Sunday, November 25, 2012

Dear Readers

Hi guys,

I'm away on a trip, so I'll resume updates next week!

Cheers,

CSI

*Happy (late) Thanksgiving!
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Thursday, November 8, 2012

Audi S7 4.0 TFSI


Moving off environmental vehicles, we come to see something on the other side of the Richter scale—the all-new Audi S7. *The A7 has been reviewed in previous posts.
·             Design & Engineering:
If I haven’t mentioned, then I must now. Recently, I went out with a relative to scout for “large-sized, yet luxurious sport backs”. Hence, we went to test out the new CLS, A7, Panamera, as well as the 6-series grand coupe. After hours of switching between the two, the relative of mine settled upon the A7 3.0TFSI. Why, you ask? Simply because of three simple points: the solid and well-appointed interior, the spirited drive and sheer grace/aesthetics of the vehicle. Same goes with the S7. Based off the A7, the new S-variant enhances the inner beast of the A7, via a factory-fitted aerodynamic kit, as well as standard 20-in wheels. Of course, S badges adorn the vehicle in a classy manner, adding towards the classiness of vehicle. What I like about the S7 is the large, Bentley Continental-styled emergency brake light, as well as the automatic rear spoiler (also available on the A7). Did I mention the quad-exhaust as well?
·            Interior
On the inside, Audi displays its best cards perfectly. To begin with, the 3-spoke leather-trimmed steering wheel is beautifully crafted—with no stitch out of place. Furthermore, the sports seats incorporate tinges of luxury, through the Valcona leather with diamond-pattern stitching; something generally available on Bentley’s and Rollers. Still, this beast serves its purpose as a sport mobile—enhanced by the use of carbon inlays, in place of the Audi exclusive wood trim on the ‘lesser’ A7’s. With the use of technology embedded into the vehicle such as a heads-up display, changeable touchpad, 3-D graphic GPS, etc., the S7 really wows one in its advanced technology.  In the S7, an extra option is added to the vehicle—a ‘personal tuning experience’. As in BMW’s M-series, one can now tune the engine sound, air suspension, sport differential, belt tensioner, etc., all via the MMI system! Truly—Audi’s creation is revolutionary.
·            Ride & Handlings
At the heart of this aesthetically pleasing monster lies a 420BHP 4.0-liter, twin-turbo V8 engine. Coupled with 550nm of torque, the S7 manages to trump the legendary R8 (4.2 FSI) in terms of practicality, power and price. Thus, it is no surprise that the century sprint can be achieved in a mere 4.7 seconds! In a comparo test, that leaves the S7 0.4 seconds behind the CLS63 AMG. Simply starting the vehicle invigorates one, as the quad exhausts rumble with certainty in the background; the dash lighting up with sporty red dials. Step on the accelerator, and things move in a polished manner, until the twin turbo V8 opens up, purring sweetly from there on. Paired to 7-speed gearbox with Audi’s notable drive select, one can ride on the air suspension in multiple ways, depending on the situation. Also, the standard Quattro system provides one with good grip around corners, as well as confidence at all times.  

·            Verdict
I love this vehicle. Why not? It’s a good rival to the CLS 63 AMG, Panamera Turbo, and goes for a better price as well. Cool looks—appeals to both men and women. What more could one want?

o    Pictures from:
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Sunday, November 4, 2012

TECH EDITOR

On behalf of CSI, the tech. editor would like to inform readers of this blog that posting will resume next week, due to technological errors on CSI's part.

Thank you for your understanding,

Tech editor.
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Sunday, October 21, 2012

