SPIED: Pre-production Audi Mule In Colorado

Ah, I love the smell of new Audi's in the morning. Look at what we just got in. A "spy" photo of what appears to be a pre-production Audi mule running around. But what is it?

At first glance, it looks like a current A6 with wider fender flares. But, is there more to it than just some fender flares? We happen to think so.

Source: Fast Lane Daily

There are several options: a current generation RS6 mule, a next generation A6 or a next generation RS4.

Click here to read/see more...

rp

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Audi's A3 TDI Pricing Announced, Undercuts Lexus HS250h By More Than $4k

Today, Audi of America announced pricing for the latest diesel variant to make its way from the other side of the pond. The 2010 Audi A3 will slot in at just under $30,000.

Source: about.com

With many assuming the major competition will be Lexus' HS250h, it seems that Audi has made the right move by pricing in well below the competition. With an EPA estimated 30/42 city/highway MPG, the A3 makes the comparison versus a HS that much harder; considering an HS can achieve 35/34 city/highway. Oh, decisions decisions.

Knowing this information, is the HS doomed? Or, would you still consider taking one home?

Click here to view the full press release and weigh in...

rp

Blood Red Underdog Doesn't Go Down W/O A Fight -- We Drive The Audi TT-S Roadster

What is better then blasting down the freeway at speed in a brand new Audi TT? The simple answer: a convertible. The long answer: a blood red Audi TT-S Roadster, top down and hair flailing.

In the competitive landscape of teeny, steroid-powered roadsters there is a lot of talent. With BMW’s new Z4, and household names like Mercedes-Benz’s SLK and Porsche’s Boxster, the TT-S needs to be great. Good will not suffice. And, after becoming more acquainted with the 2009 TT-S Roadster, I am not quite sure it surpasses that mark.

Source: rp

There are several arguable aspects about the TT-S that cannot go overlooked. One is the power of it. Yes it produces over 250 horses but is that enough when the latest competition is putting out 300? It boasts a soft top design. In a day and age where hard top convertibles are becoming lighter and are able to remain just as rigid as their coupe siblings, it is a wonder why they continue to ignore the latest trend in auto technology. Finally, as we shall discuss later, the souped up TT does not run cheap.

But, let’s get down to brass tacks.

Source: rp

Starting off with newer sheet metal, the TT was redesigned from its original look that debuted in 1998. It was not a terrible looking car but it was a bit too soft; a bit too wallowy. In a time when the new Volkswagen Beetle was taking the world by storm, the TT bore a similar silhouette. Obviously the TT needed more aggressive design traits to display its sporting intentions without looking as though it came from the laugh factory. And, Audi recognized this.

Now the TT Roadster looks more streamlined rather than a bloated and stumpy coupe. The second generation TT has grown over five inches in length, nearly two inches in the wheelbase and approximately three inches in width. This stretches the exterior side profile and eliminates the original TT’s stout appearance.

Source: rp

More of the exterior details are not so bulbous and round, rather they are a bit edgier. But, something round had to stay and that remains in the muscular fender flares. Top down the car’s rear deck is flatter and does not have the first generation’s significant drop-off at its hind quarters.

With those previous design elements out of the picture, the latest iteration of the TT does not look goofy, like the first generation did, nor does it feel overly feminine. Taking this into consideration, it allows male drivers to operate the Roadster with the top down and without disguises – since there are no more fears of being embarrassed.

Source: rp

Slip into the bolstered sport seat and you will quickly realize how comfortable the driving position is. The driver is confronted with a three-spoke flat-bottomed steering wheel and a closely positioned, large shifter that controls the dual-clutch “S” tronic gearbox. All of the important aspects actually driving the car are positioned nicely and in proximity to the driver; however, the MMI control unit is a bit of a stretch. Due to this extension, it can get distracting to use the MMI interface at first. After becoming more accustomed to its operation, the dash mounted MMI can be used with efficiency.

Although the TT is not a large car by any means, the high beltline creates a relaxed atmosphere that instills a feeling of safety. So, when you turn to your left and quickly observe that you are at the same height of a tractor trailer’s wheel well, you do not really care because it seems safe. I can live with that.

