Audi TT RS - 2017

When Audi’s TT first came out, in 1999, it was a beautifully designed alternative to the Volkswagen GTI with which it shared much of its mechanicals. If you liked the idea of driving a GTI but couldn’t stand that it looked like the most common three-box car in world history, the TT provided a solution with its Bauhaus-like design. Audi has continually improved the TT since, achieving performance enhancements over the GTI that are nearly as great as its visual advantages.

As evidence, behold this latest TT RS, the reworked top-of-the-line model, based on the third-generation TT introduced in 2014. Distinguished by its aggressive front fascia and powered by a thoroughly revamped version of the 2.5-liter inline five-cylinder engine, the new model promises to scoot from zero to 60 mph in about 3.5 seconds—a heady figure indeed for a car often dismissed as all style and no substance.

Audi R8 Spyder - 2017

All-new for the latest model year, the Audi R8 Spyder is a mid-engined supercar that boasts a Lamborghini-derived V10 engine and Audi's quattro all-wheel drive system. Despite its high performance capabilities, the R8's user-friendly nature and comfortable cabin actually make it suitable as a daily driver.

The second-generation R8 is again offered as a convertible and as a coupe.

Under the Hood

The original R8 was offered with either a V8 engine or a V10, but the second-generation model is V10-only for the time being.

The 10-cylinder in question is a Lamborghini-derived naturally-aspirated 5.2-liter unit that makes 540 horsepower at 7,800 rpm and 398 pound-feet of torque at 6,500 rpm. Linked exclusively to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission controlled by shift paddles, the V10 sends the R8 from zero to 62 mph in 3.6 seconds and on to a top speed of nearly 200 mph. Audi's quattro all-wheel drive system helps put the power to the ground.

To keep fuel economy in check, the R8 Spyder packs a start/stop system, a coasting function built into the transmission and Audi's cylinder on-demand technology, which seamlessly turns the V10 into a straight-five when its full output isn't needed.

Looking the Part

Staying true to tradition, the R8's design is more evolutionary than revolutionary. It features a sharp-looking front end characterized by a wide rendition of Audi's trademarked Singleframe radiator grille with honeycomb inserts, angular headlights, and a deep bumper with two large air ducts accented by blade-like inserts.

Out back, the R8 features a pair of thin, elongated tail lamps, a discreet spoiler that automatically extends, a sizable air diffuser and two air vents that mirror the ones found up front.

The Spyder's cloth soft top weighs nearly 100 pounds, and it can be opened or closed in 20 seconds at speeds of up to 31 mph. When closed, the top flows into a pair of fins that emphasize the R8's long deck lid. It's available in red, black, or brown.

Life Aboard

The evolutionary treatment continues inside the R8, where the cockpit's basic layout is largely carried over from its predecessor. The coupe is fitted with Audi's Virtual Cockpit, a digital and fully configurable instrument cluster that was inaugurated by the third-generation TT. The driver can configure the high-resolution 12.3-inch screen to display a wide variety of data including navigation directions, acceleration and lateral forces, as well as vital information about the car and its surroundings.

Aston Martin V8 Vantage S Coupe - 2017

For those who like the Aston Martin V8 Vantage but want just a little bit more sportiness, there exists the V8 Vantage S. The model starts with the smallest, lightest, most agile car in Aston Martin's lineup and adds just a dab more power and slightly better brakes and tires.

Power in the 4.7-liter aluminum V8 is up marginally, from 420 to 430 horsepower, while torque rises from 346 to 361 lb-ft compared with the base Vantage. New mufflers, improved intake airflow, and new programming that keeps the exhaust system's bypass valves open longer are responsible for the power increases. The engine upgrades, along with a weight savings of 100 pounds, help the car rocket from zero-to-60 mph in about 4.0 seconds.

Though fuel economy isn't much of a concern in this segment, it's worth noting that the Vantage S is rated at 14 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway.

Unfortunately, those hoping for a manual gearbox must look elsewhere. The V8 Vantage S, unlike the normal Vantage, is only available with a seven-speed Graziano automatic that makes do with a single clutch. Many of Aston's competitors switched to dual clutch designs years ago. The transmission routes power through a limited slip rear differential. Tires are upgraded to Bridgestone Potenzas, 245/40 at the front and 285/35 at the rear, riding on 19-inch cast aluminum wheels.

