THE NEW AUDI TT 2010 Performance-capsule review of the 2009 Audi S8. It is based on our analysis of 32 published reviews and test drives.
The 2009 Audi S8 is large, luxurious and thrilling to drive. Combining elegance with high-performance engineering, the S8 garners praise from critics and enthusiasts alike
The S8 is a performance-tuned variant of Audi's top-of-the-line luxury sedan, the A8. Equipped with a 450-horsepower ten-cylinder engine and outfitted in typical-Audi fashion, the S8 is as much of a performer as it is a luxury sedan. "Just as sports cars are getting more comfortable, luxury cars are becoming more athletic," writes Kelley Blue Book. "A key enabler on the luxury side is the latest generation of dynamic suspension systems that can change from firm to soft in a matter of milliseconds and eliminate the need for engineers to seek one particular compromised spot between ride and handling.
erformance-capsule review of the 2009 Audi S8. It is based on our analysis of 32 published reviews and test drives.
The 2009 Audi S8 is large, luxurious and thrilling to drive. Combining elegance with high-performance engineering, the S8 garners praise from critics and enthusiasts alike
The S8 is a performance-tuned variant of Audi's top-of-the-line luxury sedan, the A8. Equipped with a 450-horsepower ten-cylinder engine and outfitted in typical-Audi fashion, the S8 is as much of a performer as it is a luxury sedan. "Just as sports cars are getting more comfortable, luxury cars are becoming more athletic," writes Kelley Blue Book. "A key enabler on the luxury side is the latest generation of dynamic suspension systems that can change from firm to soft in a matter of milliseconds and eliminate the need for engineers to seek one particular compromised spot between ride and handling.
The NEW AUDI S4 2010, 2008 Audi S4 sedan impresses reviewers with its combination of good looks and sophisticated performance. Still, auto writers criticize its back seat for only being suitable for children.
The majority of auto writers find the S4 sedan to be an exquisite vehicle. The Kansas City Star explains: "The S4 is the sportiest version of the A4, and the combination of a tight suspension, blustery V-8 and all-wheel drive create a four-seat sports car that is seriously quick and a blast to drive." In addition to these performance attributes, the S4 features a refined interior cabin and plenty of standard active and passive safety features. Still, the S4 is not perfect. Reviewers find its back seat cramped and optional navigation system difficult to operate.
The 2008 Audi S4 is available in three body styles: Sedan, Avant (wagon), and Cabriolet (convertible).
The NEW AUDI RS-4 2010 following is a performance-capsule review of the 2008 Audi RS-4. It is based on our analysis of 38 published reviews and test drives.
The 2008 Audi RS4 is a four-door sedan. The RS4 has one standard engine. The 4.2 liter V8 makes 420 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. Quattro all-wheel drive is standard.
The RS4 has seating for five and comes standard with 12-way sport power driver and front passenger Recaro® Sport seats, an Audi symphony AM/FM stereo with in-dash 6-disc CD changer and a multifunction sports steering wheel. An optional premium package includes auto-dimming mirrors, a navigation system, BOSE premium sound system, heated rear seats, Homelink, a power rear sunshade and Bluetooth capability.
The NEW AUDI R8 2010 R8's engine choices thrill auto writers. However, its transmission systems receive mixed reviews
Audi provides two engine options. The R8 4.2 features a 4.2-liter V8 engine that produces 420 horsepower at 7,800 rpm and 317 pound-feet of torque at 4,500 to 6,000 rpm. The all-new R8 5.2 packs a 5.2-liter V10 engine that generates 525 horsepower at 8,000 rpm and 391 pound-feet of torque at 6,500 rpm. While both feature a six-speed gated manual transmission as standard, an R tronic automatic is optional.
Audi reports that the R8 4.2 can reach a top speed of 187 mph and accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. However, the more powerful R8 5.2 has a top speed of 196 mph and accelerates from 0 to 60 in just 3.9 seconds.
According to the EPA, the manual R8 4.2 has a meager city/highway fuel economy of 12/19 mpg, while the automatic can reach 13/18 mpg. Meanwhile, the R8 5.2 nets 12/20 mpg with the manual and 13/20 mpg with the automatic.
The NEW AUDI Q7 2010. This ranking is based on our analysis of 82 published reviews and test drives of the Audi Q7, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The 2010 Audi Q7 delivers distinctive elegance, spacious cargo room and lots of safety features. However, its high price and low fuel economy mean there are plenty of others in this class that offer more for the money.
The Q7 fits the bill as a luxury family SUV, offering excellent safety features, six- or seven-passenger seating, and a luxurious interior. "Many luxury features, excellent build quality and a smart-looking interior make the 2010 Audi Q7 a solid choice for a seven-passenger luxury crossover SUV,” writes Edmunds. “However, the Q7 isn't the quickest or roomiest crossover on the block."
