system with a glovebox CD changer, power lifting just outside mirrors with tilt-in-reverse and everything is wrapped in sumptuous leather and wood trim. A stiffer version of the standard A8's fully independent adaptive air suspension works in the unit with 20-inch wheels, performance tires and speed-dependent steering to provide exceptional handling in both high and low speed maneuvers.

Overall, the combination of luxury, performance and technology add up to an impressive package. At the same time, Audi has kept the styling upgrades tasteful as S8 not immediately scream "performance model" as some competitors do. Only in terms of maximum performance potential is Audi's finest bit of a letdown.

Former Audi S8 models

When it debuted for the 2001 model year, the first Audi S8 came with a 4.2-liter V8 making 360 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. The aluminum frame and body are lowered, stiffer suspension performed well in its 18-inch wheels. The fit and finish besteden something else in its class. It even won a star packed role in a memorable car chase in Ronin movie directed by John Frankenheim. But S8 never seemed to be named Cachet of its impressive rivals.

Audi continued to improve the car by small increments over the next two years. It offered new features such as a tire-pressure monitoring system, front and rear parking assist and a navigation system. To increase the feeling of exclusivity, Audi released a limited edition color combinations like a silver exterior with a red interior, a Ming Blue exterior with a platinum interior and a black exterior with a caramel interior. As a used model, the original S8 still gives serious performance dynamics, which can be enjoyed from the most beautiful of environments.

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2009 Audi TT

On his debut as a concept car in 1995 and finally a production reality, the Audi TT was one of the most dramatic cars to come out in mid to late 1990s. Its ecological and symmetrical reported front and rear sections compared with slab-sided flanks to create a look unlike any Audi has ever done before. Meanwhile, the TT's beautifully executed interior left no noticeable trace of the car a little humble VW Golf roots.

Named after the Tourist Trophy motorsports event held at the Isle of Man (where a predecessor of the Audi brand competing), the Audi TT is not quite a sports car, not quite a sport coupe or roadster. In essence, the front-or all-wheel-drive TT is a two-seat GT. True, the Coupe has a few seats in the back, but they are best left to small children or used as a padded parcel shelf. TT has a low slung look and feel of a sports car, but its dynamic personality is closer to that of a luxury sports coupe.

Irrespective of the year, and trim levels, the TT is on the fast, but with some first-generation versions heavier than 3,600 pounds and suspension tuning, giving priority to touring comfort of all-out cornering prowess, it will not be the first choice for hard-core enthusiasts. These zealots are seeking a harder edge driving experience would be better served by more finely focused sports. The majority of consumers, but who want a sporty coupe or roadster with energetic performance and a heavy emphasis on style, should be more than happy with the Audi TT.

Current Audi TT

The current Audi TT was redesigned for the 2008 model year and represents the second generation. Although slightly higher, the second-generation TT not orphan too far from the timeless lines of his predecessor. The overall look is the same, although the characters lines are Crispen and nose adopt Audi's now-signature single-frame grille. Although longer and wider than the first TT, the latest version is easier (with nearly 200 pounds in the event of a roadster), thanks to the increased use of aluminum in the body structure. It also offers a more powerful four-cylinder engine.

Two trim levels - a 2.0T (200 hp turbocharged four with front-wheel drive) and 3.2 Quattro (250 hp V6 with all wheel drive) - offered in a choice of Hatchback Coupe and Roadster body styles. Transmission choices include a six-speed manual and a six-speed S tronic dual-clutch sequential transmission, which offers easy automatic combined with a quick response from a manual. (Former S-tronic became known as Direct Shift gearbox, or DSG.)

On the way, the 2.0T feel more flexible through a series of curves, as it has less weight on the front tires, while the 3.2 Quattro deliver more punch on the straightaways with a more aggressive engine and exhaust sound. The 2.0T is actually more athletic of the two, as quick-revving four-cylinder engine, whooshing turbocharger and light-effort steering mobile combine to deliver a strong sporting impression.

