Tiny etiketine sahip kayıtlar gösteriliyor. Tüm kayıtları göster
Tiny etiketine sahip kayıtlar gösteriliyor. Tüm kayıtları göster

6 Şubat 2015 Cuma

Like Some Cat from Japan: Honda’s N-TRUCK/N-CAMP Is a Goldmine of Tiny Recreation






4980e nbox ncamp 1 626x382



We enjoy miniature things. We really like things we can not have. Offered the bent of this publication, you’d be excused for pondering that our existing obsession is a 1/3-scale Ferrari FXX K with a functional KERS technique built from a coffee can, some rebar, and a wall wart. But it is not. Our present dork-frenzy is attributable to the incredible Japan CampingCar Show and one of its stars, the Honda N-TRUCK/N-CAMP.



38565 nbox ncamp 1 2 626x382


Positive, yesterday, we have been all about Toyota’s fabulous new Alphard and Vellfire twins. Some saw fit to front on our adore of the avant-garde wheeled boxes. Thankfully, we’re automotive polyamorists, so our love of the Alphard/Vellfire burns undiminished in the presence of our new sweetheart. Jalopnik’s Jason Torchinsky—an idiosyncratic man if ever there was an idiosyncratic man—hipped us to the existence of this wondrous show of vehicular recreation, and we share his ardor for the N-Box–derived mini-pickup and its attendant trailer.


Hunting for all the planet like a Ford Centurion fifth-wheel hauler that motored directly into the path of some secret shrink ray out at White Sands, the N-TRUCK tows with a conventional hitch, leaving its minuscule bed totally free to carry a handful of bento boxes and a Shiba Inu. The trailer itself is wonderfully and stylishly appointed, with a zazzy green velour chair that we’d happily have in our living room.




Sadly, the roughing-it-in-absurd-style duo is merely a notion, a figment of Honda’s florid imagination. 1-off or not, it is just about perfect—the only change we’d make would be to make sure there was space to bring along a Grom.









Like Some Cat from Japan: Honda’s N-TRUCK/N-CAMP Is a Goldmine of Tiny Recreation

9 Kasım 2014 Pazar

2016 Audi A7 Very first Drive: A Tiny Prettier, More Powerful





775b4 2016 audi a7 sportback first drive review car and driver photo 639968 s 429x262


Very first Drive Review


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Lovely and rewarding to drive as ever.


Audi has faced criticism about its vehicles all hunting the same in various sizes, like matryoshka, those Russian nesting dolls. Contemplate the A7 a counterpoint. A large hatchback sedan primarily based on the A6, it does not look like the A6 or even the not-for-the-U.S. A5 Sportback. Every single crease is its personal, and the general shape is informed by 1970s and 1980s sports cars.


The A7 is one of our favorites, producing 3 appearances on our 10Best list and winning separate comparison tests against the BMW 640i Gran Coupe and the Mercedes-Benz CLS550. As with the A6 and S6, Audi has upgraded the 2016 model, available from the 1st quarter of 2015. The front finish appears more contemporary with a subtler grille and slimmer LED headlights. Restyled taillights present a much more horizontal and angular look above rectangular exhaust outlets.






Audi offers 2 engines for the U.S. The 3.-liter V-6 TDI diesel with an output of 240 horsepower and 428 lb-ft of torque carries more than unchanged the 3.-liter V-6 TFSI supercharged gasoline engine now tends to make 330 horsepower, up 20, even though with the exact same 325 lb-ft of torque. Either 1 mates to Quattro all-wheel drive and a ZF-sourced 8-speed automatic transmission.


Whilst we lament that Audi will not send its great 320-hp twin-turbo BiTDI to the U.S., the 240-hp diesel launches the A7 on a wave of torque and builds speed with reassuring force. It does just about every thing perfectly although emitting small more than a subdued growl. There is ample passing power the additional thrust of the higher-overall performance diesel sold in Europe comes largely at triple-digit autobahn speeds hardly ever encountered in America.


