2009 Audi TT-S will start at $45,500

Audi of America will soon bring to the U.S. market a pair of models that will comfortably sit atop of the current TT range. Available at $45,500 for the 2009 Audi TT-S Coupe and more impressive $47,500 for the TT-S Roadster model, the vehicles will sport a turbocharged 2.0-liter TFSI engine capable of producing 265 hp and 258 lb-ft (349Nm) of torque and delivering 24 mpg of combined fuel economy.


In its press release, Audi of America says that, equipped with the fast S-tronic dual-clutch automatic gearbox, the cars will be able to break the 60mph barrier in only 4.9 seconds and will have an electronically limited top speed of 155mph. So, the sporty toy car will be 0.6 seconds faster in reaching the 60mph time than the BMW 135i Convertible, which is equipped with a more powerful 300hp, 300lb-ft twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter engine.


The list of standard equipment includes Audi's trademark Quattro all-wheel drive, trendy magnetic ride system featuring "Sport" and "Normal" modes, xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights, quad exhaust pipes, painted brake calipers and exclusive to the TTS brand 18-inch wheels with summer tires. Not too bad, even considering the price.


2009 Audi TT-S Roadster photos:



See also: Audi TT 1.8 TFSI to be unveiled in Leipzig

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Audi A4 Avant 2.0 TFSI: gone in 6.5 seconds

Although the common European currency keeps getting stronger against the dollar beating one historical maximum after another, the European automakers still have no problems at selling their cars. At least, when it comes to such refined street-legal performance vehicles as the new Audi A4 Avant 2.0 TFSI sports wagon.



The vehicles, Audi states in its press release, will be equipped with WAG's refreshed TFSI 2.0-liter four-banger. Capable of delivering up to 211hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, the engine features an increase in power of 11hp and in peak torque of 51 lb-ft. With all this power available, the Audi A4 Avant 2.0 TFSI takes only 6.5 seconds to jump from zero to 60mph.


The Avant will be available in the U.S. starting October, 2008. Price is yet to be announced.




See also: Peugeot 407 Coupe Bellagio: not for the faint of heart

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2008 Audi A4 gets U.K. price

The 2008 Audi A4 will start at modest £22,590 and reach bearable £30,290 sitting neatly between the new BMW 3-Series and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class.


For the money, you'll get a choice of five engines, namely: 1.8 TFSI 160PS, 3.2 FSI 265PS, 2.0 TDI 143PS, 2.7 TDI 190PS, and 3.0 TDI 240PS; new sporty chassis with repositioned front axle; new Quattro system with 40:60 torque split; electromechanical parking brake; longest wheelbase in the class and the Audi Drive Select driver assistance system.


The list of options includes three-zone climate control, a 180-watt CD audio system with MMI control logic and 6.5-inch color display, rear acoustic parking, automatic headlight and wiper operation and aluminum interior trim.

See also: Abt tunes Audi S5, names it AS5

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Audi hits a home run with its first SUV.

Bodystyles: 4-Dr Sport Utility;
Engines: 4.2L V 8; 3.6L V 6;
Transmissions: 6 Speed Semi-Automatic;
Drivetrains: All Wheel Drive;

Introduction

Luxury SUVs have gained widespread popularity in the United States. However, until now, Audi has not had an offering in this segment of the market, leaving a gaping hole in its model lineup. But as the saying goes: arrive late, dress well. And Audi has done just that with its sensational Q7.

While the Q7 may be Audi's first-ever sport-utility, its strength and refinement suggest that Audi has been in this game for years, if not decades. As such, the Q7 represents a fresh and beautifully rendered newcomer to the luxury SUV segment. Like other Audis, the Q7 is a paragon of driving elegance and interior refinement.

Built upon the same solid architecture shared by the Volkswagen's impressive Touareg and Porsche's high-performance Cayenne, the Q7 is even nicer to drive than its two corporate cousins, thanks to a more compliant ride and Audi's decades of experience with all-wheel-drive systems, which Audi calls Quattro, or quattro. The Q7 is also the longest of the three, and thus is the only one to offer three-row seating. Audi also has equipped the Q7 with many luxury and convenience features not found on the Touareg and Cayenne, including a few not found on any other luxury SUV.

With a base price of less than $50,000, the Q7 is priced close to others in the luxury SUV segment, which also includes the Cadillac SRX, Lexus GX 470, and Mercedes-Benz M-Class. With all-wheel drive, a choice of powerful V6 and V8 engines and arguably the classiest interior in the segment, the Q7 deserves serious consideration when shopping for a luxury SUV.

Lineup

The 2007 Audi Q7 line features two engines and two trim levels. Both the 3.6 and 4.2 models are available in regular and Premium trim. All Q7s come with six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmissions and quattro all-wheel drive.

The 3.6, available September 2006, is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 that delivers 280 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque. It comes standard with five-passenger seating, cloth upholstery, automatic dual-zone climate control, a 10-way power driver's seat, Audi MMI, cruise control, AM/FM/CD stereo with eight speakers, a manual tilt/telescoping multi-function steering wheel, power windows and locks, keyless entry, black roof rails, fog lights, alarm/engine immobilizer system, and 18-inch wheels.

Options include panorama sunroof ($1,850), leather upholstery, seven-passenger seating, heated front and rear seats and XM or Sirius satellite radio, privacy glass, auto-dimming rearview mirror, light/rain sensor, and brushed aluminum trim.

Premium trim adds leather upholstery, 10-way power front passenger with heating feature and driver seat memory, heated front and rear seats, wider wheels and tires, aluminum roof rails, Bi-Xenon headlamps, genuine wood and aluminum trim, AM/FM/6CD sound system with 14 Bose speakers, privacy glass, auto-dimming rearview mirror, light/rain sensor, an interior light package, and a cargo area cover.

Options for the 3.6 Premium include premium Cricket leather, driver's seat memory, six-passenger seat configuration, automatic rear climate control, DVD-based navigation, Rear Parktronic with rear-view camera, Audi Side Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, power tailgate, Bluetooth connectivity, Homelink, voice-activated controls, adaptive front lighting, dual-tone sills/bumpers, keyless engine starting, 20-inch wheels, and a 6,600-pound tow package.

The 4.2 ($49,900) is powered by a 4.2-liter V8 that produces 350 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. In addition to the standard equipment found on the 3.6 Premium, the 4.2 features a leather-wrapped power tilting/telescoping multi-function steering wheel, Bluetooth connectivity, side and rear sunshades and a fold-flat third-row bench seat.

Options for the 4.2 include premium leather upholstery ($1,000); six-passenger seat configuration ($1,200); four-zone climate control ($950); navigation system ($1,800); the Technology package ($2,400), which includes rear backup camera, Audi Side Assist, keyless engine starting and voice activated controls; a cold weather package ($850) that includes heated front and rear seats and a heated steering wheel; panorama sunroof ($1,850); Sirius or XM satellite radio ($550); a 6600-pound towing package ($550); Trunk tie-down system ($250); rear side air bags ($350); 19-inch alloy wheels ($800); 20-inch alloy wheels ($1,600).

