Being a man is awesome – it really is. We get to pee standing up, we get more distinguished looking as we get older and every time we see car being driven like it was stolen we get excited. It’s just the way it is. So imagine my state of well being after I spied this video of the new V10 Audi R8 Spyder being driven through a parking lot at speed. We’ve got fishtailing, a wicked exhaust note and flames coming out of the pipes in the rear. Like I said, it’s good to be a man…

Photo: Autoblog

Audi is showing an all electric version of its A1 minicar at Geneva, but this one has a novel twist. Like the Chevy Volt, it’s battery powered and uses a gasoline motor to recharge the batteries; unlike the Volt, or any other electric car to date, the A1 e-tron concept uses a Wankel motor to produce the charge. More after the jump.

Why a Wankel rotary motor? Because they’re compact, light weight and produce outstanding power for their size. The rotary used in the A1 e-tron weighs just 154 pounds and is small enough to fit below the A1’s cargo floor.

Nuclear reactor? No, a rotary motor.

The Wankel / battery combination will produce reasonable performance, with 0 to 60 times in the 10 second range. Battery only range is expected to be around 30 miles, with the rotary motor providing an additional 100 miles of range. Range could probably be increased by incorporating a larger fuel tank, as the one in the concept e-tron holds just over 3 gallons.

Source: Autoblog

2011 Audi RS5 doesn't have a bad angle

Audi has chosen the Geneva Motor Show for the introduction of the 2011 RS5, but was kind enough to leak pictures in advance. The tastefully styled coupe will feature a 450 horsepower V8, a seven speed dual clutch transmission and Audi’s Quattro all wheel drive system.

More pics after the jump.

450 hp and all wheel drive? Sign me up.

Audi's interiors are among the best in the industry

The suspension has been dropped 25mm compared to a standard A5, and Audi’s Drive Select feature will allow drivers to choose between Comfort, Dynamic or Auto ride settings. In case the standard 19” RS wheels don’t do it for you, Audi will offer an optional 20” wheel. For drivers who spend their weekends doing track days, carbon ceramic brakes are an available (but ungodly expensive) option.

No word yet on pricing or availability for the US market, so we’ll need to keep our fingers crossed until Audi’s full release in Geneva.

Source: Inside Line

Hooniverse recently posted this spectacular video of an ’80s Audi SportQuattro making mincemeat of its tires and screaming its turbocharged head off. It reminded me of another video of a homebrew mini monster truck spraying a herd of Harleys with molten rubber.

At first glance it seems like the vehicles have nothing in common. The Audi is a tour de force of Teutonic technology. The monster truck is a homemade carnival ride. The Quattro has an über turbo with a waste gate that spits like a cobra. The mini monster has a supercharged big-block Ford V8 that’s so wicked it refuses to shut off.

But these beasts have much in common. Both have 600-ish horsepower. Both can make all four tires go critical in the blink of an eye. Both seem to have sprung fully formed from the fantasy of a 12-year-old boy.

So the question is: Which performs the better burnout?

2011 Audi A1

Audi’s A1, their much anticipated answer to the Mini and BMW’s 1 series, will make it’s official debut next month at the Geneva Motor Show. Aimed at the growing (in the EU, at least) subcompact luxury market, the A1 will be launched with four powerplant options, including two 1.6 liter turbo diesel motors (one at 90 hp and 160 lb-ft of torque, the other at 105 hp and 184 lb-ft). Gasoline engines offered include a 1.2 liter producing 86 horsepower and 118 lb-ft of torque, and a 1.4 liter good for 122 horsepower and 148 lb-ft. Only the latter gasoline motor will be offered with an automatic transmission, Audi’s S-tronic dry dual clutch variant.

Why can't all automakers produce interiors this nice?

No threat to the Mini Cooper S, the fastest announced version of the A1 is only good for a nine second sprint to 60 mph. For reference, that’s two and a half seconds slower than a Cooper S and about half a second slower than the base model Mini. Still, that’s not the point of the A1, which is more about personal luxury and low cost of ownership than it is about strafing apexes.

