2010 Audi A5,Reviews

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.

2010 Audi A4,Reviews

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options The 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.

Safety All 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 Features The 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 Impressions The 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.

2010 Audi A3,Reviews

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 Options The 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.

Safety The 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 Impressions The 2010 Audi A3's 2.0-liter gasoline engine provides ample power and is well-matched to either transmission choice.