Source: rp

Looking around the cockpit, it is clear that Audi has once again carefully crafted this interior. It’s the little things that stand out.

Source: rp

The contrasting stitch that finds itself along the seats, dash, steering wheel, shifter boot, emergency brake and center console gives the interior a subtle pop. Carpeted floor mats are adorned with similarly colored contrasting piping, once again, adding visual appeal. On top of the aforementioned, there is a tasteful amount of brushed aluminum trim pieces and accents throughout the cabin. And, just in case you forgot what you paid for, there is a plentiful helping of TT-S badges to provide a fresh reminder.

Source: rp

The most recent trademark from the latest crop of Audi’s autos seems to be the scent of Nappa leather. It remains one of the most distinct and strongest odors I have found in an interior.

Ironically, however, Audi did not invest in their stock sound system, which is only good for 140 watts through nine speakers. This means that this is an audiophile’s nightmare. Essentially, the system is on the same level as a tin can with string as a wire. If a proper stereo is a must, look into an upgraded unit.

Although speaking in terms of the vehicle’s hardware, the TT-S is an impressive piece of kit with plenty “S” specific features.

Source: rp

Since we are speaking about a roadster, let’s get this out of the way: the soft-top is fully power operated and takes 12 seconds from start to finish. Conveniently located behind the roll hoops is a power, mesh wind deflector. I had the pleasure of testing it in cold weather, nearly 100 degrees and at varying speeds. The deflector works wonders and makes driving in brisk temperatures, and at triple digit speeds, doable.

Power is supplied by a 2.0 liter, turbocharged motor producing 265-horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque – mind you this is only 15 horses and 22 lb-ft more than the six cylinder. Equipped with the slick shifting “S” tronic transmission, the TT-S rifles through shifts in .2 seconds. With the added power, and lighter 77 pounds compared to the 3.2 with “S” tronic, Audi claims the TT-S Roadster can sprint to 60 in 5.1 seconds; a half second faster than the comparable 3.2.

This power is not too bad at the fuel pump neither. Throughout testing, the S ended with a combined MPG of 23.

Sour

Punching the accelerator brings about a brief period of nothingness then BLAM-O! the RPMs zip to the redline. Yeah, so there is a bit of turbo lag. What IS amazing about the TT-S is how quick it feels off the line. Thanks to the dual-clutch transmission, which shifts nearly seamlessly, the motor’s limited power comes out in a big way. It is so quick that it almost seems a bit video-gamey with the paddle shifters.

The sound from the turbocharged four cylinder is not going to knock your socks off initially but with due time there is a certain tone between 2800 and 3200 RPMs that becomes endearing. What IS addicting is the sound emitted from the quad-tipped exhaust during upshifts. And, to be quite honest I cannot describe it. Listen here.

Source: rp

Keeping the wheels spinning efficiently is Audi’s legendary Quattro all-wheel drive system. But, for this particular model it has been tweaked in order to respond faster. In addition, the suspension is model specific and has been lowered 10mm in order to lower the vehicle’s center of gravity. Unfortunately, over speed bumps and extremely harsh pavement, there is a noticeable cowl shake.

The magnetic setting is simply the best I have yet to test. While most vehicle’s magnetic suspensions turn the cars into rock hard bricks, this system managed to keep it dialed down just enough to tackle the rough streets without eroding the cartilage between your joints.

To know you spent the extra coin on an S variant and not take it through the corners is a mortal sin. Carving up the back roads is this car’s strong suit. Body roll is kept in line and the magnetic suspension ensures the TT-S is planted to the road. Quattro maintains traction except at the very limit where I encountered some understeer.

