2011 Audi Car Review

Audi A4

MSRP: $ 33200.00

Description:
Pros:

• Very good fuel economy
• Superb balance of handling and ride quality without compromise
• High quality fit and finish of interior and it looks good

Cons:

• Captain Kirk calls for more power from 4-cylinder engines
• Cost of options get expensive quickly
• Small trunk space

Ruling: The 2011 Audi A4 is something to consider if you are looking at the more-expensive BMW 3-Series. It has an upscale, simple interior that ranks at the top of the class, and provides a fun ride that spices up daily commutes.

The 2011 A4 comes as a sedan and an Avant wagon. Both models have the same trim levels: Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige. The Avant offers more cargo space.

2011 Model Year Changes

• 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission replaces 6-speed automatic on A4 models
• Navigation option now includes HD Radio�
• Audi side assist is a stand-alone option for Prestige models (driver assist discontinued)
• Beige Birch wood trim discontinued (Beige interior now Nutmeg Laurel wood)
• New Titanium Sport package

Audi A5 

 

MSRP: $ 36900.00

Description:

In 2011, both the Audi A5 Coupe and Audi A5 Cabriolet are powered by the potent 2.0 TFSI� turbocharged four-cylinder engine. With a sturdy cast-iron block and efficient aluminum cylinder head, the 2.0 TFSI delivers 211 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. Audi uses direct-injection technology to increase the efficiency of the 2.0 TFSI, and, as a result, the engine manages an astonishing 30 mpg highway in an Audi A5 equipped with a manual transmission. The turbocharged engine provides abundant torque, making the Audi A5 capable of a 6.5 second sprint to 60 mph and proving there is no need to sacrifice true sports coupe performance for everyday fuel economy.

The 2011 Audi S5 Cabriolet benefits from a powerful and efficient 3.0 TFSI V6 engine. The 3.0-liter, all-aluminum engine is supercharged to create 333 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque. The powerplant incorporates a number of Audi innovations to maintain class-leading fuel efficiency as well. Audi valvelift system, FSI� direct injection, a two-stage intake, dual intercoolers and a drive-by-wire throttle all help the 3.0 TFSI stay remarkably efficient, delivering 17/26 mpg (city/hwy).

Buyers seeking prodigious performance and power from their Audi coupes need look no further than the Audi S5. The S5 boasts a powerful V8 engine, dubbed the 4.2 FSI. This all-aluminum 4.2-liter engine provides 354 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque. Also featuring FSI direct injection, the S5 is capable of an exhilarating 4.9-second rush from 0-60 mph, with the stout V8 providing an immediate swell of power the moment the gas pedal is depressed. When mated to the Tiptronic� automatic transmission, the 4.2 FSI offers buyers 16/24 mpg (city/hwy).

The 2011 Audi A5 boasts an ergonomic interior designed around driver and passenger comfort. Audi has taken an even greater focus on attractive shapes and precision workmanship to create a space as gorgeous as it is functional.

The 2011 Audi A5 boasts an ergonomic interior designed around driver and passenger comfort. Audi has taken an even greater focus on attractive shapes and precision workmanship to create a space as gorgeous as it is functional.

Audi A6 

MSRP: $ 42950.00 - $ 56300.00

Description:

The Audi A6 receives exterior updates including a high-gloss single-frame grille, new bumpers, air vents, fog lights, new LED taillights and chrome accents for the doors and trunk. Available xenon plus headlights now include LED daytime running lights. The new 3.0 TFSI V6 engine combines the benefits of direct fuel injection and a supercharger to deliver 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, combined with a Tiptronic automatic transmission and new 40/60 asymmetric rear-biased quattro all-wheel drive. Three equipment levels are offered: Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige.

Audi A8 

MSRP: $ 120100.00 - $ 74690.00

Description:

The A8 is a 4-door, 5-passenger luxury sedan, available in two trims, the 4.2 Sedan quattro and the 4.2 Sedan L quattro.

