Thomas Pretty asked:


The Audi TT may seem as out of the reach of normal road goers. Unlike its German brothers however it creates an affordable opportunity to those who want all the benefits of a German made sports car without the extortionate price. If considering an Audi TT I would advise to look at the used car market as often a bargain can be had.

The Audi TT first made an appearance as a concept car at the German Motor Show in 1995 where it won many awards. The styling is regarded by experts as the avant garde of a new design revolution. Its bold curved design was innovative in nature and turned heads wherever it went. For those looking at a used model there has been a new generation released recently; as this has updated the styling somewhat used car prices are sure to fall.

The car reinvented Audi as a company; before the TT many had seen Audi as a company who purely produced rather dull saloon cars. After this design classic was released the popularity of Audi grew and its other ‘S’ models became increasingly fashionable. A used Audi does not depreciate greatly and for those who want a slice of luxury and style they make an enticing option.

The low powered Audi TT used a front wheel drive system although later and more powerful models used Audi’s famous ‘Quattro’ four wheeled drive system. This gives unbelievable road holding qualities and great cornering ability. However the TT was subject to an investigation after it was found to be somewhat unstable when cornering at high speeds. As a result a recall occurred where spoilers were used and suspension settings were altered.

If in the market for a used Audi TT there are numerous engine options available dependent upon how much power you require and how fast you actually want to go. One major consideration however should be go for the convertible model, ideal for touring the countryside with the wind in your hair it makes a brilliant soft top sports car.

The high quality of the interior is testament to German manufacturing; the materials used in the cars construction ooze quality and refinement and make the cabin a sumptuous space to be in. Less impressive however are the rear seats that can be considered an afterthought at best.

While there is little chance of an adult fitting in the back comfortably, there is adequate room for smaller children. The Audi TT was never designed to be a family car though so the lack of rear space is not a great concern.

Although the handling and gearbox have been criticised by some commentators it should be realised that both are deliberate. Some have said the steering is somewhat pedestrian but Audi made the car to have light steering to make city driving easier; despite the protestations of die hard motor enthusiasts. The six speed gearbox has been criticised for losing power at the wrong times but again this is deliberate and an integral part of the six speed nature. Getting used to the gearbox is all part of the TT experience.

Whatever critics have said about the TT it remains one of the most popular sports cars on the road today. Audi can consider it an unbridled success that has brought the company out of a slump at put it at the forefront of revolutionary design. There is little doubt that if Audi had not produced the TT the new gorgeously styled R8 would never have come into existence.

No matter what your opinion on the TT it is hard to argue against the fact that it a design classic and one of the seminal cars of the last thirty years.How Audi used revolutionary styling to produce a design classic

A look at the good and bad points of the TT and why it can be considered a revolution in car design.

The Audi TT may seem as out of the reach of normal road goers. Unlike its German brothers however it creates an affordable opportunity to those who want all the benefits of a German made sports car without the extortionate price. If considering an Audi TT I would advise to look at the used car market as often a bargain can be had.

The Audi TT first made an appearance as a concept car at the German Motor Show in 1995 where it won many awards. The styling is regarded by experts as the avant garde of a new design revolution. Its bold curved design was innovative in nature and turned heads wherever it went. For those looking at a used model there has been a new generation released recently; as this has updated the styling somewhat used car prices are sure to fall.

The car reinvented Audi as a company; before the TT many had seen Audi as a company who purely produced rather dull saloon cars. After this design classic was released the popularity of Audi grew and its other ‘S’ models became increasingly fashionable. A used Audi does not depreciate greatly and for those who want a slice of luxury and style they make an enticing option.

The low powered Audi TT used a front wheel drive system although later and more powerful models used Audi’s famous ‘Quattro’ four wheeled drive system. This gives unbelievable road holding qualities and great cornering ability. However the TT was subject to an investigation after it was found to be somewhat unstable when cornering at high speeds. As a result a recall occurred where spoilers were used and suspension settings were altered.

If in the market for a used Audi TT there are numerous engine options available dependent upon how much power you require and how fast you actually want to go. One major consideration however should be go for the convertible model, ideal for touring the countryside with the wind in your hair it makes a brilliant soft top sports car.

The high quality of the interior is testament to German manufacturing; the materials used in the cars construction ooze quality and refinement and make the cabin a sumptuous space to be in. Less impressive however are the rear seats that can be considered an afterthought at best. While there is little chance of an adult fitting in the back comfortably, there is adequate room for smaller children. The Audi TT was never designed to be a family car though so the lack of rear space is not a great concern.

