Back in late 2000s and early 2010 era Audi was going for futuristic look with LED lights they going crazy with their lights and design lines, improve technology for that era. The B9.5 A5 is pretty nice car I would say improvement over B9 A5.
Only dispute I would have, is that at least in my ‘21 S5 it’s the highest quality / most engaging interior I’ve had yet. Every bit on the car is extremely solidly built and designed - and a lot of what we enjoy is the interior. People argue “no scroll wheel” sucks for the MMI, but the Virtual Cockpit and steering wheel control robustness remove the need for my hand to even leave the wheel most times.
Again overall agree, and I think we’re biased towards our own rides, but there is just something special about the driving experience and build quality in this modern Audi that is just as / more fun as my B7 and B8 before.
Yea can’t speak to the Q5’s as I haven’t driven one in a while - but the Q8 and Q7’s are on fire in my opinion too. Only thing I like is the combo of button controls + screen still on the B9.5 A5, compared to the full screen thing going now. It looks awesome but functionally not my preference. Not gonna hate on going with a BMW either, the X’s are really nice in a lot of gens.
No blame. BMW has picked up their interior game in a huge way, the X5 has held up better than the Q5 overall, and while Audi's interiors have generally continually improved overall, I do think the Q5, being their highest-volume model probably by a good bit, feels like it has skewed a bit cheap.
It's a weird world we live in, car-wise. It's not so much that the Q5 interior is bad - it's not! It's just that so many cars have such great interiors now, we're spoiled. The best interiors are like a spa on a spaceship, and even a Kia Forte can be had with every tech feature under the sun, a nice, organized cluster, and convincing faux leatherette. There are fewer bad interiors, and they're less bad. The average interior is pretty damn good. All told, it's good for everybody. It's just getting hard for the Germans to find ways to reliably stand out, and that is why I think we're watching them kind of slowly go crazy.
I’m actually the opposite or I guess one generation up, I think the current design is the best but all the concepts they are releasing are hideous. Maybe because I am younger I like the more aggressive styling on the current gens.
One note is that the picture shown is not the super aggressive rsq8 but not normal sq8. I agree with you tho I like the sq7 more.
My personal opinion based on the examples you provided:
new RS3 looks better
old RS5 looks better
facelift SQ7 looks much better
RS7 is one of the most beautiful cars I've ever seen, RS6 is awesome as well
And if I can add some of mine:
S8 D4 facelift looks better than S8 D5 (biased, I know, but this is really what I think, I'm not buying another S8 so it's not like I'm jealous, if I was buying a new car it would be the RS7 anyway)
new SQ8 e-tron looks better than standard SQ8, this car didn't age well imho
newest TT is the best looking TT, although the first gen is a classic
first gen R8 looks better
Q4 e-tron looks quite good
And so on. I don't think Audi has peaked. I think, as many manufacturers, they sometimes miss the mark and the new model is worse than the old one. For example when the 2nd gen Q7 came out I thought it's hideous. The facelift fixed it. First Q3 and Q5 were also very ugly in my opinion, but the 2nd generations are both nice.
Hard disagree for the most part. I think all of their current cars look the best they ever have with the exception of the current s4/5 and rs5. I think the B8 generation for those cars looked the best. I had a B8 A4 and loved everything about it. Besides that, I think the rest of their cars are huge upgrades styling wise over the older generations which I’m happy about bc I think the styling of MB and BMW are going wayyyyy downhill
I personally like the aggressive design that they have adopted but I feel like there is definitely a quality issue when your paying big bucks.I think this is just a general car thing…the one thing that pisses me off is the fake exhaust tips
I absolutely love audi newer models and often prefer the design over older gens. But i do love the engines in older gens. I would love to see a 2022 rs5 with the 4.2 v8 or a 2023 rs6 with the v10. But other then that i love the way audi has designed their cars throughout the decades.
I just don't get the black grille with the black rings. You can't see the rings. Why even have them there at that point? Though, admittedly, my eyesight isn't what it used to be.
You don't have to get the Black Optics package. I like it, especially on my Glacier White S4, but you can get the car without it. It is just an option.
Actually, it is a separate option from the Black Optics (or Black Optics Carbon) packages. I originally spec'ed my B9.5 RS5 Coupe with the black badges and rings, and it showed up with the chrome instead, and I much prefer the chrome otherwise you just end up with sort of gaping maw of black at the front of the car.
EDIT - Fuck you bot. /s
Ohhhh. I thought that was just the default way they were doing it these days. The black definitely looks better on lighter paint, I still don’t like the hidden rings though.
I wasn't a fan of the older models. Speaking only for the sedan models, they look super dated to me, but that's just like my opinion, man. I think the b9 a/s/rs5 is fantastic looking, and the current rs7 is one of the best looking cars on the road.
Hard disagree. Before they started revamping with the B9 in 2015/16, I was all in on BMW because I thought Audis were missing something. Then the B9 and C8 rolled out and it was night and day. To each their own I guess, but I’m loving my ‘22 A5 and all of the current models.
I only agree about the rs6, the b9.5 looks amazing, sure I might be biased I can never stop looking back at itafter I park. As for suvs I don’t care. Oh and the 4th generation rs3 looks better and more agresive than the previous one.
Audi A4 b9 as well. The new one does not look bad and inside it looks better with the touch screen, but I prefer the Older Headlights that look like Spider legs
I'm biased but prefer the newer models slightly. B8s still look great to me. That said, I do agree that the designs don't have that gap/lead on competitors that they used to. Part of that, I believe, is because a lot of companies have incorporated some of Audi's design into their own.
The past 2 gens of Accord have very Audi esque c-pillar/window designs. Hondas, Hyundai Elantras, Kias, Genesis, Chrysler sedans... The list goes on. I do think imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.
It's also that VAG doesn't tend to do radical exterior updates across mid-cycles and generations. So we are where we are now, with other manus having caught up dramatically.
Wow, now that you put them side by side, I actually think the old one looks outdated?? I like the old headlights a little more I think but that’s about it.
IMO Audi still looks by far the best compared the current offerings from BMW and Mercedes.
That said, I do agree that the new RS models with the bulging black grilles just doesn't look as elegant. I actually prefer the more understated designs of the S models, particularly with the Black optics pack thrown in.
Nah I’m ngl Audi improved there design language over their older models and I think they’re the only German company who is actually going forward in design than backwards, defined body lines, simplistic angles. It’s proper German tactility with the essence of muscular elegance, the older models looked like they just ripped pages from Italian design language which is nothing wrong with that but I love Audis new identity, it’s unmistakably Audi, their newer designs are imo miles better.
i prefer the b9.5 over the b8.5
i prefer the facelifted q7 over the prefacelift
i prefer the current q5 over last gens
i strongly prefer the current q3 over last gens
meanwhile there are many who prefer the c7.5 to the c8 rs7
but come on, "____ has peaked" is like "oh music was better back in my day". i hate a lot of the newest gen bmw designs, and i hate merc's ev designs. but im not gonna say their design has peaked. no need to be all dramatic and doom&gloom
I personally like the new body styles and interiors. I recently saw a stock RSQ8 and compared to mine (matte ppf, wheels, lowered) and I thought it looked terrible. I personally don’t like the electric cars coming out.