Audi A6 2.0 TFSI Hybrid


Indeed! Yet another hybrid—they do seem to be catching on these days…
·             Design & Engineering:
Just as BMW’s AH (see above reviews) and Lexus’ GS 450h (see above reviews), the A6 Hybrid is based completely off the standard base model—being the 2-liter TFSI A6. I’m glad to say though, that hybrid or not, I admire the bold changes in the new A6—as compared to the previous gen., where things were simply…odd. With the hybrid, it sports rather unconventional LED headlamps, which give it a one-of look, as well as a sense of clean energy. From the side, one begins to notice the difference in size, when compared to its closest rival—the AH 5. Resting at 4915mm in length, it makes the Bimmer seem to pale ever so slightly in size. The rear is where I make my complaint. To cut a long story short, to me, Audi’s are all about futuristic design—yet with curves. That’s why the A7 is one of my most favored cars—blessed with sweeping and clinical lines, as well as a 22nd century feel. As for the A6, apart from the modern taillights, there’s not much to say about it, apart from the fact that it’s flat (not to sound crude). It seems rather vertical to me, making it a misfit in design from the rest of the vehicle. Also, being a hybrid, there’s not much to indicate of its eco-friendliness; apart from a notable hybrid label stenciled on its bum. Still, S-line package or not, one gets a pretty good vibe from the A6 hybrid.
·            Interior
As I’ve mentioned before, Audi makes one of the world’s best mass-produced interiors. I’m going to say it again. With the A6, you can open and shut the door a couple hundred or so times, twist the MMI controller back and forth a couple thousand of times, and feel reassured by the German marques reliability and build quality. How very German and precise. With the non-hybrid A6—the truth is, one feels more pampered, via the contrasting colour schemes, intricate (new style) of wood inlays, as well as through the optional S-line packages. In the A6, (well, at least in the 2.0 TFSI variant), black leather and mini mosaic styled aluminum is about all you get for an ‘Audi experience’. Some argue that it is to enhance the sense of eco-friendliness, the sort. I beg to differ. Nevertheless, space, be it at the front or the rear is more than ample—with the option to include a 4-zone climate control available as well. With the hybrid, the major change lies in the dashboard. Instead of showing the number of revolutions per minute, an intricate hybrid indicator lies in place—a nice touch to the vehicle. As for the MMI system, it now includes an extra hybrid tab, allowing the driver (and interested passengers) to get a sense of how the futuristic system powers the vehicle. Cool eh?
·            Ride & Handlings
Due to the hybrid system, the A6 hybrid weighs roughly a 170kg more than the non-hybrid variant. Despite the extra kick from the hybrid pack, one does notice the extra weight—especially when swinging hard round corners. Still, one must appraise the subtle switch between hybrid and ‘normal’ mode, for the change seems to happen without one being aware of it. Thankfully, the A6 Hybrid isn’t a dull vehicle at all (yes, that’s because its not a Prius), for it churns out a light enough burble from the 2.0 TFSI power plant—just enough to make one smile.

·            Verdict
Futuristic styling—though most will find it hard to differentiate it between the non-hybrid variant (you will though, considering the extra cost you had to pay in order to get the eco-friendly variant). Seemingly flawless interior—cool MMI system; though I must admit that the AH 5 over in the Bimmer does a better and more interesting job of depicting the hybrid system. Great engine, satisfying sound.
Going green? Here’s another noteworthy option.

o    Pictures from:
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Saturday, October 6, 2012

Let's Talk Fast, Sporty, Mid-Sized Saloon

A few days ago, I trundled past a few dealerships, taking note of the increasing number of sport, mid-sized saloons.

Naturally, we tend to gravitate towards sporty things--futuristic designs, aerodynamic sweeps--the lot. Mid-sized saloons make up a substantial amount of an automaker's annual revenue. To elaborate on this point, take Toyota for instance. Toyota's mid-sized saloon is for a fact, the Camry. Having gone through decades of editions, the Camry is undoubtedly, one of Toyota's best selling models. Now, take Mercedes. Mercedes, though prized for its luxurious and technologically advanced S-Class, must give credit to one of its best selling models, the E-Class. Around for more than 20 years, the E-Class defines practicality, reliability and luxury.

So where does this whole talk about sportiness come about?

Well, back to Mercedes. With the E-Class, the current generation is coming to the end of its life cycle, with a new model to take its place somewhere next year. Thus, dealerships, (well, at least the one where I live) are throwing in AMG sport packages for free. Car buffs like us would naturally know that AMG is Mercedes' ultimate racing card. BMW takes its M-division, Audi its S (hardcore racing still goes towards the RS models), and Lexus, its new F-Sport series. To compete with each other, these luxury brands offer in house tweak ups--some even for no charge at all!

My point? Head out to your local dealership today, and ask what kind of sport package they can throw on for you. Be sure to check out Mercedes though, as prices for the E-Class are dropping slightly, as dealers around the world prepare to clear out stock.