Sadly, the A1, like the bulk of BMW’s 1 series, isn’t bound for US shores. Audi, like BMW, doesn’t see demand for subcompact hatchbacks in the US market, despite Mini’s success. Likewise, the Germans still don’t equate the word “diesel” with market share in the US, despite VW’s success with TDI Jetta models. Perhaps it’s brand dilution, since neither BMW nor Audi currently caters to the entry level market on these shores. It’s a shame, because we’re missing out on some great rides.

Source: New York Times

I want to preface this list by saying that there were many factors going into the reasons as to why each one of these cars made the cut. Some of you will agree with my choices and others will not. You see, when I do a list like this I don’t just go with who’s got the highest hp numbers, or which is the best car from 60-0. I try to be objective and look at things like, everyday usage, price, reliability, performance and roominess. I look at these cars from the vantage point of using them as an everyday driver, which means 24/7/365. Yes, some will be pricey and deservedly so and others will be more budget oriented. So, now that you know the parameters, lets get down to business.

1. 2010 Ford Taurus: $25,000 – $45,000

The Ford Taurus is no new kid on the block and has been around since 1985. When it debuted some 25 years ago, it became the darling of the American automotive press. It was good looking, performed well and had enough room to be a great family car. Now in its 6th Generation, the new Taurus gets back to basics by providing the American public with a new updated version of the car they originally fell in love with over two decades ago.

Not only is the new Taurus a good looking machine, but it’s unbelievably functional as well. For 2010 Ford has integrated such features as its SYNC system, which features everything from adaptive cruise control with collision warning, to hands free calling, voice activated navigation, real time traffic reports and much more. The one that I think most people will opt for is the SEL model – think of this as the “everyman” model. Price it out and for just a tick under 30k you get a 263 hp V6, AWD, the SYNC System, comfy room for four adults and a car that is not only good looking but will deliver you 24 mpg on the hwy. Nice job Ford.

2. 2010 Hyundai Genesis: $33,000 – $44,000

Released in 2009 the new Hyundai Genesis Sedan is the companies first real run at building a full size luxury car. Sure, they’ve had pseudo luxury models in the past like the Azera, but nothing that could possibly be an alternative for a BMW or Lexus, that is, until now.

Choose the basic 3.8 liter V6 and you’ll be rolling in a front engine, rear-wheel drive automobile that produces 290 hp / 264 lb-tq. while delivering 18 mpg city and 27 mpg on the hwy. Good numbers considering it weighs in at almost 3800 lbs. From a technology standpoint the Genesis fairs just fine, offering everything from satellite navigation and heated seats to a backup camera. It also, and this is a biggie, gives you the best warranty in the business – 10 years or 100,000 miles. Interior room is very good offering true 5-passenger seating for adults. This is a great car with the only problem being its’ name… Hyundai. I think it’s going to be interesting to see how these things sell, as Hyundai is not a name largely associated with luxury vehicles. Look at what Toyota and Nissan did – they created their own separate luxury brands in the form of Lexus and Infiniti. Time and sales figures will dictate if Hyundai needs to do the same.

3. 2010 Chrysler 300: $28,000 – $49,000

Chrysler had a lot riding on the 300 Sedan when it debuted in 2005. The 300 represented the first in a new line of cars from the DiamlerChrysler merger and were to be known as the “LX Series” of automobiles. This series also encompassed the current Dodge Charger and recently discontinued Dodge Magnum. These cars are good, very good, as they were built with components utilized in the W210 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, which was produced from 1996-2002. The suspension, all-wheel drive system and transmission are all derivatives of Mercedes components and help lend to the upscale feel and performance of Chryslers flagship.

