By accessing this website, you acknowledge that Edmunds and its third party business partners may use cookies, pixels, and similar technologies to collect information about you and your interactions with the website as described in our
Privacy Statement, and you agree that your use of the website is subject to our
Visitor Agreement.
Comments
Almost everybody's sales were up in August in large part to the C4C, but Audi led the luxury pack & attributed less than 10% to C4C sales according to their press release.
A6, A8 & TT seemed to be the only one's not improving in sales if I remember right.
They even posted selling 44 S5 cabriolets, although I don't know if that just means they've been ordered or not. Regardless, those beautes should be popping up on roads in the near future. Probably first in Tag's neck of the woods in Cali. :shades:
With C4C now gone, a downturn in sales is expected, but Audi seems to be gaining market share in the luxury game here in the states at a steady pace.
Poised to Pass
Regards,
OW
Audi Pres Predicts Chevy Volt to be a spark
Regards,
OW
Its all about product. It comes down to a mostly stale, tired lineup vs. a mostly fresh one. I'm sure Lexus is depending heavily on the RX to stay in the game.
Bye, bye Lexus. Hello Hyundai.
That's admittedly a bit of a stretch, but not by nearly as much as one would think.
TM
Nope. The 740i uses a different version of the turbo. It's the same turbo as in the January delivered X6 models. The 335 used the old version, which had overheating problems and some others I forgot about already. It's said that all the '09 models have the new revised turbo already, but I honestly have no clue as of how to tell them apart.
As even the current turbo is already being pushed to the limits, ECU recalibration will most likely blow it up IMO. Bigger turbo? Well, I'd rather fix the current turbo before moving further, as BMW's lack of experience with turbos is very obvious.
Sneak peek: 2011 Hyundai Genesis
Hyundai is readying the Genesis for a freshening. Originally scheduled for the 2012 model year, the refreshening may be moved up to 2011. Exterior updates will include new front and rear bumpers, updated headlamps and new signature styling on the grille, which will give an immediate tie-in to the Equus flagship.
Also anticipated is a new eight-speed automatic transmission and -- sources say -- a supercharged version.
In related news, Hundai took 7.2% of C4C sales. Not too shabby for a company that used to make junk.
"We used to call them the Big Six, but now all of our files say `the Big Seven'," said Jesse Toprak, vice president of industry trends at auto Web site TrueCar.com. "We've added Hyundai."
They might not be a true lux marquee yet but these guys aren't fooling around either.
Regards,
OW
I found the a4 seat to be hard....but the car to be very roomy....Have you seen the E interior? Tony
Now that's interesting. I had just sort of assumed that there was still plenty of room for BMW to crank up the power without really doing anything, much like Audi did when they added 15hp and 24ft.lbs to the 2.7T S-line. Audi certainly has far more experience with turbocharging, that's for sure.
Indeed. Audi V6 engines in particular were always quite weak until they released the 2.7T. What I do find interesting is how Audi keeps finding more and more power from their V8 - without increasing displacement. It's still at 4.2L, and yet the version that will debut in the new A8 will have some 375hp+.
It's not that easy to just boost the pressure on the turbo. Dinan does it right and suggests the internal parts will need to be fortified to ensure long-term durability under the increased power output as engine sizes decrease. Here is the current description (Stage 2 Performance Pkg.) of how the software works to work with the current I-6:
The Dinan Performance Engine Software safely increases turbo-boost pressure from the stock 8.8 to 13.2 psi, along with properly retuned fuel mixtures, ignition timing and full map rescaling.The Dinan Performance Engine Software safely increases turbo-boost pressure from the stock 8.8 to 13.2 psi, along with properly retuned fuel mixtures, ignition timing and full map rescaling. In fact, over 2000 engine management functions have been recalibrated, offering substantial increases in power output while maintaining the civility and reliability expected of a Dinan performance product.
Remapped Water Pump Speeds. In an effort to more effectively control oil and water temperatures, the Dinan software actually increases water pump speeds as boost pressure increases.
Boost Pressure Control. Increased boost pressure exceeds the turbochargers’ design limitations at higher rpm, potentially shortening their lifespan. Dinan addresses this issue by tapering the boost gradually at higher engine speeds. This approach also addresses the fact that with increased boost at higher rpm the turbocharger temperatures would exceed the intercooler’s ability to cool the intake charge, resulting in a loss of power and compromising the long-term durability of the engine. The tapered boost keeps temperatures within the design limitations so as to optimize output and ensure engine reliability with the added boost pressure.
The results of Dinan’s tuning are nothing short of breathtaking, with the added boost and related recalibration producing maximum output of 384 horsepower at 5700 rpm and 421 lb-ft torque at 4300 rpm. All of this additional power is available from Dinan’s software alone, which is easily downloaded by your Authorized Dinan Dealer in about an hour.
BMW also introduced a factory performance upgrade for the 6 cyl. which adds 20 HP and 30lb./ft.
BTW, Dinan matches the new car warranty.