Source: rp

Although the Roadster weighs in at nearly 3,400 pounds, it feels much more nimble due to Audi’s Servotronic steering. At low speeds it has some of the lightest steering I have felt on a test car, which I cannot say is appreciated. Literally, it is capable of being “flicked,” into a turn with one strong finger. At higher speeds, it puts on weight and remains stable but it is still on the lighter side

Coming to a stop, the TT-S has ample braking power. Set up with 13.4 inch rotors up front and 12.2 inchers in the rear, braking manages to be ample. Pedal feel is not mushy nor too “bite happy,” so, deceleration can be smoothly modulated.

After spending a week with the TT-S Roadster, it is apparent that it is a formidable competitor. Screw the hard tops. Although they benefit from a quieter cabin and will age better as opposed to a cloth top, there is something about a rag top that is charming. Audi says that the reason behind this design was to save on weight and lower the vehicle’s center of gravity. I applaud the brand for sticking to their guns.

Plus, the TT-S would most likely have little to no trunk space. With the soft top, it manages to actually have decent trunk space albeit it is relatively shallow.

There is a lot to like about the TT-S. Then, there is the price: $55,075 as tested for the Premium Plus model. For a 2.0 liter, blown motor that is a lot of coin but armed with Quattro and skirting around nearly as quick as the Porsche Boxster S, I believe it remains a competitive offering.

If only they could get rid of the Servotronic. I mean, how can Audi keep a soft top then equip it with that steering technology; it is an oxymoron to some extent. Give me the R8's heavy and determined steering.

Source: rp

Oh, and by the way. Make sure to apply sunscreen. Do not make the same mistake I did.

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rp

Diesel's Days Aren't Doomed, Just Bring Cheaper Versions!

Inspired by a recent MarketWatch article, I could not help but weigh in on this topic. Diesel has come a long way and it is time it has received its recognition. And slowly but surely it is starting to make headway in terms of sales. What is the saying? Slow and steady wins the race?

Anyone keeping up to date in advances in alternative energy vehicles should have read at least once by now that diesel has made tremendous advancements. No longer is it plagued by the past's debilitating issues and it does not emit that horrendous cloud of thick, black smoke. How do I know?

Source: rp

Last year, Audi brought me along on the Audi Mileage Marathon and the experience proved to me that diesel is going to give hybrids and electric vehicles a damn good run for their money.

((For more coverage on the Audi Mileage Marathon, click here and here.))

Although the Americans seem to be straying away from diesel technology, with the introduction of hybrids and electric autos, it will be interesting to see if there is a backlash when hybrid and electrics batteries need to be replaced. You do not actually think that will be cheap, do you? The only article I could find of significance, albeit slightly outdated, was this piece from HybridCars.

But, enough hybrid bashing. When all is said and done, they turn out to be decent cars that have been geeked out. All of the hybrids I have driven lack that sensational, fun factor. This is where diesel has its competitive advantage; it is a blast to drive a diesel.

Sure it does not have the same sound as an inline six-cylinder, but, not many cars do. As a matter in fact, I happen to enjoy the rugged sound usually accompanied by a loud turbo whistle.

What it comes down to is that manufacturers have to start building cheaper diesel options. We see Audi producing the Q7 TDI and BMW showing off its 335d and X5 diesel but those come in above that $40,000 mark. Volkswagen, on the other hand, is seeing tremendous success with its cheaper TDI's.

According to MarketWatch, TDI's accounted for 26 percent of Volkswagen's June sales -- led by the Jetta Sportwagen. In addition to this, VW's TDIs had another record setting month for July.

Knowing this, I think the Americans missed out here. Instead of spending countless dollars to produce a $40,000 + Volt -- that will likely be compromised due to tighter costs -- imagine they produced their European diesel motors stateside and started putting them in their entry-level vehicles. Just food for thought.

As we see in Volkswagen's gameplan, diesels are keeping its sales afloat right now. As of today, VW announced their July sales were up .7 percent year over year. It is not much, but it is something. In this tepid environment, something is MUCH better than nothing.

Source: Audi of America

Audi has seen the light and is finally bringing the A3 TDI across the pond. According to Audi's Product and Midwest Communications Manager, Christian Bokich, the A3 TDI will hit showrooms early this December. Although EPA numbers place it at 30/42 city/highway, I saw first hand on the Audi Mileage Marathon that it is capable of 50 + MPG given the right driver and conditions.