Although the handling and gearbox have been criticised by some commentators it should be realised that both are deliberate. Some have said the steering is somewhat pedestrian but Audi made the car to have light steering to make city driving easier; despite the protestations of die hard motor enthusiasts. The six speed gearbox has been criticised for losing power at the wrong times but again this is deliberate and an integral part of the six speed nature. Getting used to the gearbox is all part of the TT experience.

Whatever critics have said about the TT it remains one of the most popular sports cars on the road today. Audi can consider it an unbridled success that has brought the company out of a slump at put it at the forefront of revolutionary design. There is little doubt that if Audi had not produced the TT the new gorgeously styled R8 would never have come into existence. No matter what your opinion on the TT it is hard to argue against the fact that it a design classic and one of the seminal cars of the last thirty years.

Carolyn

Anthony Fontanelle asked:



Audi has had a quite interesting history. Almost a century ago, German engineer August Horch was forced out of the company he himself found because of dispute and setup in competition. Moving on, he decided to form a new firm that would eventually be established as the Audi we know today. In 1932, the company merged with Horch, DKW, and Wanderer to form the Auto Union. The four overlapping rings logo is a representation of the different companies that make up the corporation. During the Second World War, the Auto Union plants were heavily bombed and some parts were destroyed. After much relocation and uncertainties, Audi finally settled in Ingolstadt, Bavaria.

The Audi automobile manufacturer, however, has taken only a single path. That is the path to commercial success. In the automotive industry, the four-ring logo is synonymous to leading-edge innovation and high performance. Today, after over 25 years of class-leading technology and engineering, the name Audi is an identifiable symbol and trademark that shows would-be competitors the level of quality they have to achieve in order to attempt to compete with the company’s automobile lineup.

Owning an Audi is prestigious enough. Most owners, however, do not want to take their chances lightly. They purchase top of the line products that ensure automobile maintenance and longevity. Although it would seem that parts and accessories like the Audi wiper blade and the Audi car cover are overly common, automotive enthusiasts regard these items as essential components for vehicle upkeep. It is actually just common sense. Audi wiper blades ensure visibility when driving during heavy rain. On the other hand, the Audi car cover protects the automobile from unwanted elements.

Producing high quality products like the ones mentioned, Audi eyes the future with progressive eyes. Continuing the illustrious career that its founder had built, this German automobile leader is sure to perpetually reinvent itself in the most innovative way.

Eddie

Jason Moore asked:



At the height of the SUV craze, Audi of America’s then-president glorify his company that it seemed to be the only one not making an SUV. He even jokingly suggested Audi should adopt 7-Up’s slogan and start calling itself “the un-SUV” car company.

His joke was accepted due to 3 reasons: the luxury SUV segment did not really exist at the time; all of Audi’s vehicles were available with quattro all-wheel drive for car buyers who needed or wanted it; and he could not predict how enthusiastically consumers would embrace SUVs even extremely expensive ones.

Over the past couple of years, dramatic fuel price increases have had an equally dramatic impact on consumer demand for SUVs. So it seemed as if the introduction last month of Audi’s first-ever SUV, the Q7, was poorly timed. But industry statistics insinuate demand for premium SUVs remains high even as interest in mainstream models declines.

And Audi’s sales statistics certainly suggest that timing isn’t bad after all. The Q7 has been selling fairly well. It’s difficult to cite specific figures for the Q7 didn’t debut until June 2006. However, sales increased 26 percent this June and about 10 percent the first half of this year.

The least expensive Q7, which was the 3.6 base model, starts at about $40,000, while the most expensive Q7, the 4.2 Premium, costs around 20 grand more.

The fire-breathing, V8-powered 4.2 has a lower EPA mileage rating, and both models run on premium petrol. The diesel-powered 3.0 TDI BlueTec, which due for release until next year, is supposed to get about 20 percent better mileage than the Q7 3.6.

Audi says the Q7 3.6 takes an uninspiring 8.2 seconds to go from zero to 60 mph. It feels quicker because its throttle response is about as smooth as a buggy ride on a dirty road. On the highway, things smooth out, and the Q7 shines in passing situations.

Other than that, the Q7 thrives on the highway in other respects. It feels so secure and stable it seems as if it could be safely driven at twice the legal speed limit.

Around town and on back roads, the Q7 feels solid and stable as well. An impressive list of high-tech, performance-enhancing suspension features include quattro all-wheel drive and electronic anti-skid and anti-roll protection. This combine with an excellently designed suspension that keep the Q7 planted and help it go where it is aimed.

The Q7 has a weight of 5,200-pound. And after experiencing how effortless it is to make the Q7 consume long, winding stretches of country roads, it’s hard to imagine that it weighs well over 2 tons.

