Carbon-fiber trim for the door sills and body kit. Even with the least desirable powertrain -- the base 4.2-liter, 420-horsepower V8 coupled with the "R tronic" single-clutch automated manual transmission -- the R8 is one of the most scintillating sports cars on the planet.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options The 2010 Audi R8 is a two-door midengine exotic sports car offered in two trim levels that correspond to engine size: 4.2 Quattro and 5.2 Quattro. The 5.2 Quattro adds the V10 engine, a "hill-holder" feature for the conventional manual transmission, wider intakes and body sills, glossy (rather than flat) black exterior accents, napa leather upholstery with additional leather interior trim, a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, a navigation system and a rearview camera with front and rear parking sensors.
Most of the 5.2 Quattro's accoutrements are available as options on the 4.2 Quattro. Body-colored "side blade" exterior styling panels are also available in place of the standard contrasting side blades.
Powertrains and Performance The 2010 Audi R8 4.2 Quattro sports a midmounted 4.2-liter V8 -- clearly visible through the R8's distinctive transparent engine cover -- that churns out 420 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque. The power flows to all four wheels (56 percent to the rears by default) through either a traditional six-speed manual transmission or Audi's six-speed R tronic automated manual. The latter features a computer-controlled clutch and can be shifted using either the console-mounted shift lever or steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. R tronic also offers a fully automatic mode.
The 5.2 Quattro trims the 0-60-mph time to a blistering 3.7 seconds. Somehow the beefier 5.2 manages to be more fuel-efficient at 12/20/15 (manual) and 13/20/16 (R tronic).
Standard safety equipment includes antilock disc brakes, stability control, seat-mounted side airbags and knee-protecting airbags.
Interior Design and Special Features Audi claims there's room behind the 2010 Audi R8's seats for two golf bags, although your results may vary.
Audi has dropped the 2010 Audi Q7's base 3.6 trim level.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options The 2010 Audi Q7 is a large luxury crossover SUV that seats seven passengers. There are three trim levels that correspond to engine choice: the 3.6 Premium (3.6-liter gas V6), the TDI Premium (diesel V6) and the 4.2 Prestige (4.2-liter V8).
The Premium Plus package adds xenon headlights, front parking sensors, a rearview camera, a navigation system (with voice control and traffic reporting), driver-seat memory settings and a Bose surround-sound audio system. The Q7 TDI has the 3.6 Premium features along with a monochromatic color treatment, 19-inch wheels and additional exterior chrome trim.
The TDI and 4.2 also offer a Luxury package with upgraded leather upholstery, an Alcantara headliner and ventilated front seats. Stand-alone options include fancier 20- or 21-inch wheels, a towing package, a cold weather package (which includes a heated steering wheel and heated rear seats), a panoramic sunroof, extra interior leather coverage and four-zone climate control.
Powertrains and Performance Although the power plants are capable, the Q7's beefy weight of 5,000-plus pounds blunts their performance. Fuel economy ratings for the 2010 Audi Q7 V6 stand at 14 mpg city/19 mpg highway and 16 mpg combined.
Safety The 2010 Audi Q7's standard safety equipment includes antilock brakes, a stability control system (with hill-descent control and rollover detection), traction control, active front headrests, full-length side curtain airbags and front-seat side airbags. Seat-mounted side airbags for the second row are optional.In addition, Audi's blind-spot warning system alerts the driver when another vehicle is along the Q7's side.
Driving Impressions Handling is good, especially with the available adaptive air suspension.
Compact luxury crossover SUVs like the 2010 Audi Q5 are multiplying like bunnies. In terms of practicality, the Q5's maximum cargo capacity is on the small side for this segment at 57 cubic feet, but its capacity behind the rear seat (29 cubes) and rear-seat room are wholly competitive.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options The 2010 Audi Q5 is a five-passenger compact crossover SUV available in three trim levels: Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige. Standard equipment on the Premium includes 18-inch alloy wheels, heated side mirrors, eight-way power front seats, a tilt-and-telescoping steering column, tri-zone automatic climate control, a trip computer, Audi's MMI with dash-mounted controls, and a 10-speaker stereo with a CD/MP3 player, an auxiliary input jack, an SD card slot and satellite radio.