Source: rp

Remember, Lexus' HS250h had trouble getting into the 30s while I was behind the wheel.

Now will BMW retort with a 1-series diesel or will Mercedes-Benz strike back with a C-class BlueTec? Does not appear so as there has been no updates on the subject matter.

With diesel competition starting to heat up, the fight for market share between hybrids is going to get fierce. Mind you that gas prices have remained under three bucks recently -- thankfully -- and that is keeping buyers interested in gasoline motors. If gas prices shoot up, we could see a paradigm shift as we did last year.

Currently, diesel prices have deflated from their premiums and are hovering around regular gasoline prices. It could get cheaper if the boys in D.C. reevalute the Federal tax on diesel fuel. A brilliant point the MarketWatch piece brings up is that in Europe diesel fuel receives a tax break.

Uh, are we behind the times or what? No wonder our automotive industry is in shambles.

rp

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The Spies Want To Know: Which Would You Have? Audi Q5, Lexus RX, MB GLK?

With the release of plenty of new, small SUV models, it seems the battle of small, femme fighters is relatively hot with three luxury brands churning market share..

Source: Mercedes-Benz North America

Mercedes-Benz’s GLK-class is doing extremely well year-to-date with sales, as of May, hitting 9,444 units. Known for its angular design, inside and out, the GLK seems to be a relatively adaptable design, which can be made more manly with wise options and packaging. Seemingly a direct X3 competitor, it is arguably the most interesting new offering brought to this market.

Source: rp

The perennial safe bet and favorite in the small SUV realm is the Lexus RX. Although it has been revamped inside and out, the average consumer will not be able to tell the difference from a 2009 on the road. YTD sales, for 2010 models, have tacked on an impressive 6,997 units slotting just under Benz’s. While you gain reliability and easy-to-use ergonomics, you lose some soul.

Source: Audi of America

Audi’s sporty and squat Q5 is the latest newcomer to the game. After battling the competition with brutal advertising that hammers away at Lexus’ RX, it has made some progress. YTD sales for the newbie registered in at a respectable 4,377 units. Taking a surprising first place in Car and Driver’s battle, it is clear the Q5 has brought its “A” game.

Looking around the New York City metro area, it has become evident that the Q5 is beginning to make a strong presence. I nearly see a new, dealer temp tag Q5 daily.

So, my question is which would you have? Discuss.

rp

The Crowd Pleaser: Audi R8

Looking like an alien descending from the heavens, the low-slung silver bullet’s V8 rumbled up my block. The Audi R8 had arrived.

Source: rp
Editing: Caroline D'Angola

It is quite possibly the coolest, contemporary automotive design that has graced the industry’s presence in some time. But, let us define cool. The R8 has a real different feel to it than other supercars. Perhaps it is the 24 LEDs that are encrusted below the Xenon bulbs? Maybe it is the side blade – which is a genius device in making the R8 appear shorter. Wrong again.

Source: rp
Editing: Caroline D'Angola

What makes the R8 set apart from other mid-engined exotics is the futuristic look to it. Rather than a 2009 model year, it appears as though it is from 2050 when cars should be flying.

The R8’s design is like a Prada sneaker. An ultra contemporary take on something that is put to use everyday. Thankfully, it is not a disaster like some of those cars from the 80s.

Whatever the case, the R8 does not have a pretentious air to it. Simply, it bleeds unique and extraordinary.

This translates into a vehicle which does not draw disdain from spectators. Jaws drop, fingers point, heads turn and “What the...” is muttered. And, I am not speaking solely of gear heads. This includes fanciful, high fashion women, prepubescent boys and girls, and minivan driving dads. Essentially, everyone’s attention became drawn on the silver Audi during my tenure.

Finding myself behind the race inspired, flat-rimmed steering wheel I realized the car was actually quite roomy. Being nearly seven feet tall, this is impressive. One would expect headroom to be a commodity but Audi had some magic up its sleeve when it carved out the roofline. Considering the R8 is does not break 50 inches tall, the cabin remains quite airy.