Both trims are equipped with a standard 4.2-liter, V8, 350-horsepower engine that achieves 16-mpg in the city and 23-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard. 

 

Audi Q5

 

 MSRP: $ 35200.00

 

Description:
The Audi Q5 is a 4-door, 5-passenger luxury sport-utility, available in two trims, the 2.0T Premium quattro Tiptronic and the 3.2 Premium quattro Tiptronic.

The 2.0T Premium quattro Tiptronic is equipped with a standard 2.0-liter, I4, 211-horsepower, turbo engine that achieves 20-mpg in the city and 27-mpg on the highway. The 3.2 Premium quattro Tiptronic is equipped with a standard 3.2-liter, V6, 270-horsepower engine that achieves 18-mpg in the city and 23-mpg on the highway. 

 

Audi TTS 

 

MSRP: $ 47000.00

Description:

The Audi TTS is a 2-door, up to 4-passenger luxury sports coupe, or luxury convertible, available in two trims, the 2.0T Prem Plus Coupe quattro S tronic and the 2.0T Prem Plus Roadster quattro S tronic.

Both trims are equipped with a standard 2.0-liter, I4, 265-horsepower, turbo engine that achieves 21-mpg in the city and 29-mpg on the highway. 

 

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2010 Acura ZDX

Description:

The Acura ZDX is a 4-door, 5-passenger luxury sport-utility, available in 3 trims, ranging from the 6-Spd AT to the 6-Spd AT w/Advance Package.

All trims are equipped with a standard 3.7-liter, V6, 300-horsepower engine that achieves 16-mpg in the city and 23-mpg on the highway.

The 2010 ZDX is all-new for 2010.

++ Rating
Reviewed by: Fox Jackson(Unregistered User)
Review Date: June 15, 2010
Overall Rating
 5 of 5
Value Rating
 5 of 5
Used product for: 3 Months to 1 year
Visitors rate this review: 5.00 of 5, 2.00 votes

Price Paid:  $56000.00 from Tampa

Year / Model Reviewed:
2010 Acura ZDX 6-Spd AT w/Adv Pkg

Strengths:
This car was made to be driven like a sports car. The styling and appearance of this car is like nothing else on the market.

Weaknesses:
Nothing

Summary:
I picked my up last week and it still takes my breath away.

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2012 Range Rover Evoque Review (Page 2)

A Range Rover wouldn�t be a Range Rover without first-class accommodations for its passengers. The front dash design is Jaguar-esqe, but the leather seats are buttery soft and a joy to settle into for any journey short or long. Customers are offered three design themes: the cool and contemporary �Pure�, the luxurious �Prestige�, and the bold and sporting �Dynamic�. Customers can further tailor these themes with different designer interiors, option packs, standalone and accessory items, or add in the concert hall quality 825 Watt, 17-speaker Meridian surround sound system.

Back seat passengers get enough legroom that comes close to flying in business-class on flight between Los Angeles and Chicago. Headroom is non-confining for back seat passengers up to 6 feet tall. Cabin ambient lighting is provided by a full-sized fixed glass panoramic roof that stretches almost the full length of the Evoque�s roof.

The rear cargo area has adjustable stowage rails and a strap with an inertia locking reel, which works in a similar fashion to a seat belt, for securing items. Under-floor storage compartment adds extra capacity to a rear cargo area that has a maximum of 20.4 cubic feet for the 5-door model and 19.4 cubic feet for the Coupe model.

Our time spent behind the wheel of the Range Rover Evoque was very short, but it does have a lot going for it. A very comfortable ride, plush interior, all-terrain capability, and a rev-happy engine are especially noteworthy. On the flip-side, the low production numbers place this year�s availability in the hands of a select few. And no mention when the U.S. will get the more fuel efficient diesel version.