Big powerful looks, combined with a low-slung roofline and horsepower ratings ranging from 190-425 hp, ensure that there is a 300 to meet the needs of all those wanting a big, American made, rear wheel drive sedan. On the inside the 300 is spacious, providing ample room for 4 adults. Yes, a 5th can also be sat in the rear, but no one wants to be that guy in the middle so lets just say, it is really comfortable for four grown-ups. Interior materials can tend to be a bit on the plasticky side, but this is one of the main reasons for the lower cost rating. A totally maxed-out 300 SRT8 will run almost 50k, but if you look at other cars with similar performance ratings you’ll note that the 300 is a downright bargain.

Now keep in mind that a new Chrysler 300 is on the horizon, due out by the end of 2010. The chassis will be a reworked version of the current design and the exterior will receive a refresh as well. This however, shouldn’t dissuade you from checking out those 300’s that are still currently in showrooms. Again, they offer big styling and performance for a price that is thousands less than its Bavarian counterparts.

4. 2010 Cadillac CTS: $38,000 – $64,000

In the early part of the 2000’s Cadillac was desperately trying to revamp their image to become more in touch with a younger, more performance oriented buying group. They already had begun the conversion with the Cadillac Catera in 1997. This was built on a retagged version of GM’s European only Opel Omega. The Catera was supposed to be an option for buyers going for the BMW 3 series or C-Class Mercedes, however, looks, build quality and performance just couldn’t compete with its German rivals.

Enter 2002 and the new Cadillac CTS. This was the sedan that helped move Cadillac forward. Not only was it good, it was named the North American Car of the Year. Now fast-forward to 2010 and the second generation CTS. Cadillac has shed that “driving to deaths door image”, and is now regarded as one of the best sports sedans on the market. It won Motor Trend’s Car of the Year in 2008 and then was selected to Car and Driver’s Ten Best List – this was also accomplished in 2009 and 2010. Talk about a brand doing a 180-degree spin.

Keep in mind that the CTS is a sports sedan. It’s a not a full-on family car like some of the others on this list. It has room for four average size adults, not four, 6’4”, 245 pounders like me. Luggage space is adequate and makes the CTS a great car for the young couple that is looking for a ride to use as a daily driver. Another note: the new CTS-V is considered to be one of the best cars ever produced by any American car company. It was built, as a direct rival to Europe’s finest. I would categorize it as a mid-size sedan. From a performance standpoint, even the base 258 hp V6 will impress while the CTS-Vs supercharged V8 pumping out 556 hp, will simply astound you. The CTS is the car that helped Caddy turn the corner from a company that produced rolling caskets to one that now produces tire-scorching fun. By the way… you can also get it with AWD… that make’s it even cooler now right?

5. 2010 Mercedes S-Class: $87,000 – $201,000

What you are looking at here is the big gun in Mercedes arsenal. It’s the gold standard, the car that all but invented the high-end family class sedan. These cars ladies and gentleman are simply spectacular. Make no mistake, these are expensive cars, but my God are they worth it.

I’ll tell you a quick story. In the summer of 2008 I partook in a cross-country rally that shall remain nameless. During that time I had the pleasant experience of finding myself behind the wheel of a current generation Mercedes S-550. At one point during this escapade, we ran from Los Angeles, CA – Las Vegas, NV. Now for those of you who have never made this run, the long and short of it is, we ran through Death Valley and it was hot, like holy shit it’s 112 degrees outside hot. Inside the big Benz we had four adults (one sleeping), all seated comfortably with room to spare. The air-conditioning was on and pumping a nice cool breeze through the perforated leather seat for which I sat upon. The radio belted out various tunes from Aerosmith, life was good, very good. The best part however was the fact that the cruise control had been on and holding us at a steady pace for the last 21 minutes. That pace was 130 mph… We continued on until our radar detector went off, at which point we slowed to a more respectable 85 mph. The amazing part of this story however, is that the big Benz would have done that all day long. No drama. No issues. No complaints. It is by far one of the best open road cars I have ever driven.