The supercharged gasoline V-6 doesn’;t feel fairly as strong off the line, but when rolling, it is clearly a lot more responsive than its TDI sibling—or most any turbocharged model in its segment. The soundtrack is silky-smooth, not menacing. The trade-off for its supreme manners is fuel consumption far thirstier than that of the TDI that recorded 30 mpg in our 2014 test.


Audi delivers only the ZF 8-speed torque-converter automatic in the U.S., whilst buyers in other markets can choose a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. We’re told that Americans choose the torque overload at step-off. The automatic is fine for the diesel, but the eager supercharged gasoline engine pairs nicely with the dual-clutch gearbox Audi reserves for the sportier S6/S7 models right here. That stated, the ZF unit is a benchmark automatic, and no direct competitor provides a dual-clutch—you’d have to stretch the budget at least $ 10,000 to nab the DCT in the base Porsche Panamera.






We’ve praised the A7′s competent chassis prior to, and it nonetheless impresses. From the light steering to the precise turn-in and the way its suspension shrugs off uneven surfaces, few vehicles can match it in spirited driving. It really is comfy, too, and quiet. For 2016, the exceptional cabin is further enhanced with an upgraded infotainment method and fresh décor. Unfortunately, Audi hasn’;t fixed the poor integration of the head-up show the enormous box atop the dashboard is not possible to overlook and so obtrusive that we’;d rather not have the program at all.


Costs will remain close to those of the present model, which begins at $ 66,825. For what the A7 delivers, like its stunning looks, that is not a bad deal. But if the hatchback shape is not for you, check out the updated A6. It can do every little thing just as well for thousands significantly less.


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2016 Audi A7 Very first Drive: A Tiny Prettier, More Powerful

2016 Audi A7 1st Drive: A Tiny Prettier, Far more Powerful





06399 2016 audi a7 sportback first drive review car and driver photo 639968 s 429x262


1st Drive Evaluation


arrow



Gorgeous and rewarding to drive as ever.


Audi has faced criticism about its cars all searching the very same in diverse sizes, like matryoshka, those Russian nesting dolls. Contemplate the A7 a counterpoint. A massive hatchback sedan based on the A6, it does not look like the A6 or even the not-for-the-U.S. A5 Sportback. Each and every crease is its personal, and the overall shape is informed by 1970s and 1980s sports cars.


The A7 is one particular of our favorites, creating 3 appearances on our 10Best list and winning separate comparison tests against the BMW 640i Gran Coupe and the Mercedes-Benz CLS550. As with the A6 and S6, Audi has upgraded the 2016 model, obtainable from the very first quarter of 2015. The front finish appears a lot more modern with a subtler grille and slimmer LED headlights. Restyled taillights present a much more horizontal and angular look above rectangular exhaust outlets.






Audi delivers 2 engines for the U.S. The 3.-liter V-6 TDI diesel with an output of 240 horsepower and 428 lb-ft of torque carries more than unchanged the 3.-liter V-6 TFSI supercharged gasoline engine now makes 330 horsepower, up 20, even though with the very same 325 lb-ft of torque. Either a single mates to Quattro all-wheel drive and a ZF-sourced 8-speed automatic transmission.


Even though we lament that Audi will not send its amazing 320-hp twin-turbo BiTDI to the U.S., the 240-hp diesel launches the A7 on a wave of torque and builds speed with reassuring force. It does just about every thing completely while emitting tiny much more than a subdued growl. There is ample passing energy the additional thrust of the high-functionality diesel sold in Europe comes mostly at triple-digit autobahn speeds seldom encountered in America.


The supercharged gasoline V-6 doesn’;t feel fairly as sturdy off the line, but when rolling, it is clearly much more responsive than its TDI sibling—or most any turbocharged model in its segment. The soundtrack is silky-smooth, not menacing. The trade-off for its supreme manners is fuel consumption far thirstier than that of the TDI that recorded 30 mpg in our 2014 test.


