2009 Audi S5

The luxury coupe market has not always been Audi's bag. Most associate the German mark with solid, reliable sports sedan. But as competitors expand their model lineup to fit what seems like every possible niche, Audi has increasingly begun to keep pace with the launch of several two-door models - not least as Audi S5.

True to Audi nomenclature, the S5 is the performance version of the A5 Coupe. That means a larger engine, more horses and a stiffer suspension. The outer set out from his more mild-mannered Sibling of a chrome-trimmed grille, quad tailpipe and more robust bumpers. The resulting package is refined yet athletic, with luxury appointments, providing comfort matched with a powertrain that will not disappoint.

Current Audi S5

Audi S5 sports coupe debuted in the 2008 model year. Beneath its sleek sculpted hood is a 4.2-liter direct-injection V8 engine that produces 354 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. This single trim level is available with either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic with manual shift control. Quattro all-wheel drive is standard. In our tests, manual S5 produced a 0-60-mph time of 4.9 seconds.

Audi S5 platform is largely based on the S4, its four-door counterpart. But the two-door offers trail tier enhancements, such as a longer wheelbase and a new lightweight, aluminum front suspension - changes that are slated to be included in the next version of the sedan. The front end styling takes cues from midengine R8 sports car, while the rest of the exterior design comes from the Nuvolari, an Audi concept that made the auto show circuit rounds in 2003.

Audi S5 is equipped with many standard safety features, such as anti-lock disc brakes with brake assist, stability and traction control. Front-seat side airbags and side curtain airbags also come standard. Many luxury-oriented features are also standard. Major options include keyless ignition / entry, a navigation system and a premium audio system.

Inside the cabin, the four-seat Audi S5 is appointed with sophisticated detail, as finely stitched leather and real aluminum trim. The front sport seats offer plenty of space and support, although legroom could be better in the rear. Audi's MMI (Multi Media Interface) controls the audio, climate and optional navigation systems, and unlike some multifunction controls are relatively easy to figure out. And even if it S5 has the spirit of a sports car, it is still practical enough for everyday life - luggage compartment offers a full 16 Cubic holds, and rear Flips down to make even more space.

In our tests, we found the Audi S5 sports coupe to be an excellent Grand Tour. Steering equipment feels crisp and the suspension, though not adjustable, is firm without being gut-busting. Brakes may seem a little touchy at first, but with practice, they feel sympathetic and business. Thanks to Quattro, the S5 offers excellent traction in all conditions, which makes it an ideal choice for buyers living in colder climes. Power is normally distributed 40 percent to the front and 60 percent to the rear, and this helps give S5 handling characteristics similar to a rear-wheel car.

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2009 Audi R8

The most high-performance road going Audi ever. If there were any questions about what the Audi R8 is, it is the answer. Designed to give Audi an honest competitor to the best species the world has to offer, the R8 is the first production vehicle midengine Audi has ever sold, and it includes all the brand has taught more than 70 years of racing history.

Audi R8 happened as a production version of Le Mans Quattro concept car. The name itself references Audi R8 racecar, which won several 24-hour Le Mans races. Performance of the R8 road car starts with a rigid and light all-aluminum space frame chassis. Much of it resembles the space frame used for the Lamborghini Gallardo. The R8 is advanced in other areas as well as having a direct injected V8 engine with dry-sump lubrication, two-mode active dampers, and of course, Quattro all-wheel drive.

Although many high-performance species can be challenging to drive, Audi took action to ensure its R8 is comfortable enough for everyday use. The R8 really stands out from its interior, which is spacious and high quality while maintaining a modern design flair, not normally associated with high-performance species.

Current Audi R8

Audi R8 debuted for the 2008 model year. It is powered by a 4.2-liter V8 that uses direct injection to produce 420 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. Transmission choices are a standard six-speed manual gearbox or a six-speed "R Tronic" sequential-shifting manual with an automatic function. Power is sent to all four wheels via Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system, specially tuned for the R8 to provide a genuine rear-wheel-biased power delivery.