Unless you buy the turbodiesel model, the Q7 just doesn't offer the same overall value as class competitors. With prices that begin at nearly $47,000 and can climb past $60,000, the Q7 is one of the more expensive vehicles in its class. The Q7 also achieves poor fuel economy -- at 14/19 mpg city/highway, its base engine's gas mileage is easily bested by more affordable rivals from Lexus and Cadillac.
However, the Q7 turbodiesel's 17/25 rating tops nearly all of its competitors -- but it also costs about $4,000 more than the other Q7 models. Because of its environmentally progressive nature, Road & Travel Magazine named the Q7 TDI Clean Diesel model its 2010 Earth, Wind & Power Truck of the Year.
The NEW AUDI Q5 2010 Audi Q5 ranks 1 out of 8 Luxury Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 18 published reviews and test drives of the Audi Q5, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Audi Q5 provides one of the best combinations of spectacular performance, an ultra-luxury cabin and a stunning exterior in its class. As Audi's first luxury compact SUV, it's slotted below the midsize Q7 and is based on the same platform as the A4 sedan.
Reviewers have plenty of praise to offer this young SUV, going so far as to say that its performance rivals sport sedans. With standard all-wheel drive, it’s surefooted in slippery conditions and downright fun to drive when the pavement is dry. "Q5 offers a level of refinement and cargo AND passenger versatility unmatched by most compact SUVs," writes Consumer Guide. "Those strengths, coupled with first-rate cabin appointments, put it at the head of the class.”
So far, the Q5's only major downside is its steep base price, which can skyrocket once you start adding options. It starts at just over $37,000, making it more expensive than every car in its class except the BMW X3. A smaller sticking point is that it only offers a six-cylinder engine. Reviewers had hoped a more fuel-efficient option would be offered for 2010, but a hybrid model is now expected instead for 2011. But even without a hybrid option, the Q5 achieves very good fuel economy for its class. Its 18/23 city/highway rating is second only to the Acura RDX, which is rated at 19/24.
THE NEW AUDI A8 2010,In its last year before a major redesign, Audi has trimmed the A8 lineup significantly -- but the car that remains is still one of the most athletic and luxurious Super Luxury Cars. Its cabin outclasses some of the world’s finest cars, while sure-footed Quattro All-Wheel-Drive gives it a secure, planted feel.
Audi will introduce an entirely new flagship A8 for the 2011 model year -- but that doesn’t mean buyers should overlook the 2010 edition currently sitting on dealership lots. It’s still an exceptional car, and it is possible that the arrival of the 2011 A8 could push prices of the current model down, creating a unique buying opportunity in mid-2010.
The A8 has a distinct personality within the hyper-competitive Super Luxury Sedan class. It offers what many reviewers consider one of the finest interiors of the group, with exemplary Valcona leather and real wood trim, and one of the easiest-to-use electronics interfaces available on a premium car. It’s remarkably agile for a heavy, full-size car. Quattro All-Wheel-Drive gives it confident road manners, and precise steering makes it perhaps the most nimble car in its class. It also carries one of the lowest entry prices of the group.
The NEW AUDI A6 WAGON 2010 Audi A6 Wagon ranks 4 out of 7 Luxury Wagons. This ranking is based on our analysis of 29 published reviews and test drives of the Audi A6 Wagon, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The 2010 Audi A6 Avant combines practicality with luxury and beauty -- a winning combination. It's even a Consumer Guide "Recommended Buy."
Having undergone a refresh in '09, the A6 Avant carries into 2010 unchanged -- which is just fine by critics who hail it as a success. In fact, Kelley Blue Book calls it "the ideal vehicle for the socially mobile family in need of generous interior space and all-wheel-drive capability, but not at all interested in an SUV."
In 2009, the A6 Avant received a new engine, revised suspension and all-wheel-drive settings, as well as exterior and interior updates. Though it hasn't been extensively tested, those who have driven it are impressed.
The NEW AUDI A6 2010 Audi A6 ranks 5 out of 13 Luxury Large Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 59 published reviews and test drives of the Audi A6, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Audi A6 combines exceptional performance with one of the finest interiors offered in the Large Luxury Car class.
The Audi A6 tends to trail behind the BMW 5-Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class in terms of sales -- but that could be a sign that Americans are missing out on a very capable car.
The Audi A6 has one of the nicest interiors available, even at its price. It's also a fine performer.
The A6 received a design refresh for 2009, so little has changed for 2010.