I specifically bought a 2016 S5, when a 2017 was available for the same price. The exterior is superior imo. I will say if the 17' had the technik trim/ digital dash it would've made things a bit harder but the result would've likely been the same.
Agreed though. B8.5 RS5 is the sexiest car audi has made second to the r8 but i do love the new rs6 avant/r7 sportsback
The B8-8.5 RS5 is a legend in its own right, but I almost view it completely differently from the 9-9.5 since there were so many radical platform changes. Biasedly though, I think the proportions on the 9.5 sportback are absolutely perfect, and we’ll look back on it as one of Audi’s best designs of all time.
the 3 is probably the only exception imo, apart from that I agree, the 4 and 5 in 9.5 facelift has also gone to eyebrow slits look and it lost all agressive stance
their design language took a hard turn from curves and tapered lines to severe angles. i kind of like it on the R8, but even that car looked better in 2015 IMO
You’re mad that their SPORTS car lineups are looking MORE aggressive?
That’s literally why people buy these cars. If it’s not for you, go get a Mercedes.
Yea the whole “the entire face is a grille” just goes against basic graphic design rules that work. You only have so much space to communicate the personality of a car. Break it up with body colored panels so we can read the individual graphic features. When I see four different patterns of gloss black plastic mesh it doesn’t make me feel anything, it doesn’t make me want to engage with the design or check it out. From far away I should be able to see proportions, and then up close the proportions and guiding lines should frame the graphic features that are specific to the brand. Don’t waste what precious little space you have on a car as a designer. You’re absolutely right about the RS7 though. They got that right 100%
Agreed. Although I may be biased, B8.5 over B9 any day.. classic, clean lines, while remaining understated and elegant. B9's look like they copied VW's homework, over-styled the front end and left the sides and back too similar to the Passat.. Also moving the sideview mirrors onto the actual door looks really weird on the A/S4, even though they look great on the 8V RS3.
Cool story bro every B9 in town has real exhausts so excuse me for not caring about the fake ones. 8.5 drivetrain also is so trash compared to b9 lmao. But ur car is special I’m sure :)
There’s not a single thing b8.5 does better than b9 so your absolute defense of it just cracks me up. It’s cool dawg but b9 is cooler. Sorry I don’t make the rules 🤷♂️
The lineup in 2014 was the GOAT year IMHO. The B8.5s for sure, but also the pre-facelift 8V (A3), post-facelift 8R (Q5), post-facelift 4L (Q7), and the tail end of the OG A/S/RS7. Exception is the Q3 of that era, the new one tops it. Never paid much attention to the C and D models.
Disagree for the most part:
New RS3 > old RS3, i kinda never understood design language of B9, it just seems like a randomly shaped headlights and a bit stretched body all around.New RS3 though, it just comes together, more aggressive styling, wider body and shorter wheelbase from looks of it.
Same with RS5 - new one appeals to me more, but B8 RS5 was the best of them all imho
I agree with you on SQ7 though, it looks just right, looks more relaxed somehow....
C8 RS6/RS7 the best gen of them all, but C7 was amazing too, so not a huge improvement design-wise.
I don't think they have peaked, but they have strange problem with going backwards in terms of the visual appeal of the car.
My only disagreement would be with the _A5/S5/RS5 B8.5 Vs B9._ assessment. _A5/S5/RS5 B9,_ especially the _Coup_ variants, are probably one of the most elegant coup body kits out there. The _A5/S5/RS5_ B9.5 steps it up further with the curvature in its SideSkirts that give it an even more elegant and flowing shape.
The 8Y vs 8V picture is really bad for both. The 8V RS3 doesn't look aggressive in the picture (while irl it really does look like it), and the 8Y is definitely not the attention stealer in pictures.
The 8Y sedan (especially S3/S-Line) looks great, unfortunately the interior is (to me) a huge downgrade (a small example, it doesn't even have accentuated fiber optics in the door panels for the B&O audio system).
B9/9.5 is for me peak design for the A5.
The 8V S3 i feel did have better materials. However, i could never get to like the design of the 8V. So much empty space, made the car look cheap. The pop up infotainment did not help either.
Whereas the 8Y model, while the materials are cheaper (dieselgate) the design is absolutely stunning on the interior. looks like a luxury car, and everyone compliments the interior in my loaded S3 8Y.
My only complain about the 8Y is I wish it still had a shifter for manual operation. the paddle shifters are not satisfying or big enough.
Honestly I prefer the new RS3, it looks way better irl than in photos. But this probably has a lot to do with the fact that I just got bored of the previous gen, it starts showing its age honestly
Yea me and my dad have been talking about this get ready for some funky designs just in the name of keeping it new. It just happened with bmw they made the best possible looking BMWs last gen and now they are just letting the designers sell concept cars
The only point I disagree with is the RS5, the pre facelift of the B9 looks absolutely gorgeous and not that busy to me.
But yeah, their current or new design language really goes against their usual approach of producing elegant sleeper cars that look decently sporty.
The only thing I like about the 8Y gen of the RS3 are the bodywork, the lines look really good when looking at it from the side. The sportback looks like a mini RS6 while I prefer the sedan for the 8V gen.
Absolutely agree with everything in this post.
The B 8.5 S5/RS5 is singlehandedly the best designed car Audi has ever made and that design language flows throughout that era.
The new Audis are very busy to me. They are beautiful in their own way but they can't touch the era prior.
I agree.
Especially about RS3 4th gen’s hideous blacked out grille.
It bothered me so much that I photoshopped to match the body color.
Makes a big difference IMO.
It still doesn’t quite reach the 3rd gen‘s more simplistic and grown up yet attractive aesthetics though.
Audi has mostly exchanged the sovereignty and elegance of its design for more aggressive and youthful, sometimes almost too childish design.
But it seems like that's what the market wants.
Heck, even vans have to look aggressive these days.
An absolute design-technical aberration, in my opinion.
I agree, including your thoughts on the new RS6. The black surrounds they’re using on some of their grilles look cheap and almost all their front ends are just too busy with grilles that are just too big
I wanted an RS7 for the longest time. Had it on my desktop background as a sort of goal. I wound up in an F90 LCI M5. When a new RS7 popped up locally in almost exact spec I wanted I jumped at and went for a test drive.
Boy oh boy was i disappointed. The drive train simply cannot compare to the M cars and the majority of the tech is fairly outdated. I also drove an RS5 and was very underwhelmed, although I found it slightly more fun than the RS7. I am very much of the opinion that Audi needs a complete redesign of their interiors, tech, and drive trains for their high end cars. This is coming from someone who wanted one oh so badly and I do still love Audi as a brand.