The available MMI Navigation package adds a hard-drive-based navigation system with real-time traffic updates, voice control, a rearview camera and the third-generation MMI system with console-mounted controls, improved menus and a joystick-like button atop the main control knob for enhanced functionality.
Available options on the Prestige include 20-inch wheels and the Audi Drive Select adjustable vehicle settings system. The Luxury Package for Prestige models adds special leather upholstery and ventilated front seats.
Powertrains and Performance Every 2010 Audi Q5 features standard Quattro all-wheel drive and a 3.2-liter V6 engine that produces 270 horsepower and 243 pound-feet of torque. Fuel economy estimates are 18 mpg city/23 mpg highway and 20 mpg combined -- respectable ratings for a compact luxury crossover.
Safety The 2010 Audi Q5 comes standard with stability and traction control, front side airbags and side curtain airbags. Rear side airbags are optional.
Driving Impressions Most shoppers should find the 2010 Audi Q5's standard suspension, steering and transmission calibrations perfectly adequate.
The standard wheelbase version gets 19-inch wheels and a revised trunk lid with integral spoiler. As it always has, 2010 Audi'sA8 flagship features an impeccably finished cabin, powerful yet refined performance and polished road manners.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and OptionsBoth 2010 Audi A8 models come standard with alloy wheels (19-inch on standard A8, 18-inch on L trim), xenon headlights, a sunroof, Audi's Multi Media Interface (MMI) system, a navigation system, cruise control, leather upholstery, 16-way power front seats, heated front and rear seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, a parking system with a rearview camera, keyless ignition/entry, a power trunk opener, power door closers, Bluetooth and a 12-speaker Bose surround-sound audio system with satellite radio, iPod connectivity and a CD changer.
Options include 20-inch wheels, carbon-fiber interior trim (standard A8), massaging front seats (standard A8), a solar-powered venting sunroof, upgraded leather interior trim, a 1,000-watt Bang & Olufsen audio system and a Technology package that adds adaptive cruise control, a lane departure warning system and a blind-spot warning system.
Standard on all 2010 Audi A8s are antilock brakes, stability and traction control, full-length side curtain airbags, front- and rear-seat side airbags and active front headrests.
The2010 Audi A6 receives a more powerful base engine, while the navigation system is upgraded to include real-time traffic and Audi's latest-generation MMI electronics control system. The base engine gains an extra 10 hp thanks to Audi "valvelift" system, which improves fuel economy and acceleration. Audi's hallmark Quattro all-wheel-drive system is also not available with the 3.2.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options The 2010 Audi A6 is available in sedan and wagon (Avant) body styles. The sedan is available in three trim levels that correspond to engine specification: 3.2 Premium, 3.0T Premium and 4.2 Prestige. The Premium Plus package available on both 3.2 and 3.0T adds 18-inch wheels, automatic self-leveling xenon headlights, LED running lights, auto-dimming and heated exterior mirrors, driver memory functions, the upgraded third-generation MMI electronics interface and a hard-drive-based navigation system with voice recognition and real-time traffic updates.
The 3.0T Prestige package adds different 18-inch wheels, automatic transmission paddle shifters, adaptive headlights, keyless ignition/entry, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a rearview camera and a 13-speaker Bose surround-sound stereo. The Cold Weather package includes heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel and heated front seats on the 3.2. The 18-inch Sport package adds different 18-inch wheels, a sport-tuned suspension and a three-spoke sport steering wheel. The 19-inch Sport package subs in 19-inch wheels and summer tires to the 18-inch package.
Powertrains and Performance The 2010 Audi A63.2 features a 3.2-liter V6 that produces 265 hp and 243 pound-feet of torque. Front-wheel drive and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) are standard -- all-wheel drive is not available. Estimated fuel economy is 18 mpg city/28 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined.
A six-speed automatic and Quattro all-wheel drive are standard. Estimated fuel economy is 16/23/18.
Safety All 2010 Audi A6models come with antilock disc brakes, stability control, front-seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags. Rear-seat side airbags are optional.
Driving Impressions The available Quattro all-wheel-drive system gives the 2010 Audi A6'Sdriver some added peace of mind in foul weather.
