Overview & Reviews

In business for more than 100 years, Audi is an automaker that builds luxury cars and SUVs. The company was started in Germany and has remained Deutschland-based to this day.

"Audi Automobile Works" entered the German car-manufacturing business in 1910 and remained independent until the Great Depression. Because Audi's founder, August Horch, had left a 10-year-old company bearing his own name, he chose a Latin form of his name -- Audi -- for his new company. Audi joined with three other auto manufacturers in 1932 to form Auto Union. Audi, the only surviving nameplate from that union, was purchased by Volkswagen in 1964.

During the 1970s, Audi started to get noticed in the U.S. with its 100LS luxury sedan and compact and sprightly Fox coupe and sedan. By the late '70s the brand had replaced the dated 100LS with its new 5000 luxury sedan.

Every manufacturer has its defining moments. For Audi, one such moment came in March 1980 at the Geneva Motor Show. The automaker unveiled the Audi Quattro, an all-wheel-drive sport coupe that was met with a wildly enthusiastic response on the show floor. The Quattro's all-wheel-drive system went on to help Audi win accolades in motorsports and it was eventually integrated into the entire model range.

That year also saw the Fox replaced by the 4000. Four years later, the range-topping 5000 was redesigned. Audi's sales shot up nearly 50 percent, thanks chiefly to that newly aerodynamic yet handsome flagship that featured what would become an Audi hallmark -- an elegantly stylish, high-quality cabin.

Sadly, Audi's fortunes turned for the worse when the carmaker's 5000 model was accused of unintended acceleration in a 60 Minutes television episode. A subsequent government investigation found Audi innocent of the charge, but the resulting drop in sales nearly put Audi out of business in the U.S.

The late '80s saw Audi redesign the 4000, renaming it the 80 and 90 (with the 90 having more equipment) and also rename the 5000, dubbing it the 100 or 200. The 200 featured a turbocharged five-cylinder with all-wheel drive as opposed to a non-turbo five and front-wheel drive, as on the 100. A Coupe also debuted, as did a new flagship, a V8-powered 200 sedan simply called the "V8".

The following decade saw the A4 and Cabriolet models, as well as the renaming of the 100 to A6. The stunning A8 was introduced as Audi's new flagship, boasting all-aluminum construction and a beefy V8. High-performance versions of the various models bowed, dubbed S4, S6 and S8.

The start of the new millennium brought the TT, Audi's low-slung sport coupe (and later roadster). It also introduced RS versions of the A4 and A6, providing even more performance than "S" variants. In addition to "S" and "RS" versions of the TT, Audi's more recent releases include the A3 hatchback, Q5 crossover SUV, slick A5 coupe, exotic R8 sports car and A7 luxury hatchback sedan.

Today, Audi continues its success in the prestige car marketplace by offering a wide range of vehicles that impressively combine luxury and sport.

User Reviews:

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  MAY I HAVE ANOTHER PLEASE.. - 2004 Audi TT
  By finance girl - January 31 - 2:00 am

  I am coming up on the end of my TT lease in a few months and I have enjoyed this car so much I think I am going to get another. There is not another car on the market that is suited to my driving needs and preferences. I live in a snowy climate, and once I put on snow tires this car was more sure footed than my Jeep. The cornering is phenominal, and the styling is the best in its class. As far as repairs I have only had this car in the shop once to replace a power window regulator, not too bad for initial quality. I would and do recommend this car to anyone who wants a fun drive, with a reasonable cost of ownership.

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  Two year report - 2004 Audi A6
  By Bernie1 - January 31 - 2:00 am

  The car is a pleasure to drive. I am many decades past the age of squealing tires and stop light races but I like a nimble responsive car. This is a refined classy vehicle. Plenty of power. Understated elegance.

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  My A4 - 1997 Audi A4
  By dashh - January 30 - 2:00 am

  I have been more than impressed with my A4s outstanding interior, smooth good looks, exceptional build quality and ride. It has generous trunk space and front seats are very comfortable, altho rear passengers lack legroom. Its also quite affordable! The 1.8 turbo with 5 speed stick delivers smooth power (no noticeable lag) and enough horses to run with V6s. Ive been disappointed with reliability, needing to replace headlight bulbs repeatedly, and the rack & pinion steering system. While the ride is nice, Id prefer it stiffer for enthusiastic driving, but replacing the tires with some Kumhos vastly improved it.

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  My second Audi - 1999 Audi A4
  By CFWhite - January 30 - 2:00 am

  After my lovely Jaguar XJS burnt up in a freak occurence, I was left with my 1996 Audi. Although I loved the roadability, I was ready for all the bells and whistles on my 1999. It really compares favorably to the much more expensive Jag, although I did love that car. The Audi is completely dependable and not expensive to keep on the road. I am thinking about getting a convertible.

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  I LOVE IT!!!! - 2004 Audi TT
  By sedonacarol - January 30 - 2:00 am

  One of the most comforable roadsters Ive had and I love the way it drives and the way it makes me feel as if I am part of the car...great driving experience...a real head turner

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  More than expected by hot car lover. - 2004 Audi A8
  By BobA - January 29 - 2:00 am

  My A9L is a dream come true. Makes BMW and MB look last generation. More fun to drive than a Turbo Cayenne, and more rare. Interior details are stunning. Lighting is knockout. Stereo is wonderful. Back seat is almost limo. I drove one of the first TT coupes in Florida. People crossed 4 lanes of traffic to oogle it. This car is just as stunning. Even my teenage son and his friends are impressed. It must be cool. And there is room for 4 bags and 4 golfers in style. Audi quality and service are wonderful. My dealer, Shelton, is A1. I hate to gush, but it is one ego trip for a person who loves to drive.

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  2004 TT - 2004 Audi TT
  By kabs60 - January 29 - 2:00 am

  Ive owned the car for almost 5 months. It has been a pleasure to drive. I had a Saab 9-3 convertible, which was a nice car, but it didnt not perform as well...had a lot of shake for a convertible.

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  Great Car - 2000 Audi A6
  By Rare Tampa AudiOwner - January 28 - 2:00 am

  Ive owned several cars from SAABs to Hondas to Acuras and by far, the engineering in the Audi is far superior to all the cars Ive owned. There is no shortage of safety features in this car and theyve thought of most convenience features in this package.

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  Never again - 2001 Audi TT
  By Gmeyers - January 28 - 2:00 am

  Plagued with problems. In the first two years replaced: windshield washer sprayer, heated seat switch, window motor, rear wind deflector, windshield washer fluid reservoir and pump. Have intermittent check engine light. Dealer damaged car during one repair. Repeated attempts (3 page letter with 2 follow up e-mails over 2 month period)to resolve issue with Audis Customer Care Center were completely ignored. Audi talks a good game, but in my experience their customer service is nothing but lip service. I would have a hard time recommending this car to anyone.

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  Drives like an Audi ... but ... - 2002 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By forzajuve - January 26 - 11:10 pm

  I knew that by purchasing a used Allroad I may have had problems with the air suspension. but didnt expect so soon. Within 3 months I spent 1000 dollars per side (yes ... they are pricey). Then because the car is so heavy, I am experiencing problems with the ball joints (other common problem). Tire wear is abnormal. Overall it is a great car to drive, very comfortable ... but I wouldnt buy another one. The Volvo XC is much better option and without those expensive air shocks.