The 4.2 Premium ($59,900) adds 19-inch alloy wheels, headlight washers, heated steering wheel, premium Cricket leather, panorama sunroof, rear climate control, the six-passenger seating configuration, keyless engine starting, the navigation system, Sirius or XM radio, rear backup camera and voice activated controls. Options for the 4.2 Premium include 20-inch alloy wheels ($800); Adaptive Air Suspension ($2,600); Audi Side Assist ($500); 6600-pound towing package ($550); rear side air bags ($350); and the seven-passenger seat configuration (no charge). An S-Line package ($3,800), available on all models except 3.6, features more aggressively styled lower body moldings, sport front seats, a sport-tuned suspension and 21-inch alloy wheels. S-Line models are not available with the Adaptive Air Suspension.

Safety features on all Q7 models include anti-lock four-wheel disc brakes with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) and an electronic stability program with rollover sensing and a tow mode. Passive safety features include front seat belts with pretensioners and load-limiters, dual front air bags, front side seat-mounted torso air bags, side curtain air bags that span all three rows of seats. Tire pressure monitors are also standard. Rear-seat side torso air bags are optional on all arrays.

Walkaround

The styling of the Audi Q7 offers no surprises, just typical Audi class, as if the A6 wagon experienced an unexpected growth spurt. The blunt front end features Audi's signature bold grille flanked by menacing headlights at the leading edge of the sculpted hood. A heavily stylized front end helps mask the formidable mass of the Q7's nose. Fog lights are set into the lower moldings.

Crisp side-view styling with articulated fenders and an arching roofline also do much to lessen the generous dimensions of the Q7. The exterior mirrors are perhaps the largest we've ever seen on a vehicle in this class, which should come in handy when towing. Two stylish, full-length metal rails on the roof provide anchor points for accessory crossbars for securing cargo on the roof.

The Q7's rear view is dominated by high-mounted, horizontal taillamps with LED illumination and fiber-optic/LED turn signals. The cut line for the tailgate sweeps outward around the taillamps to become a styling element of its own.

Lower moldings are rendered in a durable, unpainted, chip-resistant material that is color-keyed to the paint above. With the available S-Line appearance package, they are replaced by more aggressively styled lower moldings that are painted to match the body.

Other notable exterior features that would be particularly appreciable in colder climates include pull-type door handles that are easy to use with gloves, as well as wide-sweeping windshield wipers that, when not in use, rest on an area heated by the interior vents in order to prevent freezing.

Interior

Audi designed the Q7 interior with flexibility in mind, with 28 different passenger/cargo arrangements between three available seating configurations. With the conventional 40/20/40 split second-row bench seat, the Q7 seats five; add the third-row seat and it'll seat seven. Standard on the 4.2 Premium is a six-passenger arrangement with second-row bucket seats separated by a center console, with the third row bench behind it. All second-row seats slide for/aft four inches to maximize legroom, which Audi claims gives the Q7 the most stretch-out room in the class.

Most drivers should find the driving position nearly perfect. Getting in and out of the front or second-row seats is easy thanks to large doors and a reasonably low floor. Accessing the third row is not as easy: The second-row seat slides and folds forward to grant access, but never quite enough for an adult to get back there smoothly. To Audi's defense, the seat was designed to accommodate people no taller than five feet, four inches. As with most SUVs, the third row is best left to the kids.

Interior trim speaks of high quality, with padded surfaces everywhere one can touch and virtually no hard plastics. Three different kinds of wood are available, as is patterned aluminum trim. The mix of materials conveys a level of luxury that matches, if not exceeds, the Q7's price.

The Q7's gauges are clear and bright with an information display between the speedometer and tachometer which cycles through several menus via buttons on the steering wheel. Redundant navigation messages are also communicated through this display, even when the dashboard screen displays something else, a useful feature. The stalk-mounted cruise controls and the switches for the wipers and lights have a supple, expensive feel.

As with the A6 and A8, the Q7 combines controls for the stereo, navigation system and other functions into a screen-based system Audi calls the Multi-Media Interface (MMI). Designed to reduce the amount of buttons on the dashboard while adding even more features, MMI adds layers of complexity that require a considerable amount of time and practice to operate smoothly. That said, MMI is clearer in operation than BMW's iDrive system, a source of aggravation for many drivers, and provides dedicated menus for the climate, audio, phone and navigation systems, as well as relevant vehicle system information.

Stereo choices for the Q7 include an AM/FM/CD unit with eight speakers and an AM/FM/6CD unit with 14 Bose speakers. Both are ready for satellite radio, and Audi offers a choice of XM or Sirius. While most of the audio adjustment functions are incorporated into MMI, the controls used most often, such as the volume and seek functions, are adjusted with clearly labeled buttons and knobs mounted sensibly and attractively on the center console, just in front of the armrest. Also of note are available voice-activated controls.

The front bucket seats are superb: comfortable and supportive with power adjustment in most directions. Leather upholstery is standard on all models, while the V8 Premium array comes with upmarket Cricket leather. Leather also covers the three-spoke steering wheel, which also features redundant audio controls.

Dual-zone automatic climate controls are nothing new for this segment, but Audi made an effort to provide ventilation while reducing draftiness when the vehicle is being heated or cooled rapidly. Hence, the Q7 has an abundance of generously sized vents, including a diffused air vent at the base of the windshield in the front, as well as vents in the both the B-pillar and the rear of the center console for second-row occupants. One particularly upscale option is four-zone climate control (two zones in front and two zones for the second-row passengers), though its price is a bit upscale as well.

Four full-size adults can enjoy plenty of space in the five-seat array; the 60/40 split rear bench seat allows cargo/passenger flexibility while also allowing second-row passengers to slide rearward up to four inches for extra legroom. Second-row seatbacks are also designed to recline up to 10 degrees. The six-passenger configuration brings sport-inspired second-row bucket seats separated by a large console with storage and cupholders. The latter arrangement feels more upscale and makes the third row feel less confining, thanks to better forward vision.

Interior storage space is adequate, if not stellar. The glove box is tiny, but features a handy air duct that draws in air from the climate control system to help prevent the melting of one's lip balm (or lipstick) on hot days. Additional storage is found under the armrest and in pockets in the doors. The Q7 is available with up to six 12-volt power points, including one on the tailgate, as well as 10 cupholders, including molded bottle holders in each door.

Cargo space is on par with other luxury SUVs with three rows of seats, which is to say there's not much behind the 50/50 split third row. But thanks to the sliding second-row seats and flat-folding seat stowing, the Q7 makes the most of its available space. That said, hauling anything but groceries will likely require that at least one half of the third-row seat be stowed.

Loading cargo into the Q7 is facilitated by a wraparound tailgate that reveals a very wide aperture. A power tailgate is optional on 3.6 models, and standard on all Q7 4.2s. Particularly clever is the load assist feature that lowers the rear of the vehicle approximately three inches at the touch of a button in the cargo area (requires the Adaptive Air Suspension), handy when loading dogs as well as groceries. Numerous tie-down hooks and floor tracks are designed to fit accessory cargo securing devices available at the Audi dealership. Five-passenger models feature an additional storage compartment behind the rear seat.

One option that families will find particularly cool is the Open Sky System: a full-length, three-panel panoramic glass moonroof that brightens the interior significantly. About 5.5 feet in length, the system consists of three tinted glass panels spanning all seating areas. The front section slides back over the fixed second section for full exposure for front seat occupants; another glass panel over the third-row seat/cargo area tilts up for added ventilation. A power retractable sunshade helps keep heat down on hot days.

