Audi E-tron GT Concept
Audi unveiled the e-tron GT Concept at this year鈥檚 LA Auto Show. It鈥檚 the offspring of a collaborartion and Porsche, using the same platform and battery pack as the Taycan. Starting with performance, Audi claims an all-electric range of 400 km, although that figure could change in the production car. The e-tron GT Concept can also be charged to 80% of its capacity in just 20 minutes using its 800-volt system for a range just shy of 320 km. The 590 PS dual-motor setup enables it to do the 0-100 km/h sprint in around 3.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 240 km/h. But what is it like to drive? According to Engadget鈥檚 Roberto Baldwin, pretty enjoyable, even at cruising speeds around LA. He did mention that the suspension isn鈥檛 ready for production, though, but other than that, what you see is mostly what you鈥檒l get. The concept car is a total tech fest, boasting touch-sensitive controls throughout the cabin and a surprisingly futuristic steering wheel which will also make it in the final item, according to the reviewer. In fact, the entire vehicle is about 鈥?5% ready to go into production鈥? he added.
We got 26 mpg overall during our testing of the 718 Boxster with the smaller, base four-cylinder turbo. The Cayman takes to corners with a precision few other cars--regardless of price--can match. The mid-engine layout and well-tuned suspension endow the Cayman with fantastic balance, while the precise steering communicates excellent feedback. Not only is the Cayman capable of taking corners with great speed, but it's also a stable and forgiving partner, helping even less skilled drivers feel at ease with its capabilities. Our rented Cayman S had a sport version of Porsche's optional adaptive suspension system. Switching the adjustable suspension to its stiffer setting makes the car unyielding that's best reserved for canyon strafing and track days. The car rides on the firm side even in its normal mode, but there's enough bump absorption to make it livable driving around town or when cruising on the highway. Porsches are usually known for having firm, easy-to-modulate brakes, and the Cayman doesn't disappoint.
7,500 and are worth it if track days will be a big part of the owner's lifestyle. The Cayman is louder inside than most cars. The biggest ruckus comes from the engine that's just behind the driver's head. The sound is ever-present and clatters even when driven gently. The exhaust roar becomes more invigorating as the revs climb. The Cayman sits low to the ground. It helps if occupants are limber enough to slide into the contoured seats; exiting is less-than-graceful also. Once in, the driving position feels perfect for sporty driving, with a great view out over the low hood. The well-bolstered seats hold occupants in place, and provide all-day comfort. The instrument cluster is dominated by a large tachometer that sits directly in the middle, a reminder of Porsche's racing heritage. The center console is chock full of tightly packed, similar-looking buttons that take some familiarity to understand their purpose, but the infotainment screen has clear graphics and is easy enough to use. Small-item storage inside the cabin is sparse, but the Cayman comes with two trunks: a narrow, deep well under the hood and space behind the engine under the hatchback. The Cayman is skimpy on driver-assist features. Forward-collision warning is available as part of the optional adaptive cruise control package. This important safety feature is only available on cars with the automatic transmission. Blind-spot warning is a helpful option, especially because rear visibility is hampered by thick back pillars.
The new 2019 Audi A6 was mostly telegraphed. The luxury four-door sedan that was revealed Tuesday (although leaked earlier) follows the same jabs that the larger 2019 Audi A8 and 2019 Audi A7 threw first with a mid-size uppercut from Ingolstadt. The A6 combines technology found in the opulent full-sizer and sultry sportback with a raft of fuel-saving features. Whether the looks of the new sedan are a knockout, we'll have to wait to see. Audi detailed two engines for the A6, although only one is likely headed to the U.S. A 3.0-liter turbocharged V-6 likely will be the first available engine in the States, rated at 340 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. A 7-speed dual-clutch automatic will be standard in Europe for the new A6, although it's possible that an 8-speed unit is swapped when it makes the trip overseas. According to Audi, the A6 will sprint to 62 mph in 5.1 seconds when equipped with the gas engine. A turbodiesel initially will be offered in Europe, but it's not likely in the U.S. All-wheel drive is standard equipment on the A6, and an optional sport differential will be made available for certain models.