The 2008 Audi RS4
The 2008 Audi RS4 has been highly anticipated by car enthusiasts all over the world. The fuss started with the 2007
version of the car. People in the states were told that the only body type available to them would be the sedan even
though Europeans were given the choice of the avant and the cabriolet. Rumors abound that the plans could quite
possibly be changing, but nobody seems willing to pin down anything definite.
Audi History
Audi can be traced all the way back to August Horch in 1899. Horch was a car producer who wanted to use his family
name on his vehicles but in 1909 he was muscled out of the company that he had started. He started a new company
but he was forced to use a new name and a new logo. Horch called upon Franz Fikentscher to help him decide on his
new company's name and logo, but it was actually Fikentscher's son who came up with the name. It was the son who
pointed out that the name Horch could be translated to Audi in Latin and that is how the company got its name. The
logo did not come until World War II when Audi merged with a few other companies to form Auto Union. Auto Union
used the four inter-locking rings to represent the four companies that had merged to form the single entity.
Currently Audi holds some World Records including Top Speed Endurance. The company has become increasingly
popular and is considered to be one of the best cars on the road today. It is certainly a "higher end" (to borrow a retail
term) automobile and the 2008 Audi RS4 has a starting MSRP of $66,910 (price quoted by the USA Audi website).
2008 Audi RS4 Specifications and Features
The 2008 Audi RS4 has a ton of features and standard specifications that help stand it out from the other automobiles
on the road. The car has a 4.2 L Displacement and can boast a torque of 317 lb-ft at 5,500 rpm. The max output of
the RS4 is 420 hp at 7,800 rpm and the car has an electronic speed cutoff of one hundred and fifty five miles per hour.
Standard features include a four way lumbar adjustment that is electric and head restraints that are also adjustable.
The interior is made of silk nappa leather with piping around the seams of the seat. The back seats have a 60/40
split fold and the GmbH pedals are made of Aluminum Quattro®. It even has a built in parking system that utilizes
sensors in the rear of the car that are designed to monitor just how close the car is to obstacles and it notifies the
driver of possible collisions with a warning signal.
Fun features include a stereo system that comes complete with a six disc CD changer. The CD player can read
regular CDs and mp3s. It has a digital radio tuner that has a dual diversity antenna system. The car also comes
ready for Satellite radio and allows the driver to preset up to twenty one satellite radio stations. The instrument panel
is backlit with a brightness control that is automatic. The instrument panel contains a voltmeter, tachometer,
electronic speedometer and an odometer. It also has a digital clock and date display a service indicator and it has
both coolant and fuel temperature gauges all right where the driver can see them.
That is a lot!
Safety
The Audi RS4 is a very safe car. The brakes are ventilated to provide fade resistance which has a better braking
performance than other types of brakes. There are eight-piston calipers on the front wheels and single-piston
calipers at the back wheels which help to improve the car's braking response. The Audi RS4 also makes use of
Quattro®. It is the first Audi model that uses Quattro®. This is one of the defining characteristics of the Audi RS4
and helps to move the power of the vehicle towards the back (giving the car a 40/60 split) which helps the car to
handle corners more effectively. The seat belts are three pointed and the car comes with an automatic reminder
to make sure that all passengers have their seat belts fastened. There are also head restraints, belt tensioners
and belt-force limiters that are built into the front seats.
Of course the Audi RS4 also has airbags. The driver and front-seat passenger have full sized airbags to protect them.
These airbags have to stages to their inflation. There are also airbags for the front knees and the sides. Drivers can
choose to also have rear side airbags installed to make sure that everybody gets the protection that they need.
Design
The Audi RS4 has been given a design that makes it look like it is moving even when it is sitting perfectly still. It
has been given sleek lines that curve from the front grille all the way to the spoiler. The car has an aggressive and
almost predatory look, which matches the feel of its engine and performance. The Audi RS4 comes with an optional
Titanium package that includes nineteen inch wheels and performance tires. The trim is made of carbon fiber; the
tail pipe has been designed in a wide oval shape that is unique to the RS4.
Reviews
The Audi RS4 has gotten stellar reviews from a number of big-name automobile centered publications including
Automobile Magazine, the New York Times and Motor Trend. Edmunds.com has also sung the praises of the Audi
RS4 saying that it is a master of the winding road and that it has superb front tires, good balance and that they haven't
driven an Audi better than the Audi RS4 (we are paraphrasing, but the article is still available for those who want to
read it). The Audi RS4 has also been chosen as the car of the year by About.Cars.Com, The Car Book for 2007
and Chronos Magazine.