2010 Audi A5 receives a soft-top Cabriolet variant, a standard turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a new trim level structure. The soft-top Cabriolet model also debuts for 2010, as does Audi's standardized trim level structure and an improved version of MMI for navigation-equipped models.
The 2010 Audi A5 is a luxury sport coupe and convertible (Cabriolet) available in three trim levels: Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige. The base Premium coupe comes standard with 18-inch alloy wheels, foglamps, heated exterior mirrors, an electronic parking brake, a multifunction leather-wrapped steering wheel, a panoramic tilt-only sunroof, automatic climate control, power front seats, leather upholstery, a split-folding rear seatback, Audi's previous-generation Multi Media Interface (MMI) with dash-mounted controls and a 10-speaker CD audio system with satellite radio and an auxiliary input jack. The Cabriolet adds a power-retractable soft top and a wind blocker.
Many higher-end standard features are optional on the lower trim levels. Prestige-only options include an S Line package (essentially a special Sport package with unique exterior and interior trim), 2010 Audi A5 Drive Select (includes adaptive suspension dampers, variable-ratio steering and four selectable driving modes for transmission and steering response and ride tuning), adaptive cruise control, a blind-spot warning system and a back-up camera with rear parking sensors. The Cabriolet-only Comfort package adds a neck-level heating system and ventilated seats.
Powertrains and Performance Transmission options for the 2.0T consist of a six-speed manual and a six-speed automatic with manual shift control, while the V6 is automatic-only. Antilock brakes (with brake assist), stability control, front-seat side airbags and side curtain airbags are all standard on the 2010 Audi A5. A blind-spot warning system -- "side assist" in Audi's parlance -- is available as long as the navigation system has been selected. If an imminent collision is detected, the system alerts the driver and primes the brakes for full stopping power.
The front seats are adequately comfortable, although lateral support for spirited driving is lacking unless you spring for the upgraded sport seats via the Sport package or S Line package.
Driving Impressions The 2010 Audi A5 handles well, with good body control and relentless AWD traction.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and OptionsThe 2010 Audi A4 is a four-door compact luxury vehicle available in two body styles: sedan and wagon (Avant). Standard features are clustered into three packages: Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige. The standard Premium array includes 17-inch alloy wheels, foglamps, an electronic parking brake, a sunroof, air-conditioning, power front seats with driver lumbar, a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel, leather upholstery, cruise control, a split-folding rear seat, Audi's second-generation MMI system (mounted to the dash) and a 10-speaker CD audio system with a subwoofer, satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack.
Premium wagons add a power tailgate. The optional Sport package adds firmer suspension tuning, sport seats and high-performance tires, while the S line package for Prestige models is essentially an upscale Sport package. Other options include the navigation system and third-gen MMI (for Premium and Premium Plus trims), adaptive cruise control, a choice of wood trims, a blind-spot monitor, rear-seat side airbags and, a "Drive Select" system (Prestige only) that provides adjustable suspension/steering/transmission response. A Bluetooth/HomeLink bundle is available on Premium models.
Front-wheel drive is standard on the base 2.0T FrontTrak, as is a CVT.
SafetyAll 2010 Audi A4s come standard with antilock brakes, traction control, stability control, front-seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags. Rear-seat-mounted side airbags are available as an option in both the sedan and wagon. A blind-spot warning system -- "side assist" in Audi's parlance -- is available as long as the navigation system has been selected. Without the Sport package, an 2010 Audi A4 Quattro sedan stopped in an average but still acceptable 123 feet.
Interior Design and Special FeaturesThe MMI controls are conveniently arrayed around the console-mounted gearshifter on models equipped with the navigation system. Trunk space in the sedan is listed at a whopping 16.9 cubic feet, huge for this class and sizable even by family sedan standards.
Driving ImpressionsThe 2010 Audi A4's handling is neutral and secure, especially when equipped with the Quattro all-wheel-drive system. Most shoppers will find the A4's standard suspension, steering and transmission calibrations perfectly adequate.
For 2010 Audi A3 has dropped the A3's 3.2-liter V6 from the lineup, added a diesel engine, made wood interior accents available and included S line features across all models.