Source: rp
Editing: Caroline D'Angola

If you have claustrophobia, have no fear. You only realize how low you are when driving behind an economy car and it is apparent that you are no taller than the boot lid.

Looking around the interior, you see that every piece seems to be tailored to the car. The chunky shifter, that proudly displays “R8,” appears to have been carved from a single hunk of metal. Thanks to the enhanced leather option, the dash, doors and anything else you can imagine is stitched in hide. An aroma fills the cabin that can be likened to a leather shop.

Source: rp
Editing: Caroline D'Angola

The dark headliner is Alcantara, yet again, another option. Buttons and dials adorn the center stack and feel first-rate.

One misgiving is the navigation system. If the scroll-to-find-a-letter dial was not annoying enough and time consuming, the lagginess of the software certainly is. When the system would stumble, I felt as though I had been transported back into the early 2000s when Microsoft ME was around – what an awful OS.

But, the Bang & Olufsen sound system makes up for it, greatly. With 465 watts and 12 speakers it manages to deliver crisp sound while replicating bass spot on. I only wish it could go a bit louder. Songs I have heard hundreds of times sounded completely different.

Enough on buttons and suede headliners, let’s get to the driving experience.

Source: rp

Upon start-up you wonder if you have awakened a sleeping lion. Optioned with the R-tronic transmission, the car slips into gear and I angle the R8 out of my steep driveway. For such a practical exotic, Audi should really have a lift-system – a la Gallardo – for the front of this car. The overhang is far too long and low to maneuver; many inclines require angling in.

Gentle pressure produces a low, V8 burble. Shifts are relatively harsh in automatic mode. After getting jerky during low speeds, I decide this test is over. Manual mode for the remainder of the time. A cool facet of the transmission is that although it is a sequential transmission, when you double downshift in Sport mode it responds fast enough you would think it skipped a gear.

Opening it up a bit higher on the rev band you start to hear the 4.2 liter grumble morph into a shriek. With 420 horsepower, 317 lb-ft of torque and an 8,250 redline, there is plenty of pull along a good portion of the rev. Passing is effortless, even in sixth gear because the motor revs around 3,000 rpm while cruising. No downshift required.

Source: rp

0-60 comes in a quick 4.4 seconds and the R8’s top speed is a claimed 187 MPH. On the highway, the silver bullet is as easy to drive over triple digits as it is at 35 MPH. And, boy it is quiet. Make sure to keep an eye on the speedometer because this car can land you in jail pretty quick.

With all of this power, it is only right to equip the vehicle with massive brakes. The front rotors measure 15 inches and are clamped by eight piston calipers. The rear brakes measure up with 14 inch rotors, suppressed by four piston calipers. Wrapping the 19 inch wheels are 8.5 inch wide tires in the front and staggeringly broad 11 inchers in the rear.

Source: rp

Tapping the brake brings the car to a halt, stomping on the left pedal brings your stomach into your throat.

Set up with massive tires and its legendary all-wheel drive system, Quattro, the Audi corners like a dream. Putting the pedal down through the corners is addicting because the R8 grips for days. Instead of feeling the rear end lose it, I found the car begging for more. A prime example of this was seen on the Merritt Parkway where the road bends left and has a pronounced bank. Downshifting from the left lane I felt like I was Jeff Gordon taking on a NASCAR turn.

Steering is heavily weighted and sharp but it does not become a nuisance like earlier German imports, thanks to Servotronic. No more sore shoulders after a day on meandering back roads. At high speeds, steering feel remains stiff and nimble making it nearly identical to driving at low, city speeds.

Road feel is there but not as apparent as I would like; granted, the R8 has the most road feel of any Audi I have piloted.

Turning on the magnetic damping system sharpens up the movements of the car and makes the already ultra rigid R8 even more surefooted. Personally, I found the standard, comfort mode already well enough tuned to have to avoid usage of the magnetics. Plus, it can make for a jarring ride over poor road surfaces.

