The 2012 Audi TT is praised for its luxurious interior and low base price. However, it does not seem to do well in the arena of luxury sports cars because it is not as fast as its competitors.

Perhaps that is because of the expectation about speed. But since cars are not made of engines alone, the new Audi TT is nevertheless a good choice. There is a variant that is the performance oriented, the TT RS, but it is far too expensive compared to the base model.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Coupe	Base Price: $38,300.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 14.5 gallons (55 liters)	MPG: 23 city / 31 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 164.5 in. (417.8 cm)	Wheel Base: 97.2 in. (246.8 cm)
Height: 53.2 in. (135.3 cm)	Width: 72.5 in. (184.2 cm)
Curb Weight: 3153 lbs (1430 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 13.1 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 2+2 people

Performance

Engine: 2.0L DOHC Inline 4	Compression Ratio: 9.6: 1
Horsepower: 211 HP	Max RPM: 4300 RPM
Torque: 258 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm	Transmission: X-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 5.3 seconds	Maximum Speed: 130 mph (209 km/h)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:TT Convertible	MSRP: $41,300; MPG: 23 city / 31 hwy
Option:TT RS Coupe 5 Cyl	MSRP: $56,850; MPG: 18 city / 25 hwy
Option:TTS Coupe	MSRP: $47,000; MPG: 23 city / 31 hwy
Option:TTS Roadster	MSRP: $50,000; MPG: 23 city / 31 hwy

Engine

The Audi TT comes with a 4-cylinder 2.0 liter turbocharged engine that delivers 211 horsepower and 258 lbs/ft of torque. This combination is adequate for daily use. Indeed the Audi TT is not just for special occasions, it can be used daily, too. The Audi TTS, if you need more muscle, is equipped with a turbocharged 2.0 liter I4 engine that brings 265 horsepower and 258 lbs/ft of torque. This engine can be paired with an automated 6-speed manual transmission.

Performance

The Audi TT may not be the fastest in its class but it is nevertheless capable. It can provide enough power that you need for commuting around the city and on the highway. Passing and merging is definitely easy.

Since the Audi all-wheel drive system, Quattro, comes standard on the TT and TTS, you can expect that power is optimally transferred to the ground. The TT has pleasing driving dynamics, too. However, there are cases of understeer just like in other 4-wheel drive cars.

Exterior

The Audi TT looks tight and sleek from the outside. Being neither too geometrical nor organic, its headlights are well shaped. The distinctive front grille remains and in the bumper they put air passage ways, located just below each headlight. The body has few straight lines that define a sporty shape and the overall look is not aggressive. It seems that the TT wants to conceal its sportiness until you are behind the wheel.

Interior

The Audi TT boasts its luxurious, elegantly finished interiors that provide superior comfort. However, the back seat in the coupe model is almost useless. A small child will be comfortable but not full grown adults, especially the taller ones. Cargo space is not stellar, but we should expect that from a sportscar. Because of the TT’s low stance, you may find entering and exiting a little bit difficult. The 2-seater TT is better because it simplifies things by limiting the passengers and therefore allotting enough space.

Safety

The Audi TT has never been crash tested by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the Federal government. Nonetheless, it comes with plenty of active and passive features that enhance the safety of the driver and the passenger. You will get your standard airbags and the safety features associated with the Quattro system.

Reliability

The new Audi TT comes with the standard 4-year warranty. This warranty length is competitive as far as the arena of luxury sports cars is concerned. Prospective owners can also get 24 hour road assistance as long as the standard warranty is valid.

Pros

The new Audi TT has a simple and profound styling that makes the car an all-weather and all-occasion vehicle. It has capable engines that can deliver what you need. You can drive around the city and on the highways with ease. The quality and style of the interiors are top-class.

Cons

The Audi TT stance is low, making entering and exiting a little bit difficult. The two seater model provides adequate space but the back seats in the coupe are enough only for children.

The TT is designed for sports car-oriented consumers who go after quality and style. If you belong to this category of car shoppers, the 2012 Audi TT is just right for you.