The standard brakes are up-sized for duty in the V8 Vantage S, with 15-inch front rotors clamped by six-piston calipers and 13-inch rear rotors with four-piston calipers. The rotors are vented and grooved for improved performance.

Visually, the car is differentiated from its lesser siblings by V12 Vantage-inspired rockers, decklid, and front and rear fascias. Only the most astute Aston aficionados will be able to spot the differences from the base model, however.

Dynamic revisions to the V8 Vantage S include quickened steering rack ratio of 15:1 compared to 17:1 on the standard car along with more aggressively tuned springs and dampers. Other additions include a new dynamic stability control (DSC) system specifically tuned to the Vantage S along with a new brake module with features such as Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA), which provides assistance in emergency braking situations, and Hill Start Assist (HSA).

Aston Martin V12 Vantage S - 2017

The range-topping model in Aston Martin's Vantage sports car range, the V12 Vantage S beguiles with stirring sheetmetal and an operatic 565-horsepower motor. Unfortunately, an aging platform prevents it from matching the driving thrills of some rivals, and an unrefined transmission makes daily driving an uncomfortable experience.

Overview

The V12 Vantage S could well be thought of as Aston Martin's take on the classic Detroit muscle car formula. It was created when the British brand stuffed its largest, most powerful motor into the engine compartment of its smallest sports car, thereby bringing improved straight-line performance and an engine note of the gods to the Vantage lineup.

The engine in question is a 5.9-liter V12 that cranks out 565 horsepower at 6,750 rpm along with 475 lb-ft of torque at 5,750 rpm - 376 lb-ft of which is available at just 1,000 rpm. With all of that output coursing through the rear wheels, the V12 Vantage S is capable of sprinting from zero-to-60 mph in just 3.7 seconds on the way to a top speed of 205 mph.

The Achilles' heel of the powertrain is a seven-speed single-clutch automated manual transmission that is about a decade behind the times. Compared with more sophisticated dual-clutch units, its shifts are more leisurely and, at slow speeds, are accompanied by a jerkiness that is reminiscent of a teenager learning to drive stick for the first time.

On the plus side, the V12 Vantage S is equipped with a three-mode adaptive damper system that lets the driver choose between "Normal," buttoned-down "Sport" and extra-firm "Track" settings. In addition to adjusting damper configurations, the modes also alter throttle response, steering assistance, gearshift speed and timing, and exhaust note. Overall, the V12 Vantage S is hardly a slouch when it comes to handling, but a basic structure that dates back to 2005 prevents it from exhibiting the poise and finesse of newer competitors.

Standard carbon ceramic brakes provide abbreviated stopping distances and nearly eliminate fade altogether. Air ducts positioned within the lower front grille feed air directly onto the brake discs to aid cooling.

Looking the Part

Outside, the V12 Vantage S is differentiated from humbler Vantage models by a quartet of carbon fiber hood vents that let the massive V12 motor shed excess heat. Carbon fiber also adorns the grille, front splitter, side vents and model-specific rear fascia, and 10-spoke forged alloy wheels, a black roof and a special bodykit round out the visual modifications.

Ariel Atom 3 - 2017

The Ariel Atom 3 is a unique, open-cabin track car that has pioneered a niche market for those seeking race car-like performance on a much more reasonable budget.

The Atom 3 is not a federalized model suitable for road driving in the U.S., so it's quite a pricey "track toy." However, it's a real bargain compared to building and operating a race car.

Overview

While the Atom is built by Ariel itself for European consumption, in the U.S. Ariel has tried a few different partners, and most recently has given exclusive rights to build and sell the track car through a company called TMI AutoTech Inc., based at the Virginia International Raceway, where the cars themselves are assembled.

Power for the Atom comes from a Honda-sourced 2.4-liter four-cylinder unit that pairs with a six-speed close-ratio syncromesh transmission and a limited-slip differential. The four-cylinder produces 230 horsepower.

While that power figure may not wow you by itself, the Atom 3 weighs a scant 1,350 pounds and can rocket from zero to sixty mph in under three seconds, according to Ariel.

Stock brakes come in the form of PBR single piston units, which can be upgraded to Wilwood Dynalite four-piston brakes, or even more pricey Alcon track brakes with four pistons as well.

The suspension comes standard with non-adjustable Bilstein shocks, while adjustable units can be had for a bit more cash. If that doesn't tickle your suspension fancy, customers can also pay to upgrade to chromoly aerofoil wishbones and race-grade rod ends.