Clearly this is a car for people who want something sporty and beautiful!
The 2008 Audi R8
The 2008 Audi R8 supercar, as it's already been dubbed, boasts two transmissions with design elements reminiscent
of the Porsche or Corvette. With its unique layout, and everyday driving capabilities, the R8 offers more than just the
raw performance that's usually likened to a sports car.
This two-seater with a mid sized engine incorporates modernized technology from the company's Le Mans-winning
prototype. Adapted for street driving, the Audi R8 first made its debut in 2006 at the Mondial de l'Automobile in Paris,
France and was similar to the Le Mans Quattro concept car that first appeared in 2003.
Price Range
The detailed price ranges for the 2008 Audi R8 is as follows:
Coupe Quattro: Manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) - $109,000, Invoice price - $101,370
Coupe Quattro with Auto R-tronic: MSRP - $118,000, Invoice price - $109,740
New Features for 2008
The 2008 Audi R8 features an aluminum body structure and delivers power to its 420 horsepower (hp), 4.2L V8 engine
with direct fuel injection via either a 6 speed manual transmission, or a gearbox system known as the R-tronic, Audi's
clutch-less manual system.
The warranty for the R8, which is Audi's first midsize exotic sports car, is 48 months or 50,000 miles, with the same
on the powertrain, and 144 months, or unlimited mile warranty for rust damage.
Performance and Power
The R8 offers a quiet ride with easy drivability that's largely due to its electromechanical steering system as well
as the electromagnetic shock absorbers that control and adapt fluid levels within the shocks based on the road's
surface.
Both trim options, either the R8 coupe Quattro or the Quattro with Auto R-tronic, have a six speed manual overdrive,
a mid-mounted 4.2L V8 engine, with 420 hp @ 8250 revolutions per minute (RPM), and a pound-foot torque rating of
317 @ 4500 RPM. The Audi R8 Quattro can reach 0 to 60 miles per hour (MPH) in an impressive 4.26 seconds, and
the R8 with R-tronic in just five tenths of a second more with a top quoted speeds of 187 MPH.
Body Style and Options
The 2008 Audi R8 features the classic lower stance of a sports car but with an added, optional design element referred
to as the "blade." Carbon-fiber side blades on either exterior side of the car, behind the door and just in front of the rear
wheels, run at an angle from the roof to the side air intakes and the rocker panels.
The R8 comes equipped with 19 inch wheels, xenon headlights, LED turn signals and brake lights, and a retractable
rear spoiler that can either operate manually or automatically. The exterior color choices for the 2008 Audi R8 include:
Brilliant Red, Daytona Gray Pearl, Ibis White, Ice Silver Metallic, Jet Blue Metallic, Mugello Blue Pearl, and Phantom
Black Pearl.
Interior Design and Features
It seems no expense was spared on the R8's unrivaled and original interior design that includes air conditioning,
a seven speaker CD player, all leather seating for two, heated, multi-adjustable power seats, and power windows
and door locks.
Taller drivers will appreciate the longer wheelbase, and the car's roomy cabin that resembles an airplane's cockpit
and has been christened with the name "monoposto" by Audi. A dazzling array of control wraps around the driver's
area, not alike that of a single-seated racing car, with plenty of polished aluminum accents. A rather unusual feature f
or a sports car, the Audi R8 also provides ample storage space as well as space-saving cup holders, and a 3.5
cubic-foot sized front trunk.
Cruise control, a tachometer, leather steering wheel, a trip computer, and a tire inflation/pressure monitoring system
are also standard interior features of the R8, while optional choices include a Bang & Olufsen premium stereo system,
subwoofer, and a navigational aid system.
The "Convenience Package" for the 2008 Audi R8 contains features such as auto-dimming rearview mirrors, Bluetooth
phone connectivity capabilities, a six disc CD changer, and parking sensors. The color choices for the R8's leather
interior, depending upon the exterior finish, include: Black, Limestone Gray, Luxor Beige, and Tuscan Brown.
Safety Features
The 2008 Audi R8 has several standard safety features including both driver and passenger front and seat-mounted
side airbags, as well as knee protecting airbags, an ABS braking system, and both traction and stability control.