As expected in a premium SUV, it also offers the kind of upscale interior, superior seating, and assortment of standard and optional features.

All Audi vehicles come with quality Audi catalytic converter. So expect that Q7 with one.

Proud to be the only one not making an SUV then, Audi probably is now proud to have its first SUV.

Ruth

Shaun Parker asked:


Often seen as the little brother in the German motor industry Audi was dwarfed by the behemoths of Volkswagen, BMW and Mercedes. Today it produces cars that match these giants in quality as well as performance. As a consumer it is clear that these cars represent value for money without compromise on luxury and great design. Who however, is foolish enough to buy a car brand new when there are so many approved used Audi dealerships out there? With vehicle depreciation as it is, is makes no financial sense to buy cars straight off the production line.

Advisably when purchasing; approved used Audi dealerships should be utilised, their system of checking cars ensures that used cars are as close to new as possible and most importantly approved Audi dealers give peace of mind in terms of safety. The multi point check system contains 110 different criteria and delivers a written inspection report for your perusal before you buy. Any issues that arise from this checking system are remedied by approved Audi technicians, making sure your used car is of the highest quality possible.

The Audi range covers all needs and aspects; whether it is a sporty model or a family estate, approved Audi dealers can provide a car to suit all appetites. In the smaller end of the market the A2 offers a practical vehicle that will suit small families. The Audi A3 on the other hand offers a hatchback with a racier engine and gives an awesome driving experience whilst retaining practicality.

For those looking for a larger car, approved used Audis are perfect; with the A 4, 5, 6, and 8 the Audi range presents great saloon options. All these models are beautifully styled and contain technology that would not look out of place in an aircraft cockpit. Many of the models are available in cabriolet versions ensuring that the wind will rush through your hair whilst sitting in comfort.

If you are looking for a sporty used car however the TT is the car for you coming in both hardtop and cabriolet its Quattro system puts the power down on the road and gives superb handling attributes. Its drop dead gorgeous looks ensure that the car will turn heads and create the right impression.

Approved Audi dealerships also offer other sporty models, known as the ‘S’ models. These are essentially the models from the normal range with tightened suspension and bigger engines. The fact they make S versions of their estate cars should be a bonus to dads who want to push it a little on the school run.

Two cars that will not be available in approved used Audi dealerships yet are the A5 and sumptuous R8. The A5 offers a beautifully designed saloon that represents Audi’s forward thinking attitude. The R8 however is a mid engine supercar in its own right, the striking styling twinned with a rip roaring V8 engine is sure to bring an unrivalled driving experience. This car is full of technology that has filtered down Audi’s racing division; if you are lucky enough to find a used one in a couple of years, snap it up.

Audi have been making cars for more than 100 years and the knowledge is visible in the quality of their models. Their endurance is renowned and are perfect for buying second hand. When visiting an approved used Audi dealership the guarantees come thick and fast whilst the after care lives up to these guarantees. If buying a used car a visit to your local Audi dealership is strongly advisable.

Glenda

MrLajara asked:


I own a 2000 Audi S4. I plan on putting a Stage 3 system. I have no idea how much will my miles per gallon drop after I have this system put in. Stock it is supposed to give 20 city and 23 to 25 mpg highway. Any information will be greatly appreciated.

Jamie

Daniel Millions asked:


Audi is one of the premier and the most luxurious manufacturers of automobile systems in Germany. They are the producers of the Audi Cars which is a famous car in the world. Besides they believe in innovation too.

History and Origin: The origin of the company can be traced to 1899 and the founder is August Horch. The founder had problems with the company that he was working with. So he was forced to leave the company and he soon started his own brand under his own name. But copyright issues were raised and he was forced to remove the family name in his brand. There he christened the name as Audi for his automobile company. The word Audi actually means in Latin to listen.

They initially started with Audi 2612 cc and they subsequently increased the efficiency more and more. They were mostly used in sporting events. Thus the brand of cars started developing over time and today we are seeing an entirely different world of cars being manufactured by Audi!

Auto Union: An Auto Union was formed when Audi entered in to collaboration with Horch, DKW and Wanderer. This Union was responsible for the production of the Audi Badge that we see today. These were used in Auto Racing Cars with different brand names. As the technology became more and more complex, more and more models were designed. These engines were used by Germany in the Second World War. The other vehicle which was used for the same purpose is the Kraftfahrzeug (KFZ 11) or the Horch Type 80 which was again used by the military.

Audi Logo: The logo consists of four overlapping rings which represents the four marques of Auto Union. Their logo reflects the fact that they are merged with Horch, DKW and Wanderer. The logo is beautifully crafted in such a way that the first ring represents Audi, the second one represents DKW, third one represents Horch, and the fourth and last ring represents Wanderer.