One of the most unique design aspects of the Atom 3 is the tubular chassis which not only supports the car, but replaces nearly the entire body that would be used on any other vehicle. This exposes virtually every component to the elements, from the front brakes to the engine, but also drops the car's curb weight to just half a ton - making it far faster and more nimble than most supercars.

Alfa Romeo 4C Spider - 2017

The Alfa Romeo 4C Spider is a two-seater convertible that borrows design cues from the now-defunct Maserati-powered 8C. Built by Maserati in Modena, Italy, the 4C Spider is essentially a topless version of the 4C coupe.

Recent Changes

For the latest model year, Alfa Romeo has upgraded the 4C with an available Alpine stereo system and an optional Akrapovic dual-mode exhaust system.

Overview

Designed in-house, the 4C Spider's supercar-inspired silhouette is nearly identical to the award-winning 4C Concept displayed by Alfa at several major trade shows around the world. The car is characterized by a highly-aerodynamic body with sculpted flanks, futuristic-looking headlights and round tail lamps that hark back to race-winning Alfa sports cars built in the 1950s and 1960s. 

Air vents mounted next to both doors hint at the car's mid-engined configuration, and a transparent engine cover allows pedestrians to admire the direct-injected four-banger as they walk by.

Engineers put a big focus on saving weight and the 4C Spider is built out of a combination of aluminum, steel, carbon fiber and fiber-glass reinforced composite materials. It weighs 2,487 pounds, a relatively low figure that made it possible for Alfa Romeo to remove the power steering system altogether.

Turbo Four

The 4C Spider is powered by a turbocharged and direct-injected four-cylinder engine with a displacement of precisely 1,750 cubic centimeters, a number chosen for its historical resonance. An evolution of the mill that powers the Europe-only Giulietta Quadrifoglio Verde hot hatch, the transversally-mounted four-banger is fitted with several model-specific parts including the intake manifold and the entire exhaust system.

The engine is equipped with Alfa's Scavenging technology, which modifies the fuel delivery and valve timing parameters in order to maximize low-end torque and reduce turbo lag.

The mid-mounted all-aluminum mill sends 237 horsepower and 258 lb-ft. of torque to the rear wheels via a six-speed TCT dual-clutch transmission equipped with a built-in launch control function. The sprint from zero to 60 mph takes approximately 4.1 seconds and top speed is reached at over 155 mph.

The Spider returns 24 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.

Brembo brakes all around help keep the engine's power in check and slow the 4C from 60 mph to a full stop in roughly 118 feet.

The 4C Spider comes with a thoroughly revised version of the DNA switch introduced several years ago on the MiTo hatchback. It allows the driver to choose one of four distinctly different driving modes: Dynamic, Natural, All-Weather and Race. Each setting automatically adjusts the car's throttle response, steering feedback and suspension.

Acura NSX - 2017

Representing the second-generation of Acura's mid-engine supercar, the NSX has been totally reimagined for the modern era with a twin-turbocharged V6 and a three-motor hybrid drive system. Although the approach is a little different for this latest generation, the NSX still places a heavy emphasis on comfort and reliability while delivering the kind of performance you'd expect from a six-figure supercar.

Overview

Following the latest trend in the supercar segment, the NSX eschews a 10- or 12-cylinder naturally-aspirated engine in favor of a mid-mounted, twin-turbocharged V6 mated to an electric drivetrain. That V6 displaces 3.5L and generates 500 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque on its own. The hybrid component of the NSX includes three electric motors — one integrated into the car's nine-speed dual-clutch transmission and another two mounted to the front axle, giving the NSX all-wheel drive. Total system output is 573 horsepower and 476 lb-ft of torque.

Although hybrid systems have typically been utilized to increase efficiency, the electric system in the NSX is geared more toward performance. The electric motors aid in initial acceleration, which helps to reduce the inherent turbo lag of a turbocharged engine. The twin front motors also allow for true torque vectoring — when going around a corner, the NSX is capable of "dragging" the inside wheel while sending power to the outside wheel, helping the car turn more quickly.

That said, the hybrid system should net above average city fuel economy for the segment while allowing the NSX to cover small distance at low speeds on battery power alone.

Acura hasn't quoted 0-60 times for the NSX, but the automaker says the hybrid can hit a top speed of 191mph.