Overall Rating
75 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Audi TT is for all practical purposes a two-seat sports car; it lacks the extravagant space of a fuller-figured grand-touring coupe, yet there’s enough extra cabin and cargo space for a couple of adults to stage a comfortable weekend getaway.”Car Connection

“The only demerit to TT’s excellent handling prowess is steering that feels a bit light. Otherwise, these sporty cars are extremely composed with strong, reassuring brakes.”Consumer Guide

“The TT is not as agile or engaging as some competitors, but it is enjoyable to drive. Handling is responsive and the ride isn’t punishing, but neither is overly sporty. ”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“One-of-a-kind styling, stirring driving performance and solid craftsmanship are the hallmarks of a respectable luxury sports car, and the 2012 Audi TT possesses these qualities in a marked degree.”KBB

“Upscale interior; standard all-wheel drive; brilliant automated manual transmission; good fuel economy.”Edmunds

The 2012 GTA Spano is a high-performance sports car with a rear-mounted, 8.3-liter, V10 engine that can produce 820 horsepower and 708 lbs-ft of torque and gives it a top speed of over 217 mph.

The car is built on a chassis for which GTA filed several new patents. Structurally, the car is built using a combination of carbon fiber, Kevlar and titanium, giving the car super strength but keeping it very light.

The combination of the lightweight construction and powerful engine means this car is one of the fastest accelerators in the world, reaching 62 mph in just 2.9 seconds from a standing start.

Interior

The interior design is aimed at combining a luxury appearance with sporting appeal. Extensive use of leather and carbon fiber finishes demonstrate classic luxury features combined with ultra-modern components.

The leather-covered seats are electrically adjustable and have built-in hot and cold temperature control. The steering wheel, which is also leather-covered, is constructed from carbon fiber. Lights, wipers and turn signals are controlled from a single stick mounted behind the steering wheel.

Console

There is a 7″ LCD screen mounted in the dashboard that functions as the control center for many of the features supplied with the car, including the navigation system, entertainment and connectivity. There is no rear-view mirror on the Spano. Instead, images from a rear-mounted camera are projected on to the LCD screen.

Extra Features

As you would expect, a high specification car like the GTA Spano is fully loaded with the latest technology equipment. Fitted as standard are a radio, CD and MP3 player. The car has an iPod connector and is Bluetooth compatible, allowing access to phone functions via the car’s LCD options.

There are two trunks, one at the rear and the other at the front. To make loading easier, the front trunk has a reverse opening function.

Windows and central locking are electrically controlled, as are the sun visors and the hand brake. The 2012 GTA Spano is also supplied with an anti-theft system and a GPS tracking system.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Super Sport Coupe	Est. Market Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 26.4 gallons (100 liters)	MPG: NA

Dimensions

Length: 181.1 in. (460 cm)	Wheelbase: 110.2 in. (280 cm)
Height: 46.5 in. (118 cm)	Width: 77.9 in. (198 cm)
Curb Weight: 2976 lbs (1350 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 3.5 cu ft (front)/7 cu ft (rear)	Maximum Seating: 2

Performance

Engine: GTA Supercharged V10	Displacement: 8.3 liters
Horsepower: 820 HP	Max RPM: 6300 RPM
Torque: 708 lb-ft	Transmission: 7-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 2.9 seconds	Top Speed: 217 mph (350 km/h)

The 2012 BMW Z4 is one of the most popular luxury sports cars in the United States. It has a sleek and compact design that fits two people. BMW made many advances with this vehicle and added in a lot of new things to make it fun to drive.