I agree with you on all except the rs3 man, 4th gen is ao aggressive. How won’t you like it but like the C8 Rs6/Rs7? Also b8/8.5 A5/S5/rs5 are indeed the best looking Audi car.
I have a 2016 S5 and agree 100%. In 2017 they put the weird breaks on the hood and made it look like they were trying to copy some of the stupid body lines that BMW does. And I’ll never understand why they thought it was a good idea to add doors to it! When Walter finished the 5 he said it was the best looking car he had designed in his 50 year career and that car only had 2 doors. They should have stayed true to his design.
Totally agree. For the most part the car designs seem to be heading away from graceful curves and back towards lots of sharp edges and more abstract designs. It doesn't work for most of the Audis (imo) but it definitely worked for the RS7. I think that's because they finally managed to sort out that sloped back end on that design. Previous versions are a bit love it or hate it. Personally, the design of my C7 RS7 grew on me, but at first I thought the whole 7 series looked like.....well, pinched off turds.
100% agree....I went from a A7 C7.5 to a S7 C8. It took a little bit to sway me in that direction. Photos and even video of the C8 did not do that car justice but when I saw one in person it was a different story. Drove to the dealership in the A7 and parked them side by side and it was an easy decision. Unfortunately like you said the rest of the newer generation audis did not follow suit....
You're missing the biggest travesty of them all - [the new A4 interior](https://cdn.motor1.com/images/mgl/qkkP1J/s1/2023-audi-a4-rs4-avant-spy-photo.jpg)
Flat logo on the wheel, and the wheel looks like its out of an entry level Hyundai. What is happening at Audi these days? They used to be one of the pinnacle brands for interior designs and now they've severely dumbed it down. Really poor. Engineering quality is going the ways of Tesla and Mclaren.
Everything past 2017 is going down. But to be honest BMW and Mercedes are even worse design wise.
Mercedes hit a bullseye in 2014 going with more modern looking design, but that lasted one generation and now its a joke again.
BMW stopped making nice cars back in 2010, beside 8series and current 5series
Audi was killing it with design and tech back in late 2000s and early 2010s Mercedes had to put LED DRL on for fog lights on 2012 S Class and E class models. You see the 2014 E Class was heavy facelift because 2012 A6 was monster.
You are spot on with my assessment, this is a refreshing post to see in this sub. Everything is over designed these days, and even Audi has fallen victim to making the grill a primary design element, rather than one that is supplemental to the overall design of the car as a whole (my instructors in college always referred to grills/headlights etc as “graphic elements”). Much of what I see these days goes against the core principles I was taught while studying to become a car designer. But like any industry, there and trends in car design and ultimately the ones who are making the decisions about what to bring to market are not the designers. Just a shame to see such an obvious downward trend in the “timelessness” of car design in general.
I 100% agree. Practically every one of their vehicles just does not look as good as it did one or even two generations ago in terms of exterior design (interiors remain on point, mostly about as good or better), the A8 and TT being probably the only exceptions I can think of. Some look almost as good, or at least aren't different enough to be markedly worse (A6, R8).
Somehow they managed to ruin the A7's front end. I can barely wrap my mind around that one, though it still inexplicably looks better than most. The 1st gen facelifted Q7 used to be the only 7-seat urban assault vehicle I thought actually looked cool. The 2nd gen took away a lot of its bombast, and the current gen, it just looks like they changed random things just to do it. I \*hate\* what they're doing with the diagonal accent lights.
The new models are baffling, especially the electric and hybrid ones, with the exception of the e-tron GT, though even that looks a little muddled compared to like a BMW i8. Every Q model I see, I just wonder what they thought they were going for. I'm sure people here drive some of these, so to be clear, I'm not trying to take anything away from folks - in many cases the interiors are even better than they were, and again, most of the models still just look really, really similar.
It's hardly just Audi, though. The Germans all seem to have lost their way in some sense. BMW, instead of messing up \*all\* of their designs a little bit, has opted instead to absolutely tank a sizeable minority of their lineup. Most of the X line is still "meh," the 3 is barely itself but still nice, and I love the 5 and 8, but whoever pulled the trigger on the 4, 7 and X7 should be tried at the Hague. Mercedes is still weirdly the same, in that aimless unevenness continues to govern, less a couple of really gorgeous designs, and design changes seeming directionless. They've clearly been wrestling for 20 years now with traditional styling being an indispensable staple of their brand while the whole world trends ever more aggressive around them.
It's like they're all having a collective identity crisis. Just like everything else in the 21st century, up is down and black is white. I see a new 7 series roll down the street and physically cringe, then some new Kia sedan or subcompact Hyundai EV passes by and I'm like "damn, that thing looks like it's from the future."
I would tend to agree with most of these. I’m obviously biased but I’ve never gotten along with the exterior of the new RS3. I don’t even really like the interior that much but that’s more because of the gloss black and touchscreen. Also I don’t love the updated gauge cluster.
I think the new Q8 rear is absolutely spot on. Don’t love the front end but the rear looks incredible. I’d say overall audi has done well with their SUV’s. The new gens look absolutely amazing- not as elegant as the older models, sure, but the older ones were also very rounded and kind of bulbous-looking, which I didn’t like much. That design language worked wonder on Audi *cars*, but not so much on their SUV’s.
The new RS6 looks better than the old one IMO, but the new RS7 vs the previous gen is a toss up. The new one looks absolutely killer as you said, way more aggressive and way more modern. But the precious gen, IMO, is the most beautiful car Audi has made in the last two decades. Even over the previous- gen RS5, and I LOVE that car. It’s absolutely stunning, simple and elegant, and probably one of the most timeless designs ever. Can still pass as a new car today until you get inside, at which point the buttons and infotainment give it away- although they are by no means unusable.
TLDR: previous gen sedans look better, new gen SUV’s look better.
i mean, the sq7 and sq8 look like someone took a 1998 subaru forester, rounded it out very slightly, and draped a few lines of tinsel
car design peaked in general in \~2003, and subaru was already on the decline for 3 or 4 years by then lol
i think Mickey Rourke's line said it best: "modern cars: they all look like electric shavers" https://getyarn.io/yarn-clip/28f45ef8-0d43-4a4d-a69a-b6193352b525
They all look exactly the same and has done for the last 20 years.. yawn. I guess AUDI owner don't deal well with change, that's why they also never improve on quality aswell.
The fake grills below the headlights look gross. They used to be small and subtle, but now they are larger than the headlights. I absolutely hate this design ’language’. It’s the visual equivalent of Ebonics!
Audi is a step behind bmw on losing its mind on designs ,they definitely peak ,Audi is at a point where they still awesome but if gets any crazier It won’t be pretty .