Trim levels are now listed as Premium and Premium Plus.The range-topping V6 model is no longer available, and a high fuel economy clean-diesel engine joins the ranks.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and OptionsThe 2010 Audi A3 four-door hatchback is offered in two trim levels: Premium and Premium Plus. Stepping up to Premium Plus trim adds xenon headlights, LED daytime running lights, aluminum interior trim, a power driver seat, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls and Bluetooth.
Optional extras for the Premium and Premium Plus 2010 Audi A3 include a Cold Weather package (including heated front seats, mirrors and windshield nozzles) and a Sport package that includes 18-inch wheels, high-performance tires, sport seats and a sport-tuned suspension. Gasoline-powered A3 models are offered with either front-wheel drive or Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system.
Diesel-powered versions will only be offered with front-wheel drive. Front-wheel-drive gasoline models can be equipped with either a six-speed manual transmission or Audi's quick-shifting S tronic automated dual-clutch six-speed manual gearbox, the latter of which has manual or fully automatic modes. The EPA estimates fuel economy for this model at 21 mpg city/30 highway and 24 in combined driving.
SafetyThe 2010 Audi A3 follows in the footsteps of the rest of the Audi line by offering a full complement of safety features that includes front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, antilock brakes and stability control. Seat-mounted side airbags for rear passengers are optional.
Driving ImpressionsThe 2010 Audi A3's 2.0-liter gasoline engine provides ample power and is well-matched to either transmission choice.
The 2011 Audi TTS gets a slight restyling of the grille and air intake that mimics the look of the exotic Audi R8 sports car.
For proof, witness the 2011 Audi TTS, a high-performance variant of Audi's little 2+2 coupe and roadster that elevates the TT into the sports car realm.
With the demise of the V6-powered TT model, the TTS is the only choice for those wanting more power than the TT's standard, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder provides. There's more to the TTS than power, however.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options The 2011 Audi TTS is available as a 2+2 coupe or a two-seat roadster, each available in Premium Plus and Prestige trim levels. Standard equipment includes 19-inch wheels, summer performance tires, adjustable drive settings (alters suspension firmness, steering assist and exhaust note), automatic xenon headlamps, LED running lights, automatic wipers, cruise control, automatic climate control, eight-way power front seats (includes four-way power lumbar), a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, leather upholstery, auto-dimming rearview mirror, Bluetooth, and a nine-speaker sound system with CD player and auxiliary audio jack.
The 2011 Audi TTS Roadster adds an electrically powered convertible top, a power-operated wind deflector and a trunk pass-through with ski bag. The TTS Prestige gets the heated seats and navigation system with CD changer as standard equipment and also gains rear parking sensors, an upgraded Bose sound system and an interior LED lighting package. In Edmunds performance testing, the TTS coupe went from zero to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds.
Driving Impressions The 2011 Audi TTS boasts considerable performance improvements over the standard TT.
The 2011 Audi TT heads into 2011 with more power, a restyled front grille and standard leather seating.
The 2011 Audi TT is available in coupe and roadster body styles, and both are fitted with Audi's sprightly turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options The 2011 Audi TT is available as a 2+2 hatchback coupe or a two-seat roadster, both of which come in one trim level known as Premium Plus.
Other options include adaptive suspension dampers, different wheels and leather upholstery with baseball-glove-style stitching. The S line package adds different 19-inch wheels, S line bumpers, sport seats, special upholstery, a sport steering wheel and headlight washers. The 2011 Audi TT comes standard with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 211 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. All-wheel drive is also standard. Every TT comes standard with antilock disc brakes, traction and stability control, side airbags and front knee airbags.
Interior Design and Special Features True to Audi's custom, the interior of the 2011 Audi TT is beautifully crafted. The flat-bottom wheel and supportive front seats give the interior a sporty feel, while the coupe's hatchback design and fold-down rear seats offer practicality plus ample luggage space to the tune of 23 cubic feet with those seats folded. The two-seat roadster has a lightweight fabric-trimmed power top that folds down flush with the rear bodywork, enabling the car to retain its clean lines with the top down.
The 2011 Audi S6 is a high-performance midsize sedan available in a lone trim level known as Prestige.
Standard equipment includes 19-inch cast-aluminum wheels, performance tires, automatic and adaptive xenon headlights, LED running lights, a rearview camera, rear parking sensors, a sunroof, keyless ignition/entry, automatic wipers, auto-dimming and power-folding exterior mirrors, eight-way power front sport seats with driver memory functions and adjustable lumbar, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery and heated front and rear seats.