6. 2010 Honda Accord Cross Tour: $29,500 – $36,500

Right. So now you’ll ask me how can you follow-up a Mercedes S-Class with the new Honda Accord Cross Tour? Well, let me explain. Where the big Benz is luxury and performance incarnate, the Honda is practicality and versatility. The Accord is a staple on American roads. They’ve been around forever and for good reason, Honda builds one hell of a good car. For 2010 Honda gives us the Cross Tour, their first crossover vehicle and one that I think is going to do very well.

The reason for this is that Honda is smart – they build cars that people want and incorporate everything you need and nothing you don’t, at a reasonable price point. What I like about the Cross Tour are the real world applications that you can put this car to use in. It’s perfect for the start-up family (seats 5), it’s sporty enough for the weekend warrior by offering FWD and a 276 hp V6 and it has all the electronic techno-goodies utilized in a system that doesn’t require a degree from NASA to operate. Combine that with the added storage room the Cross Tour offers over the standard Accord and you’ve got a great formula.

7. 2010 Mazda6: $19,300 – $31,000

I’ve always been a fan of Mazda’s and why not they make great cars. Go into any other car in this price point and check out the interiors. No one, except maybe Honda, even comes close to the build quality and materials used. The Mazda6 is a sports sedan, and was built to be a fun 4-door for singles, couples and small families to go and enjoy the world in. It’s good looking as well, with a new shape that utilizes integrated rear exhaust ports, stylized front fenders (you can see cues from the RX-8) and an interior layout that’s sporty and inviting.

Powered by either a 170 hp 4-cylinder or a 272 hp six, the Mazda6 is not only capable of performance, but economy as well, with 4-cylinder models pushing 30 mpg on the hwy. Seating is like that of the Cadillac CTS, meaning it’s comfortable for four average sized adults, if you’re big, either in height or girth, you may want to look elsewhere. What I really like about the Mazda6 though, is that it is an alternative in a market segment that is otherwise boring. It’s got the performance, looks and build quality that make you feel like you’re driving a car costing much more.

8. 2010 Infiniti M35 / M45: $45,000 – $65,000

For those of you living under an automotive rock for the last 20 years, Infiniti is Nissan’s upscale model line. Situated somewhere between a 5-series BMW and an Audi A6, Infiniti’s M-cars have been able to carve themselves out a nice little niche by offering a well built, luxury oriented, Japanese alternative.

Infiniti prides itself on using organic shapes and contours in both vehicle interior and exterior designs. One look at the M and you’ll notice that it is an elegant looking automobile; in fact I don’t think there is one harsh line on the entire car. The interior of the M is very welcoming; almost living room like. Big analog gauges present the driver with a clear view of what’s going on performance wise, while a beautifully sculpted dash flows throughout the rest of the cabin. This is a Japanese car and a high-end one at that so expect every available electronic option and gizmo the market has to offer. Power comes from either a 303 hp V6, or a 325 hp V8. This is a different type of car, with a different goal then BMW or Audi’s current offerings. It’s an automobile that wants you to be relaxed. It wants your journey to be comfortable and quiet and does not exhibit the rougher, harder edges of its competition. It’s a car for the driver that’s looking for tranquility, more than the curvature of the road ahead.

9. 2010 Audi A8: $74,000 – $86,000

Where the above-mentioned Infiniti is all about elegance, the Audi A8 is built for those who want to play in the corners. It is a true sports sedan and one that rewards the driver with a wonderful experience both inside and outside the cabin. One look at the big Audi and you know that it was build for performance. From the standard 4.2 liter V8 to it’s legendary Quattro AWD system the A8 delivers on all levels.

Audi has also made the A8 a very welcoming and comfortable car to drive. It’s big in both front and rear seat accommodations and has trunk space large enough to contain almost anything you can think of. Every available piece of automotive technology on the road today is neatly concealed under that beautiful body. This car is an autobahn cruiser much like the big S-Class Mercedes. Where the driver of the big Mercedes may be more accustom to long straight line runs, drivers of the Audi A8 will most likely be looking for the road less traveled.