It is a convertible, which means drivers can enjoy having the top up or down while on the road.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Convertible	Base Price: $48,650.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 14.5 gallons (54L)	MPG: 22 city / 32 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 167 in. (424.1 cm)	Wheel Base: 96.3 in. (244.6 cm)
Height: 50.8 in. (129 cm)	Width: 70.5 in. (179 cm)
Curb Weight: 3263 lbs (1480 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 8.0 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 2 people

Performance

Engine: Inline4 Twin Turbo DOHC	Displacement: 2.0 Liter
Horsepower: 240 HP	Max RPM: 5000 RPM
Torque: 260 lb-ft @ 1250-4800 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 5.5 seconds	Maximum Speed: 130 mph (209 km/h)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:sDrive35i Inline 6	MSRP: $55,150; MPG: 19 city / 26 hwy
Option:sDrive35is Inline 6	MSRP: $64,200; MPG: 17 city / 24 hwy

Engine

The sDrive 28i trim has a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder DOHC cylinder. It uses unleaded fuel and has a 240 horsepower engine. It is rear wheel drive with manual transmission. The sDrive35is trim is also turbocharged, but has a 3.0L 6 DOHC engine. The fuel tank capacity carries 14.5 gallons of gas. The engine produces 335 horsepower at 5,900 RPM.

Performance

This BMW gets around 23 mpg in the city and 34 on the highway. It can go from 0-60 in 5.7 seconds, which makes it one of the quickest cars BMW has. Although the car is powerful, it’s able to handle different types of roads very well. It’s agile and offers a smooth ride for both the passenger and driver. The engine in this model actually helps improve gas mileage as well.

Exterior

The body style is convertible with a hard top. There are power windows and rear defrost features as well. All tires are performance quality with aluminum wheels. There is also a tire pressure monitoring system. Colors available include: atacama yellow, space grey metallic, mineral white metallic, crimson red, black sapphire metallic and many others.

Interior

The inside of the Z4 has a setup for Bluetooth to offer drivers hands-free calling. There is also an auxiliary audio input jack for individuals who don’t use Bluetooth. The HD radio has clear sound that can play from the radio or the USB/iPod connection. There are also exterior mirror controls located inside of the cabin.

The controls inside of the car are all designed to be easy and simple to use. It’s also fairly small on the inside since there is only room for two people. There are option packages available for buyers who want a nicer look with the materials that are used throughout the inside of the Z4.

Safety & Reliability

This car that has not gone through crash testing by the federal government, but it does have a lot of safety features to keep passengers safe. The crash sensor will unlock doors and turn on the hazard lights when there is a collision detected.

Airbags located throughout the cabin that will inflate when a collision sensor detects an accident. There is a four year/50,000 mile warranty that comes included with free scheduled maintenance. The warranty also includes roadside assistance while it is still valid.

Pros

• Great performance.
• Hardtop that can retract.
• Small design perfect for sporty drivers.

Cons

• Inside of cabin is small.
• Expensive, especially with added options.
• Can only fit two people and doesn’t have a big trunk.
• Although it is sporty and fun, this generally isn’t a car that appeals to families because of the limited space.

Competition

There’s nothing like driving with the top down, which is why the likes of the Audi TTS (MSRP $50,350; 22 city / 34 hwy), along with the 6 cylinder machines of the Infiniti G (MSRP $47,200; 17 city / 25 hwy), and the Porsche Boxster (MSRP $49,500), has joined BMW in offering convertibles.

Overall Rating
75 out of 100

What others say:

“Like any small roadster, the 2012 BMW Z4 puts a premium on interior space. It’s big enough for two adults to travel in comfort, but they’d better pack lightly: there’s not much space for anything else.”Car Connection

“Handling is agile and stable, and even the base tires are grippy. The powerful brakes are easy to modulate and feature excellent pedal feel. Testers are divided on the value of the sport suspension. Some cite sharper response, others see little benefit versus other Z4s.”Consumer Guide

“The biggest news for the 2012 BMW Z4 is under the hood. The normally aspirated in-line-6 is gone. Its replacement, a 2.0-liter turbocharged four, is the new entry-level face of BMW, providing the performance foundation for the new 5 Series, the upcoming 3 Series and this, BMW’s performance roadster.”KBB

“Powerful six-cylinder and efficient four-cylinder engines; quick-folding hardtop; comfortable ride; big trunk (with the top raised); excellent visibility for a roadster…Not as invigorating and involving as Porsche rival; four-cylinder is clattery at idle; very pricey.”Edmunds

The 2012 Audi Q7 is regarded as one of the best midsize luxury SUVs in the market. With its gorgeous styling, powerful engines, upscale interior, and smooth ride, the new Q7 certainly has an audience.