Driving Impressions

On the road, the Audi Q7 behaves much like an Audi sedan or wagon. The fully independent suspension delivers a comfortable ride without sacrificing handling. Road imperfections are managed without being transferred into unbecoming jolts or booming sounds in the cabin. Even at high speeds, interior noise level is low enough for conversation to be held without raising one's voice. Not as pillowy as the Lexus GX 470 nor as stiff as the BMW X5 or Infiniti FX45, the Q7's ride hits the sweet spot many luxury SUV shoppers are looking for.

Power from the 280-hp 3.6-liter V6 is more than adequate for most drivers, with plenty on tap for quick, smooth acceleration in spite of its high curb weight of over 5200 pounds. The V6 emits a satisfying growl under full throttle but goes virtually silent when coasting or cruising. The throaty 350hp 4.2-liter V8 offers even more impressive acceleration numbers (0-60 in just 7.0 seconds, according to Audi), but ultimately is more powerful than all but the most aggressive drivers need.

All Q7s come with a six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission that shifts so smoothly it's almost imperceptible except during full-throttle acceleration. A Sport mode can be selected that provides faster shifts and automatically holds gears a bit longer for more responsive performance. If the driver wants to shift manually, the Tiptronic manual shift feature is selected by moving the shift lever to the right, then tapping it up or down as desired. The multi-information display in the instrument cluster clearly displays the selected gear.

The Q7's standard full-time quattro all-wheel drive system requires no driver input. Normally, power is delivered to the front and rear wheels in a 42/58 percent split in order to create a rear-wheel-drive sensation for confident dry-weather handling. When driving conditions become such that traction becomes compromised at, the torque split is automatically adjusted between the parameters of 65/35 to 15/85 percent, front-to-rear.

The electronic stability control, or ESP, manages any additional wheel slip by applying the brakes at the slipping wheel without interrupting power deliver to the wheels with grip. ESP helps maintain stability in corners by lightly applying the brakes to individual wheels when the vehicle's path doesn't match the driver's intentions. The Q7's ESP system is enhanced with an off-road mode that can be switched on to allow some slip for smooth power delivery on gravel roads. For steep, slippery grades, a downhill assist function automatically maintains a 12-mph speed by applying the brakes to individual wheels without driver input, allowing him or her to concentrate on steering.

Fuel economy for the 4.2 is surprisingly favorable at an estimated 17 miles per gallon city and 23 highway, thanks in part to waste-reducing advancements such as fuel stratified injection (FSI) and electronic throttle control (ETC). This compares well to competitors such as the Cadillac SRX V8 (15/20 mpg) and the Mercedes-Benz ML500 (15/19 mpg).

Towing capacity starts at 5500 pounds for all models. Tow capacity rises to 6600 pounds with the optional tow package, available on most Q7 models. The optional Adaptive Air suspension features a trailering mode that helps manage the unique physics of trailering. The Q7 also offers a separate Tow mode for the electronic stability control that is calibrated to counteract swaying motions that can become dangerous when pulling a trailer.

The power steering is speed-sensitive, reducing the amount of assistance as the Q7 accelerates to deliver more road feel at higher speeds. On-center feel is outstanding and with steering inputs met by quick response, thanks to just 2.66 turns from lock to lock. Steering isn't as heavy as that in the BMW X5, for example, but nor is it as light as that of the GMC Yukon.

Handling is superb. Both of the 4.2 models we drove featured the optional adaptive air suspension, featuring electronically controlled, air-filled shocks in place of traditional steel springs. The air suspension allows the driver to select one of three firmness settings, as well as raise the vehicle to a ground clearance of 8.5 inches for deep snow or off-road driving.

The Comfort setting allows the suspension to absorb more road impacts for a relatively smooth ride at all situations. The Automatic mode offers compliance during straight-line travel, but stiffens up during cornering for tauter handling. The Dynamic mode lowers the vehicle 0.6 inches to a ground clearance of 6.5 inches, which lowers the center of gravity and enhances aerodynamics. Generally, we found the Q7's ride to be acceptable though firm, even in the softest Comfort setting. That's typical of a German sedan. We preferred the Automatic setting during normal driving, as it offered the best ride/handling balance. The Dynamic setting was noticeably stiffer; rewarding during enthusiastic driving, but hard enough that most will switch back to Automatic or Comfort for around-town motoring.

We didn't get a chance to attempt any serious off-roading, but given its short overhangs, generous vertical wheel travel and aforementioned traction/stability-related technologies, the Q7 promises to be quite capable. We were very impressed by the off-road capability of the Volkswagen Touareg on some aggressive trails near Moab, Utah.

The Q7's four-wheel disc brakes feature ABS, electronic brake-force distribution and Brake Assist, all of which can help the driver maintain control after slamming on the brakes. Not surprisingly, the Q7's brakes proved to be terrific: responsive, with a firm yet communicative pedal. There was no hint of brake fade whatsoever on our spirited drives.

The optional Rearview Camera and Parking System incorporates a camera in the liftgate to provide a view behind the vehicle when backing up. The image is clearly projected on the MMI screen, with parking guide lines showing the path the vehicle would take given the steering wheel angle at the time. As the wheel turns, the guide lines change accordingly. We found this to be an extremely useful feature that would be valuable when backing up to a trailer. It's also a great safety feature, whether backing out of the driveway or out of a space in a crowded shopping center parking lot, because it helps spotpeople or objects that might be difficult to see from the driver's seat. Plus, it allows the driver to back within an inch of the vehicle behind, making parallel parking easier.

The optional Adaptive Cruise Control goes a step further than conventional cruise control systems by using radar to maintain a constant distance between the Q7 and the vehicle ahead, accelerating and braking as necessary, such as during rush hour. The Q7's system is unusual in its ability to bring the vehicle to a complete stop, and then accelerate again all the way to speeds up to 90 miles per hour without any driver input. The driver can even specify how aggressively the system will operate, from sporty to leisurely.

Audi Side Assist is a new option employing a radar sensor mounted in the rear bumper to monitor the presence of vehicles occupying or entering the Q7's blind spots. The presence of a vehicle traveling alongside the Q7 within the 16.5-foot range of the sensor will prompt subtle amber LEDs to illuminate in the corresponding outside mirror housing. If a turn signal is switched on, indicating a pending lane change, the LEDs become brighter and start to flash. The system is active at speeds above 35 mph and can be deactivated.


Summary & Specs

The new Audi Q7 represent a winning combination of comfort, style and space. With Audi luxury made even more enjoyable by a taller roof and a more commanding view of the road ahead, the Q7 has an interior package that will be an excellent match for today's luxury SUV customer.

New Car Test Drive correspondent Steve Siler filed this report from Scottsdale, Arizona.

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Power and sophistication.

Bodystyles: 4-Dr Sedan;
Engines: 4.2L V 8; 6.0L W 12;
Transmissions: 6 Speed Semi-Automatic;
Drivetrains: All Wheel Drive;

Introduction

The Audi A8 is a big luxury sedan designed to challenge the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class. In beats them in some areas and in others it offers an individualistic alternative. It many respects, the Audi A8 has raised the bar for performance.

Three versions are available. The standard A8 features a 4.2-liter V8 and six-speed automatic transmission that deliver instant throttle response, while quattro all-wheel drive and an adaptable air suspension provide an excellent balance between handling and ride quality. The A8 offers a supreme sense of control with Gibraltar-like stability, benefits of its lightweight, highly Aluminum Space Frame that bonds the car into one cohesive unit.