Also standard are Bluetooth, a voice-activated navigation system with real-time traffic, 2011 Audi S6 Multi Media Interface (MMI) and a 13-speaker Bose surround-sound system with six-disc CD changer, satellite radio and an iPod interface. Options include 18-inch wheels (no cost), non-sport seats (no cost), rear side airbags and a blind-spot warning system.
The 2011 Audi S6 features a 5.2-liter V10 good for 435 hp and 398 pound-feet of torque. Quattro all-wheel drive is standard along with a six-speed automatic that features manual shift control. Safety
Standard safety equipment on the 2011 Audi S6 includes antilock disc brakes, stability control, all-wheel drive, front-seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags. Trimmed in leather and aluminum with birch wood accents, the S6's cabin carries on the Audi tradition of finely wrought interiors.
For 2011, the2011 Audi S5 coupe and convertible receive only minor changes in features content.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options The 2011 Audi S5 is available in coupe and soft-top convertible (Cabriolet) body styles. Both feature Premium Plus and Prestige trim levels.
The Premium Plus comes standard with 19-inch cast-aluminum wheels, performance tires, automatic xenon headlights, LED running lights, foglights, automatic wipers, heated eight-way power front seats with adjustable lumbar and driver thigh support extension, leather upholstery, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, tri-zone automatic climate control, a split-folding rear seat, an auto-dimming mirror, Bluetooth, the dash-mounted Multi Media Interface (MMI), a CD player, satellite radio and an iPod interface.
The Navigation package adds a rearview camera, rear parking sensors, center-console-mounted MMI controls, a navigation system, voice controls, real-time traffic and HD radio.
The Prestige can be equipped with optional adaptive cruise control, a blind-spot warning system, a power rear sunshade (coupe) and the 2011 Audi S5 Drive Select package, which includes a sport rear differential and driver-selectable settings for an adjustable suspension, throttle, transmission and steering.
The coupe can be equipped with a Sports Rear Differential package, which is basically the Audi Drive Select package without the suspension and steering adjustments. The convertible can be equipped with the Comfort package, which adds a neck-level heating system, ventilated front seats, adjustable front seat lumbar and upgraded leather upholstery.
Powertrains and Performance The 2011 Audi S5 coupe and convertible feature completely different engines.
The 2011 Audi S5 coupe gets a 4.2-liter V8 that produces 354 hp and 325 pound-feet of torque.
A six-speed manual transmission is standard and a six-speed automatic with manual control is optional. In performance testing, a manual-equipped S5 coupe went from zero to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds. A seven-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission is standard. Estimated fuel economy is 17/26/20 mpg.
The 2011 Audi S5 comes standard with antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, and front seat side airbags. The coupe has standard side curtain airbags and the convertible features pop-up roll bars.
You're in luck, as now there's a convertible version of the midengine sports car from Ingolstadt, the 2011 Audi R8 Spyder. For good measure, Audi has increased the output of the 4.2-liter
V8 by 10 horsepower. It doesn't take a lot to imagine yourself owning a 2011 Audi R8. Also, the navigation system is awkward to use and the optional R tronic automated manual transmission shifts clumsily at low speed.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options The 2011 Audi R8 is a two-seat exotic supercar available in 4.2 Coupe, 4.2 Spyder, 5.2 Coupe and 5.2 Spyder trim levels. Standard equipment on the 4.2 Coupe includes 19-inch wheels, adaptive suspension dampers, cruise control, automatic xenon headlights, LED running lights, automatic climate control, heated eight-way power seats (with four-way power-adjustable lumbar), leather and faux suede upholstery, auto-dimming rearview mirror, Bluetooth and a seven-speaker sound system with six-CD changer, auxiliary audio jack and satellite radio.
Powertrains and Performance The 2011 Audi R8 4.2 is powered by a 4.2-liter V8 mounted behind the passenger compartment that sends 430 hp and 317 pound-feet of torque through an all-wheel-drive system. A six-speed manual transmission with a gated metal shifter is standard, while a six-speed single-clutch automated manual known as R tronic is optional. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 12/19/14 with the manual and 13/19/15 with R tronic.