2012 Range Rover Evoque Coupe and 5-Door:

• BASE PRICE: $43995
• ENGINE: 2.0L direct-injection turbocharged 4-cylinder gasoline engine
• HORSEPOWER: 240 bhp
• TORQUE: 251 lb-ft of torque
• TRANSMISSION: 6-speed automatic
• 0 � 60: 7.1 seconds
• FUEL CONSUMPTION: 27 MPG overall (not EPA estimate)

Standard Equipment:
Turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine
6-speed automatic transmission with shift paddles
Permanent 4-wheel drive
Hill descent control
Hill start Assist
Trailer stability assist
Traction control, stability Control
Electrically assisted power steering
Seven air bags
Rain-sensing wipers
Front and rear fog lights
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Leather-wrapped, tilt and telescopic steering wheel
Power seats
Leather seats
Power windows
Fixed panoramic glass roof with power shade
Power tailgate
Power door locks with keyless entry
Pushbutton keyless ignition
380-watt, 11-speaker Meridian audio system
Bluetooth phone and audio
8-inch touch-screen
Front and rear parking aid
Backup camera

Options on this vehicle:
Dynamic Premium trim level � $7500
19-inch wheels
Black exterior trim
Sports exhaust tips and rear skid plate
Oxford leather steering wheel
Perforated leather seats
Contrast stitching
Aluminum interior trim
Passive entry
Surround camera system
HDD navigation with voice control
825-watt, 17-speaker Meridian audio system
Xenon headlamps with AFS, auto high-beam assist
Rear-Seat Entertainment � $2500
Dual 8-inch video screens
DVD player, remote control, wireless headphones
Style 7, 20-inch shadow chrome wheels � $2500
Climate Comfort Package � $1000
Heated front seats, steering wheel, windshield, washer jets
Special paint � $950
Black roof � $650

Key options not on vehicle:
Adaptive Dynamics � $1250

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2012 Range Rover Evoque Review (Page 1)

Pros:

• Legendary Range Rover all-terrain capability
• Same adaptive damping system as a Ferrari provides excellent ride quality
• Buttery-soft leather seats for all-day comfort
• Extensive list of customizable options
• Roomy for a small SUV
• Tiny 2.0 engine is efficient, powerful and torquey from 1750 rpm
• Excellent driving position and fun to drive with great balance of on road and off road handling

Cons:

• Oversized outside view mirrors
• Small number available worldwide for its first year of production
• visibility out of side rear windows is less than normal

The 2012 Range Rover Evoque is a compact, luxury crossover that offers premium levels of craftsmanship, luxury, performance and renowned Land Rover all-terrain capability. Available as a coupe or 5-door model, the Evoque will be in high demand as only 2200 units are being built and sold worldwide in its first year of production which begins this summer.

CarReview was invited to test drive the new Evoque on the city streets of San Francisco. Granted, the potholes and broken asphalt of a concrete jungle are not considered a true test of the Evoque�s off-road capabilities, but it was a good proving ground to show off how well the Evoque can maintain a comfortable ride on roads that could qualify on the list of top ten worst maintained roads in the U.S.

Fortunately, our cars were equipped with the optional MagneRide� adaptive damping system, which is almost the same hardware used in Ferraris. Essentially, the damping system quickly reacts to conditions so that big bumps and frenetic cornering are handled with superior finesse, but also loosens to allow the ride to stay cloud-soft when conditions are not so demanding. When in action, harsh ridges and potholes are smothered with luxury-car quietness.

Scooting around the city, we found outward visibility is very good for the driver. The opera windows on the C-pillar aid the driver when changing lanes or maneuvering in tight spots. The only thing hindering visibility is the overly large outside mirrors which can block your view at the 11 o�clock position.

Power comes from a 2.0-liter direct-injection turbocharged 4-cylinder engine which pumps out a prodigious 240 horsepower and can giddy-up from zero to 60 in 7.1 seconds. Not bad for a crossover that has all-terrain capability and can wade through water up to 19 inches without suffocating.

Combined city and highway fuel economy for the turbocharged gas engine is 27 mpg overall. EPA estimates have not been released, yet. Premium gas (91 octane) is recommended to keep the peppy 4-cylinder engine happy.