Regards,
OW
... Which was rumored to also become available through the parts and service departments... as an upgrade kit... last time I checked, it has never materialized.
I'm still waiting.
TM
BMW 135i Performance Pack (2009) CAR review
Regards,
OW
That was the original plan, but the hope has been that an upgrade kit would find its way to the U.S.
As so often, the European market is the first-class market, and the American market is second-class. They get the cool diesels, too.
Maybe, eventually the upgrade kit will find its way over here.
TM
True. Audi has the most experience with turbos, while MB leads in supercharging. BMW has yet to find a way to create a better turbo, let alone cranking it up. Maybe BMW can cut R&D time and costs and cooperate with Dinan or Alpina instead to solve their problem. :shades:
Another major problem is what was pointed out by the BMW mechanic I know:
"BMW engines run at 90-95% of their full potential. MB and Audis OTOH run at around 80% of their full capabilities. At this point pulling more out of BMW's stock engine (without further mods like Dinan does) will affect the endurance of the engines themselves. Dinan style mods possible, but will be too costly for mass production."
BMW sure got more problems than we ever thought.
The single worst problem for BMWs is their HPFP. It is almost a certain bet that it will fail eventually. Mine failed shortly after I took delivery, and it was promptly replaced. BMW forums are loaded with this particular failure. I can only wonder how this is even possible.
TM
Date: April 2009
Subject: BMW emissions warranty of the High Pressure Fuel Pump (HDP) has been extended from 4 years or 50,000 miles to 10 years or 120,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Here is a link if you need...
BMW Technical Bulletin SI B 13 03 09
...and a little more info.
the original vendor that provided the fuel pumps was replaced sometime in 08. the earlier ones were definitely prone to failure and many have. some people ended up blowing more than one b/c junk in = junk out.
its pretty rare for fuel pump from the new vendor to blow but there are some cases. be happy that its a known problem so BMW should replace it for free regardless of whether you're under warranty or not.
Regards,
OW
Regards,
OW
Audi has the most experience with turbos, while MB leads in supercharging.
Why is Audi supercharging their engines now :confuse: :confuse: , I guess we are going to see MB turbos in the near future.
I will have to test drive the S4 and the G37x sport, back to back to see if there is a big difference. I believe the new 7 gears in the G would make it a whole lot closer than we think.
I have no idea. MB stopped supercharging their engines, as it's deemed too old tech and unrefined.
Ever tried supercharged MBs with smaller engines? It starts slowly, bog slow, actually. Then somewhere in the midrange the boost suddenly kicks in, back pressed. Upper line... boost is gone again. That's my experience with C180k and C200k engines
From what I read, both twin turbo and supercharged versions of Audi's new 3.0L were developed, and Audi decided to go with the compact, belt driven supercharger fitted between the cylinder banks. The exact reasons for this are probably not known outside of Audi, but it may have been due to a lot of warranty claims on the B5 2.7T S4.
The G37x is quick, but I don't think it's a sub 5 second car. The torque difference between the two cars is colossal. Put them on a track, and it will be no contest. The G37x will have no hope of keeping up in the corners.
MB has never been known for amazing 4-cylinders. I don't think turbo charging is inherently good or supercharging is inherently bad. Getting turbos to have anything even approaching linear response requires some fancy (and expensive) technology like variable vanes. If you just put a big turbo on a small engine, you end up with an EVO that's literally dead until it hits 3000rpm.
Como estas? Bien? Estoy bien, gracias! Eh...los banditos tienen pantalones rojos y el gato esta anaranjado.
That's about the sum total of my espanol these days.
I have not seen the E interior in person. The last time I was at the Merc dealer, I spent all my time crawling around the S, while my wife was test driving the SLK.
As far as the A4 goes, I found that the standard seats were very poor & the only way to have one was with the sport seats. Did you have a chance to try the sport seats?
If you're still in Miami can you see if one has to be a celebrity to purchase a part of the Dolphins, or if anyone's cash is good?
I have similiar feelings regarding our experience with Acura (as you know, part of of Micky D's group before they brought Audi in). 6 years into an '00 TL, the self-dimming rearview mirror leaked it's fluid all over the center shifter console staining the shine of faux-alluminum trim.
Service department told us that it was not an uncommon thing with those particular mirrors. :confuse: Sounds like a 'known issue' to me & deserving a warning. Maybe they thought everybody trades in their car every 3 years. Not everybody does.
That does cause me worry with the Audi though. Instead of faux alluminum below the mirror this time, it's the entire MMI system. I suspect a similiar leak would do a lot more expensive damage this time around. I guess I'll be a little more proactive on finding out any potential problems this time around.
Could be worse, the transmission could've exploded as on many (most?) '99-03 TLs. I don't remember ever hearing about problems with leaky Audi self dimming mirrors. If something does go wrong with an Audi, its usually either an electrical fault or something to do with the suspension.
The infamous Honda V6 auto debacle, eh? It hit, but just a few months ago. Almost exactly at 150k miles. I can't really complain about that, but it does chip away at the ultra-durable Honda reputation somewhat. My son still has a 3 pedaled '93 Civic that runs fine though.