10. 2010 Chevrolet Malibu: $21,825 – $31,250

A Chevy Malibu? Yep… a Malibu. Understand this car represents a big turn for GM and the way in which they are trying to obtain customers. The Malibu was designed for a decidedly younger audience and you know what, it looks it. Look at this car from any angle and you’ll notice it really doesn’t have a bad line on it. Seriously, it’s a very nice looking automobile.

The interior is decidedly GM, but that’s a good thing, as they have been improving on interior fit and finish year after year. Like the other mid-size sedans the Malibu is more a four-seater than a five. It’s also a simple car… do you have any idea how refreshing that is? Climate and audio controls are well laid out, easy to read and operate. Dash gauges are also nice and clear – a speedometer, tachometer, fuel and temperature gauge are present. Everything you need is right where it should be… perfect. The Malibu is a stylish car with the mission of providing consumers with an a American made, well built automotive option. It’s good looking, performs nicely, delivers good fuel economy and is reasonably priced… after all what more does anyone really need?

Well the game is over and the Saints pulled out a victory as another Super Bowl has fallen by the wayside. All through the game I was thinking, life is good, and I feel proud to be an American. There was pizza on the table, a Budweiser in my hand and a big block muscle car in the garage – man does that sound like an American stereotype, or what? Regardless, it was Super Bowl time and that meant only one thing… COMMERCIALS!!

Throughout the game we saw ads from Dodge, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Audi and Volkswagen. The big question is, were they any good? So with that in mind, I’ve compiled a list of all the automobile ads that ran, so you, the readers can choose and pick your favorites.

Ad 1 – Hyundai Sonata

“Hyundai might just take over the world with this thing”, was the opening line in the first automobile ad by Hyundai. Now, that statement seems to be a little far fetched, but that doesn’t change the fact that this is a really nice looking car. Consider that 15 years ago, Hyundai’s were somewhat laughable… not so any more eh. Nowadays Hyundai offers some of the best, most reliable vehicles on the road, with one of the biggest warranties in the industry. Not bad for a little car company from Korea.

Ad 2 – Hyundai Sonata

Yet another ad for the brand new Hyundai Sonata and I’ll tell ya’ something, this is a nice car. I think maybe making a comparison to Mozart and Schubert may be going a bit far though. With 200 HP and a hwy rating of 35 mpg though this is a car that people will be taking notice of.

Ad 3 – Bridgestone

Take one Cadillac Escalade, three stoner Dudes and a big killer whale in the bed. Then drive down a boardwalk at breakneck speed, hit the brakes, flip-a-bitch and literally free Willy. Yep, this was Bridgestone’s ad and I’ll tell ya’ something, in my opinion, it doesn’t hold a candle to last years ad. Check them both out below.

2010

2009

Ad 4 – Hyundai

In all probability Bret Farve will most likely still be playing ball in ten years and it’s refreshing to know that if you buy a Hyundai today, that in 2020, that warranty of your will still be kicking as well.

Ad 5 – Dodge Charger

Yes ladies and gentlemen, this is the ad that Dodge spent a few million bucks on. So, not only did they waste your money again, but the also spent a full minute telling the common man that he’s a total pussy. Hey Dodge, if you’re listening: CALL ME YOU DOUCHE BAGS! Let a real fan of the brand tell you what you should be doing…

Ad 6 – VW Punch

Correct me if I’m wrong, but doesn’t the whole “Punch” thing apply only if you see a Bug? Aren’t you supposed to call out “PUNCH BUGGY” and then slug the guy next to you? It wasn’t a bad ad by any means; I just think VW’s information is a bit skewed.

Personally, I think this is the one they should have showed…

Ad 8 – Bridgestone

Man, this guy really likes his tires; I mean did you see the chick he kicked out of his car… BOOYA! If I were the Mad Max crew I’d be thinking I got a good deal… but then again, I’ve got Nitto’s on my car, so what do I know.