Audi offers only the ZF 8-speed torque-converter automatic in the U.S., although buyers in other markets can decide on a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. We’re told that Americans choose the torque overload at step-off. The automatic is fine for the diesel, but the eager supercharged gasoline engine pairs nicely with the dual-clutch gearbox Audi reserves for the sportier S6/S7 models right here. That mentioned, the ZF unit is a benchmark automatic, and no direct competitor gives a dual-clutch—you’d have to stretch the budget at least $ 10,000 to nab the DCT in the base Porsche Panamera.






We’ve praised the A7′s competent chassis ahead of, and it nevertheless impresses. From the light steering to the precise turn-in and the way its suspension shrugs off uneven surfaces, handful of vehicles can match it in spirited driving. It’;s comfortable, also, and quiet. For 2016, the outstanding cabin is additional enhanced with an upgraded infotainment program and fresh décor. Regrettably, Audi hasn’;t fixed the poor integration of the head-up show the enormous box atop the dashboard is not possible to overlook and so obtrusive that we’;d rather not have the system at all.


Costs will stay close to these of the current model, which begins at $ 66,825. For what the A7 delivers, such as its stunning appears, that is not a poor deal. But if the hatchback shape is not for you, check out the updated A6. It can do everything just as effectively for thousands much less.


View Photo Gallery

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2016 Audi A7 1st Drive: A Tiny Prettier, Far more Powerful

2016 Audi A7 Initial Drive: A Tiny Prettier, Much more Powerful





5e4f3 2016 audi a7 sportback first drive review car and driver photo 639968 s 429x262


1st Drive Review


arrow



Stunning and rewarding to drive as ever.


Audi has faced criticism about its cars all searching the very same in various sizes, like matryoshka, these Russian nesting dolls. Contemplate the A7 a counterpoint. A huge hatchback sedan primarily based on the A6, it does not look like the A6 or even the not-for-the-U.S. A5 Sportback. Each crease is its personal, and the general shape is informed by 1970s and 1980s sports vehicles.


The A7 is one of our favorites, producing 3 appearances on our 10Best list and winning separate comparison tests against the BMW 640i Gran Coupe and the Mercedes-Benz CLS550. As with the A6 and S6, Audi has upgraded the 2016 model, available from the 1st quarter of 2015. The front end looks more contemporary with a subtler grille and slimmer LED headlights. Restyled taillights present a more horizontal and angular appear above rectangular exhaust outlets.






Audi gives 2 engines for the U.S. The 3.-liter V-6 TDI diesel with an output of 240 horsepower and 428 lb-ft of torque carries more than unchanged the 3.-liter V-6 TFSI supercharged gasoline engine now tends to make 330 horsepower, up 20, even though with the identical 325 lb-ft of torque. Either 1 mates to Quattro all-wheel drive and a ZF-sourced 8-speed automatic transmission.


Even though we lament that Audi won’t send its awesome 320-hp twin-turbo BiTDI to the U.S., the 240-hp diesel launches the A7 on a wave of torque and builds speed with reassuring force. It does just about almost everything completely whilst emitting tiny more than a subdued growl. There is ample passing energy the added thrust of the high-performance diesel sold in Europe comes mostly at triple-digit autobahn speeds rarely encountered in America.


The supercharged gasoline V-6 does not really feel really as robust off the line, but after rolling, it is clearly more responsive than its TDI sibling—or most any turbocharged model in its segment. The soundtrack is silky-smooth, not menacing. The trade-off for its supreme manners is fuel consumption far thirstier than that of the TDI that recorded 30 mpg in our 2014 test.