I replaced the tranny at a discount only because my wife hasn't been able to make up her mind on a new ride. So, in the meantime, she rides the 'now' beater Acura. She only puts about 3K on a car per year these days, so there really isn't a rush. Maybe I can talk her into an RS5.
The whole mirror deal just seemed like one of those brush it under the rug things. If I knew it was an issue, I would have popped a new one in there earlier obviously. I hope it doesn't become an issue in the Audi, especially because the MMI would get leaked on. :mad:
I replaced the tranny at a discount only because my wife hasn't been able to make up her mind on a new ride. So, in the meantime, she rides the 'now' beater Acura. She only puts about 3K on a car per year these days, so there really isn't a rush. Maybe I can talk her into an RS5.
RS5? Its already available :confuse: Btw, how old is ur son? Do u ever let him drive your S5
Nah, don't think so. Thought it was supposed to make an appearance at the Frankfurt auto show. Just sort of wishful thinking anyhow.
Btw, how old is ur son? Do u ever let him drive your S5
He'll be 21 next Monday. :surprise: I do let him drive the S5 when he's home from school....just not solo. :shades:
I've tried the E and checked it inside out. The interior is actually plush with very nice materials, but the sharp angles and boxy dash cheapen the whole look.
That's my impression of the Audi cars in general. For the asking premium prices, one still has to option in the better seats to get the really nice package.
I don't really. I'm quite content with my current ride. Thoughts of it on steroids does intrigue me though.
Besides, that would be kind of a silly 2 car combination. Variety is nice & am looking forward to the day my wife decides on something.
I'm not sure how you arrive at that conclusion when the S4 has 7 speeds in its own gearbox - the latest S-tronic DSG - which is going to shift much faster than the G37's autobox, and also has no power sapping torque converter.
Audi rates the S4's power at 333hp @ 5500rpm, and 325ft.lbs @ 2900rpm. The G37x has 328hp @ 7000rpm, and 269ft.lbs @ 5200rpm. The Infiniti could have a 9-speed gearbox, there's no getting around the fact that its going to get beaten by the S4 in all performance metrics.
Of course in typical "daily driving", the S4's extra power and handling probably wont be needed. I use maybe 10% of the S6's real capabilities day to day, which an M35x could just as easily do. For things like passing on a two lane though, 435hp and nearly 400ft.lbs is nice to have. The M35x has no hope of keeping pace in a 50-80mph dash.
You got me beat--in fact it reads like i am well beat---but not the U this week
I didn`t sit on the better seats in the Audi, just what they had at the time...I thought it nicely laid out and quite spacious, but not good seats..
I`m up in the N C mountains---misssing Miami-- but my understanding is the new owners are just selling small bits to celebrity people....Makes sense....I have been a big U fan for the last six years or so, and it has been painful
I haven`t sat in the Mercedes yet, but it looked nice, when I saw it...I have tried to stay away until I have a better feeling about the diesel...and frankly the Audi is still very good.......The bmw was nice to drive again, and it renews my thoughts about how good it is to drive...Maybe the new model will have better materials inside, so I will really have to keep an open mind----after all four or five years is a long time.....I suggested to my wife we swap cars for a month or so, and when she saw I was serious, her intrest in the bmw went up
Only if nonsensical gibberish counts...
but not the U this week
Wonderful game to watch, but painful on my end. :sick: I lived in PCB before here, closer to Nole country than the U. I feel your pain on the last several years though.
I'm taking my car in for service next week. Tire rotation & oil change (even though it's not called for until 15K, I feel better doing it every 5K w/the tires). If I can swing it, maybe I'll head over to the Merc dealer & look about the E.
I would appreciate your opinions on the E, and also just your overall opinion of the diesel.....I might be making too much out of it, as I really don`t drive that many miles a year.....Sometimes it is rediculous to complain about the cost of a gallon of gas when I spend a whole tanks worth on one meal.....:) Also if it turns out Tagman is right about the cost of fuel, than the whole economy would be turning up and we all should be better off finacially---maybe the big gas engine would be the ticket then
The outside looks a lot like its big brother, the S class, but not as muscular.
I don't get where all of the money is going. It looks like a Mercedes GT-R.
Well... my money isn't going to Mercedes Benz for that... although I know of several individuals who will just have to own one... for all the usual and pathetic reasons... none of which have anything to do with the car itself, but more about ego.
Here's an exterior shot, and a complete HD slide show here... link title
TM
No words necessary. Ahhhhhh. Mmmmmm.
Likely... 525 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque.
Anyone else here whose heart is now also beating faster?
More here... link title
:shades:
TM
I'd rather get an R8 or Gallardo and keep the change :shades:
Hell, a Murcielago costs about the same!!!
Wonder why the V10 badging appears washed out in the 1st pic. I think I miss the blade, I think.
Interesting color too. I think I'd rather have the leather that color than the skin. Should be fun to customize one on a 'build your car'...
Yeah... chalk up some late nights ahead...
TM