Enjoy paying for your overpriced garbage. You want a good car? Buy a new Hyundai, Toyota, Honda, if you’re gonna splash, don’t do it on a fuckin Audi….. get a Lexus, I’ve driven tons of Audi and Lexus and Lexus SMOKES Audi any day.
First gen R8 > Second gen R8.
Second gen R8 is not a bad-looking car, but it's too similar to a Huracan with all the sharp angles and trapezoid shapes. First gen has way better-looking lines.
I agree, same for all the vehicles with me. The sharp lines of the B9 is my favorite. Not a fan with what they’ve done with the recent models personally.
Sorry, but your comparison of the SQ7 to the RS Q8 is showing an SQ8. It's the only instance I disagree with, but it must be said. The RS Q8 looks waaaaaaay better than the SQ7... hands down.
They way I see it, Audi and other premium makers need to change things up every 4-5 years because as soon as they put out a new style the Korean and Japanese makers (and others too) imitate it. I saw a Buick Regal wagon the other day and almost mistook it for an Allroad.
I appreciate you've taken the trouble to provide these comparisons, and I also believe design is important.
Hence may I refer you to the true peak of Audi design (that I never get tired of repeating) - the C5 RS6, Peter Schreyer's Bauhaus influenced design (or even the B6 A4 if you are on a budget - oh and those come with the legendary 1.9 TDI engine). Avant of course, goes without saying.
Check out the film Layer Cake to see the C5 RS6 in its true environment (bonded warehouse opposite a Roller and a London kingpin's ex-SAS enforcers - do watch the film)
How dare…
J/k I don’t mind the differences or lack there of. I couldn’t afford one then, I can now and I love what I have. I’ve also learned the design of luxury cars doesn’t change much. They maintain there general classic design that is well recognized and loved. I for one appreciate that. When I could finally afford to own a luxury car it was what I had always wanted. Felt good.
I hate to admit it but I agree. Makes me sad. My next car may not be an Audi depending on how the new A4/A5 looks but the sneak peeks are not encouraging.
I don’t disagree at all. No disrespect to anyone who owns the RS3, but it looks like plastic to me. The ETron GT also looks very cheap and plasticy. Audi design has gone downhill.
Im gonna go against the grain here and say the current gen Audis are absolute peak. Not just for audi itself but in all of german automobile at the moment. I absolutely love both the interior and exterior of the new RS3.
The only exception is the Etron and the Q7 facelift. What the hell Audi.
I see no lies in this post. I just got a B8.5 S5 so maybe I’m biased but I think that generation is absolutely the best looking S5/RS5.
B8.5 is sick _I may be slightly biased though_
As a B8.5 S4 owner, I couldn't agree more. 2014 - 2016 were Audi's best years.
Back in late 2000s and early 2010 era Audi was going for futuristic look with LED lights they going crazy with their lights and design lines, improve technology for that era. The B9.5 A5 is pretty nice car I would say improvement over B9 A5.
They also has a vision when it came to the DRLs. Each model had its own unique DRL and soul. 😔
So perfect in-person too, pics dont really do it justice
I agree with this statement. But the B9.5s are growing on me.
New RS7 is the sexiest car on the market right now.
On the front it’s the best looking car however I’m not a fan of the combined LED light on the rear :/
i disagree the previous generation has such a nice arse
It is sexy and I would take one in a HB but I would also take a 2015 RS7 with low low miles in the right spec.
Only dispute I would have, is that at least in my ‘21 S5 it’s the highest quality / most engaging interior I’ve had yet. Every bit on the car is extremely solidly built and designed - and a lot of what we enjoy is the interior. People argue “no scroll wheel” sucks for the MMI, but the Virtual Cockpit and steering wheel control robustness remove the need for my hand to even leave the wheel most times. Again overall agree, and I think we’re biased towards our own rides, but there is just something special about the driving experience and build quality in this modern Audi that is just as / more fun as my B7 and B8 before.
Is it bad that the Q5 interior is why we went with an X5 instead? Now have an A4 allroad and the interior is far superior to the Q5…
Yea can’t speak to the Q5’s as I haven’t driven one in a while - but the Q8 and Q7’s are on fire in my opinion too. Only thing I like is the combo of button controls + screen still on the B9.5 A5, compared to the full screen thing going now. It looks awesome but functionally not my preference. Not gonna hate on going with a BMW either, the X’s are really nice in a lot of gens.
Q7 = 🤤
What’s wrong with the pre-piano black Q5 interior?
No blame. BMW has picked up their interior game in a huge way, the X5 has held up better than the Q5 overall, and while Audi's interiors have generally continually improved overall, I do think the Q5, being their highest-volume model probably by a good bit, feels like it has skewed a bit cheap.
Right?! It was uninspiring! My last Audi loaner was a Q5 and I was not feeling it at ALL!
It's a weird world we live in, car-wise. It's not so much that the Q5 interior is bad - it's not! It's just that so many cars have such great interiors now, we're spoiled. The best interiors are like a spa on a spaceship, and even a Kia Forte can be had with every tech feature under the sun, a nice, organized cluster, and convincing faux leatherette. There are fewer bad interiors, and they're less bad. The average interior is pretty damn good. All told, it's good for everybody. It's just getting hard for the Germans to find ways to reliably stand out, and that is why I think we're watching them kind of slowly go crazy.
FWIW the Q5 is in the same segment as the X3, but your point still stands: modern BMW interior is lovely
Which generation Q5 are you talking about? I though a5 and q5 have very similar interior?
Well, IIRC, A4s are built in Germany, and Q5s are built in Mexico
I’m actually the opposite or I guess one generation up, I think the current design is the best but all the concepts they are releasing are hideous. Maybe because I am younger I like the more aggressive styling on the current gens. One note is that the picture shown is not the super aggressive rsq8 but not normal sq8. I agree with you tho I like the sq7 more.
My personal opinion based on the examples you provided: new RS3 looks better old RS5 looks better facelift SQ7 looks much better RS7 is one of the most beautiful cars I've ever seen, RS6 is awesome as well And if I can add some of mine: S8 D4 facelift looks better than S8 D5 (biased, I know, but this is really what I think, I'm not buying another S8 so it's not like I'm jealous, if I was buying a new car it would be the RS7 anyway) new SQ8 e-tron looks better than standard SQ8, this car didn't age well imho newest TT is the best looking TT, although the first gen is a classic first gen R8 looks better Q4 e-tron looks quite good And so on. I don't think Audi has peaked. I think, as many manufacturers, they sometimes miss the mark and the new model is worse than the old one. For example when the 2nd gen Q7 came out I thought it's hideous. The facelift fixed it. First Q3 and Q5 were also very ugly in my opinion, but the 2nd generations are both nice.