Audi gives only the ZF 8-speed torque-converter automatic in the U.S., even though purchasers in other markets can choose a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. We’re told that Americans prefer the torque overload at step-off. The automatic is fine for the diesel, but the eager supercharged gasoline engine pairs nicely with the dual-clutch gearbox Audi reserves for the sportier S6/S7 models here. That mentioned, the ZF unit is a benchmark automatic, and no direct competitor delivers a dual-clutch—you’d have to stretch the budget at least $ 10,000 to nab the DCT in the base Porsche Panamera.






We’ve praised the A7′s competent chassis just before, and it still impresses. From the light steering to the precise turn-in and the way its suspension shrugs off uneven surfaces, handful of vehicles can match it in spirited driving. It’;s comfortable, also, and quiet. For 2016, the superb cabin is additional enhanced with an upgraded infotainment method and fresh décor. Sadly, Audi hasn’;t fixed the poor integration of the head-up display the huge box atop the dashboard is not possible to overlook and so obtrusive that we’;d rather not have the program at all.


Rates will remain close to these of the present model, which starts at $ 66,825. For what the A7 delivers, which includes its beautiful looks, that’;s not a bad deal. But if the hatchback shape isn’t for you, verify out the updated A6. It can do everything just as properly for thousands less.


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2016 Audi A7 Initial Drive: A Tiny Prettier, Much more Powerful

2016 Audi A7 1st Drive: A Tiny Prettier, Far more Effective





8e271 2016 audi a7 sportback first drive review car and driver photo 639968 s 429x262


First Drive Review


arrow



Beautiful and rewarding to drive as ever.


Audi has faced criticism about its cars all looking the same in different sizes, like matryoshka, those Russian nesting dolls. Consider the A7 a counterpoint. A large hatchback sedan based on the A6, it doesn’;t look like the A6 or even the not-for-the-U.S. A5 Sportback. Every crease is its own, and the overall shape is informed by 1970s and 1980s sports cars.


The A7 is one of our favorites, making 3 appearances on our 10Best list and winning separate comparison tests against the BMW 640i Gran Coupe and the Mercedes-Benz CLS550. As with the A6 and S6, Audi has upgraded the 2016 model, available from the first quarter of 2015. The front end looks more contemporary with a subtler grille and slimmer LED headlights. Restyled taillights present a more horizontal and angular look above rectangular exhaust outlets.






Audi offers 2 engines for the U.S. The 3.0-liter V-6 TDI diesel with an output of 240 horsepower and 428 lb-ft of torque carries over unchanged; the 3.0-liter V-6 TFSI supercharged gasoline engine now makes 330 horsepower, up 20, though with the same 325 lb-ft of torque. Either one mates to Quattro all-wheel drive and a ZF-sourced 8-speed automatic transmission.


While we lament that Audi won’t send its awesome 320-hp twin-turbo BiTDI to the U.S., the 240-hp diesel launches the A7 on a wave of torque and builds speed with reassuring force. It does just about everything perfectly while emitting little more than a subdued growl. There is ample passing power; the extra thrust of the high-performance diesel sold in Europe comes mostly at triple-digit autobahn speeds rarely encountered in America.


The supercharged gasoline V-6 doesn’;t feel quite as strong off the line, but once rolling, it is clearly more responsive than its TDI sibling—or most any turbocharged model in its segment. The soundtrack is silky-smooth, not menacing. The trade-off for its supreme manners is fuel consumption far thirstier than that of the TDI that recorded 30 mpg in our 2014 test.


Audi offers only the ZF 8-speed torque-converter automatic in the U.S., while buyers in other markets can choose a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. We’re told that Americans prefer the torque overload at step-off. The automatic is fine for the diesel, but the eager supercharged gasoline engine pairs nicely with the dual-clutch gearbox Audi reserves for the sportier S6/S7 models here. That said, the ZF unit is a benchmark automatic, and no direct competitor offers a dual-clutch—you’d have to stretch the budget at least $ 10,000 to nab the DCT in the base Porsche Panamera.