The cabin is elegant and comfortable, and tops the class in finish quality. Audi's Multi-Media Interface, or MMI, integrate controls for various features and electronic systems into a big knob. It's a little easier to learn than BMW's iDrive, but it isn't easy. There is a learning curve and sometimes we find ourselves having to work harder to perform simple functions and wonder whether this is progress or burdensome technology.

The A8 L rides on a stretched wheelbase that provides more room and comfort for rear-seat passengers, not that the standard-length model is cramped.

New for 2007, both V8 models get a 20-hp boost to 350 horsepower, while improving fuel economy by one mile per gallon to an EPA-rated 18/25 mpg City/Highway.

The A8 L W12 features a 12-cylinder engine and a whopping 450 horsepower. It's the only 12-cylinder sedan from Germany's big three luxury brands with all-wheel drive.

The Audi S8, new for 2007, is powered by a 5.2-liter V10 and comes with a firmer suspension, faster steering, and bigger brakes. The S8 is distinguished by special trim and equipment inside and out. The S8 is perfect for triple digit speeds on wide-open highways and would be an excellent choice for a cross country race. It's also a good selection for getting away from enemy agents, for those in that line of work, particularly in bad weather. For driving through the neighborhood or in stop-and-go traffic, however, we found it suffers from an overly sensitive throttle that makes smooth takeoffs a bit too challenging.

Audi A8 retail at a lower price point than comparable Mercedes and BMW models.

Lineup

The 2007 Audi A8 is available in four variations: the A8 4.2 ($68,900); A8 L 4.2 ($72,900); A8 L W12 ($119,350); and the S8 5.2 ($92,000). All come with Audi quattro all-wheel drive.

The A8 4.2 rides on a 115.9-inch wheelbase, while the A8 L adds 5.1 inches in both wheelbase and overall length. Both are powered by a 4.2-liter V8 rated at 350 horsepower and come with a six-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic manual shift control. Both models come loaded with all the luxury features you'd expect at this price point. The air conditioning uses temperature, moisture, and infrared sensors to demist the windows before they can even think about fogging. The parking brake is operated by a switch.

The A8 L W12 rides on the 121-inch wheelbase and is powered by the 450-hp W12 engine. It comes with ultra-luxury amenities such as power sunshades for the rear windows; heated power-adjustable rear seats; and leather upholstery on the door panels, console and dashboard. The A8 L W12 also comes standard with a full-length rear-seat center console, housing elaborate climate controls and seat adjustments, plus a dual-screen entertainment system; this limits seating capacity to four, though the rear center console can be deleted at no cost in favor of a three-place bench seat.

The S8 rides on the standard 115.9-inch wheelbase, and features a high-performance 5.2-liter V10 rated at 450 hp. The air suspension is firmer, the brakes are larger and the steering is quicker. Extra bright trim and 20-inch wheels contribute to a distinctive look outside; while inside are sport seats upholstered in two-tone leather, darker wood or carbon fiber trim with aluminum accents, and white-on-gray italic gauge faces.

Option packages for the A8 and A8 L include a Sport Package ($2,800) with firmer suspension settings, 19-inch wheels with P255/40R19 summer performance or all-season tires, and a multi-function leather-wrapped three-spoke steering wheel with shift paddles. A similar package is available with 275/35ZR20 performance tires on 20-inch wheels ($4,000). A 14-speaker, 1000-watt Bang & Olufsen sound system custom-tailored to the Audi's interior acoustics ($6,300) is available. A Premium Package ($4,400) includes Advanced Key, heated front and rear seats, electric rear sunshade, manual side sunshades, power trunk open/close, power door-close assists, Advanced Parking System with rearview camera, and rear vanity mirrors.

Options for the A8 and A8L include adaptive cruise control ($2,100), which uses radar to maintain a prescribed distance from traffic ahead; Sirius Satellite Radio ($550); four-spoke wood and leather multifunction steering wheel ($690); a solar-powered sunroof panel ($790) that blows cooling air through the car while it is parked (and replaces the standard glass sunroof); front seat massage and ventilation ($1,500); rear-seat electric lumbar adjustment ($350); dual rear-seat climate control ($600); a ski sack ($175); 19-inch wheels with all-season tires ($1,900); and, for the A8 L only, personal refrigerator ($1,500) in the trunk accessible through the rear-seat armrest. Special paint-and-leather combinations are available ($11,500).

A8 L W12 options are limited to the adaptive cruise control, solar roof panel, four-spoke multi-function steering wheel ($200), Bang & Olufsen stereo, refrigerator, full-leather upgrade ($3,900), and 20-inch wheels ($3,200).

S8 offers the Premium Package ($3,900) with powered rear and manual side sunshades, Advanced Key, power opening and closing trunk, power assists to gently close the doors, heated rear seats, and Advance Park System with rear-view camera. Most of the stand-alone luxury options offered on the standard-wheelbase A8 are available on the S8 for the same prices. Carbon-fiber interior trim ($550) is available.

Safety features on all A8 models includes 10 air bags. In a crash, computers quickly determine which dual-threshold, dual-stage air bags to deploy, how quickly to deploy them, and how intensely they should be deployed. The A8 comes with excellent seat belts. Be sure all your passengers wear their seat belts because they are critical to providing protection in a crash.

Walkaround

Elegant. That's how we'd describe the A8 in a word, but elegant in a forceful fashion that's not at all prissy. The A8's distinct wedge shape features a short front overhang, a low hood-line and a high, powerful tail. The shoulder line rises to the rear, creating the impression of a crouched beast ready to spring. The A8 is expressive in an understated Audi way, and people will know you mean business when you fill their mirrors.

A8 L models are five inches longer than the standard A8 and S8. (L stands for long-wheelbase.) Inside the car, those 5.1 inches translate entirely into increased rear-seat legroom. Choose the A8 over the A8 L if squeezing into tight parking spots is more important than a vast rear seating area, remembering that the standard A8's rear accommodations are quite expansive by typical sedan standards.

At 115.9 inches, the standard A8 is fractionally longer in wheelbase than a Cadillac DTS. The A8 L is essentially the same length overall as a Mercedes S-Class and BMW 750i. The A8 L wheelbase stretches 121.0 inches, which leaves it 3.6 inches short of the long-wheelbase Mercedes and 2.2 inches short of the long-wheelbase BMW. Other things being equal, a longer wheelbase offers more passenger room and increased stability at speed, but is less maneuverable in tight parking lots. The Audi is an inch wider than the Mercedes-Benz and comparable to the BMW.

All the doors open extra wide, making it easier to get in and out. The flush, lever-style outside handles are attractive, but we find them harder to use than the type you can put your hand through, such as those on a Mercedes.

Standard on A8 4.2s are five-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels with 255/45HR18 all-season tires; these provide excellent handling and ride comfort and superb grip in the wet. The optional 19- and 20-inch wheels and tires more aggressively fill the wheel wells and provide a surprisingly smooth ride in spite of their short sidewalls. The A8 L W12 gets the 19-inch wheel/tire package standard; with 20-inch wheels available and 18-inchers (which offer the best ride) offered as a no-cost option.

All models feature a tall, vertical grille that connects Audi's familiar horizontally split grilles over the front bumper, emphasized with a chrome surround.

The rear of the A8 models feature taillights that fit flush with the clean rear design. Turn signals use LED technology and feature side repeater lamps to signal your intentions to drivers alongside. Dual exhaust pokes from below the beautifully integrated rear bumper.