Safety Standard safety equipment includes antilock disc brakes, stability control, side airbags and knee airbags. Front and rear parking sensors and a rearview camera are available.
Interior Design and Special Features The seats are comfortable for long-distance travel and the driving position suits a wide range of people.
The 2011 Audi Q7 gets extensive changes. This full-size SUV weighs 5,500 pounds and measures 16.7 feet long, making it roughly the same size as a Cadillac Escalade or Mercedes-Benz GL-Class. The 3.0T Premium and Premium Plus make 272 horsepower, while the 3.0T S line Prestige offers 333 hp.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options The 2011 Audi Q7 is a full-size seven-passenger SUV. It is available in Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige trims, with slight differences based on whether you opt for the TDI or 3.0T engines.The Premium comes standard with 18-inch alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, roof rails, a power liftgate (includes programmable opening angle), automatic wipers, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated eight-way power front seats (includes adjustable lumbar) and leather upholstery.
Other standard features include a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a reclining 40/20/40-split second-row seat, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, Bluetooth, Audi's Multi Media Interface (MMI) and an 11-speaker audio system with console-mounted six-CD changer, in-dash single-CD player, satellite radio and an iPod interface. The TDI Premium gets 19-inch wheels and additional exterior chrome trim.
The TDI Prestige adds 20-inch wheels (optional on Premium Plus), adaptive headlights, keyless ignition/entry, a blind-spot warning system, power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, ventilated front seats and the Warm Weather package. The S line items are available on the TDI Prestige in an option package. Other options for both Prestige trims include an adaptive air suspension, 21-inch wheels, adaptive cruise control, a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen surround-sound system and an S line package that adds special interior trim.
Optional on all trims are rear side airbags, a Towing package and a Cold Weather package, which adds heated rear seats and a heated steering wheel.
The Audi Q7 3.0T Premium and Premium Plus are powered by a 3.0-liter supercharged V6 that produces 272 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The 2011 Audi Q7 TDI is powered by a 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel that produces 225 hp and a robust 405 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy is estimated to be 17/25/20.
Safety The 2011 Audi Q7 comes standard with antilock brakes, stability and traction control, front seat side airbags, side curtain airbags and rear parking sensors. A rearview camera is standard on Premium Plus and Prestige trims, while a blind-spot warning system is standard on the Prestige. Second-row side airbags are optional on all trims.
The 2011 Audi Q5 gets a new base engine, the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder found in many other Audi models. The 2011 Audi Q5 is a compact luxury crossover available in four trim levels: 2.0T Premium, 2.0T Premium Plus, 3.2 Premium Plus and 3.2 Prestige.
Nineteen-inch wheels are optional.
Step up to the 3.2 Premium Plus for a V6 engine, 19-inch wheels, headlight washers and S Line exterior trim.
The top-shelf 3.2 Prestige adds adaptive headlights, a blind-spot warning system, keyless ignition/entry, a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system and the Audi MMI Navigation Plus package (navigation system, digital music storage, voice controls, rearview camera, HD radio, CD/DVD player and center-console-mounted MMI system).
The 3.2 Prestige can also be equipped with 2011 Audi Q5 Drive Select (four settings alter throttle response, transmission shift points and steering assist), adaptive cruise control and the Luxury package (ventilated front seats and upgraded leather).
Both 3.2 models can be equipped with 20-inch wheels and the S Line package, which adds different 20-inch wheels, performance tires, a sport steering wheel, shift paddles and brushed aluminum trim.Powertrains and PerformanceThe 2011 Audi Q5 2.0T comes standard with all-wheel drive and a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 engine good for 211 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque.
An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 20 mpg city/27 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined.A six-speed automatic is standard. Estimated fuel economy stands at 18/23/20, which is tops among similarly powered all-wheel-drive crossovers. SafetyThe 2011 Audi Q5 comes standard with stability and traction control, front side airbags and side curtain airbags.
The rear seats slide fore and aft, which is a rarity in this segment of luxury crossovers, and the seats also recline for greater comfort.