As with most vehicles, which has the engine mounted behind the driver, the R8 has a shortened nose, which is adorned with the current corporate Audi grille and Bi-Xenon headlamps. The exotic appearance of the R8 is further enhanced through a series of 12 LED lights that underscores the headlamp housings and act as daytime running lights. The styling of the aluminum body is composed of chiseled flanks, which leads the eye to the "side blades" to highlight the mid-mounted engine. The rear styling is accented by a glass engine cover and further use of LED lighting.

Standard equipment on the Audi R8 is comprehensive, just a short list of available options. Standard features include active dampers, 19-inch alloy wheels and power and heated leather / Alcantara sport seats. Major options include a premium Bang & Olufsen audio system, navigation, upgraded leather upholstery and other clothing to hand blades.

In declarations, we have found the R8 sublimely balanced in terms of handling. This is one of the rare vehicles with enough straight-line traction and cornering grip to match its high-performance engine, so the Audi's V8 actually feel less powerful than it is. It is also worthy of a sports car, thankfully free of those elements that make other super cars impossibly taxation in the real world use. It has not Goofy Scissor doors, and 6-footers will fit comfortably with room to spare. Audi R8 even rides surprisingly well, thanks to its two-mode adaptive dampers. Meanwhile, the interior is typical Audi, with strong controls and an ergonomic design.

Audi plans to import only a limited number of R8s in the United States each year. As can be expected, demand is currently greater than supply. But for those lucky owners who have the financial means to acquire one, Audi has produced a vehicle that proudly live up to the legacy of the Auto Union badge.

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2009 Audi A5

Audi has been making a concerted effort in recent years to broaden its product line. One of its newest products are medium-sized A5 Coupe. Inspired by its stunning 2003 Nuvolari grand touring concept, the A5 is a little less practical but very sexy two-door alternative to the mainstream luxury sports sedan. It boasts standard V6 power, all-wheel drive, a refined interior and lots of standard or optional luxury features.

Those shopping for a sport-oriented luxury coupe would be wise to look at the Audi A5. Its combination of striking good looks, all-wheel drive and everyday practice is hard to ignore.

Audi A5 was introduced for the 2008 model year. Mechanically, it is in connection with the latest generation A4 sedan. Motivation is powered by a 3.2-liter direct injected V6 that puts out 265 horsepower and 243 pound-feet of torque. Power is directed through either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic. (The S5 Coupe is similar, but comes with a sturdy V8.)

An important advantage for them, as they are subject to slippery weather is A5's Quattro all-wheel drive, a feature not available from this Audi's peers. With a 40/60-percent front-to-rear power split, the Quattro system gives a rear-wheel car's crisp handling dynamics with the extra grip in all-wheel drive.

Those who appreciate sophisticated design as much as performance will feel right at home in the Audi A5. This is arguably one of the best long-term coupe on the market. The sporty Silhouette, a characteristic Audi-piece grille and shapely tail end team up to create an exceptionally attractive appearance.

The same is true of the A5's beautiful four-place cabin. The interior materials are first rate, and A5 multi-adjustable front seats offer daylong touring comfort with an appropriate degree of support during spirited motoring. Expanding on the limited capacity of the company's TT roadster, the rear seat area provides space for two extra passengers, although more individuals can expect a fairly tight fit. The generous trunk offers more than 16 Cubic of space, and rear Flips down to allow for more freight.

The Audi A5 sized luxury sports coupe is offered in a single trim level, equipped with standard features such as automatic tri-zone climate control, a 10-speaker audio system and fine custom leather and wood trim. Popular options include Bi-Xenon headlamps, park assist with a rearview camera, a navigation system, a Bang & Olufsen premium audio system and an S line package offers sports suspension with 19-inch alloy wheels, unique front and rear fascia, sport seats and Aluminum interior accents.

As smart as it is, the Audi A5 faces some tough competition from rivals such as BMW's 3 Series Coupe, Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class and Infiniti G37. All are excellent choices, but customers who desire the Coupe, which offers a pleasant blend of style, performance and all-wheel-drive security would do well to look at A5.

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