Not All Audis Are Equal
Car lovers remember the legends. But what about the flops? Audi’s history is packed with engineering highs and a few eyebrow-raising lows. Some models managed to impress car enthusiasts with their bold ideas and timeless designs. Others… not so much. Here’s the full story of which Audis are better forgotten and which ones deserve the hype.
1. Audi 100 LS
Launched in the early 1970s, the Audi 100 LS was meant to break new ground in America. However, it quickly became infamous for its excessive rust and poor heater performance. Even worse, parts were scarce and costly. Consequently, it left owners cold, literally and figuratively.
Robotriot on Wikimedia2. Audi V8
The Audi V8 was Audi’s first shot at the luxury sedan segment. It featured a 3.6L V8 engine and automatic transmission. Nevertheless, its tech-heavy design led to chronic electrical issues, especially with the climate control and dashboard. Moreover, it lacked the refinement and reliability of rivals.
Rudolf Stricker on Wikimedia3. Audi A2
Built between 1999 and 2005, the A2 was ultralight thanks to its aluminum space frame and impressive fuel efficiency. Still, its high price tag and oddball design scared off buyers. Additionally, repairs were notoriously difficult due to the car’s tightly packed layout.
Semnoz at French Wikipedia on Wikimedia4. Audi 5000
The Audi 5000 turned heads with its aerodynamic design and turbocharged engines in the 1980s. However, a wave of unintended acceleration complaints led to a media firestorm, most notably on 60 Minutes. Despite investigations that later absolved Audi of fault, public confidence vanished almost overnight.
5. Audi Q5 Hybrid
Unveiled in 2011, the Q5 Hybrid was Audi’s attempt to merge performance with eco-conscious design. Powered by a 2.0L turbocharged engine plus an electric motor, it produced 245 horsepower. Nevertheless, drivers reported clunky gear changes and unimpressive fuel savings. Furthermore, battery placement compromised cargo space.
Berthold Werner on Wikimedia6. Audi TT Mk1
The 1998 TT Mk1 stunned audiences with its Bauhaus-inspired curves and minimalist cabin. However, early models lacked stability control and rear spoilers, which caused several high-speed accidents. After public outcry, Audi recalled the vehicle and added both. Still, handling remained tricky under pressure.
Vauxford on Wikimedia7. Audi A6 3.0T
This 3.0T variant of the Audi A6 introduced supercharged power and improved responsiveness. Yet, it became known for serious mechanical woes: timing chain tensioner failures and oil consumption issues. Notably, these problems often appeared just outside warranty to make repairs painfully expensive. Additionally, the electronics were prone to glitches.
order_242 from Chile on Wikimedia8. Audi Allroad (2001)
Audi tried to blend wagon utility with SUV capability in the 2001 Allroad. Featuring an adjustable air suspension and twin-turbo V6 power, it offered versatility on paper. But in reality, the air suspension was notoriously unreliable due to its frequent failure and cost thousands to replace.
RL GNZLZ from Chile on Wikimedia9. Audi R8 E-Tron
Born in the shadow of Tesla’s rise, the R8 E-Tron was Audi’s electric halo car. Just 99 were produced between 2015 and 2016. It had 456 horsepower and a 0–60 time under four seconds. Still, it suffered from limited range (just over 200 miles) and eye-watering pricing.
Thomas Wolf (Der Wolf im Wald) on Wikimedia10. Audi A4 Ultra
The A4 Ultra was Audi’s fuel-efficient trim aimed at eco-conscious drivers. It featured a detuned 2.0L engine optimized for mileage to offer up to 37 mpg highway. However, it sacrificed the sporty feel that A4 buyers expected. Consequently, reviewers criticized its sluggish acceleration and lack of driving character.
Alright, we’ve covered the clunkers. Now, let’s flip the script. These next Audis didn’t just meet expectations; they floored them.
1. Audi RS2 Avant
Built in collaboration with Porsche in 1994, the RS2 Avant redefined what a wagon could do. It had a 311-hp turbocharged inline-five and sprinted 0–60 in under five seconds. Porsche tuned the suspension and brakes, even added its badge to the mirrors.
de:User:Timmäää on Wikimedia2. Audi Quattro
Few cars can claim to change motorsport forever. The original Quattro did just that. Debuting in 1980, it introduced all-wheel drive to rallying and won big. With a turbocharged five-cylinder engine and unbeatable grip, the Audi Quattro has become a performance icon.
Ultegra (talk) on Wikimedia3. Audi A4 B7
Launched in 2004, the A4 B7 struck a perfect balance between elegance and performance. It offered sharp styling and a rock-solid turbo 2.0T engine. The interior quality felt premium, and Quattro models stuck like glue. It aged gracefully, too, still admired by enthusiasts and commuters alike.
M 93 on Wikimedia4. Audi TT RS
With a 2.5L five-cylinder engine pumping out 400 horsepower, the TT RS could out-accelerate cars twice its price. Add in a Quattro grip and a sharp chassis, and you have a coupe that played in supercar territory. Small? Yes. But nothing about it felt minor.
Alf van Beem on Wikimedia5. Audi RS6 Avant
The RS6 Avant is the definition of a sleeper. This family wagon packs a 621-hp twin-turbo V8, hitting 60 mph in under 3.5 seconds. Yet it seats five comfortably and hauls groceries like a champ. Its power and practicality come together in one impressive package, and for the first time, Americans were able to experience it in 2021.
Alexander Migl on Wikimedia6. Audi S8 Plus
Understated until it isn’t. The S8 Plus looks like a polite executive sedan but hides 605 horsepower under its hood. It hits 60 in just 3.3 seconds, quicker than many Ferraris. Plus, it offers massaging seats and a serene cabin. It’s brutally fast and blissfully refined all at once.
Autoweek USA on Wikimedia7. Audi A3 (8V)
Launched in 2012, the 8V-generation A3 proved that entry-level didn’t mean bare-bones. With sharp handling and upscale interiors, it felt more grown-up than its size suggested. Moreover, its MQB platform meant solid driving dynamics. It earned praise for delivering value without sacrificing premium appeal.
8. Audi E-Tron GT
Audi’s electric grand tourer grabbed attention as soon as it was revealed. The RS variant, equipped with dual motors and up to 637 horsepower, combined impressive speed with zero-emission driving. Inside, the cabin offered a tactile, modern feel. This model became a clear design statement for Audi’s electric future.
Alexander-93 on Wikimedia9. Audi Q7 (Second Gen)
Redesigned in 2015, the second-gen Q7 trimmed weight and improved efficiency. Virtual Cockpit and rear-wheel steering made it feel futuristic. Meanwhile, it retained the comfort and space families loved. As a result, it became a bestseller, which proves big SUVs could be both smart and smooth.
© M 93 on Wikimedia10. Audi R8 V10 Plus
The R8 V10 Plus was Audi’s supercar home run. Borrowing the Lamborghini Huracan’s engine and wrapping it in Audi’s styling and Quattro system balanced brute force with everyday usability. With 602 hp, it roared on track days and cruised comfortably, too. Few cars offer that dual personality so well.