As luxury sedan go, the 2011 Audi A8 is hardly a household name. Audi promises sportier driving dynamics for the 2011 Audi A8 thanks to the all-wheel-drive system's decidedly rear-biased power split; the idea here is to provide more of the feel of a rear-drive performance sedan. The 2011 Audi A8 comes in two trims: standard and long-wheelbase L (which provides more room for rear seat passengers).
Both 2011 Audi A8 models come standard with 19-inch alloy wheels, adaptive air suspension, Audi Drive Select (allows adjustment of suspension, steering and engine/transmission response), xenon headlights, a sunroof, Audi's Multi Media Interface (MMI) system with a touchpad that can interpret fingertip gestures, a navigation system, cruise control, a power-adjustable steering wheel, leather upholstery, 12-way power front seats, heated front and rear seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power rear sunshade, Bluetooth and a Bose surround-sound audio system (with HD and satellite radio, iPod connectivity, a 20GB music server and a CD changer). The L adds park assist (with rearview camera), keyless ignition/entry, power-closing doors, power rear side sunshades and a power-operated trunk.
The Cold Weather package includes heated steering wheel/rear seats and a rear-seat pass-through (with ski sack). The Rear Seat Comfort package adds power lumbar/recline and ventilation, rear vanity mirrors and four-zone climate control. The Driver Assistance package includes adaptive cruise control, a blind-spot monitor, a lane-departure warning system and a pre-braking system. The Sport package (regular A8 only) includes 20-inch wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, a torque-vectoring rear differential, upgraded leather upholstery and the 22-way power front seats.
Standard on all 2011 Audi A8s are antilock brakes, stability and traction control, full-length side curtain airbags, front- and rear-seat side airbags and active front headrests.
All A6 models also get the most recent 2011 Audi A6 Multi Media Interface (MMI) and standard navigation. Rear parking sensors are now standard on the Premium Plus, while a rearview camera is standard on the Prestige.
The A6's engines offer competitive performance for the most part.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options The 2011 Audi A6 is available in two body styles: a four-door sedan and a wagon known as the Avant. Opting for the Premium Plus (3.2 and 3.0T) gets you 18-inch wheels, rear parking sensors, self-leveling xenon headlights, LED running lights, auto-dimming exterior and interior mirrors, and driver memory functions.
The Cold Weather package adds heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel and, on the 3.2, heated front seats. A Sport package adds a sport-tuned suspension, a sport steering wheel, shift paddles and either 18-inch wheels with all-season tires or 19-inch wheels with summer tires.
Powertrains and Performance The 2011 Audi A6 3.2 is the base model configuration, available only in the sedan; it features a 3.2-liter V6 good for 265 horsepower and 243 pound-feet of torque. Front-wheel drive and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) are standard; all-wheel drive is not available. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 21 mpg city/30 mpg highway and 24 mpg combined. A six-speed automatic and all-wheel drive are standard.
Safety Standard safety equipment on the 2011 Audi A6 includes antilock disc brakes, stability control, front-seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags. A 4.2 with 19-inch wheels and summer tires stopped in a more impressive 114 feet.
All A6 models have Audi's most recent MMI system, which has more logical menus, crisper graphics and a joystick-like control on top of the system's control knob to increase functionality. The 2011 Audi A6 sedan offers a trunk with a capacity of 16 cubic feet.
Driving Impressions The available all-wheel-drive system gives the A6's driver some added peace of mind in foul weather.
For 2011, the Audi A4 Quattro gets an optional eight-speed automatic in place of its old six-speed automatic; fuel economy rises slightly as a result. A new Titanium Sport package adds some black trim and 19-inch wheels to the regular Sport package, while the Prestige trim picks up a standard rearview camera and parking sensors. The 2011 Audi A4 is available in sedan and wagon (Avant) body styles. Both come in Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige body styles.
The Premium trim comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, a sunroof (panoramic on Avant), cruise control, foglamps, automatic climate control, eight-way power front seats, a tilt-and-telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel, leather upholstery, a dash-mounted Audi Multi Media Interface (MMI) and a 10-speaker sound system with a CD player, auxiliary audio jack and satellite radio. The 2011 Audi A4 Prestige comes standard with 18-inch wheels, keyless ignition/entry, driver memory settings, auto-dimming exterior mirrors, the Navigation package and a Bang & Olufsen premium sound system (optional on Premium Plus). The Avant Prestige gets a power tailgate. Options unique to the Prestige include a blind-spot warning system, the Drive Select package (which provides adjustable settings for the suspension, steering and transmission), adaptive cruise control, a power rear sunshade and manual rear side sunshades.