Ad 9 – Kia Sorrento

I actually really liked this ad. Who knows, maybe it just appealed to the kid in me, but I could see those little stuffed guys in the rear view mirror just thinking about all the fun they could have if given the chance.

Ad 10 – Honda Cross-Tour

Any time you add cool music and cute animals together you generally wind up with something that doesn’t suck – and this ad didn’t… suck, I mean. It wasn’t overly brilliant, nor was it something that I’ll remember by noon tomorrow, but, like I said, it didn’t suck.

Ad 11 – Audi Green Police

Man, Audi is REALLY pushing their clean diesels and with good measure, as they’re good cars. In fact I just did a road test review of the very car in the commercial, the Audi A3 TDI, you can read about it here. Check out the ad below and see what you think…

Ad 12 – Hyundai

Ah… the last and final ad of Super Bowl XLIV and yes, it’s another Hyundai. In the final chapter of this continuing saga, employees carry a brand new Sonata through the entire assembly plant in Montgomery, Alabama. Their reason is that Hyundai feels that if every one of their employees touches the car it makes the car “feel” like it was built by hand. Hmmm… don’t know about that one.

I’ve never really been a big fan of diesels. Not because I don’t like them, but simply because I really don’t have any real world experience with them. Hell, the last diesel experience I had was way back in 1981 with my Dad’s diesel powered Buick Riviera. I was 9 years old and only remember my Dad constantly cursing the thing – I won’t lie, it left an impression.

Fast forward 29 years, (holy crap I’m getting old) to the Washington, DC International Auto Show. I was handed the keys to a brand new 2010 Audi A3 TDI with 614 miles on the clock… seriously, I even took a picture for you guys… like I said earlier, it’s cool being press. By the way, nice gauge cluster right? A big analog tachometer and speedo are clearly visible behind the steering wheel, along with a temperature and fuel gauge. Note the tachometer with the 4500 rpm redline… remember it’s a diesel. These suckers don’t rev.

Let us talk about the car first and then we’ll get into driving impressions and performance. Now remember that the A3 is the baby of the Audi family. It’s the little brother to the A4 and grandson to the A8. What that means is, it’s small, not like Miata small, but more like Ford Focus small. To its credit though the little A3 does make good use of the space it has available by taking advantage of every last nook and cranny. On the outside Audi has managed to give the A3 a burly stance. The front end comes at you with bravado that makes the A3 seem bigger in attitude than in actual physical size – more bark than bite so to speak.

Climb into the A3s cabin and you’re greeted to a sea of gray – like everywhere… except for maybe the vent bezels… those are silver. Everything else though, was gray. It’s really not all bad, but I mean how about a little splash of color? How about some aluminum around the dash or navigation system… just something to break it up a little. The interior was also decidedly German meaning there was everything you need and nothing you don’t. Cup holders were not splattered all over the place nor were little things like change compartments and such, it was really pretty basic. Fit and finish is top notch and there is no question that the A3 uses top quality materials throughout. The leather seats, plastics and the overall interior build quality really are superb.

Climate controls are easy to use and within arms reach, as are the controls for the radio and navigation system. Speaking of which… I would probably bypass the ole’ navigation on the options sheet. It’s like 2 grand and will probably be behind the technology curve in 3 years. Buy a TomTom or Garmin instead for like $99, then go take a vacation someplace with the $1900 you saved… or you can just send a portion to me for saving you all that cash.

The seats are pretty comfy with support in all the right places and do a good job of holding you in when you throw the Audi into the corners. Leg room was simply “Ok” for me… remember, 6′4″ here… so what that means is when I sit up front, there is no way in hell anyone is sitting behind me. My right leg was also butting up against the center console. This is no big deal for short runs of say an hour or less, but if you were road tripping this thing, you’d probably go insane. Headroom was just “ok” as well. My take – if you are over 6′ tall, you may find the A3 a bit cramped. Rear seat room was just like the front – cramped. This should be of no surprise because after all it’s an A3 not an A8. Take heed though, because if you plan on putting some extra bodies in the back, they may be a bit squished.