The 2008 Audi A6
With the debut of its third generation 2008 A6 model, the German-based Audi has succeeded at gaining the reputation
as one of the world's premium automakers.
First appearing in 1995 to replace the Audi 100, the A6 was redesigned in 1998 complete with a sportier body, and in the
year 2000, performance was boosted with the addition of both the twin-turbo, V6, 2.7 liter engine, and the V8, 4.2 liter.
To increase the car's aesthetics and visual appeal, the A6's interior and exterior were completely redesigned again in
2005, and then updated with several standard features and technological equipment in 2007. Today, the 2008 sedan
model is available for buyers with either a V6 or V8 engine and optional all-wheel drive (AWD). The sleek wagon version,
the A6 Avant, comes with a standard V6 engine.
Price Range
Priced considerably lower than most of its European competitors, the 2008 Audi A6 has an invoice price range of $39,943
to $52,361, and a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $42,950 to $56,300.
The detailed price ranges for the 2008 Audi A6 is as follows:
3.2 MSRP - $42,950, Invoice price - $39,943
3.2 with Tiptronic MSRP - $46,100, Invoice price - $42,873
4.2 with Tiptronic MSRP - $56,300, Invoice price - $52,361
New Features and Options for 2008
Beginning in 2008, every Audi A6 sedan will come standard with the past year's "S line," a previously optional exterior
trim package, as well as the interior package that features a sportier cabin trim, along with a "lane departure" warning
system. Other amenities such as headlight washers, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, and seatback storage pockets are also
now standard features.
Some new option choices for 2008 include a new Audi navigational system, 19 inch alloy wheels, and a luxurious
interior package with leather upholstery, decorative inlays, and aluminum door sills.
Body Style and Options
The exterior dimensions will depend upon the trim levels, which is the version or level of a car's model. The 2008 Audi A6
sedan is available in both 3.2 and 4.2 trim levels, while the wagon is only available in 3.2. Some of the standard features
of the 3.2 sedan are 18 inch alloy wheels, wood interior trim, dual, automatic climate controls, and a 10 speaker stereo
system. The Avant wagon has the same standard features but with an added sunroof.
The luxurious, top of the line 4.2 A6 sedan features heated front seats, a sunroof, auto-dimming mirrors, driver memory
settings, and adaptive xenon headlights.
The A6 is available in a variety of exterior colors including: Brilliant Black, Dakar Beige Metallic, Daytona Gray Pearl,
Ibis White, Light Silver Metallic, Misano Red Pearl, Night Blue Pearl, Oyster Gray Metallic, Phantom Black Pearl,
and Quartz Gray Metallic.
Interior Design
An attractive feature that's standard with all A6 sedans or wagons is the Multi Media Interface (MMI) management
system. Using a 7 inch LCD display and a controller that resembles a computer mouse, the system controls the vehicle's communication, entertainment, and its optional navigational functions.
Some other interior features that are standard with the A6 are air conditioning, CD player, power windows, seats, and
door locks, and leather seating for five people.
The interior color choices for the A6 depend upon the exterior color and include Amaretto, Black, Cardomom Beige,
or Light Gray leather.
Performance and Power
The 3.2 model features: A 3.1L V6 engine, 255 horsepower (hp) @ 6500 revolutions per minute (RPM), and the torque
rating is 243 @ 3250 RPM.
The 3.2 model with Tiptronic features: A 3.1L V6 engine, 255 hp @ 6500 RPM, and the torque rating is 243 @ 3250 RPM.
The 4.2 model with Tiptronic features: A 4.2L V8 engine, 350 hp @ 6800 RPM, and the torque rating is 325 @ 3500 RPM.
Fuel Economy
The fuel economy ratings for the 2008 Audi A6 are as follows:
3.2: City miles per gallon (MPG) - 21, Highway MPG - 29
3.2 with Tiptronic: City MPG - 19, Highway MPG - 27
4.2 with Tiptronic: City MPG - 18, Highway MPG - 25
Safety Features
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the A6 performed favorably earning a top rating of
"Good" for both frontal and side-impact crash tests.
Every model of the 2008 Audi A6 comes equipped with several, standard safety features, including stability control,
an antilock disc brake system, and front-seat side airbags, along with full-length head curtain airbags. Airbags for
the rear seats of the Audi A6 are an optional choice.