Pictures from:


http://amgmarket.com/amg/wp-content/uploads/2009-e-class-amg-mercedes-sports-package-02.jpg
http://hyundaigenesisblog.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-o matic/cache/98612_2011_bmw_5_series_m_sport_images_main.jpg
http://www.carsession.com/news/photos/BMW/BMW-5-Series-M-Sport-Package-2064882502.jpg
http://fourtitude.com/gallery/albums/Features/Road%20Tests/2012%20Audi%20A6%203.0T%20FSI%20quattro%20S-line%20-%20EU/On%20Location%20-%20Sciacca,%20Italy/057.jpg
http://image.motortrend.com/f/37807575+w786+ar1/2012-Audi-A6-Avant-S-Line-steering-wheel.jpg
http://www.themotorreport.com.au/content/image/2/0/2012_lexus_gs_350_f_sport_official_overseas_07-1026.jpg
http://www.zercustoms.com/news/images/Lexus/th1/Lexus-GS-F-Sport-1.jpg
http://pictures.topspeed.com/IMG/crop/200901/mercedes-e-class-amg_600x0w.jpg

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Sunday, September 30, 2012

Audi Q3 2.0 TFSI


Competing head to head with BMW’s X1, we come to see how the new Q3 livens up the market.
·             Design & Engineering:
From the front, a rather futuristic face appears, with a waterfall-style grill in a brushed aluminum colour. Coupled with Audi’s new style of lights, the new Q3 really stands out from the pact. On the other hand, others may say that, “the Q3 seems to be a small sized Q5.” I say, “correct.” The Q3 stems from a large part, from its older brother, the Q5. This is not bad thing, mind you, for the Q5 is one of Audi’s most successful selling models. From the side, the Q3 takes a good stance—that of an urban SUV, partially due to a low roofline that provides the Q3 with a sporty feel. To fall along the lines of sportiness, the Q3 comes with 18, 19, and 20in rims, each marvelously sculpted. Of course, a S-Line package can be added on, providing the urban SUV with more aerodynamic parts. From the rear, a steep tailgate takes some cues from the A1’s bum—truly an architectural delight. A smooth ‘stainless steel’ underbody lines the underside of the vehicle; a touch that I quite like.
·            Interior
As I’ve mentioned before, Audi makes one of the world’s best mass-produced interiors. Clearly, the Q3 is no exception. From the driver’s point of view, the urban SUV leans closer towards the A1, and the new A3 (to be launched next year). Still, the steering wheel featured in the vehicle comes from the new A6. This mix and match of Audi bin parts surprisingly manages to blend together quite well. Sitting in the driver’s seat, everything seems rather well though out. For one, the aforementioned steering wheel is grippy and good to touch. Driving position is good, providing confidence and a good view. The center console comes directly from the A1, and thus includes a built in GPS system, SD card reader, etc. Coming with the S-Line package, the shift gear is sporty, with the S-Line emblem embossed right on the shifter head. To follow suit with the trendy style of customer individuality, the leather seats can be specified to match the colour of the SUV’s exterior. At the rear, an air-conditioning system pampers passengers, with the option to manually warm or cool the rear temperature. Knock down rear seats come as standard, making it easy to load bulky items in and out of the SUV. Still, I find that increased rear legroom would vastly improve the comfort level of the Q3. Overall, build quality is superb, with everything one would expect from the German marque, present.
·            Ride & Handlings
Paired to Audi’s familiar 2.0T four-pot, the engine is offered in 2 variants—a detuned 170BHP motor, and a 211BHP power pack. Despite seeming rather ‘small’ in power for a turbocharged SUV, even the 170BHP engine provides good low-end torque, and pushes seamlessly to the end of the rev. counter. Compared to its direct rival, the X1, even the base 170BHP variant is 20BHP more than BMW’s 150BHP X1 sDrive 18i. In addition, the Q3 completes the century sprint in roughly 2 ½ seconds faster than the Bavarian. For all variants, the engine will be mated to a twin clutch, 7-speed auto box—found in the RS3 and TTRS as well. Unlike the X1, which comes mainly in two-wheel drive, Audi’s signature Quattro system comes as standard on the Q3. Although most Q3 owners will never go off road, having Quattro on the urban SUV does provide for confidence, especially when driving around mountainous or coastal roads.    

·            Verdict
21st century styling, and incredibly sporty, the Q3 (especially when decked out with an S-Line kit) appeals to youths and all alike. Well-built interior, though rear legroom can be increased. Overall, the Q3 is a well-rounded vehicle and should be an instant sellout.

o    Pictures from:
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