Earlier Times: After the second world war the Auto Union was heavily bombed. The Audi factory then turned into the socialist company “VEB Automobilwerk Zwickau” (AWZ). Post the World War II, many companies like Volkswagen and others rose and started the Auto Union again. By 1960 customers were attracted towards Four Stroke Engines and they became popular. The brands like Audi 72, 75 were invented when Volkswagen renamed their brand as Audi. Until 1972 models from Audi like Audi 60, 70, 80 and Super 90 were developed and they came back again in to the picture very strongly.

In 1969, the Auto Union saw the entry of one more member NSU, which was one of the world’s largest producers of motorcycles. They went on to produce new small cars which are light in wait and safe to drive but still had some problems in their rotary engines.

The Modern Audi: The period after 1970, especially years after the Second World War saw the emergence of Audi as a really competitive brand. It was first introduced in the United States in the post 1970 era. In 1968 saw the entry of the brand Audi 100. It was soon followed by another one in the name of Audi 80/Fox and Audi 50 in 1974. The Audi 50 was very popular in those days as it was invented on the basis of the Golf/Polo concept and it was a huge success all over the world because of its unique design and it is still very much remembered.

The inventions at that time and a proposal from a Chassis Engineer Jorg Bensinger, who promised to develop four wheel technologies. Soon it replaced the Audi brand cars and the racing cars too. The performance car which was developed in 1980 was named as Audi Quattro. Also it was the first German large-scale production vehicle which featured with permanent all-wheel drive through a center differential.

It is commonly referred to as Ur- Quattro in German, where Ur in German means original and unique. Also this prefix is used for other Audi Brands like S4 and S6 brands called as Ur4 and Ur6. These cars were used fro rallying and racing purposes and they soon became very famous. This marked not only the entry of Audi, but also advances in the Automobile World!

In 1985 the companies like NSU and the Auto Union fell and Audi came to be known as Audi AG. In 1986 the Audi 80 brand started developing a very good model which was famously called as the Grandfather’s Image in those days. The great thing about that model is the fact that it sold extremely well in no time. However the engine in the car was not that great even though it had great interior design and good performance. So to counter the shortcomings, Audi came up with a new model Audi 90 which had a superior design and was regarded as a good and an efficient model.

In Early 1990s the sales of the model Audi 80 declined as it said that some basic construction problems was not like by the buyers. This according to a US survey was due to unintended acceleration which happened when the break pedal was pushed. Many say that this problem was mainly attributed to the closeness of the accelerator and the break pedal. However this problem was not raised in any of the European countries as they had the experience of driving in the cars like that and their counterpart’s inexperience to drive in such cars.

However the aftermath was so severe that the US people did not buy Audi cars at all and the sales came down very badly. This led to the renaming of the affected model by Audi as 100/200, but the real name of the company was 5000. Audi had even planned to remove their models but sales went up again in the mid-1990s. The sales began to go on a upswing, thanks to a new model from them A4 in 1996 and the subsequent releases of the models like A4/A6/A8 series, which was developed in collaboration with VW and other sister brands of that time. So dozens of cars were coming from the innovative Audi.

Their Confidence to rule the world in automobile industry grew to such an extent that they started to claim world records, like Top Speed Endurance. The company had always maintained its premier racing game, The Silver Arrows. Even today their sales are in the skies as it is touching new heights day by day.

Harry

stirfryguy asked:


For mother’s day, I want to to purchase a sun shade for my mother’s Jeep Compass. The sun shade I am talking about is the type that you can roll up or down depending on the location on the driver and passenger window.

The VW Touraeg has it and some Audi’s have it as well.

Thanks!

Shannon

John Ashtonson asked:


There are at quite a few Audi dealers in Connecticut out of which, at least five are major dealers. The success and popularity of this Germany-based automobile giant in Connecticut is marked by the number of Audi automobiles that are sold at these dealerships of Audi automobiles.

Considering that Audi has been a stable and reliable globally acclaimed automobile giant for nearly a century now, there should be no doubt that it is indeed among the finest brands available in the market. Connecticut Audi dealers provide a plethora of models to choose from. The most popular models include sedans, trucks and SUVs.

Do these dealers provide any other services?

Major authorized Audi dealers in Connecticut also provide additional services for your Audi, including repairs and maintenance. These are not just dealers, but full-fledged service centers striving for the betterment of your experience as a member of the Audi family. Complimentary services like car washes are also provided at some of these dealerships.

