Audi: Paris Motor Show recap

Here's a great recap of everything what happened at the Paris Motor Show, at least from Audi's perspective. Did we mentioned it's a must read?

The year 2006 has been very big for Audi. The four-rings brand has rolled out many exciting new models such as the V10-powered S6 and S8 cars, the Q7 SUV, the 2nd generation allroad and TT models and the all-capable RS4 sports sedan. Paris is the last big auto show of the year, and also happens to have the highest attendance of all major shows. Bearing this in mind Audi seems to have saved its best for last.

The star of this year’s show is Audi’s bid in the premium sports car/supercar category, the new R8. Following an exclusive world premiere party, Audi proudly showcased three R8’s as the center of its Paris display.

Two TT’s seen in red and white sat in front of a TT themed bar serving up special blends of tea. Upstairs was an Audi Exclusive booth with a highly customized A8 W12 model showcased. Audi Exclusive is a branch of quattro GmbH which offers custom interior options from mild to wild. The A8 on display was an example of understated luxury of the highest degree. In addition to the already long list of options available with an A8 W12 flagship, this Audi also featured a built in refrigerator, fax/copy/scanner, and custom DVD entertainment system. CEO’s take note.

Overall the Audi floor was a mix of old and new. In addition to the R8 and S3 car premieres, new technology such as Audi’s Valvelift System and the rebirth of the 1.8T name (now with FSI) rounded out the surprises from Ingolstadt. An RS4 cab, S6, S8, A8, and other models were on display although not new debuts for Audi.

Although Audi has shown many new models in the past few months, there are still a large number of new designs coming down the pipeline. We expect to see a 2-door coupe range called the A5 and a smaller version of the Q7 SUV called the Q5. The wished-for V10 engine will be added to the R8 lineup.