Easily the biggest drawback of the New York metropolitan area.

Source: rp
Editing: Caroline D'Angola

What makes the R8 so desirable is its relative practicality. Armed with decent luggage space, I could fit a backpack and large duffle bag in the boot, and Quattro this car can double as a GT car.

Upon return from a road trip to Boston, I came face to face with an onslaught of rain; the R8 remained grounded and did not encounter any issues. I was stunned to find the Audi planted and not getting squirrely even at high speeds.

Adding to this, the silver monster is equipped with a large fuel tank. Achieving over 300 miles on a tank is easily done.

During my week with the R8, I managed to get nearly 14 MPG while stuck in gridlock, Manhattan traffic for approximately two hours and I eek’d out 16 MPG on the trip to Boston. I would love to see what a diesel, TDI variant would be capable of.

Although my test vehicle was nudging the $140,000 mark, an R8 stripper can be had for approximately $115,000 with a six-speed manual.

I can bet there are a number of naysayers saying that the Porsche 997 Turbo can be had for a marginal difference at $130,000 and you get the greater speed.

But, at the end of the day the Porsche remains bland and a figment of its dated silhouette where as the R8 is exciting and a crowd pleaser.

Source: rp
Editing: Caroline D'Angola

And, when you thought Audi was finished, they recently unveiled the latest iteration of the R8; it boasts a 525 horsepower V10 motor.

To quote Ferris Bueller “if you have the means, I highly recommend picking one up.”

rp

It's Coming

Source: rp

That's right. It is on its way.

rp

Are Green Cars Worth the Gas Savings?

Drivers wary of high gas prices are choosing smaller, fuel-efficient vehicles. Last May, sales of Honda’s gas-sipping Civic sky-rocketed snatching first place from the perennial favorite, the Ford F150 pick-up truck in terms of U.S. sales.

Source: rp

Are you in the market for a new, greener, fuel-efficient vehicle? What alternative energy vehicles achieve the best bang for the buck?

Read more here.

rp

Full Details: Audi Sportback Concept

Source: Audi of America

Look at this beau.

According to AutoSpies' 001, this auto stole the Detroit Auto Show **Note: in user comments**, Sunday. And, with good reason. Just look at it.

Source: Audi of America

Most likely this design will translate into the A7, which is intended to be a Mercedes-Benz CLS/Aston Martin Rapide/Porsche Panamera/Maserati Quattroporte fighter.

Source: Audi of America

Most interesting is the interior. I am in love with the flip-up thin monitor and quilted seats.

Source: Audi of America

Why does Audi get it right, so often?

If Mercedes-Benz and BMW keep up its trend of over-the-top designs I can reassure you individuals seeking taste will flock to Audi in a heartbeat.

rp

Audi A3 Goes Diesel: 50 State Legal

As of this weekend, Audi has announced plans to bring the A3 TDI to our shores!

This is very exciting news as the A3 TDI that was piloted on the Audi Mileage Marathon was able to achieve more than 50 miles per gallon. Obviously, this is a highly respectable number.

What's next to follow suit? Hopefully the A4 TDI -- I am crossing my fingers on that one.

For the full details, go here.

rp

Smart Diesel: Full of Character

Let's see here.

New story published on TheStreet.com featuring the Bosch Brabus Smart ForTwo CDI. Certainly a cheaper alternative than an Audi or BMW diesel.

However, is it all good?

Seek and you shall find.

rp

Day 4: Amarillo, Here We Come

On the road to Amarillo.

Setting off from lovely downtown Dallas, I notice things are not quite normal. People are driving around the town in convertible Jeep Wranglers screaming, flags are flailing and there are an abundance of specific colors.

It is the big event of the week: football. You know, I have been to a few football games in my day and I have tailgated for certain events; however, nothing could prepare you for Dallas style football. Essentially, the whole city is transformed into a gigantic tailgate party and everyone adorns the garb of the team they are rooting for. I have never seen anything like it.

Something more important, at least in my world, comes up. Starting on day four, I now have the opportunity to drive the new Audi Q5 3.0 TDI. This is a big deal because the Q5 will not be released in North America until spring 2009, according to Audi executives.