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2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 350 Review (Page 2)

Ergonomics in the SLK are well thought out. A simplified heating and cooling system allows driver and passenger to monitor and alter temperature independently of one another. The flat-bottom steering wheel allows tall drivers more thigh room. The tinted Panorama Roof, which adds $500 to the list price, contributes perpetual airiness to a cabin that would otherwise feel claustrophobic. The 8-way adjustable seats are stunningly tailored, and heated, if you opt for the Premium 1 Package, a $2,590 option that includes neck-level heating ducts, SIRIUS radio, MP3/iPod compatibility, and an infrared remote roof control.

Even equipped with all those options, the SLK is a bargain Benz, with a bottom line of just $67,565. It will provide superlative all-weather transport for 2, with the added opportunity of top-down enjoyment when conditions permit. Thanks to its 302 hp V6, it will sprint from 0-60mph in 5.4 seconds and clock a top speed of 155mph. When driven with restraint, the SLK is quieter than a church mouse, but when you lay into the aluminum-ribbed throttle pedal, the twin tip chrome exhausts play a tune more like a church organ. While the SLK shares its high quality genes with stuffier, vastly more expensive Benz products, it�s definitely the rebel of the bunch.

2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK350
Engine: 3.5 liter DOHC, 24 Valve V-6
Horsepower: 302 at 6,500rpm
Torque: 273 lb.-ft. at 3,500rpm
Fuel Consumption: 19 MPG City/26 MPG Highway
Price as Tested: $67,565

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2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 350 Review (Page 1)

By David Colman

The Carreview Window Sticker
Specs: $67k price, 302 HP, 19/26 Mileage and 0-60 in 5.5 seconds
Pros:

• The best SLK styling in years
• Slingshot Acceleration and excellent handling
• Custom Tailoring
• Slick Roof with on-the-fly adjustable tint
• A roadster that appeals to many of the buyer�s instincts

Cons:

• Lack of Storage
• No Manual Tranny
• Steep price of $67k

The Review:

The SLK is the closest thing Mercedes makes to a sports car. It is small, nimble and fast, seats only two, and functions as a convertible or a closed coupe. The SLK is a stunning piece of design. You can learn more about a car�s true mettle if you wash and dry its metal. In the process of cleaning the SLK for a photo shoot, I marveled at the complexity of its shape. This roadster has more flutes than a champagne glass. In fact, you can hardly find a single flat plane on the entire body. The bodywork looks muscular and buffed, with short overhangs fore and aft, and bulging fenders to accommodate the beefy tires and AMG alloys. 7.5 inch front rims carry 225/40ZR18 Pirelli P Zero rubber, with 8.5 inch back rims equipped with 245/35ZR18 Pirellis. The simple AMG 5-spoke rims are part of a $2,500 Sport Package that includes appealing �Sport Body Styling� plus haunting interior illumination in �SOLAR red.�

What prevents the SLK from full sports car status is lack of manual transmission availability. Like so many other manufacturers, Mercedes sees no point in Federalizing a separate (manual) gearbox for a customer take rate of 5 or 10 percent. Still, those are the very customers who will buy an Audi TTS or Porsche 911 expressly because those companies offer them the choice to shift gears by depressing a cutch pedal. Not that the SLK�s 7-speed automatic is a bad piece of engineering. To the contrary, it offers the driver Efficiency, Sport and Manual modes, while providing small steering wheel-mounted paddles to control up and down changes. Even so, the SLK is less driver-involving than it could be with a slick stick shift.

Packaging is tight in this baby Benz, Pretty much anything you carry on an outing will need to store in the compact trunk because there�s almost no ancillary storage in the cockpit, save two small door pockets, a lockable cubby between the seats, and the glovebox. There is absolutely no storage behind the seats. If you chose to retract the nifty folding hardtop, available trunk space becomes even more circumscribed. Use of the folding hardtop restricts you to a small central bin in the trunk, fitted with a latchable lid. Weekend outings for 2 will require backpack-size take-alongs.