Major Audi Dealers in Connecticut

Major Audi dealers in Connecticut include ones at Fairfield, Wallingford and New London as a few examples. Some of the most important Audi dealers in Connecticut are as follows:

New Country Audi of Greenwich: Based in Greenwich, this dealership also caters to consumers from Fairfield and Westchester.

Audi of Fairfield: Apart from Fairfield customers, this dealership aims to fulfil the needs of customers from other counties as well.

Danbury Audi: With both used and new cars, Danbury Audi has an exceptional employee profile. It provides round-the-clock tow service and even loaner cars.

Audi of Wallingford: Wallingford has some of the best deals for used models for prospective members of the Audi family.

Hoffman Audi: Hoffman Audi is situated at East Hartford and maintains a reputation for providing excellent service to its customers.

If you want to buy an Audi automobile in Connecticut, you can contact any of these Connecticut Audi dealers via the Internet to book your orders and also to get their contact information.

New or Old Model?

Most of these Connecticut Audi dealers sell not just new cars, but also old models of Audi automobiles. In case your financial condition does not permit you to buy a new model, it might be convenient for you to settle for a used model that is still in good condition.

Is it Risky to Buy Used Models?

It is quite safe to buy an Audi automobile from one of the Connecticut Audi dealers, as these models are well maintained, well tuned and perform almost as well as new models. Risks with new models exist generally with unauthorized used car dealers and car auctions, where the reason why the cars are being sold so inexpensively is a question to be considered.

Audi dealers in Connecticut provide top-notch service and maintenance for Audi automobiles. That purchasing a car (whether new or used) from any of the major Connecticut Audi dealers is an excellent decision, is undeniable.

Earl

Thomas Pretty asked:


Audi in 2008 will be hoping to improve on what has been a stellar twelve months. Naturally more premium manufacturers such as Ford and Vauxhall have had the most success in terms of sale lists in dealerships, but out of prestige car ranges, Audi seem to be a top player in what is a lucrative sector of the market. But what has given Audi dealerships such a boost? Is it new styling and engines, or simply an increase of brand recognition? Added to this what can Audi dealerships deliver in the next year?

One of the reasons behind the good fortune of Audi dealerships has been the increase in business customers; for the first time last year, the little manufacturer from Germany managed to overtake its much bigger competitor, BMW. Seemingly companies are now more inclined to use Audis to fill their fleets where as in the past BMW has been the main choice. Once again Ford tops the charts but Audi are gaining and may even enter the top five in the business registrations table.

This has mainly been a result of the popularity of the Audi A4 with business customers. Recently it was voted Europe’s number one executive car. This car was championed by a variety of motoring magazines across the whole of Europe. This popularity over similar models such as the BMW 5 and 6 Series as well as the Mercedes C Class will greatly pleasure Audi dealerships. They will feel as if they are finally getting the recognition they deserve.

So what new developments will be occurring on the forecourts of Audi dealerships this year?

First and foremost is the Audi A3 convertible. Created to rival Peugeot’s 206 and the more pricy Mercedes hard top it will certainly put a smile on the face of many. While it cannot be considered cheap it can be considered value for money, with fabulous styling that give the car looks to die for and performance figures to match some have described it as a thing of beauty. Audi have abandoned past wisdom and instead of installing a hardtop in the car that would make it heavy with poor handling, they have instead opted for a soft top that while keeping the rain out, reduces the weight and does not affect the handling.

This year will also see further releases of the A4 class. Predominantly 2008 will see the release of the sedan and wagon models with new spoilers and styling. This will undoubtedly improve the popularity of this already popular car. There will also be new interior packages for the Audi A4 models this year. Most dealerships will be offering these new options.

The A5 coupe is to be released this year to compete with rival models such as the BMW 3 Series and 6 Series coupes. The car will have a new chassis setup that is hoped to improve handling by placing the engine behind the front wheels rather than Audis of old that had their engines in front of the forward wheel axle. The A6 will also get an upgrade in terms of styling but in effect remains the same car as last year.

Overall Audi dealerships have much to look forward to this year. They will be hoping to build upon what was a good year in 2007, especially in terms of sales. Added to these models there is one that has already caused a great deal of excitement in the motoring world. The R8 brings futuristic styling and performance to the forecourt, although finding these in dealerships will most probably be a Herculean task. Pre-ordering has already rendered any ‘off the forecourt’ buying useless. Other than this of course, dealerships will be hoping to build on the ingresses into the business and family car market.

Floyd

dale d asked:


I am trying to finance a car, just graduated from college. Honestly anyone know how much it would be to maintain a 1999 Audi Quattro A4? It has a 100,000 miles on it and is being sold for $5,995. Is this a good car to buy and drive, or would I be paying an arm and a leg to keep it serviced?

Joe