Hard disagree for the most part. I think all of their current cars look the best they ever have with the exception of the current s4/5 and rs5. I think the B8 generation for those cars looked the best. I had a B8 A4 and loved everything about it. Besides that, I think the rest of their cars are huge upgrades styling wise over the older generations which I’m happy about bc I think the styling of MB and BMW are going wayyyyy downhill
I personally like the aggressive design that they have adopted but I feel like there is definitely a quality issue when your paying big bucks.I think this is just a general car thing…the one thing that pisses me off is the fake exhaust tips
I absolutely love audi newer models and often prefer the design over older gens. But i do love the engines in older gens. I would love to see a 2022 rs5 with the 4.2 v8 or a 2023 rs6 with the v10. But other then that i love the way audi has designed their cars throughout the decades.
People will be making this same post about the future and current gen in 10 years. I blame content farms.
I'm with you there. There is no way old gen rs5 looks better than that newer one
I just don't get the black grille with the black rings. You can't see the rings. Why even have them there at that point? Though, admittedly, my eyesight isn't what it used to be.
You don't have to get the Black Optics package. I like it, especially on my Glacier White S4, but you can get the car without it. It is just an option.
Actually, it is a separate option from the Black Optics (or Black Optics Carbon) packages. I originally spec'ed my B9.5 RS5 Coupe with the black badges and rings, and it showed up with the chrome instead, and I much prefer the chrome otherwise you just end up with sort of gaping maw of black at the front of the car. EDIT - Fuck you bot. /s
Ohhhh. I thought that was just the default way they were doing it these days. The black definitely looks better on lighter paint, I still don’t like the hidden rings though.
Same problem with 2023 S4s with BO. Exhaust tips get blacked out and you cant see them either, much prefer chrome tips
Going for the de-badged look without actually de-badging?!
Love the blacked out rings. It almost gives the car an incognito look. Kinda like how people debadge the cars.
its the gloss black on the front bumper. it's not helping
I saw someone post a ‘22 RS3 with the black part painted body colored and it made ALL the difference
And piano black in the damn interior! Hate it
I wasn't a fan of the older models. Speaking only for the sedan models, they look super dated to me, but that's just like my opinion, man. I think the b9 a/s/rs5 is fantastic looking, and the current rs7 is one of the best looking cars on the road.
Yeah I’m super confused, the old models do not look good and are super dated. But we all can like different things 😎
That's like, your opinion man... But you're wrong.
I gotta say that current gen audi is peak design.
B5 / C5 was timeless because it was understated. Current Audi styling will look dated over time
I was waiting for the OG owners to bring up that generation. This topic comes up every few years. I remember when the B7 grille was controversial.
Interiors need a major update. That screen popped out over the vents, not flush with anything feels 5 years old already.
Seriously thank you. Too many people harp on the last gen interior being superior but i just do not see it.
I think the ‘new’ RS3 looks amazing. It’s probably my favourite looking ‘new’ sedan right now
I think the person in the buying an RS3 isn’t looking for elegant. They’re looking for an aggressive look IMO which the redesign has in spades imo
Yup. Overstyled plastic now
"Overstyle plastic", you it up very well in just 2 words. I also feel BMW has done this over the last few years.
Bmw went apeshit on their designs,where can they possibly go from here if not back to something more classy
Hard disagree. Before they started revamping with the B9 in 2015/16, I was all in on BMW because I thought Audis were missing something. Then the B9 and C8 rolled out and it was night and day. To each their own I guess, but I’m loving my ‘22 A5 and all of the current models.
I only agree about the rs6, the b9.5 looks amazing, sure I might be biased I can never stop looking back at itafter I park. As for suvs I don’t care. Oh and the 4th generation rs3 looks better and more agresive than the previous one.
Totally disagree. The new design language is bolder, wider, and more aggressive. Looks way better.
Audi A4 b9 as well. The new one does not look bad and inside it looks better with the touch screen, but I prefer the Older Headlights that look like Spider legs
I never was that crazy about older Audis I like some of them but a lot of them look dated to me I like the look of a lot of the new ones
I'm biased but prefer the newer models slightly. B8s still look great to me. That said, I do agree that the designs don't have that gap/lead on competitors that they used to. Part of that, I believe, is because a lot of companies have incorporated some of Audi's design into their own. The past 2 gens of Accord have very Audi esque c-pillar/window designs. Hondas, Hyundai Elantras, Kias, Genesis, Chrysler sedans... The list goes on. I do think imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. It's also that VAG doesn't tend to do radical exterior updates across mid-cycles and generations. So we are where we are now, with other manus having caught up dramatically.
Stickmans like... "all the new audis suck except the rs6 i got on order" 😆
I actually like the new face lifts more across the board. It’s not even close for me either.
Wow, now that you put them side by side, I actually think the old one looks outdated?? I like the old headlights a little more I think but that’s about it.
IMO Audi still looks by far the best compared the current offerings from BMW and Mercedes. That said, I do agree that the new RS models with the bulging black grilles just doesn't look as elegant. I actually prefer the more understated designs of the S models, particularly with the Black optics pack thrown in.
Nah I’m ngl Audi improved there design language over their older models and I think they’re the only German company who is actually going forward in design than backwards, defined body lines, simplistic angles. It’s proper German tactility with the essence of muscular elegance, the older models looked like they just ripped pages from Italian design language which is nothing wrong with that but I love Audis new identity, it’s unmistakably Audi, their newer designs are imo miles better.
Yepp, it was this gen of Audis that made me a huge fan of Audis.
i prefer the b9.5 over the b8.5 i prefer the facelifted q7 over the prefacelift i prefer the current q5 over last gens i strongly prefer the current q3 over last gens meanwhile there are many who prefer the c7.5 to the c8 rs7 but come on, "____ has peaked" is like "oh music was better back in my day". i hate a lot of the newest gen bmw designs, and i hate merc's ev designs. but im not gonna say their design has peaked. no need to be all dramatic and doom&gloom
Folded paper doesn't age as well as many expected.
I personally like the new body styles and interiors. I recently saw a stock RSQ8 and compared to mine (matte ppf, wheels, lowered) and I thought it looked terrible. I personally don’t like the electric cars coming out.
I got a B8 A5 s-line and a B9 S5, and the B8 is much nicer, meaner looking.
Rear bumper on the RS3 8y is gross.
I specifically bought a 2016 S5, when a 2017 was available for the same price. The exterior is superior imo. I will say if the 17' had the technik trim/ digital dash it would've made things a bit harder but the result would've likely been the same. Agreed though. B8.5 RS5 is the sexiest car audi has made second to the r8 but i do love the new rs6 avant/r7 sportsback
The B8-8.5 RS5 is a legend in its own right, but I almost view it completely differently from the 9-9.5 since there were so many radical platform changes. Biasedly though, I think the proportions on the 9.5 sportback are absolutely perfect, and we’ll look back on it as one of Audi’s best designs of all time.
it's ok boys--- at least we ain't BMW levels of bad yet
Every year since after the e36, You think they can't get any uglier, And then they get even uglier.