As we head to the ass end of the A3 we’re greeted to a high-opening hatch back… and this is good, because odds are you won’t crack your head open when you are taking out the groceries. Space is actually quite ample back here. I’ll be honest, I have no idea how many cubic feet of space this thing has, nor do I give a damn, I talk about real world applications here. What I do know is that you can fit like 2 BIG duffel bags or suitcases side by side and a few small backpacks on top. Or fold down the rear seats and throw in 4 biggies and a few little ones on top and around the edges. Just a note though, when the rear seats fold down, they don’t fold flat… you’ve been warned.

Ok, now that we’ve summed up the interior, fit finish and cargo room; let us talk about what this little bugger is like to drive. Keep in mind, this is a diesel, not a conventional gas engine, so performance and power delivery are completely different to what most people are used to. The A3 is powered by a 2.0 liter turbo diesel that delivers 140 hp and 236 lbs.-tq.. Power is transmitted to the front wheels, as there is no Quattro available yet with the diesel… WTF? I mean one main reason you buy an Audi is for the Quattro system.

I have to say that if the automotive layperson got into this thing they would have no idea it was a diesel-powered car – it’s quiet. Gone are all remnants of the billowing black smoke engines of yesteryear. These things are not only quiet but they burn remarkably clean as well. Put your foot down and the Audi jumps to life, power delivery is linear and shifts are VERY quick, behaving almost like you’re short shifting it. This actually takes awhile to get used to. Once underway the A3 drives just as you’d imagine an Audi would. The ride is firm with a decidedly sporty feel, but is in no way uncomfortable. Acceleration however is lacking. In fact with a few people in the car it seemed like forever to get up to 70 mph. Stats show the A3 clock in a 0-60 time of about 9 seconds with a top speed of about 130 mph and I believe it… as it feels pretty slow. The car does weigh in at a chunky 3300 lbs., which is high for a small car. That means that that 140 hp and 236 lbs.-tq are really working to get this little chubby chub moving.

Throw the car into a corner and the A3 is definitely rewarding. The front wheel drive has a tendency to plow when pushed hard, but for everyday spirited driving I don’t think I would complain. Brakes are great and provide a firm, yet planted feel when you stomp on the pedal… no real drama here. Mileage is where the clean diesel really shines and is really the only reason I would opt for this engine. How does 30 city / 42 hwy sound… nice right? Combine that with the 15 gallons fuel the A3 holds and you’re talking a minimum of 450 miles per tank in city driving – that, ladies and gentlemen is what the diesel is all about.

The big question at the end of the day is… would I actually buy one? Unfortunately, the answer is no and not because of the reasons you’d think. At $36,000 as equipped, this is not a cheap car and aside from the mileage and “mystique” of owning an Audi, you really don’t get that much extra for your hard earned dollar. So, what would I consider as an alternative you might ask? How about a VW Jetta Sportswagon TDI. You get more room, the same engine and transmission as the Audi and pay almost $10,000 less. Now, if you need that Audi mystique then go for it, you WILL enjoy the car, however if you’re feeling a bit on the frugal side, hit up the VW dealership and make your wallet happy.

There are some cars out there that will, for one reason or another, stop you dead in your tracks. What you see before you is one of those cars. Fully clad in its brilliant red paint the this Audi R8 Spyder was simply beautiful to witness in person, as was evident from the hoards of people that surrounded it. Now, let me preface this by saying that I actually have a fair amount of seat time in a standard 4.2 liter R8 (as if you can call any R8 standard), so I was pretty psyched to see how the Spyder stacked up from not only a visual standpoint, but a comfort standpoint as well.

