2012 NAIAS: Audi S4 / Q3 Vail Concept
Rather than take the route of its German competitors and stablemates, Audi chose not to unveil a convertible model in chilly Detroit. Rather, Audi unveiled the Q3 Vail crossover. Though Audi has not promised to offer the Q3 in the US market, they promised that it could go on sale in the US as soon as the end of 2013. If such a vehicle were to be sold in the US, it would be powered by a 2.5L inline 5 cylinder engine with 314 hp and 295 ft-lbs of torque.
Perhaps more immediately relevant to US luxury car buyers was the introduction of the 2013 Audi A4 and S4 and well as the first Allroad wagon model to be offered in the A4 lineup. While the updated small Audi sedan looks more like a facelift than a full redesign significant changes include the introduction of electromechanical power steering for reduced emissions as well as factory installed wireless internet. A 211 hp four cylinder is available in the A4 and Allroad, while a 333 hp V6 powers the S4. We find these upgrades pleasing to the A4 lineup, but somewhat question whether an Allroad model is necessary since the A4 wagon was already a quite compelling vehicle.
2013 Audi S4
Photos by Jason Muxlow
2013 Audi Q3 Vail Concept
Photos by Jason Muxlow