The S8 has a bolder front end, with a bright finish emphasizing the vertical elements of the family grille; and a honeycomb texture for the air intakes on either side of it. A red-and-black S8 badge is offset to the lower right. Sharp-eyed Audi-watchers might notice additional S8 badges on the front fenders and front brake calipers, as well as unique aluminum-look trim on the side mirrors and door handles. Subtle, too, are the S8's integrated deck-lid spoiler and light-reflecting panel in its rear apron; not so subtle are its four oval exhaust tips.

The aluminum space frame saves about 300 pounds compared to a conventional steel frame, allowing more features without overburdening the car with weight. An A8 L 4.2 weighs 150 pounds less than a BMW 750Li and only 23 pounds more than a Mercedes-Benz S550, neither of which have all-wheel drive. The A8 benefits from a highly rigid structure, which means less flex, and the A8 feels as if it's milled from a single block of bar-stock aluminum. A rigid structure is the key to a smooth ride quality and sharp handling.

Interior

ountry access to CNN, Fox News and other news and entertainment programming. Turn the system on and the silk-dome tweeters automatically extend from the instrument panel into their ideal positions. Expect people to ask what they do.

OnStar telematics comes standard, offering operators who can give directions around the clock and provide myriad other types of information and services. Those operators will send help to your location should an airbag deploy. They can pinpoint the location of the car if it's stolen or unlock the doors remotely if you've locked the keys inside.

Rear seats in the A8 are designed to be comfortable for the 85th percentile in height, and even tall passengers aren't likely to complain. Rear passengers have lots of controls available to them, including optional power lumbar support and optional rear-seat dual climate control. There's also a fold-down center armrest with a pass-through to the trunk.

Rear seats in the A8 L are much more spacious, with acres of legroom. In the A8 L W12, a full console with more elaborate climate and seat-adjustment switches splits the rear seats. A rear-seat entertainment system with dual screens in the back of the front headrests comes standard in the W12, which includes a six-DVD changer, remote control, one set of headphones, two AV and two headphone jacks in the center console. This rear console eliminates space for one passenger, but it pumps up the club-room ambience. (A three-place bench can be specified instead.) The A8 L falls short of the long-wheelbase 7 Series in rear-seat head and leg room, but not by much. The A8 L rear doors are long, allowing easy access to the rear seat.

The trunk is big and deep. The trunk is the same size on the A8 and A8 L. At 14.6 cubic feet it is significantly smaller than the cavernous luggage compartments of the BMW 7 Series (18.0 cubic feet) and Mercedes-Benz S-Class (19.7). Still, the Audi provides sufficient room for at least two tournament-grade golf bags or a couple of weeks worth of groceries. The trunk houses a full-size spare tire.

Summary & Specs

The Audi A8 is fast, roomy, luxurious and exceptionally comfortable. It rides like a luxury car, yet it's taut and handles like a sports sedan. Loaded with innovation, the A8 is a thinking person's luxury car, more progressive, less traditional than a BMW or Mercedes. It's elegant but not arrogant, indulgent without being excessive. It's priced a little lower than comparable sedans from BMW and Mercedes-Benz, yet gives up almost nothing to either. V8, V10, or W12? In Germany, where the autobahn beckons with no speed limit, that would be an easier choice, assuming money is no object. In our land, the advantage of the W12 or the sporty S8 is more image than reality. The price premium for the W12 seems like a lot for image, but it is a wonderful 12-cylinder sedan with all-wheel drive and we think it's a good choice. We'll pass on the S8 due to its overly sensitive throttle, however.

NewCarTestDrive.com editors Mitch McCullough and J.P. Vettraino contributed to this report.

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A more powerful and economical V8 available.

Bodystyles: 4-Dr Sedan; 4-Dr Wagon;
Engines: 4.2L V 8; 3.2L V 6;
Transmissions: 6 Speed Semi-Automatic; 0 Speed Continuously Variable;
Drivetrains: All Wheel Drive; Front Wheel Drive;

Introduction

The Audi A6 continues a legacy of dynamic excellence and exceptional comfort. The A6 is packed with technology, enhancing convenience and driving dynamics. The attention to detail inside and out is impressive.

There is much to love about the A6. Its cabin is airy and comfortable, with firm, supportive seats. Its styling is crisp, clean and modern, though the front is dominated by a massive and controversial grille.

Underway, the A6 boasts sharp, precise steering, and a firm ride. In high-speed corners the quattro models feel like they're on rails, one of the benefits of Audi's superb all-wheel-drive system. Braking and handling are excellent, whether on dry pavement or when hurtling through a torrent of rain.

V6 and V8 versions are available. The well-equipped V6 model delivers brisk acceleration, while the V8 qualifies the A6 as a high-performance sports sedan. The S6 is for serious drivers who don't mind trading comfort for performance.

Most cars are redesigned every five years or so and this latest-generation A6 was launched as a 2005 model. It's larger and roomier than the previous-generation version, and features dramatically changed styling.

What's new for 2007: a more powerful V8 engine for the A6 4.2 and the introduction of the high-performance S6.

Lineup

The 2007 Audi A6 line includes the 3.2 FrontTrak sedan ($41,230), the 3.2 quattro ($44,380) and 4.2 quattro ($54,580) sedans, the Avant 3.2 quattro ($47,280), and the S6 quattro sedan ($71,280).

The 3.2-liter V6 delivers 255 horsepower, the 4.2-liter V8 generates 350 horsepower, and the 5.2-liter V10 in the S6 puts out 435 horsepower. The quattro models feature Audi's all-wheel drive and come with six-speed automatic transmissions.

The A6 3.2 comes loaded with standard features: leather upholstery; wood trim; dual-zone automatic air conditioning with pollen filters; AM/FM/6CD/MP3 with 10 speakers; 12-way power driver's seat with four-way adjustable power lumbar support; split-folding rear seats; tilt/telescoping steering column; leather-wrapped, multi-function steering wheel; leather-wrapped shift knob; trip computer; theft deterrent system; and 16-inch alloy wheels.

Options for 3.2 models include premium leather upholstery ($1,000); power opening and closing rear tailgate ($450); manual rear and side window sunshades ($250); 18-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires ($900); rear side airbags ($350); a DVD-based navigation system ($1,600); Sirius satellite radio ($550); a leather-segmented steering wheel with shift paddles ($690); heated steering wheel ($200). Speical order options for the Avant include adaptive air suspension ($2,300); leather driver's side dashboard ($1,275); front sport seats ($500); and adaptive cruise control ($2,000).

The CVT sedan is also available with 17-inch alloys and all-season tires ($750) or 18-inch high-polished alloys and all-season tires ($1,200). Quattro models also can be ordered with the 18-inch polished alloys ($900). Special order options for the sedan include front sport seats ($500); heated steering wheel ($200); leather driver's side dashboard ($1,275); adaptive air suspension ($2,300); and adaptive cruise control ($2,000).

The S line Package ($2,750) includes sports suspension, 18-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires, gray birch wood trim, S-Line badges, aluminum door sills with S line badge, S-Line front and rear bumpers, headlight washers and a four-spoke multi-function steering wheel with shift paddles. An S line package with 19-inch alloys and performance radials ($3,350) is available on quattro models.