Visually the new Spyder looks like nothing else on the road today. Its clean lines and simplistic design only lend to its allure. The beauty of the R8 is, and always has been, the fact that it is one of the few super cars that you can drive year round as a daily driver. For 2010 though, Audi up’d the anti on the R8 by bumping up the power with an adrenaline shot from a 5.2 liter V10 derived from the Lamborghini Gallardo. This means 525 hp, 0-60 in 3.7 seconds and a top end of 195 mph. Combine that with Audi’s bulletproof all wheeled drive system and you’ve just created automotive heaven.

The Spyder’s cabin was a familiar sight to me and I was welcomed in with open arms. From the uber comfortable supportive seats, to the firm grip steering wheel, the Audi is just as inviting on the inside as it is on the out. It’s also very roomy with ample leg and shoulder room. This particular car was trimmed throughout with red stitching as a compliment to the gray leather interior and carbon fiber accents.

I am always surprised by the fact that the Audi is indeed a super car, because in all honesty it doesn’t feel like one… let me clarify. Most super cars, in both styling and comfort can be a bit harsh to deal with. Take the Lamborghini Gallardo, the R8’s Italian cousin. On the outside it’s brash and in your face, with an attitude that wants to pick a fight with the car next to it. It’s also obnoxiously loud. The Audi R8 however is mild in comparison and comes at you with a somewhat elegant attitude that says, “I’ll kick your ass in a minute, but first I have to finish my tea”. Does that make sense to everyone? Exterior wise the R8 Spyder was treated to some updates as well. Take the windshield frame for example – it’s coated with anodized aluminum… talk about classy. The mirrors have been given the treatment as well by way of integrated LED turn signals in a carbon fiber housing, again, some really nice touches here.

I suppose my only caveat here and it’s VERY minor, is the Spyder’s backside. On the standard R8 you are treated to a view of the engine, where on the Spyder every detail is concealed. Obviously Audi engineers had to put the folding canvas top (which goes up in a mere 19 seconds btw) someplace but It’s just a shame we lose our beautiful view. At the end of the day, the new Audi R8 Spyder positions itself as an alternative to it’s bold and brash Italian cousins by offering up a subdued elegance that must be seen to be appreciated.

Regardless of how legitimate the global push towards green may or may not be, there’s no escaping the impact the rapid shift in consumer demand has had on the automotive industry. Ward’s 2010 10 Best Engines list reads like an Al Gore-scripted porno and in the 16 years they’ve been objectively evaluating engines, this year marks the first time only one V8 unit (from Hyundai, ironically enough) has made the cut. The rest of the selections are smaller, more fuel-efficient units including the frustratingly underpowered 1.8L DOHC I-4 Hybrid from the Toyota Prius.

Fortunately, the rest of Ward’s choices aren’t nearly as boring and include the 3.5L Ecoboost turbocharged V6 from the comeback kid himself (herself?), the Taurus SHO, and the snarling 3.0L supercharged V6 from the Audi S4. The 2.4L DOHC I-4 from the Chevy Equinox also made the list, purportedly thanks to its “groundbreaking” performance and segment-leading efficiency, though it’s reasonable to suspect that pity might have played a small role too.

Hit the jump for the full list of Ward’s 2010 picks.

2010 Ward’s Best Engines
* 2.0L TFSI Turbocharged DOHC I-4 (Audi A4)
* 3.0L TFSI Supercharged DOHC V-6 (Audi S4)
* 3.0L DOHC I-6 Turbodiesel (BMW 335d)
* 2.5L DOHC I-4 Hybrid (Ford Fusion Hybrid)
* 3.5L EcoBoost Turbocharged DOHC V-6 (Ford Taurus SHO)
* 2.4L Ecotec DOHC I-4 (Chevrolet Equinox)
* 4.6L Tau DOHC V-8 (Hyundai Genesis)
* 2.5L Turbocharged DOHC H-4 (Subaru Legacy 2.5GT)
* 1.8L DOHC I-4 Hybrid (Toyota Prius)
* 2.0L SOHC I-4 Turbodiesel (Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen TDI)

Source: Ward’s