Although there are things that you cannot find in the Q7, such as the space-generous third row, it still remains one of the best options when it comes to cars for families.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV	Base Price: $46,250.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 26.4 gallons (100L)	MPG: 16 city / 22 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 200.3 in. (508.9 cm)	Wheel Base: 118.2 in. (300.2 cm)
Height: 68.4 in. (173.7 cm)	Width: 85.7 in. (217.7 cm)
Curb Weight: 5291 lbs (2355 kg)	Ground Clearance: 9.4 in. (24 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 42 cu ft(behind 2nd row)	Maximum Seating: 7 people

Performance

Engine: 3.0L Supercharged DOHC V6	Compression Ratio: 10.5: 1
Horsepower: 280 HP	Max RPM: 4920 RPM
Torque: 295 lb-ft @ 2250 rpm	Transmission: 8-Speed Tiptronic Automatic
0-60 mph: 7.7 seconds	Maximum Speed: 130 mph (209 km/h)
1/4 Mile: NA	Max Towing Capacity: 5500 lbs (2495 kgs)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Premium Plus	MSRP: $52,550; MPG: 16 city / 22 hwy
Option:Prestige Supercharged V6	MSRP: $59,950; MPG: 16 city / 22 hwy

Engine

There are two engines available for the Q7. First is the supercharged V6 3.0 liter engine that delivers 280 horsepower and 295 lbs/ft of torque for the base model. This is the same engine under the hood of the S Line models, only with some electronic tweaks. As a result, the supercharged V6 3.0 liter engine gains a boost, putting out 333 horsepower and 325 lbs/ft of torque. The second engine is the turbocharged 3.0 V6 that makes 225 horsepower and an enormous 406 lbs/ft of torque.

Performance

Definitely, the engines of the new Q7 bring adequate muscle for the family’s needs. The gas and the diesel engine might be different but they give the same value that is further reinforced by its frugality.

Fuel economy ratings for the Q7 are pleasing for its class. However, the Q7 is not the most nimble vehicle that you will find. That is primarily because of it size, weight and high center of gravity. Nevertheless, it handles better than some of its competitors.

Exterior

The exterior styling of the Q7 suggests that the SUV is indeed muscular. By its looks, you can expect a strong performance. The edges on its side are neat and the curves are kept minimal (following the shape of the wheels). The front grille is larger and wider but the headlights are sharper. Overall, the Q7 exudes a beefy yet polished look.

Interior

However, not many car shoppers are happy about the interior of the Q7. Although it is luxurious, stylish and made of the finest materials, it is not generous in space. The cabin of the Q7 is not as large as it looks from the outside.

There is adequate legroom, headroom and support from the first and second rows. Adults may find the third row cramped but as long as you put your children in it, there would be no problem. Another issue about the interior is the cumbersome multimedia interface.

Safety

The Insurance Institute for highway safety gives the Q7 a “good” score in rear, side and frontal tests. But since the roof strength tests are yet to be conducted, the overall score for the Audi Q7 is yet to be revealed. The federal government gave it, on the other hand, 4 out of 5 stars in rollover tests.

Reliability

The Audi Q7 comes with the standard 4-year warranty and 24 hour road assistance that lasts for four years. The first scheduled service after one year is free of charge. The reliability for Audi Q7 is average in its class.

Pros

The Audi Q7 is stylish and luxurious. You can expect only the finest materials inside the Q7 cabin. It handles well for a midsize SUV and it is more fuel efficient than some of its counterparts. The Q7 looks good and powerful. It drives smooth most of the time, adding to the comfort that the Q7 provides.

Cons

The interior features of the Q7 are cumbersome. Another complaint is that the third row seems to be designed only for children.

The 2012 Audi Q7 is a capable and luxurious SUV, making it ideal for parents who spend most weekends driving with the family.