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2012 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4X4 Review (Page 2)

Another Take on the Jeep Rubicon by staff writer David Colman

After driving a host of increasingly complicated vehicles that are over-burdened with technology, I reveled in the absolute simplicity and honesty of the latest Jeep Wrangler. Blissfully absent from this Jeep are such unnecessary and expensive contrivances as lane departure warning, pedestrian avoidance software, radar cruise control, and automatic braking. Pay attention to your driving and you won�t miss a single one of these aids that distance and distract you from the task of driving. If you enjoy controlling your vehicle, then you�ll enjoy the technology-free, immediate feedback the Jeep provides.

Let�s start with the Wrangler�s handling. It�s super-quick steering responds immediately to the most minute input at the new, thick-rimmed steering wheel. At first this trait, magnified by the balloon-sized 255/75 R17 BF Goodrich Mud-Terrain T/A tires, is disconcerting. You�ll find yourself weaving all over the road. The �Baja Champion� emblazoned front tires seem inclined to follow every rut, causing you to over-correct for this tendency. But once you become used to the sensitivity level required, you relax your death grip on the wheel, and learn to enjoy the level of involvement required.

The Jeep Owner�s Manual is quick to remind you that the Wrangler, due to its tall stance and generous ground clearance, does not handle like a sports car, suggesting �If at all possible, avoid sharp turns or abrupt maneuvers.� But thanks to its short wheelbase, the Jeep is surprisingly agile on pavement and fun to drive on twisting roads. For off-road travel, the Rubicon features a front sway bar which can be disconnected to provide more traction when trailing in the outback. A dashboard-mounted switch left of the steering column, allows you to access this handy feature on the fly. Next to the sway bar switch is an axle lock switch which permits you to lock both rear wheels for maximum grip on uneven surfaces. Because the Rubicon is designed for drivers with serious off-road aspirations, this Jeep boasts a Rock-Trac transfer case with a 4:1 final drive ratio.

 

Adding spice to the mix is a torquey, 3.6 liter Pentastar V-6 engine, new for 2012, that produces 285 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque. A notchy 6-speed manual gearbox is standard. Replacing the previous model�s 4 speed automatic transmission is a new 5-speed automatic W5A85D gearbox that adds $1,125 to the sticker price. The 24 valve V6, despite being 200cc smaller than last year�s 3.8 liter V6, depends on variable valve timing to improve passing performance and fuel consumption over its predecessor. Whereas last year�s automatic transmission Jeep returned 15 MPG City and 19 MPG Highway, the 2012 model posts figures of 17/21.

Jeep has also upgraded the interior fittings. Especially nice touches are the totemic Jeep grill sunshade printed on the windshield between the sun visors, and the discreetly incised �Since 1941� logo on the passenger grab bar. The front seats are nicely upholstered in leather, heated, and plenty supportive, even when bouncing around the outback. Visibility in all directions is refreshingly good, even though the rear seat headrests, back wiper, and full size spare obscure direct rear vision. Friends who hitched rides in the bench-style 60/40 folding rear seat reported no problems beyond those posed by difficult ingress/egress. If you plan to carry 4 regularly, then opt for the 4-door version of the Rubicon. The nifty hardtop removes in 3 separate sections to convert the Wrangler from coupe to convertible. In sum, the Wrangler Rubicon is a marvelously idiosyncratic vehicle that has lost none of its charm since 1941, but rather gained a lot of everyday practicality in the intervening years.

2012 Jeep Wrangler Rebicon 4X4
Engine: 3.6 liter, 24 valve, DOHC V-6 with VVT
Horsepower: 285hp
Torque: 260 lb.-ft.
Fuel Consumption: 17 MPG City/21 MPG Highway
Price as Tested: $34,625

For: Elemental, Effective, Legendary
Against: High Step-In, Poor Rear Seat Access

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