We’ve praised the A7′s competent chassis before, and it still impresses. From the light steering to the precise turn-in and the way its suspension shrugs off uneven surfaces, few cars can match it in spirited driving. It’;s comfortable, too, and quiet. For 2016, the excellent cabin is further improved with an upgraded infotainment system and fresh décor. Unfortunately, Audi hasn’;t fixed the poor integration of the head-up display; the massive box atop the dashboard is impossible to overlook and so obtrusive that we’;d rather not have the system at all.


Prices will remain close to those of the current model, which begins at $ 66,825. For what the A7 offers, including its stunning looks, that’;s not a bad deal. But if the hatchback shape isn’t for you, check out the updated A6. It can do everything just as well for thousands less.


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2016 Audi A7 1st Drive: A Tiny Prettier, Far more Effective

8 Kasım 2014 Cumartesi

2016 Audi A7 First Drive: A Tiny Prettier, Much more Strong





e7e79 2016 audi a7 sportback first drive review car and driver photo 639968 s 429x262


First Drive Review


arrow



Stunning and rewarding to drive as ever.


Audi has faced criticism about its cars all seeking the identical in different sizes, like matryoshka, these Russian nesting dolls. Contemplate the A7 a counterpoint. A massive hatchback sedan based on the A6, it doesn’;t appear like the A6 or even the not-for-the-U.S. A5 Sportback. Every crease is its personal, and the all round shape is informed by 1970s and 1980s sports cars.


The A7 is 1 of our favorites, producing 3 appearances on our 10Best list and winning separate comparison tests against the BMW 640i Gran Coupe and the Mercedes-Benz CLS550. As with the A6 and S6, Audi has upgraded the 2016 model, accessible from the first quarter of 2015. The front end looks more contemporary with a subtler grille and slimmer LED headlights. Restyled taillights present a a lot more horizontal and angular look above rectangular exhaust outlets.






Audi gives 2 engines for the U.S. The 3.-liter V-6 TDI diesel with an output of 240 horsepower and 428 lb-ft of torque carries more than unchanged the 3.-liter V-6 TFSI supercharged gasoline engine now makes 330 horsepower, up 20, although with the same 325 lb-ft of torque. Either one mates to Quattro all-wheel drive and a ZF-sourced 8-speed automatic transmission.


Even though we lament that Audi will not send its amazing 320-hp twin-turbo BiTDI to the U.S., the 240-hp diesel launches the A7 on a wave of torque and builds speed with reassuring force. It does just about everything completely although emitting little much more than a subdued growl. There is ample passing energy the additional thrust of the high-overall performance diesel sold in Europe comes largely at triple-digit autobahn speeds seldom encountered in America.


The supercharged gasoline V-6 does not really feel really as powerful off the line, but as soon as rolling, it is clearly much more responsive than its TDI sibling—or most any turbocharged model in its segment. The soundtrack is silky-smooth, not menacing. The trade-off for its supreme manners is fuel consumption far thirstier than that of the TDI that recorded 30 mpg in our 2014 test.


Audi delivers only the ZF 8-speed torque-converter automatic in the U.S., although buyers in other markets can decide on a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. We’re told that Americans choose the torque overload at step-off. The automatic is fine for the diesel, but the eager supercharged gasoline engine pairs nicely with the dual-clutch gearbox Audi reserves for the sportier S6/S7 models here. That mentioned, the ZF unit is a benchmark automatic, and no direct competitor delivers a dual-clutch—you’d have to stretch the budget at least $ 10,000 to nab the DCT in the base Porsche Panamera.






We’ve praised the A7′s competent chassis ahead of, and it nevertheless impresses. From the light steering to the precise turn-in and the way its suspension shrugs off uneven surfaces, handful of vehicles can match it in spirited driving. It really is comfy, also, and quiet. For 2016, the superb cabin is additional improved with an upgraded infotainment technique and fresh décor. However, Audi hasn’;t fixed the poor integration of the head-up show the enormous box atop the dashboard is impossible to overlook and so obtrusive that we’;d rather not have the system at all.