The NSX boasts supercar lines with a few typical Acura styling cues mixed in. Most notably the NSX features a version of Acura's beak-like front grille and a set of the brand's signature LED headlights. The NSX was designed with airflow in mind and, as such, it sports several vents and wings to improve cooling and aerodynamics.

Life Aboard

In typical supercar fashion the NSX offers seating for just two, but cabin space is more than ample. Likewise, the NSX offers a larger trunk than you'd typically find in this segment.

Porsche 718 Cayman S PDK Automatic - 2017

In our previous reviews of the stablemates for this 2017 Porsche 718 Cayman S—the Boxster, Boxster S, and base Cayman—we’ve already detailed the transformation from the previous naturally aspirated six-cylinder engine to turbocharged flat-four power. In short, the new engines are more powerful but sound completely different. This transformation stirs debate. Is a forced-induction four-banger that makes more power “better” than the former naturally aspirated flat-six that needed to be run out to redline to make power but sounded so beautiful while doing it?

The new 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder generates 350 horsepower—25 more than the old 3.4-liter six—but it does not create operatic music. It instead emits a raspy, uncouth sound that strikes some drivers as unpleasant and grating in the way people can’t figure out how that nasally Dylan character landed a Nobel Prize for literature. It’s just so artless, they complain. In the case of this S model (and Bob Dylan, for that matter), they’ve got a point about the singing voice, but they’re wrong about artistry.

Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport Manual - 2017

The Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport might as well be twirling a butterfly knife at the intersection of Performance Avenue and Value Lane with a pack of unfiltered smokes rolled up in the sleeve of a plain white tee. It’s an intimidating thug from the Bowtie Gang that both outperforms and undercuts the competition. It’s a bully that goads others into street fights they can’t win and starts just as many brawls among friends (or co-workers if you happen to work here). Nothing at its price comes close to putting up the performance numbers it generates.

Okay, maybe there is one rival. Less than a year ago, a Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 knocked off a Z51-equipped Corvette Stingray in a two-up comparison test. This Corvette Grand Sport, though, is a slightly different animal. With all the Z06’s go-fast bits except for the LT4 supercharged V-8, the GS proves that power isn’t everything. Our test car also lacked the Z07 package (carbon-ceramic brake rotors, upgraded suspension, nearly racing-grade rubber) and the competition seats. Combined, those options add $9990 to the price of a GS. The good news? You don’t need ’em.

Porsche 718 Cayman Manual - 2017

As with a fine wine, the desirability of a Porsche Cayman can be a relative matter. Just as there’s arguably no bad batch of Château Margaux Bordeaux, there are only best, better, and good Caymans. The best cost more than the base model tested for this report, which tilts toward the merely excellent end of the spectrum—still among the world’s best sports cars, but not the way we’d order one for our own garage. Our track testing and road experience reveal why.

What’s in a Name?

Now known as the 718 Cayman for 2017—the numerical designation also was applied to its roadster equivalent, the 718 Boxster—Porsche’s mid-engine sports coupe wears handsome new bodywork that includes new front and rear fenders that wrap around a pair of refreshed headlights and taillights. Reworked front and rear fascias, as well as bigger air intakes aft of the doors, cap off the evolutionary design changes to the exterior. Porsche didn’t ignore the car’s cabin, either, sprucing it up with a redesigned upper dashboard and the addition of a responsive 7.0-inch touchscreen multimedia system. The finished product keeps things fresh without straying far from tradition.

Acura ILX

The Acura ILX is an entry-level compact luxury sedan designed to entice Generation Y buyers looking to move up to a premium brand. Though based on the Honda Civic, the ILX distances itself from its plebeian roots with distinct styling, additional tech and convenience features and a more coddling cabin.

Overview

The ILX's front end is unmistakably an Acura design, though the controversial "beak" grille is more gracefully incorporated than in some of the brand's other vehicles. The flanks feature a pair of eye-catching character lines: one runs relatively straight from the front headlight to the back of the rear window, while the other starts aft of the front wheel and sweeps up to create a "hip" above the rear wheel were the two meet. Around back, the taillights are reminiscent of the units on the brand's crossover vehicles.

The ILX is now exclusively powered by Acura's 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine mated to an eight-speed, dual-clutch gearbox. The engine makes 201 horsepower at 6,800 RPM and 180 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 RPM. The combination is good for 25/36/29 mpg city/hwy/combined.

The suspension and steering have been retuned to improve responsiveness and linearity. Acura's goal was to deliver a more athletic, confident and balanced driving experience. 