One of the TT's most notable asset is its superbly designed interior, which entices with a look that is sleek and modern. Another is its sculpted exterior design. The TT also offers an impeccable sequential-shift manual transmission, and high Hatchback value when purchased in Coupe iteration. Its main drawback concerns the fact that its handling is less precise than that offered by some of its rear-drive competitors.

Former Audi TT models

Introduced for the 2000 model year, and initially available only as a Hatchback coupe, the first TT was powered by Audi's peppy 1.8-liter, 180 horsepower turbocharged inline-4. Buyers can choose either front-or all-wheel drive (Audi's Quattro system). A five-speed manual was standard, while a six-speed manual was optional. Together with its low-slung, avant-garde styling, the TT boasted an equally unique interior, who played polished aluminum accents, impeccable fit and finish and, unfortunately, a couple of ergonomic glitches such as a CD changer mounted behind the driver and counter intuitive climate control.

After a much-publicized recall to fix twitchy handling characteristics of early TTS, a roadster and a 225-hp Quattro version debuted the following year. In 2003, an automatic transmission (with six speeds) were available. But the biggest news for this generation came in 2004 when 250 hp 3.2-liter V6 and Audi's superb six-speed auto-manual gearbox was available. The latter, dubbed DSG, provided rapid yet jolt-free manual-style gear changes that put a Ferrari's F1 transmission to shame. Audi TT stood pat through 2006, the last year in this generation.

Potential buyers should know that although potentially fast in a straight line, this TT was never regarded as a genuine sports car because of its potentially heavy weight limit, and soft-sprung suspension. Still, the TT should satisfy those who prize comfort, style and all-weather capability in their sports coupe and roadster.

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Audi A4 New Images Reviews

The Audi A4 is a compact executive car produced by the German car manufacturer Audi AG since late 1994. The initial generation A4 succeeded the four previous generations of the Audi 80. And just like its Audi 80 predecessor, the Audi A4 automobile layout consists of a longitudinally orientated engine at the front, with transaxle-type transmissions mounted immediately to the rear of the engine, again, orientated longitudinally. Drive output is transmitted to either the front wheels, or on some models, utilising Audi's 'trademark' quattro permanent four-wheel drive system via a Torsen centre differential.

Since its inception, the Audi A4 has been available in four generations, based on the Volkswagen Group 'B' series of automobile platforms - usually known by the following codes - the initial B5, the subsequent B6 and B7, and the current B8.

Of the main body styles, it is (and always has been) available as a saloon/sedan variant, and an "Avant", which is Audi's name for an estate/wagon. The second (B6) and third generations (B7) of the A4 also had a Cabriolet version, but the Cabriolet was not retained for the current fourth generation (B8), due to the introduction of the Cabriolet version of the related Audi A5 and S5 coupés.

Additionally, higher performance versions directly related to the A4 include the Audi S4, and the limited availability quattro GmbH-developed very high performance Audi RS4.

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Audi A4 2009

The definitive automotive blog with articles, commentaries, news, advice and reviews covering the world of autos and auto parts. Read the auto blog here online for the latest auto industry news, expert opinions, vehicle photos, and more. Without a doubt, most of today’s new cars come loaded with sophisticated technologies that were the stuff of sci-fi a few decades ago. Technological equipments that were once provided only for high end luxury cars such as navigational systems are now available even in relatively more modest entry-level vehicles. All of these information is very useful when we share it.

In its design, the new A4 reveals its sporty, progressive character: taut and dynamic in its outlines, it speaks the language of technical perfection. With an overall length of 4.70 metres, the saloon has a substantial, powerful road stance and offers its occupants ample space in an interior full of light. The workmanship is typical of an Audi – quality with no compromises. The controls can be backed by the extra refinement of innovative assistance and multimedia systems. In the safety area, the brand with the four-ring emblem sets new standards: the coordinated action of the airbags and front seat belt force limiters protects the occupants even more effectively.

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