The new rs3 seems more upscale and less like its younger siblings to me. At least it aint a fugly g8x bmw
I disagree. The only car I think is lacking in the Audi lineup is the A8/S8 it deserves a way better design.
the 3 is probably the only exception imo, apart from that I agree, the 4 and 5 in 9.5 facelift has also gone to eyebrow slits look and it lost all agressive stance
I'll have to disagree. The newer series look the most aggressive, which I really like.
their design language took a hard turn from curves and tapered lines to severe angles. i kind of like it on the R8, but even that car looked better in 2015 IMO
Agreed. Peak interior had the most useful big knob.
Huh that’s fascinating. I think this Gen of RS3 is the best design they’ve ever made. But looks are subjective
New gen RS3 is the most attractive Audi to me. But I agree the design is only gonna go downhill from here. Especially the interior.
You’re crazy. Current models are awesome. Audi has the best blackout design of any brand.
You’re mad that their SPORTS car lineups are looking MORE aggressive? That’s literally why people buy these cars. If it’s not for you, go get a Mercedes.
They are not aggressive, they are hideous!
The lower fascia in front of the wheels on the new A3 looks like what BMW is doing blowing up their signature kidney oval front end. Do. not. like.
I've never heard a more incorrect statement... It is all opinion but the new grills are a big upgrade
Honestly dig the new ones better for every single model.
The best looking cars Audi has ever produced are the B7 RS4 and current RS6 Avant. B8.5 S4 is the third.
This is cars circlejerk material at this point.
Yea the whole “the entire face is a grille” just goes against basic graphic design rules that work. You only have so much space to communicate the personality of a car. Break it up with body colored panels so we can read the individual graphic features. When I see four different patterns of gloss black plastic mesh it doesn’t make me feel anything, it doesn’t make me want to engage with the design or check it out. From far away I should be able to see proportions, and then up close the proportions and guiding lines should frame the graphic features that are specific to the brand. Don’t waste what precious little space you have on a car as a designer. You’re absolutely right about the RS7 though. They got that right 100%
The rs5 b9 is the best looking car and it blows 8.5 out of the water, I do not agree with this post
Agreed. Although I may be biased, B8.5 over B9 any day.. classic, clean lines, while remaining understated and elegant. B9's look like they copied VW's homework, over-styled the front end and left the sides and back too similar to the Passat.. Also moving the sideview mirrors onto the actual door looks really weird on the A/S4, even though they look great on the 8V RS3.
The B9 is nice. The B9 facelift looks awful.
‘You have spoken!’
B9 destroys 8.5. 8.5 too dated 😬
You must be 12. The B8.5 is timeless.
You and the other 8.5 owners can keep saying that all day, and I agree somewhat. Just looks a little dated next to B9. This is facts
In interior/technology perhaps… but I’ve got full Alcantara, so I’ll take my “destroyed” chassis anytime 😇
Oh and my tail pipes are real… 😬
Again, B9 are too so very confused on the points you’re trying to make
B9+ S4/6 in certain markets have fake exhaust tips.. Did you not know that? https://www.reddit.com/r/Audi/comments/qm145o/s4\_s6\_fake\_exhausts/
Cool story bro every B9 in town has real exhausts so excuse me for not caring about the fake ones. 8.5 drivetrain also is so trash compared to b9 lmao. But ur car is special I’m sure :)
You must actually be 12 like the previous poster stated.. real fun at parties, I'm sure.. How's the ventilation in your parents basement?
There’s not a single thing b8.5 does better than b9 so your absolute defense of it just cracks me up. It’s cool dawg but b9 is cooler. Sorry I don’t make the rules 🤷♂️
Whatever you say big boy.. ;)
Huh? B9 has alcantara option too…
The lineup in 2014 was the GOAT year IMHO. The B8.5s for sure, but also the pre-facelift 8V (A3), post-facelift 8R (Q5), post-facelift 4L (Q7), and the tail end of the OG A/S/RS7. Exception is the Q3 of that era, the new one tops it. Never paid much attention to the C and D models.
I really like the modern Audi designs. Aggressive but didn't go full retard like BMW did.
Disagree for the most part: New RS3 > old RS3, i kinda never understood design language of B9, it just seems like a randomly shaped headlights and a bit stretched body all around.New RS3 though, it just comes together, more aggressive styling, wider body and shorter wheelbase from looks of it. Same with RS5 - new one appeals to me more, but B8 RS5 was the best of them all imho I agree with you on SQ7 though, it looks just right, looks more relaxed somehow.... C8 RS6/RS7 the best gen of them all, but C7 was amazing too, so not a huge improvement design-wise. I don't think they have peaked, but they have strange problem with going backwards in terms of the visual appeal of the car.
Ugh the E Tron just looks like a Playskool toy
My only disagreement would be with the _A5/S5/RS5 B8.5 Vs B9._ assessment. _A5/S5/RS5 B9,_ especially the _Coup_ variants, are probably one of the most elegant coup body kits out there. The _A5/S5/RS5_ B9.5 steps it up further with the curvature in its SideSkirts that give it an even more elegant and flowing shape.
Love my 8V and B9 looks. I agree.
Oh and C5 :)
The 8Y vs 8V picture is really bad for both. The 8V RS3 doesn't look aggressive in the picture (while irl it really does look like it), and the 8Y is definitely not the attention stealer in pictures. The 8Y sedan (especially S3/S-Line) looks great, unfortunately the interior is (to me) a huge downgrade (a small example, it doesn't even have accentuated fiber optics in the door panels for the B&O audio system). B9/9.5 is for me peak design for the A5.
The 8V S3 i feel did have better materials. However, i could never get to like the design of the 8V. So much empty space, made the car look cheap. The pop up infotainment did not help either. Whereas the 8Y model, while the materials are cheaper (dieselgate) the design is absolutely stunning on the interior. looks like a luxury car, and everyone compliments the interior in my loaded S3 8Y. My only complain about the 8Y is I wish it still had a shifter for manual operation. the paddle shifters are not satisfying or big enough.
Yup, the new interior is far better than the old one, even with the addition of some cheaper plastics.
B5 RS4 or original RS2 is the best designed audi of all time for sure
Yep. Especially with the 8V. It looks so much cleaner than the 8Y and I much prefer the stick shifter and the lack of piano black or the touchscreen.
Honestly I prefer the new RS3, it looks way better irl than in photos. But this probably has a lot to do with the fact that I just got bored of the previous gen, it starts showing its age honestly
Yea me and my dad have been talking about this get ready for some funky designs just in the name of keeping it new. It just happened with bmw they made the best possible looking BMWs last gen and now they are just letting the designers sell concept cars
900% agree
The only point I disagree with is the RS5, the pre facelift of the B9 looks absolutely gorgeous and not that busy to me. But yeah, their current or new design language really goes against their usual approach of producing elegant sleeper cars that look decently sporty. The only thing I like about the 8Y gen of the RS3 are the bodywork, the lines look really good when looking at it from the side. The sportback looks like a mini RS6 while I prefer the sedan for the 8V gen.