Competition

There are a number of SUVs that vie for the same attention as the Q7, these are the BMW X5 (MSRP $47,500; 16 city / 23 hwy), the LR4 by Land Rover (MSRP $48,900; 12 city / 17 hwy), and the steeply priced Lexus GS460 (MSRP $53,445; 15 city / 22 hwy).

Overall Rating
77 out of 100

What others say:

“With two or three rows of seats, the Audi Q7 rewards those who can afford it with spacious, adult-sized accommodations in the first two rows of seats.”Car Connection

“Q7 is more agile and car-like than most large SUVs. Still, its elevated stance and high weight demand slowing for tight corners despite the modest body lean vs others in this class. The steering is firm and slop-free at highway speeds and usefully light for parking.”Consumer Guide

“Audi’s luxury SUV is roomy and nicely finished inside. A supercharged V6 replaces both the V8 and V6 engines, and an eight-speed automatic is standard. Handling is fairly nimble but the Q7 doesn’t shine at its limits.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The Audi Q7 received some very welcome engine upgrades for the 2011 model year – the 3.0-liter supercharged V6 gasoline engine remains well-received and the 3.0-liter V6 TDI turbodiesel delivers both ample torque and welcome fuel economy – and those two terrific engines continue for the 2012 Audi Q7.”KBB

“Despite its large size, the 2012 Audi Q7 is actually short on interior space when compared to the competition. It is well crafted, though, and a superior long-distance road tripper, at least for passengers in the first two rows.”Edmunds

The 2012 Infiniti LE Concept will be making its world debut in 2012, at the New York International Auto Show.

Its dramatic style, technology, and advanced concepts from Infiniti will feature an aerodynamic body, elegant interior, and superb driving performance.

Infiniti has proven that it is possible to provide a luxury sedan with zero emission, and does not compromise room for the benefits of an electric vehicle.

Although the Infiniti LE is a concept car, the production version of the 2012 Infiniti LE Concept is expected to be in showrooms within the next two years.

Design

The Infiniti LE is shaped to maximize aerodynamic efficiency, but definitely does not fit the “cookie-cutter”) exterior of most electric vehicles. With its batteries located under the passenger floor, it not only provides a low center of gravity, but also maximizes interior space, trunk space, and front and rear seat legroom and comfort.

The charge port is hidden under the center Infiniti emblem, which is illuminated on the grille.

The concept car has a torque of 240 lb-ft for accelerating, and re-accelerating, making smooth transitions. The battery system is a laminated lithium-ion battery, with a quick charger. It is capable of using an integrated charging port, a DC Fast Charge option, and advance Wireless Charging System without any connecting charging cables.

Chassis

A smoother ride is provided by a higher body and rigidly mounted battery frame, duo-piston shock absorbers, and independently suspended strut and rear torsion beam. The powertrain technology results in low noise and low vibration for the driver and passengers.

The Infiniti LE resembles the same Infiniti luxury car, without the tailpipe. The crescent-cut rear pillar, and double-arch grill, adds to this concept car’s aero efficiency. It also sports side-fin spoilers, a rear aero diffuser, and a high rear deck with LED illumination.

Interior

The interior of the Infiniti LE Concept retains the luxury of previous cars, in its design to maximize room in the interior, and providing many luxury interior features. The seats are made of suede and mesh fabric, with leather sides.

The double-wave layout for the interior flows from the instrument panel to the console, and down the cabin sides. The interior is highlighted by its soft, blue, LED lighting, which flows in two waves, from the front to the back. Infiniti does not give up any interior comforts in its electric vehicle.

Added Features

Important features of the Infiniti LE are its Infiniti Personal Assistant, and electric vehicle connected services. Wireless Charging System with Intelligent Park Assist and Around View is also featured. The Intel Atom processor with twin display offers access to features such as a dynamic range calculation, and charging station network database.

The Infiniti Personal Assistant offers a 24-hour concierge service, navigation features, and Points of Interest search, with the IT system for car maintenance. Watch for the Infiniti LE to be in showrooms within the next two years.

With a quiet, luxurious, roomy interior, and the numerous technological features offered, the 2012 Infiniti LE Concept car is still a luxury sedan, but offers zero emission also, and should be in great demand.