Costs will stay close to these of the current model, which begins at $ 66,825. For what the A7 gives, including its spectacular appears, that is not a poor deal. But if the hatchback shape is not for you, verify out the updated A6. It can do every thing just as effectively for thousands significantly less.


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2016 Audi A7 First Drive: A Tiny Prettier, Much more Strong

2016 Audi A7 1st Drive: A Tiny Prettier, Far more Potent





cba44 2016 audi a7 sportback first drive review car and driver photo 639968 s 429x262


1st Drive Overview


arrow



Lovely and rewarding to drive as ever.


Audi has faced criticism about its automobiles all searching the same in distinct sizes, like matryoshka, these Russian nesting dolls. Think about the A7 a counterpoint. A massive hatchback sedan primarily based on the A6, it does not appear like the A6 or even the not-for-the-U.S. A5 Sportback. Every single crease is its personal, and the general shape is informed by 1970s and 1980s sports vehicles.


The A7 is 1 of our favorites, producing 3 appearances on our 10Best list and winning separate comparison tests against the BMW 640i Gran Coupe and the Mercedes-Benz CLS550. As with the A6 and S6, Audi has upgraded the 2016 model, offered from the 1st quarter of 2015. The front end looks much more modern with a subtler grille and slimmer LED headlights. Restyled taillights present a far more horizontal and angular appear above rectangular exhaust outlets.






Audi offers 2 engines for the U.S. The 3.-liter V-6 TDI diesel with an output of 240 horsepower and 428 lb-ft of torque carries over unchanged the 3.-liter V-6 TFSI supercharged gasoline engine now tends to make 330 horsepower, up 20, though with the same 325 lb-ft of torque. Either a single mates to Quattro all-wheel drive and a ZF-sourced 8-speed automatic transmission.


Although we lament that Audi won’t send its awesome 320-hp twin-turbo BiTDI to the U.S., the 240-hp diesel launches the A7 on a wave of torque and builds speed with reassuring force. It does just about every little thing completely while emitting small much more than a subdued growl. There is ample passing power the extra thrust of the high-efficiency diesel sold in Europe comes mostly at triple-digit autobahn speeds hardly ever encountered in America.


The supercharged gasoline V-6 doesn’;t really feel really as strong off the line, but when rolling, it is clearly a lot more responsive than its TDI sibling—or most any turbocharged model in its segment. The soundtrack is silky-smooth, not menacing. The trade-off for its supreme manners is fuel consumption far thirstier than that of the TDI that recorded 30 mpg in our 2014 test.


Audi gives only the ZF 8-speed torque-converter automatic in the U.S., whilst purchasers in other markets can decide on a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. We’re told that Americans favor the torque overload at step-off. The automatic is fine for the diesel, but the eager supercharged gasoline engine pairs nicely with the dual-clutch gearbox Audi reserves for the sportier S6/S7 models here. That said, the ZF unit is a benchmark automatic, and no direct competitor gives a dual-clutch—you’d have to stretch the budget at least $ 10,000 to nab the DCT in the base Porsche Panamera.






We’ve praised the A7′s competent chassis prior to, and it nevertheless impresses. From the light steering to the precise turn-in and the way its suspension shrugs off uneven surfaces, few vehicles can match it in spirited driving. It is comfy, also, and quiet. For 2016, the superb cabin is further improved with an upgraded infotainment program and fresh décor. Unfortunately, Audi hasn’;t fixed the poor integration of the head-up show the huge box atop the dashboard is not possible to overlook and so obtrusive that we’;d rather not have the program at all.


Rates will remain close to those of the current model, which starts at $ 66,825. For what the A7 delivers, like its gorgeous appears, that’;s not a undesirable deal. But if the hatchback shape is not for you, verify out the updated A6. It can do everything just as nicely for thousands less.