The Premium Package ($1,450) offers a power slide/tilt glass sunroof and heated front seats. The Convenience Package ($2,750) includes bi-xenon headlamps, adaptive headlights, a Bose premium sound system, auto-dimming interior mirror with compass, auto-dimming and electrically folding exterior mirrors, memory for the driver's seat and mirror adjustments, Homelink, a storage package, programmable daytime running lights, and a power tilt and telescoping steering wheel.

The Technology Package ($4,000) includes voice recognition, Advanced Key, a new Advanced Parking System with rearview camera, DVD navigation system, and Sirius satellite radio. A Cold Weather Package ($550) offers heated rear seats, a ski sack and, new for 2007, headlight washers.

The 4.2 quattro adds premium leather, 17-inch wheels, high-intensity headlamps, a power sunroof, upgraded mirrors and upgraded audio to the list of A6 standard equipment. The 4.2 offers similar options to those for the 3.2, but the list also includes a solar sunroof replacing the glass sunroof ($790).

A Warm Weather Package ($1,190) includes a solar sunroof and power rear and manual side sunshades. Stand-alone options: Sirius satellite radio ($550); carbon fiber inlays ($300); adaptive cruise control ($2,000); heated rear seats ($225); and gas guzzler tax ($1,300). Special order options include a normal front seat in Volterra leather; a silver headliner replacing the standard black; and 18-inch alloy wheels with high-performace tires. Also available is a leather dashboard ($1,275).

Safety features include electronic stability program, anti-lock brakes, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, and Brake Assist. Passive safety features include two-stage frontal airbags, side-impact airbags to protect the torso, head airbags to protect the head in a side impact, and active front head airbags to help protect occupants from a collision from behind. A tire-pressure monitor comes standard to alert the driver to an under-inflated tire. Rear side airbags are optional ($350). Quattro all-wheel drive adds to safety, particularly in slippery conditions.

Walkaround

The Audi A6 is a study in excellent design. It has the look of a four-door coupe, with clean, flowing lines. The overall look is upscale, masculine. A giant trapezoidal grille dominates the front of the car. Some like it, some don't. The car's completely modern shape has a slippery drag coefficient of 0.28. Aluminum was used for key body panels to save weight, though not to the extent of the expensive all-aluminum A8.

The 2006 Avant is an especially sleek looking wagon, distinguished by a coupe-like roofline. The arching shoulder line and relatively narrow glass create a dynamic profile that terminates in a gently sloped tail marked by distinctive two-piece LED taillights. Overall the design language says European elegance.

Much of the beauty of the A6 is in the details: Body panels fit closely together around the doors, hood and trunk lid, as well as along places such as the bottom edge of the tail lamp. It's a result of close tolerances. You won't even find a rubber strip at the top of windshield, nor strips on the sides of the roof. Door jams, the trunk flange and other areas normally hidden are Class A surfaces, smooth and painted as on the exterior body panels. Not everyone will notice this level of detail, but most will sense a general look of quality.

The new S6 is distinguished from its less-powerful stablemates by special exterior and interior elements. Audi's striking trapezoidal grille gets double vertical aluminum-look strips and an S6 badge, an air inlet beneath the grille to feed the big V10, and a spoiler lip to provide additional downforce. The front bumper's unique look comes from the strip of separate LED daytime running lights, and the front foglamps are incorporated into the main headlights, which feature gray-tinted covers. The rear tailights also feature distinctive LED brake lights. An integrated spoiler juts from the trunk lid, bright aluminum trim around the side windows and top of door handles, body-color door handles, brushed aluminum rearview mirror housings, body-color outside lower door flares, black brake calipers, dual exhaust oval polished quad tailpipes and a chrome strip on the trunk lid are additional ways to identify the S6.

The lever-style outside door handles are stylish, but aren't as easy to operate as the grab handles that don't require flipping your hand over.

Overall, the A6 sets a benchmark in quality of materials and build quality.

Interior

The cabin is light and airy, particularly with the lighter-colored leather choices.

The leather that comes standard in the Audi A6 3.2 is nice, distinguished by a handsome two-tone treatment of light-colored seats and door inserts and charcoal dash and door trim. Wood trim comes standard on all models. Premium Volterra leather comes standard on 4.2 models and is optional on 3.2s. We particularly like the gray birch trim in the S-Line Package.

The front seats are comfortable and supportive. We never gave them much thought during a drizzly day of driving from Milan to Lake Como, a good sign. The quiet cabin allows for easy conversation even when driving quickly.

The rear seats are comfortable, too. Audi designed room in the rear-seat footwell for bulky shoes, like sneakers on teenage boys, to be able to easily swing by the B-pillar when getting in and out. This latest-generation A6 is much roomier than pre-2005 models.

Up front, everything is oriented around the driver. A center console with a control panel separates driver and passenger, and their legs go into separate tunnels. The driver benefits from a nice four-spoke steering wheel or a nicer, sportier three-spoke wheel and a straightforward instrument panel surrounded by flexmetallic trim. The center stack is angled toward the driver. Climate controls are located at the bottom of the center stack that are sophisticated but straightforward and easy to operate. At the top of the stack, above the vents, is a crisp seven-inch screen that displays navigation and other functions. The standard trip computer and Driver Information Center features a digital speed indicator.

Audi's Multi Media Interface, which features a large knob and some buttons on the center console, controls many of the interior functions. This eliminates a lot of switches, making for a clean-looking dash. To further reduce clutter, the switch for the glovebox is located on the center of dash. Mastering the MMI takes time and requires reading the owner's manual. Too many times, we've found it a distraction, less so than BMW's iDrive system, but more so than Acura's system.

High technology can also be found in what have been traditionally mundane controls. The parking brake is electronic; pull the switch up to set it, press to release it. The hood release operates only when the door is open. The wipers are speed sensitive. A Bluetooth-enabled interface integrates compatible cell phones.

The A6 does not offer many places to put stuff. The glovebox is small, especially with the available CD changer. The cup holders are positioned well, however.

The trunk is deep. Luggage capacity is nearly 16 cubic feet, more than the BMW and comparable to the Mercedes, but the trunk opening is small. Attention to detail can be seen inside the trunk. Raise the floor panel to get at the spare tire and you'll note that it can be hooked up in place, making it easier to remove or replace the spare.

The Avant sport wagon offers the road manners of a European-bred sports sedan and the versatility of a sport utility. The luggage compartment offers a variety of configurations and features two securing rails recessed into the floor of the load area, while four lashing eyes and a luggage net are provided to secure objects. The load floor can be folded up and locked in several ways, which provides access to a lower load area lined by a plastic tray, an ideal cubby for stowing wet or muddy gear.

It's hard to improve upon the standard A6 interior, but the S6 cockpit does this, beginning with a new generation of sports seat, upholstered in Nappa leather, with integral head restraints and pronounced lateral support. Electrically adjustable in multiple directions and including lumbar support, they offer multi-stage heating. The three-spoke, power-adjustable sports steering wheel is trimmed in smooth leather and has a color-contrasting double-stitch. The S6 also features unique instrument graphics and badging. Aluminum shift paddles and console shifter knob provide a high-tech contrast to the standard grey birch trim or optional carbon fiber inserts.

Driving Impressions

The Audi A6 is dynamically superb. The A6 quattros deliver a feeling of being on rails, benefits of a rigid chassis, a well-engineered sports suspension, and Audi's superb all-wheel drive.

The ride feels firm but is nicely damped for sharp bumps. It's among the best in class in comfort and near or at the top of class in handling.