Source: rp

Where does the Q5 place in Audi line-up? The Q5 is Audi’s answer to smaller sport utility vehicles, such as BMW’s X3 and Infiniti’s EX. So, you can presume pricing will slot in higher than Volkswagen’s Tiguan and hopefully lower than BMW’s X3 – in an effort to remain competitive.

Give or take a $35,000 base price.

It is a rather interesting juxtaposition of exterior design. I see a Volkswagen Tiguan which has mated with a Q7, really.

The interior is what you come to expect from Audi. Top grade materials positioned in an appealing A4-like set-up. I have yet to see a firm with the ability to trounce Audi’s interior design and usage of quality materials.

Source: rp

Motoring on through northern Texas, the flat land continues on.

One of my fellow journalists remarked “If Christopher Columbus sailed and landed here, he would have certainly thought the world was flat.”

Passing through small towns with populations smaller than an apartment complex was rather humbling. Population 566, population 1,600, population 2,455. Tornado Alley is a peculiar mix of homes, people and shops.

I suggest that everyone take this trip at least once. Not only is it an awe-inspiring experience but you get to see what the real Texas Chainsaw Massacre looks like!

No, but seriously, the stopover in Wichita Falls was interesting. The grilled chicken and baked potato dish I received was tremendously good. Perhaps, I should fly down there and steal their recipe.

Source: rp

After arriving and settling in at rainy, windy Amarillo, the event headed over to something classified as only Texas – a rodeo. Needless to say, these people must be out of their mind. 15 year-old boys hopping on bulls and mustangs in order to see how long they can hold on for? It is wild!

Oh yeah, and our Q5 obtained over 32 miles-per-gallon.

The cars are managing to impress all of the journalists. As the daily reports come in at breakfast, joined by gasps, the results continue to draw much attention. Strategies are still varied; however, it seems many have begun to enjoy the landscape and vehicles more and more as Wave 2 progresses.

Stay tuned for day five, which takes the trip from Amarillo to the mile-high city, Denver.

rp

Day 2: Journey to Memphis

Do you think cornfields are boring? Yeah, so do I. However, when you are behind the wheel of an A4 3.0 TDI, things change quickly; not to mention lanes.

Starting the morning right, by getting keys to my Audi, I headed out to the starting grid. Car number 8, my new love until October 13.

The A4 may be the best car out of the entire fleet. It has the best styling, nicest interior and great power. I adore the sport seats with alcantara inserts. Fantastic for gripping.

Source: rp

Upon start-up you would not think you are behind the wheel of a diesel. Chatter is kept to a minimal level and pick-up comes on briskly. The flag drops and we are rolling. After realizing the GPS navigation system has no idea what it is stammering on about, we find our way to Michigan Ave. and the satellite picks up the vehicle.

Finally, able to put the hammer down. Well, not exactly. Utilizing a very simple strategy, I pin the vehicle’s speedometer at 70 miles-per-hour and give the throttle the slightest touch. Every millimeter counts. Every hill’s incline and decline counts. If a feather lands on the A4 whilst flying overhead, you bet, it will count.

Source: rp

Chicago to Memphis is most likely one of the most interesting routes to travel. Being born and raised in the New York City region, culture shock sets in. Barns, cornfields, silos, and horses surround in all directions. The horizon falls straight to the ground.

Source: rp

After the first leg, my partner and I were guessing we received over 35 MPG. Considering we did not even try for the second half of driving, my partner and I were quite content with our estimates.

More to follow.

rp

Day 1: Audi Mileage Marathon

You know you are at an Audi event when you hear those lovely, German accents. Let me tell you, these guys know how to treat the media.

Throughout the next several days, I will be participating in the Audi Mileage Marathon. Essentially, the gist of this event is to help introduce Audi’s latest diesel technology to the United States. I am in Wave 2, which means, I will be traveling from Chicago to Memphis, Dallas, Amarillo and Denver.