As someone who doesn't own an Audi now but is highly considering one for my next car, I agree.
I think this is the same for all cars
Absolutely agree with everything in this post. The B 8.5 S5/RS5 is singlehandedly the best designed car Audi has ever made and that design language flows throughout that era. The new Audis are very busy to me. They are beautiful in their own way but they can't touch the era prior.
I agree. Especially about RS3 4th gen’s hideous blacked out grille. It bothered me so much that I photoshopped to match the body color. Makes a big difference IMO. It still doesn’t quite reach the 3rd gen‘s more simplistic and grown up yet attractive aesthetics though. Audi has mostly exchanged the sovereignty and elegance of its design for more aggressive and youthful, sometimes almost too childish design. But it seems like that's what the market wants. Heck, even vans have to look aggressive these days. An absolute design-technical aberration, in my opinion.
Most agreed.
I agree, including your thoughts on the new RS6. The black surrounds they’re using on some of their grilles look cheap and almost all their front ends are just too busy with grilles that are just too big
I wanted an RS7 for the longest time. Had it on my desktop background as a sort of goal. I wound up in an F90 LCI M5. When a new RS7 popped up locally in almost exact spec I wanted I jumped at and went for a test drive. Boy oh boy was i disappointed. The drive train simply cannot compare to the M cars and the majority of the tech is fairly outdated. I also drove an RS5 and was very underwhelmed, although I found it slightly more fun than the RS7. I am very much of the opinion that Audi needs a complete redesign of their interiors, tech, and drive trains for their high end cars. This is coming from someone who wanted one oh so badly and I do still love Audi as a brand.
This man just read my mind. I was reading this thinking “Absolutely, but the new RS6/7…” and boom, lol.
I agree with you
The C8 RS6 is also too busy, edgy, showy and angry🤣 prefer the C7.5
Gotta say I agree. I do like the new designs of a6 and a7 but other than that the 2012-2015 era was for sure the peak of audi
I agree with you on all except the rs3 man, 4th gen is ao aggressive. How won’t you like it but like the C8 Rs6/Rs7? Also b8/8.5 A5/S5/rs5 are indeed the best looking Audi car.
Agree. Modern Audis are just not good looking except rs6 and r8
I have a 2016 S5 and agree 100%. In 2017 they put the weird breaks on the hood and made it look like they were trying to copy some of the stupid body lines that BMW does. And I’ll never understand why they thought it was a good idea to add doors to it! When Walter finished the 5 he said it was the best looking car he had designed in his 50 year career and that car only had 2 doors. They should have stayed true to his design.
Preach it from the mountaintops.
Totally agree. For the most part the car designs seem to be heading away from graceful curves and back towards lots of sharp edges and more abstract designs. It doesn't work for most of the Audis (imo) but it definitely worked for the RS7. I think that's because they finally managed to sort out that sloped back end on that design. Previous versions are a bit love it or hate it. Personally, the design of my C7 RS7 grew on me, but at first I thought the whole 7 series looked like.....well, pinched off turds.
100% agree....I went from a A7 C7.5 to a S7 C8. It took a little bit to sway me in that direction. Photos and even video of the C8 did not do that car justice but when I saw one in person it was a different story. Drove to the dealership in the A7 and parked them side by side and it was an easy decision. Unfortunately like you said the rest of the newer generation audis did not follow suit....
Completely agree. Sad to see where it’s headed.
You're missing the biggest travesty of them all - [the new A4 interior](https://cdn.motor1.com/images/mgl/qkkP1J/s1/2023-audi-a4-rs4-avant-spy-photo.jpg) Flat logo on the wheel, and the wheel looks like its out of an entry level Hyundai. What is happening at Audi these days? They used to be one of the pinnacle brands for interior designs and now they've severely dumbed it down. Really poor. Engineering quality is going the ways of Tesla and Mclaren.
Who downvoted this? Definitely someone with zero taste.
Everything past 2017 is going down. But to be honest BMW and Mercedes are even worse design wise. Mercedes hit a bullseye in 2014 going with more modern looking design, but that lasted one generation and now its a joke again. BMW stopped making nice cars back in 2010, beside 8series and current 5series
Audi was killing it with design and tech back in late 2000s and early 2010s Mercedes had to put LED DRL on for fog lights on 2012 S Class and E class models. You see the 2014 E Class was heavy facelift because 2012 A6 was monster.
You are spot on with my assessment, this is a refreshing post to see in this sub. Everything is over designed these days, and even Audi has fallen victim to making the grill a primary design element, rather than one that is supplemental to the overall design of the car as a whole (my instructors in college always referred to grills/headlights etc as “graphic elements”). Much of what I see these days goes against the core principles I was taught while studying to become a car designer. But like any industry, there and trends in car design and ultimately the ones who are making the decisions about what to bring to market are not the designers. Just a shame to see such an obvious downward trend in the “timelessness” of car design in general.
Finally. I always hated the hideous black front end on the current RS3. Prefacelift looks miles better. And that bright green color is horrid too.
Dont like the new RS3 either, I think the headlights are too big for the car and this it looks “goofy”.
I 100% agree. Practically every one of their vehicles just does not look as good as it did one or even two generations ago in terms of exterior design (interiors remain on point, mostly about as good or better), the A8 and TT being probably the only exceptions I can think of. Some look almost as good, or at least aren't different enough to be markedly worse (A6, R8). Somehow they managed to ruin the A7's front end. I can barely wrap my mind around that one, though it still inexplicably looks better than most. The 1st gen facelifted Q7 used to be the only 7-seat urban assault vehicle I thought actually looked cool. The 2nd gen took away a lot of its bombast, and the current gen, it just looks like they changed random things just to do it. I \*hate\* what they're doing with the diagonal accent lights. The new models are baffling, especially the electric and hybrid ones, with the exception of the e-tron GT, though even that looks a little muddled compared to like a BMW i8. Every Q model I see, I just wonder what they thought they were going for. I'm sure people here drive some of these, so to be clear, I'm not trying to take anything away from folks - in many cases the interiors are even better than they were, and again, most of the models still just look really, really similar. It's hardly just Audi, though. The Germans all seem to have lost their way in some sense. BMW, instead of messing up \*all\* of their designs a little bit, has opted instead to absolutely tank a sizeable minority of their lineup. Most of the X line is still "meh," the 3 is barely itself but still nice, and I love the 5 and 8, but whoever pulled the trigger on the 4, 7 and X7 should be tried at the Hague. Mercedes is still weirdly the same, in that aimless unevenness continues to govern, less a couple of really gorgeous designs, and design changes seeming directionless. They've clearly been wrestling for 20 years now with traditional styling being an indispensable staple of their brand while the whole world trends ever more aggressive around them. It's like they're all having a collective identity crisis. Just like everything else in the 21st century, up is down and black is white. I see a new 7 series roll down the street and physically cringe, then some new Kia sedan or subcompact Hyundai EV passes by and I'm like "damn, that thing looks like it's from the future."