The Sport package includes 18-inch wheels on the Premium Plus (19-inch wheels on the Prestige), a sport-tuned suspension, a three-spoke steering wheel, more aggressively bolstered seats and automatic transmission shift paddles. The Titanium Sport package available on the Premium Plus and Prestige is essentially a Sport package with some darkened trim and 19-inch wheels.
The sedan's Premium and Premium Plus trim levels come standard as the 2.0T FrontTrak, indicating it has front-wheel drive and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). The Avant is available only with Quattro and the automatic.
The 2011 Audi A4 comes standard with antilock brakes, traction and stability control, front seat side airbags and side curtain airbags. Without the Sport package, an A4 Quattro sedan stopped in an average but still acceptable 123 feet.
Driving Impressions The 2011 Audi A4's handling is neutral and secure, especially when equipped with the all-wheel-drive system.
A new Titanium Sport package adds black trim and 19-inch wheels to the regular Sport package, while the Prestige trim picks up a standard rearview camera and parking sensors, plus an optional power rear-window shade. The 2011 Audi A5 is one sexy coupe and convertible. The A5 coupe comes standard with all-wheel drive (it's optional for the cabriolet).
For those who like the A5's looks but want greater performance, Audi offers the high-performance S5 coupe and convertible. The 2011 Audi A5 is available in coupe and cabriolet (convertible) body styles. Both are available in Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige trim levels. The options list includes heated front seats, Bluetooth and an iPod/USB audio interface. The Prestige can further be equipped with an optional blind-spot warning system (Audi Side Assist), Audi Drive Select (adjustable settings for suspension, steering and transmission) and adaptive cruise control. The Sport package available for the Premium Plus and Prestige trim levels adds 19-inch wheels, high-performance tires, a sport-tuned suspension, sport seats and shift paddles for the automatic transmission. The Coupe's Titanium Sport package is basically a Sport package with some dark exterior and interior trim. The cabriolet's Comfort package adds a neck-level heating system, ventilated front sport seats, adjustable lumbar for the passenger seat and upgraded leather upholstery. Powertrains and Performance The cabriolet comes standard with front-wheel drive and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Optional on the cabriolet is all-wheel drive connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Every coupe comes standard with all-wheel drive; a six-speed manual transmission is standard and the eight-speed automatic is optional. The front-wheel-drive Cabriolet achieves an estimated 22/30/25. Antilock brakes (with brake assist), stability control, front-seat side airbags and side curtain airbags are all standard on the "2011 Audi A5". Driving Impressions The 2011 Audi A5 handles well, with impressive body control and tenacious traction from the all-wheel-drive system.
STaSIS Engineering is dedicated to providing automotive performance to the mainstream market. They specialize in performance-enhancing brakes, suspension, driveline, and engine products. Hit the jump to read about how Stasis applied these products to the 2011 Audi S4. The side sills have painted black with a white and gray strip and the roof has been given a gray strip, as has the rear of the car. We imagine the interior was left alone, as 2011 Audi S4 interiors are like works of art. As an everyday sports car, the Audi is the cream of the crop. Buyers will have a choice from a plethora of custom wheel choices, including 20-inch cast aluminum units or 20-inch forged aluminum designs. Stasis decided to bolt on a reflashed engine controller, along with a less restrictive stainless steel exhaust. If you like exhaust kits, Stasis has created a piece that is simply brilliant. It’s a lightweight, free-flowing, T304 stainless steel exhaust system that works perfectly with the engine tuning software. Stock springs and dampers are replaced with stiffer units, while lightweight double-digressive valve dampers reportedly help body motions while delivering a comfortable ride. If that wasn’t enough - and it never is -, Stasis also bolts on larger front and rear anti-roll bars to further aid performance in bends. Sounds like our dream car. The stock rotors are scrapped in favor of lightweight two-piece 14.5-inch rotors, although larger 15.3-inch rotors. Not only did this modification help stopping distance, it reduced 52 pounds from the car’s overall weight.
Carbon-fiber trim for the door sills and body kit.