The adaptive air suspension optimizes road holding and comfort. It's a marvelous invention that really helps keep the car securely fastened to the ground.

The Servotronic steering allows precise control; the driver simply thinks where he or she wants to go and the car goes there. Grip is excellent. Drive the car to its limit, impossible to do on public roads without being socially irresponsible, and you'll eventually encounter a small amount of understeer. The highly rigid chassis gives the car the feeling of being carved from one block of material. This rigidity allowed the Audi engineers to precisely tune the suspension. The A6 uses Audi's proven four-link front suspension and the self-tracking trapezoidal-link rear suspension adapted from the A8.

The flat torque curve of both the V6 and V8 engines gives the A6 a feeling of smooth, sophisticated power and responsiveness at all speeds.

The 3.2 V6 delivers strong response from 2000 to 6000 rpm. It offers lots of torque, giving it quick acceleration off the line and responsive performance at all speeds. Audi says the 255-hp 3.2-liter V6 is capable of propelling the A6 from 0 to 60 mph in 6.8 seconds, which is reasonably quick. We were able to easily work through traffic between Milan and Lake Como and felt no need for the more powerful V8. This impression was reaffirmed in a subsequent drive of the A6 Avant 3.2 in Italy's Dolomite Mountains. Not only was the V6 in full compliance with our lead-footed driving habits, if we hadn't occasionally looked in the mirror, we couldn't have told whether we were driving the sedan or the wagon as we raced up and down the twisting alpine roads. The V6 gets an EPA-rated 19/26 mpg City/Highway.

The 4.2 V8 features direct injection and produces 350 horsepower, enough to propel the A6 4.2 from 0 to 60 in 5.8 seconds, which is quite quick indeed. Better yet, the increased power comes with an improvement in fuel mileage. The 4.2 gets an EPA-estimated 18/25 mpg City/Highway, respectable for a sports sedan. The A6 mounts its engines longitudinally, rather than sideways, improving the flow of power between front and rear wheels and improving driving dynamics.

The six-speed automatic transmission is super smooth and adds considerably to the joy of driving the A6 and its responsive performance. If the mood strikes you, shift into the Tiptronic mode and shift manually, but we found it worked exceptionally well in Drive. It always seems to be in the right gear, whether quick acceleration is wanted or smooth, quiet cruising is preferred. The CVT in the front-drive model is also surprisingly sporty and is the perfect choice for the owner whose driving terrain is mostly urban streets.

Summary & Specs

The Audi A6 excels at driving dynamics. It's a wonderful car for quick commuting, smooth high-speed travel, and spirited driving. It's smooth and quiet, good for easy conversation and listening pleasure. It's right up there with the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and BMW 5 Series in terms of safe and secure motoring, particularly when weather enters the picture. When conditions get really slick, you can't beat quattro.

NewCarTestDrive.com editor Mitch McCullough filed this report from Milan, with Greg Brown in Italy's Dolomites.

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Premium car in a compact size.

Introduction

The Audi A3 is a practical, compact hatchback, but it feels upscale, like a scaled down A4. Sales of the A3 sales are modest here in the U.S., but Audi has sold 1.5 million A3s worldwide. It's earned accolades for its high levels of technology and sporty driving dynamics.

The A3 2.0T is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder driving the front wheels, while the A3 3.2 Quattro carries a 3.2-liter six-cylinder engine that drives all four wheels.

The A3 is an example of the exquisite sensibilities in design and use of materials that distinguishes the contemporary Audi. It will take more than just high fuel prices for U.S. buyers to look for their sporty utility in smaller vehicles, but we like the A3 for its combination of open-road dynamism, long-haul friendliness, around-town usefulness and fuel economy.

We found the front-drive A3 2.0 T offers superb balance and excellent throttle response that make for a convincing sports car when the road is right. Inside, the A3 Sportback is roomy and versatile, blending pleasing materials with logical controls and highly legible readouts.

There are few changes to the five-door hatchback for 2007. For now at least, all A3 models come to the U.S. in the Sportback five-door hatchback body style, though other body styles are available in Europe.

Lineup

The Audi A3 2.0T is front-wheel drive and powered by the heralded 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, rated at 200 horsepower. Two transmissions are available: a standard six-speed manual or optional Direct Shift Gearbox (DGS) automatic. The A3 3.2 Quattro has all-wheel drive and a 250-hp 3.2-liter V6.

The A3 2.0T is available in three trim levels, 2.0T, 2.0T S line, and 2.0T Premium. In line with the A3's near-luxury market placement, there's no dearth of appropriate amenities. The base A3 2.0 T ($24,620) comes standard with automatic climate control with pollen filter and sun sensor; cloth upholstery; tilt and telescoping adjustable steering column; 10-speaker 140-watt stereo with satellite prep; central locking with remote keyless entry; power windows; electronic cruise control; anti-theft vehicle alarm; two cup holders in the center console; and vanity mirrors in the sunvisors.

Designed to be as much sporty driver's car as well-tailored transportation module, the A3 comes standard with upmarket technologies. These include a sophisticated multi-link rear suspension; an electronic stability program (ESP); standard full-time traction control (ASR); ABS with an electronic differential lock (EDL); Servotronic electro-mechanical steering; and 17-inch alloys with all-season radials. Low-profile 225/45 performance radials are a no-cost option. These elements all contribute to a persona that begs for tight, winding mountain roads, thrives in the slice-and-dice of urban traffic and quietly relieves the tedium of commuter slogs.

Safety features that come standard include front and side-impact airbags for the front-seat passengers. All five seating positions get three-point belts with automatic pre-tensioners and an adjustable headrest; the front seat belts feature height adjustment, automatic pre-tensioners and belt-force limiters.

The new for '07 A3 S line package ($2,200) features a more aggressive treatment to the nose and tail as well as 16-spoke bi-color alloy wheels wrapped with 17-inch all-season radials, sport-tuned shocks and stiffer springs to tighten up the handling. Distinctive exterior touches includes a roof spoiler, front fog lamps, front grille and side moldings with S line badge, brushed aluminum beltline trim and S line front and rear bumpers. Leather seating surfaces, aluminum door sills with S line logo, a trip computer, and sport seats with manual height adjustment upgrade the interior along with illuminated vanity mirrors; alloy inlays and trim; aluminum door sill trim with the Audi logo; a three-spoke multi-function sport steering wheel; and alloy shift paddles on cars with the DSG transmission.

The revised 2.0T Premium package ($1,650) gets leather seating surfaces; specific 16-spoke silver alloy wheels with 17-inch all-season radials; a storage package; trip computer; illumination package; power front driver's seat with four-way power lumbar adjustment; multifunction three-spoke sport steering wheel; alloy shift paddles on cars with DSG; aluminum beltline trim; and front fog lights.

Option packages include an Audio Package ($1,350) with Bose electronics, an in-dash six-disc CD changer and Sirius satellite radio; a Cold Weather group ($700) with heated front seats, ski sack, heated windshield washer nozzles and heated exterior mirrors. A new Technology Package ($1,500) offers a light/rain sensor; auto-dimming interior mirror; Bluetooth phone prep; and bi-xenon headlights with an Adaptive Front Lighting system. The Audi Navigation Plus package ($3,300) includes the content of the Audio Package in addition to the navigation system. Stand-alone options include an Open Sky sunroof ($1,100); rear side airbags ($350); and a stereo upgrade ($350). Separate pearl effect or metallic finishes are available ($450) as well as sold-order only paint finishes ($750).