View Photo Gallery

Other Stories You Might Like







2016 Audi A7 1st Drive: A Tiny Prettier, Far more Potent

2016 Audi A7 Initial Drive: A Tiny Prettier, Much more Powerful





2fbfc 2016 audi a7 sportback first drive review car and driver photo 639968 s 429x262


1st Drive Evaluation


arrow



Lovely and rewarding to drive as ever.


Audi has faced criticism about its cars all seeking the exact same in distinct sizes, like matryoshka, these Russian nesting dolls. Take into account the A7 a counterpoint. A large hatchback sedan primarily based on the A6, it doesn’;t look like the A6 or even the not-for-the-U.S. A5 Sportback. Each crease is its personal, and the all round shape is informed by 1970s and 1980s sports cars.


The A7 is one of our favorites, creating 3 appearances on our 10Best list and winning separate comparison tests against the BMW 640i Gran Coupe and the Mercedes-Benz CLS550. As with the A6 and S6, Audi has upgraded the 2016 model, accessible from the initial quarter of 2015. The front end looks much more contemporary with a subtler grille and slimmer LED headlights. Restyled taillights present a a lot more horizontal and angular appear above rectangular exhaust outlets.






Audi offers 2 engines for the U.S. The 3.-liter V-6 TDI diesel with an output of 240 horsepower and 428 lb-ft of torque carries more than unchanged the 3.-liter V-6 TFSI supercharged gasoline engine now makes 330 horsepower, up 20, even though with the identical 325 lb-ft of torque. Either one particular mates to Quattro all-wheel drive and a ZF-sourced 8-speed automatic transmission.


Even though we lament that Audi will not send its great 320-hp twin-turbo BiTDI to the U.S., the 240-hp diesel launches the A7 on a wave of torque and builds speed with reassuring force. It does just about every thing perfectly whilst emitting little a lot more than a subdued growl. There is ample passing power the additional thrust of the high-overall performance diesel sold in Europe comes mainly at triple-digit autobahn speeds hardly ever encountered in America.


The supercharged gasoline V-6 doesn’;t feel really as robust off the line, but after rolling, it is clearly a lot more responsive than its TDI sibling—or most any turbocharged model in its segment. The soundtrack is silky-smooth, not menacing. The trade-off for its supreme manners is fuel consumption far thirstier than that of the TDI that recorded 30 mpg in our 2014 test.


Audi gives only the ZF 8-speed torque-converter automatic in the U.S., while buyers in other markets can choose a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. We’re told that Americans prefer the torque overload at step-off. The automatic is fine for the diesel, but the eager supercharged gasoline engine pairs nicely with the dual-clutch gearbox Audi reserves for the sportier S6/S7 models right here. That said, the ZF unit is a benchmark automatic, and no direct competitor delivers a dual-clutch—you’d have to stretch the spending budget at least $ 10,000 to nab the DCT in the base Porsche Panamera.






We’ve praised the A7′s competent chassis ahead of, and it nevertheless impresses. From the light steering to the precise turn-in and the way its suspension shrugs off uneven surfaces, handful of cars can match it in spirited driving. It is comfortable, also, and quiet. For 2016, the excellent cabin is further improved with an upgraded infotainment method and fresh décor. However, Audi hasn’;t fixed the poor integration of the head-up show the massive box atop the dashboard is not possible to overlook and so obtrusive that we’;d rather not have the method at all.


Rates will remain close to these of the existing model, which starts at $ 66,825. For what the A7 gives, including its beautiful looks, that is not a undesirable deal. But if the hatchback shape isn’t for you, check out the updated A6. It can do everything just as well for thousands less.


View Photo Gallery

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2016 Audi A7 Initial Drive: A Tiny Prettier, Much more Powerful

23 Eylül 2014 Salı

2014 Audi S1 Initial Drive: Believe of It Like ScarJo: Tiny and Hot





75fe7 2014 audi s1 quattro first drive review car and driver photo 631826 s 429x262


Initial Drive Assessment


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The ultimate subcompact.


