2010 Audi A4

The Audi A4 holds the distinction of single-handedly reviving the Audi brand after its big sales slump some two decades ago. Launched in the mid-'90s, the A4 quickly proved a favorite among luxury-car buyers thanks to its handsome, well-finished cabin, sharp handling and available Quattro all-wheel drive. Tight panel gaps, high-quality materials and firm, comfortable seating give the interior the proper European ambience, while a supple ride and willing performance make the Audi A4 a great road trip choice.

Although those core characteristics have been part of the A4's personality since day one, this Audi -- which has traditionally been available in sedan, wagon and convertible body styles -- has become increasingly polished with each successive generation. No matter what year you're looking at, though, the A4 will provide athletic performance and a comfortable and inviting cabin. Add in the appeal of all-wheel drive (a serious asset for those who live in inclement parts of the country) and it's easy to see why the A4 has become a prime choice for an entry-level luxury car.


Current Audi A4

Buyers can purchase the current Audi A4 in sedan, convertible (Cabriolet) and wagon (Avant) configurations. The A4 sedan and wagon are in their fourth generation, which began for the 2009 model year. Compared to previous models, current A4 sedans and wagons offer more interior room, improved driving dynamics and more high-tech gadgetry. Convertible A4s have not yet been produced on the fourth-generation current platform, so Audi continues to sell third-generation models for the time being.

The sedan offers a choice of two engines: a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 good for 211 horsepower or a 3.2-liter V6 producing 265 hp. The wagon is only available with the 2.0-liter engine. Most A4s come standard with Audi's Quattro AWD system and a six-speed automatic transmission, although a front-wheel-drive four-cylinder model is also available.

Like the sedan, the A4 Cabriolet is also available with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 and a 3.2-liter V6, but in the drop top, these engines offer less power -- 200 hp and 255 hp, respectively. A4 convertibles may be purchased with front-wheel drive and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) or with Quattro AWD and a six-speed automatic.

Sedans and wagons powered by the 2.0T come in three trims: Premium, Premium Plus and top-of-the-line Prestige. Sedans powered by the V6 (unavailable on the wagon) are offered in the top two trims only. A navigation system is one of the available options, and it's offered on all three body styles.

In road tests, our editors have been impressed with the Audi A4's opulent cabin, sharp handling and generous cargo space. Additionally, its available all-wheel drive makes it a compelling choice for those who frequently face rain or snow. However, we've also pointed out that it's not as quick as many rivals, and that the aged convertible A4 is outdated relative to others in its class. Nonetheless, with its luxurious interior and European panache, the A4 remains a solid choice in the entry-level luxury car segment.

2010 Audi A3

In crowded European cities, small, space-efficient vehicles are very popular because of their versatility, fuel-efficiency and nimble nature. These vehicles exist in America as well, but they are not typically offered by luxury automakers, as it's assumed that Americans associate compact vehicles with cheapness. One vehicle meant to break that tradition is the Audi A3.


Introduced a decade ago in Europe and brought to the United States in 2006, the A3 is Audi's entry-level model for the North American market. Smaller and lighter than an A4 2.0T Avant Quattro, the front-drive Audi A3 presents a strong argument for buying a bargain sport wagon, provided one goes easy on the options. And just because this is Audi's entry-level car doesn't mean the company cuts corners on quality. The cabin's design and materials are up to the lofty standards Audi has set for the industry, meaning everything fits tightly, moves with precision and looks and feels top-shelf.


The A3 remains a niche choice -- no other luxury automaker makes a directly competing small hatchback. Mostly, it's an upscale alternative to more mainstream hatchbacks or a cheaper pick instead of a regular luxury wagon or small crossover. But those who appreciate the distinct German flavor of Audi, meaning one of engineering excellence combined with an upscale cabin, will find plenty to like about the A3.

2010 Audi TT

The new TT Coupe is the birth of an Audi sports car tradition. Pure. Unabashed. Authentic. Attainable. These are the simple, powerful words that best describe the automobile that embodies all of these ideas. First shown as a concept car in 1995 at the German Motor Show (the "IAA") in Frankfurt, no compromises were allowed to water down the inspiration of the original design-a rare success in automotive development history.


The TT Coupe is the start of an attainable range of pure, passionate sports cars designed to radiate an identity that is unmistakably Audi. The TT Coupe has many features it can accelerate to 60 miles per hour in 7.4 seconds. The Audi TT has 180 horsepower and front-wheel drive. The TT Coupe premiered at US dealerships in May at a base price of about $30,500. This is a remarkable sports car, with a unique look that everyone loves!


Whichever model one chooses, the TT delivers all the advantages of proven Audi technology. It is the perfect blend of automotive passion with engineering intelligence that reaches for the heart immediately and instinctively.