The key to the A6's appeal is the optional Quattro All-Wheel-Drive Sstem. Reviewers say that, without Quattro, it doesn't handle as well as some competitors; but with Quattro, it's the almost the equal of the canyon-carving BMW 5-Series. The A6 also outclasses the BMW, and many other rivals, with its well-designed passenger cabin (reviewers love the available cocoa leather).
Just as the optional AWD system makes a dramatic difference in the car's performance, a buyer's choice of engine can radically change the character of this car. Reviewers are particularly impressed with the available 3.0-liter supercharged V6, which offers smooth power delivery and accelerates like a V8, but offers the fuel economy of a V6.
The NEW AUDI A4 WAGON 2010 Audi A4 Wagon ranks 2 out of 7 Luxury Wagons. This ranking is based on our analysis of 18 published reviews and test drives of the Audi A4 Wagon, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The 2010 Audi A4 Avant is praised for its smooth powertrain and pleasing handling dynamics, as well as its attractive design and elegant interior accommodations. Best of all, its top-notch safety ratings make it a solid choice for families. Not surprisingly, the A4 wagon is a Consumer Guide "Recommended Buy."
Just redesigned last year, the A4 Avant carries into the 2010 model year unchanged -- which is fine by critics, who appreciate its attractive design, luxurious accommodations, advanced safety features and everyday practicality. "This car has style worthy of the Hollywood glitterati and moves that would make Justin Timberlake step back," says Car and Driver. "Fabulous-looking, well dressed, quick on its feet, and with a damn good optional stereo."
While the 2010 A4 wagon ranks at the top of its class, it's not perfect. Reviewers consistently complain that its Multi-Media Interface (MMI) system isn't very intuitive. That, however, is common among German auto brands -- like BMW and its iDrive system. Still, Audi's MMI system has recently been updated for easier use, so it's better than previous iterations of the technology.
The NEW AUDI A4 2010 Audi A4 ranks 7 out of 15 Upscale Midsize Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 18 published reviews and test drives of the Audi A4, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
Redesigned just last year, the Audi A4 is a viable alternative to the BMW 3-Series. Buyers looking for a sporty entry-level luxury sedan should test drive an all-wheel-drive A4 before making their decision.
The Audi A4, redesigned from the wheels up for 2009, enters the 2010 model year with no significant changes. It remains a fun car to drive, with sharp handling and a firm stance courtesy of its Quattro all-wheel-drive system (optional, but Audi says more than 80 percent of buyers opt for it). Audi's adjustable suspension, which allows the driver to electronically change the car's tuning for aggressive cornering or quiet commuting, is particularly well-reviewed. The combination, Consumer Guide says, means the A4 "adeptly balances around-town maneuverability with sporty road manners."
Shoppers should note that the A4 is the largest sedan in the midsize class - which means it's an opportunity for some buyers of more expensive luxury sedans (like the Lexus GS) to downsize and save some money. However, the A4's price can climb north of $40K with all of the options -- and you'll want most of them.
Audi is known for some of the best interiors in the automotive businesses, and the A4 offers an excellent example of why
The 2010 Audi A5 ranks 7 out of 9 Luxury Sports Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 27 published reviews and test drives of the Audi A5, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The 2010 Audi A5 offers an impressive combination of elegance and sporty handling dynamics. Though its performance capabilities fall short of the competition, the Audi A5 is still an exciting and rewarding vehicle to drive. In fact, Consumer Guide labels the 2010 Audi A5 a "Best Buy."
Critics report that the 2010 Audi A5 is not as sporty as competitors. Most, however, still favor it for its sporty, yet practical, virtues. "A5 and S5 are premium coupes that do many things well," explains Consumer Guide. "They have strong acceleration, capable handling, and the security of all-wheel drive. They're not as outright sporty as the two-seat Porsche Cayman, but they are more practical and undercut it on price, making them a strong choice
AUDI A3 For 2010, Audi drops its previous base 3.2-liter V6 engine and introduces a 2.0-liter TDI clean diesel that makes 140 horsepower and dramatically improves fuel economy. A 2.0-liter 200-horsepower turbocharged engine is also still offered. Reviewers find the traditional engine offers more than enough power. Initial test drives for the diesel show it’s a good choice as well, although some reviewers say it’s not quite as sprightly as they might like. Reviewers say that drivers unaccustomed to diesels may simply need to get used to its feel. The A3's transmissions are well-reviewed. Many report smooth shifting from both the standard six-speed manual and optional S tronic automatic.
According to the EPA, the new diesel is rated at an impressive 30 mpg in the city and 42 mpg on the highway. These figures are excellent and make the A3 TDI the most fuel-efficient car in its class. Fuel economy for the gasoline engine isn’t too shabby either -- it’s rated at 21 mpg on the highway and 30 mpg in the city, a rating bested only by the Volkswagen GTI.