The A3 3.2 Quattro ($33,260) comes in just one configuration: a 3.2-liter 250-horsepower six-cylinder engine driving all four wheels through Audi's terrific Auto DSG transmission. The 3.2 comes standard with 17-inch five-spoke alloys; all the equipment from the 2.0T's S line package; and the Audio package from the 2.0T. The 3.2 also is available with a Cold Weather Package ($700) and a Technology Package ($1,250), which are identical to the 2.0T packages.

Stand-alone options for the 3.2 Quattro include 18-inch 14-spoke alloys with high-performance radials ($1,000); Sirius satellie radio ($350); Open Sky sunroof ($1,100); rear side airbags ($350); Audi Navigation Plus ($1,950); and Premium Vienna leather upholstery ($800).

Walkaround

A compact five-door hatchback can't be a car designer's favorite project. There's only so much that can be done to fit all those doors on a short wheelbase, but Audi stylists have done a good job of it. In profile, the downward, coupe-esque sweep of the roofline is supported by a strong shoulder line that joins front, side and rear of the car and leads the eye to the strong haunches, all of which makes it appear as though the car is launching forward, springing into action.

The front end is particularly distinctive, again projecting a sense of forward motion. Audi's current family-look single-frame grille is flanked by canted headlamp clusters (forming a determined frown) and prominent lower intake grilles. It's an aggressive nose but doesn't overly dominate the design, as the eye gets drawn along the distinct shoulder line, which also forms a visual tension with the sloping roof, while bodyside molding and deeply creased lower side panels break up the large door areas into pieces of a well-crafted puzzle.

Wraparound taillamp clusters accentuate the broad sweep of the car's butt. They also give the shoulder line a "take-off" point that makes it look like a small spoiler has been integrated into the hatch just below the window line. Very sporty, as is the pair of bright exhaust tips not so bashfully protruding from below the bumper.

Reflecting recent Audi styling, the A3 is understated and elegant. Its masterly crafted panels fit just right, the paint is exquisite, and there's an overall expensive look to it that contradicts the usual expectations from a small, affordable car.

Interior

The Audi A3 offers a fine combination of utility and comfort, and our first impression inside is its upscale feel. Even the base package, with cloth seats, exudes a high quality of workmanship. Most materials are pleasing, though the dash material is not the best. The cockpit is a paragon of applied ergonomic science, with logical placement of controls and highly legible read-outs.

To evoke the feel of driving a sports car, the seating position is placed low in relation to the high and wide console. The standard seats are okay but are too short in the thigh, and we like more lateral support, too. The leather seats are very nice front and rear. Legroom is adequate front and rear. The back seats are quite comfortable, more supportive than the front seats on many compacts, but the slope of the roof means tall passengers may find rear headroom compromised.

The point of a five-door hatchback, of course, is the versatility of the interior. For starters, the luggage area can be increased by folding flat the split rear seatbacks. Indeed, the rear seats flip down easy. This does not result in a perfectly flat cargo area, but this isn't usually an issue. Several package options are available to augment the trunk's utility, including a ski sack that can hold six pairs of slats. An optional roof rack is available in a choice of several different configurations depending on the intended use.

The wide doors make it easy to climb in and out. We found it a bit too easy to hit the panic button on the remote key fob. Audi's use of flush-fitting door hands means they aren't as easy to grab as the handles on BMWs and other cars and can snap away from your fingers when in a hurry. The seatbelt alarm goes off whenever the car is running, annoying when sitting in a parking lot.

The Open Sky dual sunroof option is very cool. Only the front of the two glass panels opens. Both have retractable sunshades, but the mesh covers let too much light in for our taste. We believe in letting the sun shine in, but not on glaring days when it distracts from driving.

Driving Impressions

Driving the Audi A3 models over hill and dale is where the story gets exciting. The intercooled 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder is everything a small displacement performance engine should be, while the six-cylinder 3.2-liter engine is smoothly powerful and yields little in the way of go power to the turbocharged engine. The A3 suspensions are refined beyond the car's price or class and provide both sporty handling and refined ride quality. And the Quattro all-wheel-drive system is ideal both for owners who must brave the ice and snow of winter and also for those who like to get the most out of their machines when the roads are twisty and dry.

Officially called the 2.0T FSI, the turbo's 200 horsepower is underscored by a sidewall-rippling 210 pound-feet of torque, the latter delivered across a wide sweep of the tach needle from 1800 to 5000 rpm, making the two-liter feel as though it had a bunch more cubic inches grafted onto it somewhere. Yet, it's remarkably easy on fuel. Preliminary estimates of the A3's fuel economy were about 24 miles per gallon city and 30 highway.

There's little turbo lag, and the engine revs smoothly yet quickly through its powerband. Just push your right foot down and let the 2.0T deliver. Audi says the A3 2.0T Sportback sprints from 0 to 60 mph in 7.0 seconds, a modest figure by some standards, but the raw number doesn't begin to do justice to the engine's throttle response and the chassis' willingness to get from here to there. Torque is ever ready, and the engine is quite happy to reach 6000 rpm over and over again.

The transmission choices illustrate Audi's industry-leading technology in transferring engine torque into rolling power. You can't go wrong with either the standard six-speed manual or the paddle/lever-shifted DSG automatic. With the 3.2-liter engine you have no choice but to go with the DSG. However, that's not a bad thing. The swiftness of choosing the correct gear with the DSG feels like magic and makes every driver feel like an accomplished race car driver.

Surefooted agility, even with only the two front wheels driving the car, comes easily to the A3, thanks in large measure to its four-link rear suspension. Compactness, low weight and superior handling are all expected benefits of such a complex and expensive suspension. The multiple links result in better lateral rigidity for crisper handling (and a safer car) and a comfortable ride. It's simply exceptional and is one hallmark of an engineering department at full strength. Think BMW when imagining the A3's road manners.

Braking is excellent. The four-wheel discs are big enough to handle repeated pedal stabs without overheating, and high-tech electronics ensure optimum braking in all conditions. The latest-generation ABS features a dual-rate servo, which amplifies brake force when it senses the driver's right-footed demand for emergency stopping power. The newest available Electronic Stabilization Program guides the car's dynamics with astonishing computer power, incorporating the ABS, EBD (electronic brake-force distribution), ASR (traction control system), MSR (engine drag torque control system), EDL (electronic differential lock), hydraulic brake assist and the ESBS (extended stability braking system).

What that all means is that you'll not find a better-balanced front-drive car anywhere. Nor will you find many compacts that make such a convincing sports car when the road is right. The more expensive 3.2 adds some very delectable ingredients to the basic goodness of the A3, and its drivetrain is a tad smoother than the turbocharged car's, but either A3 supplies a genuine upscale driving experience.

Summary & Specs

The Audi A3 is a great choice of young, active, and well-heeled consumers looking for distinctive vehicles to fit their lifestyles. The A3 is a high-quality car that offers premium handling and safety, roominess and practicality, yet is still easy to park and, with the 2.0-liter turbo engine, is easy on fuel. Five-door hatchbacks are very popular in Europe, but Americans are still warming to their styling. Those who are comfortable with its styling should find happiness in the Audi A3 Sportback.

NewCarTestDrive.com correspondent Greg Brown reports from Los Angeles, California.

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