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| Extra 'Audi'nary ! |
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 The
name ‘Audi’ undeniably generates awe, and
why not, asks the March 2006 issue of Overdrive which has test
driven the Audi
A4 1.8 and 2.0. With this new launch, Audi can sit back and watch
their product work wonders in the market like proud parents. The positive
aspects to this car make up a rather large list, with unbeatable styling
and top notch interiors being only the tip of the iceberg. Specifically,
it is Audi’s minute attention to detail and ergonomic needs that
leave a bold and ever-lasting impact on our minds.
To
sum up Overdrive’s 4.5 / 5 verdict, this particular Audi
definitely deserves the red carpet!
Why? Read on to find out. |
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| PROS: |
1.
Its double-decker trapezoidal grille renders the whole car an extremely
powerful and masculine effect. This grille can be teamed up with the likes
of the BMW’s or Mercedes’ grille, but the A4’s
grille is definitely more of a head turner. |
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2.
The Audi have never been the types to compromise on safety norms for any
reason, but A4 certainly crosses all the standards they have set for themselves
in the past. This one comes, as expected, with both driver and passenger
airbags. But that isn’t all. These airbags have special sensors
that organize thorax or pelvis airbags judging the force of the impact.
Also present are curtain airbags that cover up the entire length of the
windows. Whew! Lastly, there are active locking head restraints that lessen
the distance between the head and restraint in the unfortunate occurrence
of a crash. |
3.
There is a host of new equipment available with this Audi. Check out for
instance, the trim packs for the engine variants, the ‘climate control’
feature, the sun roof, 6-CD sound system and passive safety systems, etc.
The list is certainly pretty exhaustive. |
| 4.
When it comes to making your way around the car, it is pretty simple to
navigate around the A4; the design is extremely user-friendly. |
| 5.
The interiors are pleasing, elite and extremely comfortable and roomy. |
| 6.
The steering wheel is framed with Magnesium; the design is similar to that
of the grille, thus balancing out the design of the grille’s contours.
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| 7.
The boot of the car is a good 460l and well shaped to put to use every bit
of the luggage area. |
| 8.
Acceleration is a thrilling experience, with the A4’s excellent pick
up with the help of its TDI. |
| 9.
This car is fitted with the ABS, due to which the car can smoothly halt
at a distance of just 26 metres. |
| 10.
The A4’s grip on the road is pretty much good, but some certain jerks
can still be felt. |
11.
Fuel efficiency of the Audi’s TDI engine is exceptional, which was
one of the primary reasons why diesel engines picked up more buyers than
petrol engines since last year. |
12.
All in all, a great bargain for 28.8 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), and what’s
more, it isn’t far behind the Merc’s as far as the equipments
are concerned. |
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| CONS: |
| 1.
The design of the tail lamp is a bit of a letdown; it could certainly have
been better. |
2.
Seat adjustments are manual; also the driver may feel a little uncomfortable
than usual on his seat, particularly. |
3.
The head room gives no room for complaint, but the leg room tends to get
a little cramped. This will particularly be felt by the third passenger
in the rear. |
4.
Basically, the Audi royally makes its way into the same segment as the
Mercedes-Benz C-Class. But connoisseurs will still agree that it still
has a long way to truly be considered as part of the Merc’s league.
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| Source:
Indiacar Editorial Team |