As journalists, we are the best force to get out Audi’s message. The new diesels are here and they are not like the old diesels Americans are used to.

Arriving in downtown Chicago, I was greeted by a team of individuals affiliated with Audi AG. After going through the paperwork process and making sure to outfit us with plenty of Audi gear, we were turned loose like a bunch of kiddies at a carnival. Forget about the cotton candy and the clowns, however.

After settling in, I made sure to take in my surroundings – I have never been to Chicago before. It was during this time the participants from Wave 1 arrived at the hotel and W. Adams Ave. was filled with silver, stickered-up Q5s and Q7s.

There I was, at the corner of an intersection, when a Q5 TDI pulled up. Once the light changed to green it made, what must be, one of the finest sounds I have heard from an auto in a long time.

The only way I can describe it is a small diesel truck motor with a significant turbo “whooOOsh.” It sounds majestic. I must make note, it is a very subtle, diesel sound. Not loud, not the clatter diesel’s typically make.

I hope I can get sleep tonight; I am eagerly awaiting the keys to my own A4 3.0 TDI. I have a good idea of which strategy I will try to employ to achieve the highest miles-per-gallon. Wish me luck.

It’s Christmas eve all over again.

rp

Audi Mania!

Audi has done it again and again. If there is a third time, I promise it will be a charm. Audi has blessed the world with two new sport-sedans and they’re pissed off.

The new RS6 sedan will be utilizing the same power plant as the avant, which is out overseas. The statistics are astounding: 580 bhp accompanied by 479 lb-ft of torque. Essentially, that is the same as God descending from the heavens. Striking and awesome.

Source: Autoblog.com

The twin-turbo V10 means business and will not stand for anything less. 0-60 comes in an Audi-claimed 4.5 seconds. I think it is safe to assume it can knock off a couple tenths of a second from their claim, albeit with 580 bhp, I was hoping for a sub four second number.

Source: Autoblog.com

I am going to stop there though. Long story short, it would be a fantastic rival to BMW’s M5 and Mercedes’ E63 AMG, but the Audi folks will not be bringing the RS6 stateside. I find this quite disheartening because it is head and shoulders above its competitors – at least in styling.

Something we Yankees can relate to is the B8 S4. Yes, she will be coming stateside.

One problem; no more avant!

Blasphemy. From the company that produces the best wagons in the planet, we have received the shaft.

Looking beyond this disturbing fact, Audi has done a fantastic job putting together a respectable offering. Fitted with a new 3.0 TFSI supercharged V6, the new S4 will do 0-60 in a claimed 5.1 seconds. Not bad. The specs are pretty nice, 333 bhp and 325 lb-ft torque. Personally, I would have loved to see a twin-turbo set up a la B5 S4. God, I loved that car and just about every B5 owner did as well.

Source: Audiworld.com

Matted to the new engine is a fresh 7-speed “S tronic,” dual clutch transmission. You can expect this “S tronic,” gadgetry to impress with head-snapping upshifts. As with all modern transmissions, I am stoked to hear the throttle blips.

An interesting option is the new quattroSport rear differential. I want to hear more details on this when they are available.

The car’s interior is, as expected, stunning. Audi does every interior “right.” They really do. A mixture of top-notch plastics, piano black trim and aluminum adorn the cockpit. If that center stack is oriented slightly towards the driver, Audi has won me over – for good.

Source: Audiworld.com

Audi has been turning out fantastic designs as of late. The brand is where BMW use to be; subtle, classic and aggressive designs. Remember the E39 M5, the E46 M3? How about the E38 7-series? The new design language Audi has tapped will make many new styling triumphs. I wish I could shake the designer(s) hand.

Expect the B8 S4 in showrooms next fall as a 2010 model – womp womp.

Conspiracy theory: Audi kept the B8’s bhp under 350 in order to make room for a new RS4 which I presume will debut with upwards of 450-500 bhp.

In other Audi-related news, I will be covering the Audi Mileage Marathon from Chicago to Denver. It will be a very nice way to get more acquainted with Audi’s diesel variants.

rp