A couple of years ago, we got to place the boot to Audi’;s 256-hp A1 Quattro, an immediate collector’;s item of which just 333 units have been constructed. At the time, Audi hinted at wider production, and now that car is on sale in Europe.


An evolution of the original A1 Quattro, the new S1 is priced at €29,950 (such as tax), drastically less than its limited-edition predecessor. That does not turn it into a bargain: To place it into point of view, the S1 nevertheless charges €1275 more than the current Volkswagen GTI, which is bigger and powered by the identical 2.-liter EA888 engine. But as a life style minicar coming from a premium brand and fitted with somewhat luxurious appointments, it does not have to be low cost.


The S1′s TFSI engine huffs air via a single turbocharger that provides up to 20.3 psi of boost. It is rated at 231 horsepower (accessible at 6000 rpm) and 273 lb-ft of torque (from 1600 to 3000 rpm). By comparison, the A1 Quattro’;s older EA113 engine created 256 horsepower but only 258 lb-ft of torque. The S1’s redline is marked at 6500 rpm.






Packaging constraints prevented Audi engineers from putting the company’;s wet-dual-clutch automatic into the S1, so the only transmission is—blessedly—a slick-shifting 6-speed manual. The all-wheel-drive system transmits engine torque to the front or all 4 wheels based on road circumstances and driver input up to 50 percent can be directed toward the rear axle. It is also feasible to induce oversteer and hold the S1 in a controlled drift, which is rad.


The front axle and the electrically assisted energy steering have been fortified for the S1, while the rear axle is a carry-over element from the bigger PQ35 platform. On the road, the S1 feels light and agile, and the steering is nicely weighted. Electrically adjustable dampers are common, although the S1 is obtainable with either 215/40R-17 or 225/35R-18 rubber. The latter meats support both looks and performance.


Supermini Me


Straight-line overall performance is convincing, as well. We estimate the sprint to 60 mph will take 5.8 seconds, and the S1 tops out at a lofty 155 mph. Fuel economy, we figure, would fall at 23 mpg city and 33 highway if the EPA had been to price it—which will not occur for this not-for-America hottie—but observed figures during our drive had been closer to 25 mpg. The S1 also makes fascinating noises: A sound enhancer on the firewall feeds some intake timbre into the cabin, and bypass flaps in the exhaust open at larger engine loads and speeds to deliver much more rear-finish blat. In standard Audi S fashion, 4 tailpipes punctuate the rear graphics.






The S1 precedes an imminent face lift of the normal A1 that will bring much more-angular headlights and redesigned taillights. The front air intakes show an RS motif, and the all round appear is 1 of refinement and toned aggressiveness. The exterior can be modified with a blacked-out reduced rear hatch, a nod to the A1 Quattro. An accessible styling package plays a retro theme with a massive rear spoiler and “Quattro” lettering on the flanks, as nicely as red trim in the headlights that, fortunately, can be deleted from the package.


Inside, the S1 looks the part of mighty mite with distinct gauges and supportive sport seats. Audi offers various levels of individualization to make the interior even sportier, or to bring the luxury. Somewhat surprisingly, adults can squeeze in to the rear seats unless an individual tall is sitting up front. The S1 is obtainable with 3 or 5 doors—the latter gets Sportback nomenclature.


The only direct competitors to the S1 are the Citroën DS3 Racing and the Mini John Cooper Works hardtop. Both of these models are restricted to front-wheel drive, and they trail the S1 in torque and horsepower, as effectively. For now, the S1 is the ideal auto in its segment. But as Audi has decided against bringing the A1 loved ones here, we will not get to see the sporty S1 in the U.S. You will have to settle for a Mini JCW hardtop—or go larger with a Volkswagen GTI.


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