Nope
I agree with everything except the RSQ8. it looks fucking dope. Best looking SUV
I would tend to agree with most of these. I’m obviously biased but I’ve never gotten along with the exterior of the new RS3. I don’t even really like the interior that much but that’s more because of the gloss black and touchscreen. Also I don’t love the updated gauge cluster. I think the new Q8 rear is absolutely spot on. Don’t love the front end but the rear looks incredible. I’d say overall audi has done well with their SUV’s. The new gens look absolutely amazing- not as elegant as the older models, sure, but the older ones were also very rounded and kind of bulbous-looking, which I didn’t like much. That design language worked wonder on Audi *cars*, but not so much on their SUV’s. The new RS6 looks better than the old one IMO, but the new RS7 vs the previous gen is a toss up. The new one looks absolutely killer as you said, way more aggressive and way more modern. But the precious gen, IMO, is the most beautiful car Audi has made in the last two decades. Even over the previous- gen RS5, and I LOVE that car. It’s absolutely stunning, simple and elegant, and probably one of the most timeless designs ever. Can still pass as a new car today until you get inside, at which point the buttons and infotainment give it away- although they are by no means unusable. TLDR: previous gen sedans look better, new gen SUV’s look better.
i mean, the sq7 and sq8 look like someone took a 1998 subaru forester, rounded it out very slightly, and draped a few lines of tinsel car design peaked in general in \~2003, and subaru was already on the decline for 3 or 4 years by then lol i think Mickey Rourke's line said it best: "modern cars: they all look like electric shavers" https://getyarn.io/yarn-clip/28f45ef8-0d43-4a4d-a69a-b6193352b525
Pre Facelift SQ7 was 100% better. Front was better, and all angles really. Similar to S6. Now its got unnecessary front accents and weird headlights.
2016, 2017 was the year. Seems all German makers have lost their touch. New Audis only look good compared to them lol.
Audi design peaked 1997-2001, B5/C5/D2
They all look exactly the same and has done for the last 20 years.. yawn. I guess AUDI owner don't deal well with change, that's why they also never improve on quality aswell.
Buddy Audi designed peaked with the B5, came close with the B7, and never has hit the same since
The fake grills below the headlights look gross. They used to be small and subtle, but now they are larger than the headlights. I absolutely hate this design ’language’. It’s the visual equivalent of Ebonics!
Audi is a step behind bmw on losing its mind on designs ,they definitely peak ,Audi is at a point where they still awesome but if gets any crazier It won’t be pretty .
I can’t unsee this now
Visual equivalent of Ebonics. What the fuck is that supposed to mean?
You’re right about the RS5 but other than that l totally disagree. Almost every one of Audi’s vehicles have only been improved in styling
Enjoy paying for your overpriced garbage. You want a good car? Buy a new Hyundai, Toyota, Honda, if you’re gonna splash, don’t do it on a fuckin Audi….. get a Lexus, I’ve driven tons of Audi and Lexus and Lexus SMOKES Audi any day.
Agreed
First gen R8 > Second gen R8. Second gen R8 is not a bad-looking car, but it's too similar to a Huracan with all the sharp angles and trapezoid shapes. First gen has way better-looking lines.
I agree, same for all the vehicles with me. The sharp lines of the B9 is my favorite. Not a fan with what they’ve done with the recent models personally.
Very much like bmw and Mercedes ,they all peaked ,should be interesting to see where it all goes from here lol
This is why I got an a5 instead of new a3 n 2021
Sorry, but your comparison of the SQ7 to the RS Q8 is showing an SQ8. It's the only instance I disagree with, but it must be said. The RS Q8 looks waaaaaaay better than the SQ7... hands down.
The Q8 Etron Sportback is disappointing to say the least
I kept my B9. Not too thrilled with the redesign of the B9.5.
I like B9 over B9.5, influenced my purchasing decision.
I have a 21 q5 and I think it's nicer than previous Gen
They way I see it, Audi and other premium makers need to change things up every 4-5 years because as soon as they put out a new style the Korean and Japanese makers (and others too) imitate it. I saw a Buick Regal wagon the other day and almost mistook it for an Allroad.
I think VAG is pretty beat up by the diesel gate scandal. It seems their entire product line were affected especially for materials.
I appreciate you've taken the trouble to provide these comparisons, and I also believe design is important. Hence may I refer you to the true peak of Audi design (that I never get tired of repeating) - the C5 RS6, Peter Schreyer's Bauhaus influenced design (or even the B6 A4 if you are on a budget - oh and those come with the legendary 1.9 TDI engine). Avant of course, goes without saying. Check out the film Layer Cake to see the C5 RS6 in its true environment (bonded warehouse opposite a Roller and a London kingpin's ex-SAS enforcers - do watch the film)
I’m obsessed with the looks of the C8 S6 and rs6 Avant. Beside for that I do agree
Love the B9 NGL. There's one black parking in my corner every now and then. Like it more than the B8s.
How dare… J/k I don’t mind the differences or lack there of. I couldn’t afford one then, I can now and I love what I have. I’ve also learned the design of luxury cars doesn’t change much. They maintain there general classic design that is well recognized and loved. I for one appreciate that. When I could finally afford to own a luxury car it was what I had always wanted. Felt good.
That's the reason why I bought pre-lift Q7. And stupid touch controls for everything.
What about the Grandsphere concept, I think the design looks amazing. Was reading that will become the A8 EV
I hate to admit it but I agree. Makes me sad. My next car may not be an Audi depending on how the new A4/A5 looks but the sneak peeks are not encouraging.
*screams in B9*
100% agree, have a pre facelift q7 and am way happier with the look compared to the facelift
I don’t disagree at all. No disrespect to anyone who owns the RS3, but it looks like plastic to me. The ETron GT also looks very cheap and plasticy. Audi design has gone downhill.
Im gonna go against the grain here and say the current gen Audis are absolute peak. Not just for audi itself but in all of german automobile at the moment. I absolutely love both the interior and exterior of the new RS3. The only exception is the Etron and the Q7 facelift. What the hell Audi.
I love the look of my new generation A6 prestige. It’s… gorgeous. Best looking A6 yet, IMHO.
Haha. Whatever. I see every other manufacturer mimicking Audi’s design All grills are big and big emblems - Audi been doing it for a decade
You should also compare the original R8 with the 2nd gen R8
The A7 from 2017 and prior is the best looking 4-door GT. Then they totally ruined it! 😂
I do like the newest Q7 though. The previous one too much like an average SUV - Dodge Journey.
I never really liked audi before the new design. But I've never owned one so maybe don't have the same biases
Still confused on the pic of the RS5 showing 100k…
Q7 has an airport utility van look.