2008 Audi Q7
The 2008 Audi Q7 is a seven passenger performance SUV that boasts a sleek interior and supreme craftsmanship
designed to attract both SUV enthusiasts and luxury car owners alike. Along with high-tech options such as a six
disc CD changer, and practical features such as a generous maximum cargo capacity, the Q7 is ideal for both
daily use and long distance driving. Price Range
The price ranges for the 2008 Audi Q7 based on trim options are as follows:
3.6L Quattro: Manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) - $42,500, Invoice price - $39,526
3.6L Quattro Premium: MSRP - $48,350, Invoice price - $44,965
4.2L Quattro Premium: MSRP - $58,600, Invoice price - $54,497
New Features for 2008
Audi has added a few more standard features to its 2008 model since the debut of the Q7 in 2007, such as remote
keyless entry, and has also upgraded its options program as well. Both the 3.6 and the 3.6 Premium come standard
with 18 inch twin-spoke alloy wheels, while the 4.2 features 20 inch wheels.
Another attractive feature standard on the 4.2 Premium Q7 is the four-zone automatic climate control system.
Performance and Power
The engine specifics for the 2008 Audi Q7 are:
- For both the 3.6L Quattro and the 3.6L Quattro Premium: V6, 280 horsepower (hp) @ 6200 revolutions per minute
(RPM), and a pound per foot torque rating of 266 @ 2750 RPM
- 4.2L Quattro Premium: V8, 350 hp @ 6800 RPM, and a torque rating of 325 @ 3500 RPM
Due to its bulky 5,000-plus pounds of weight, the Q7 has a towing capacity of 6,600 pounds, but its size does
impede speed performance. In tests, the V6 runs from 0 to 60 miles per hour (MPH) in 10 seconds, while the
V8 reaches 60 MPH in 8.3 seconds.
Body Style and Options
There are three trim levels of the Audi Q7; the 3.6, the 3.6 Premium, and the 4.2 Premium, as well as a variety of
options packages, such as the Cold Weather package, the Off-road Style package, and "S line" interior and
exterior packages to choose from.
Either a power or manual sunroof/moonroof is standard on the 4.2 Quattro Premium Q7, but is an added option
of the other two models.
The exterior color choices for the 2008 Audi Q7 will depend on the trim level, but include the following shades:
Bahia Beige Metallic, Calla White, Cobalt Blue Metallic, Condor Gray Metallic, Daytona Gray Pearl, Garnet Red
Pearl, Ice Silver Metallic, Lava Gray Pearl, Mugello Blue Pearl, Phantom Black Pearl, and Quartz Gray Metallic.
Interior Design and Features
Some standard interior amenities of the Q7 include cruise control, a tachometer, a tilted leather steering wheel and
tilted column, trip computer, and a tire inflation/pressure monitor. A CD and DVD player with eight speakers are
also standard features, with a subwoofer included on the 3.6 and 4.2 models, and a navigational aid system being
another option for the 3.6 Premium Q7.
The standard seating arrangements for the 3.6 Q7 is five people, and seven for the two Premiums. Some of the seating
choices for the 2008 Audi Q7 include the driver's multi-adjustable power seats, and the optional front heated seats,
which are actually a standard feature of the 4.2 Premium model.
Front power lumbar support is also featured in all models, and the 3.6 Q7 Premium has the option of adding a front
power memory seat. Passenger have multi-adjustable powered seats on the Premium Q7s, while both models have
the option of adding second row heated seats. The 2008 Audi Q7 also features air conditioning and separate climate
controls for both the driver and the front passenger.
The interior color choices are based on the exterior color of the vehicle and include Black, Cardamom Beige, Espresso
Brown, and Limestone Gray all in leather upholstery.
Fuel Economy
All of the 2008 Audi Q7s feature a 26.40 (US) gallon tank and the fuel economy ratings are:
- 6 speed automatic 3.6L V6 engine: 14/19 miles per gallon (MPG)
- 6 speed automatic 4.2L V8 engine: 12/17 MPG
Safety Features
Some of the standard safety features of the 2008 Audi Q7 include child safety door locks, an anti-theft system, power
door locks, and power windows. Also standard is AWD, ABS brakes, electronic brake assistance, locking differential,
traction control, and a vehicle stability control system.
Side head curtain airbags, as well as passenger, front side, and driver airbags are also standard safety features of the
Q7. Buyers will also have the option of choosing second row side airbags as well.
An electronic parking aid, a rearview camera, is yet an optional feature of the 4.2 Quattro Premium Q7.
Articles by Fei Lim