The exterior features LED headlights, a revised grille, an aggressive front fascia, rear LED combination lights and new, 17" wheels. A-SPEC cars receive a trunk spoiler, side sill trim and 10-spoke wheels.

The ILX's interior shows off new, more upscale materials and finishes. The wheel, shift knob and parking brake handle feature contrast-stitched leather. The A-SPEC package adds headliner upgrades, Lux Suede seat inserts, red instrument illumination and exclusive stitching.

Standard and Optional Features

The ILX offers a full suite of standard and optional luxury and technology features, including heated front seats, Bluetooth, Smart Entry/Push-Button Start keyless access system, one-touch turn signals, GPS-linked automatic climate control and LED accent lighting. A 7-inch touch screen (Premium and Tech Plus grades), located on the instrument-panel center stack, controls everything.

AcuraWatch, Acura's suite of advanced safety tech, includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist System, a Multi-View Rear Camera with Dynamic Guidelines, as well as Road Departure Mitigation and a Collision Mitigation Braking System (including Forward Collision Warning) with sensor fusion technology that enables new capabilities, including pedestrian sensing. It is standard on the Tech Plus Package and optional on the standard ILX. Premium and Tech Plus grades also get Acura's blind spot information and Cross Traffic Monitor feature.

Acura TLX - 2017

A replacement for the outgoing TSX and TL luxury sedans, Acura's TLX is a tech-packed "tweener" that offers midsize space at a compact sedan price. Available with four- or six-cylinder engines and a pair of advanced, fuel-efficient transmissions, the TLX boasts a sporty driving experience along with a slick, dual-screen infotainment system.

Recent Changes

For the latest model year, the TLX receives an available GT Package that brings a body kit and 19-inch alloy wheels.

Overview

With sinewy character lines, a pointed "shield" grille and "jewel" LED headlights, the TLX combines all of Acura's latest styling cues into a clean, cohesive and athletic package. At 190.2 inches in length, it splits the difference between the size of the old TSX and TL, while increased use of high-strength steel, magnesium and aluminum in the body and chassis ensure optimal rigidity and minimized mass.

Inside, the TLX boasts a modern, streamlined dashboard that keeps buttons to a minimum by way of Acura's dual-display setup, wherein the eight-inch upper unit displays navigation and audio information and the seven-inch lower touchscreen furnishes access to the same as well as the climate control system. Other items of note include an instrument panel multifunction display and, on V6-engined models, an unusual push-button gear selector.

Further increasing the TLX's technology quotient is the available AcuraLink connectivity system, which includes real-time traffic and weather updates, Siri Eyes Free and a concierge serve that can make restaurant reservations. Also part of the setup are cloud-based apps such as Aha radio, which can play streaming internet radio stations and podcasts as well as read aloud content from Facebook, Twitter, audiobooks and news reports.

Not forgoing the luxury fundamentals while implementing all of that tech, Acura also fitted abundant upmarket furnishings like a one-piece soft-touch instrument panel cover, alloy- and woodgrain trim, and available Milano premium leather upholstery.

Standard heated front seats (ventilation is optional) accommodate the driver and front passenger, while the rear passengers enjoy respectable space in all dimensions. The trunk affords 13.2 cubic feet of stowage space, which can be increased to 14.3 cubes by way of an available underfloor storage compartment. Standard 60/40 split folding rear seats allow the TLX to carry longer or bulkier items.

Powertrain Lineup

The TLX's entry-level engine is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that produces 206 horsepower and 182 lb-ft of torque. The mill teams with a novel eight-speed DCT automatic that features a dual-clutch design for quick shifts as well as a torque converter for refined low-speed operation.

Those after more power can select a 3.5-liter V6 that uses a nine-speed automatic and makes 290 horsepower along with 267 lb-ft of torque.

Front-wheel-drive is standard with both powertrains, while the V6 can be had with Acura's Super-Handling All-Wheel-Drive system, which offers brake-based torque vectoring for more neutral driving dynamics. FWD models benefit from Precision All-Wheel Steer, which adjusts the toe angle of the rear wheels in order to increase both agility and stability.

Fuel economy is rated at 24 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway for the four-cylinder model; FWD and AWD V6 iterations return 21/34 mpg and 21/31 mpg, respectively.

A standard Integrated Dynamics System lets the driver choose between four drive modes that adjust steering settings, throttle response, shift mapping, SH-AWD or PAWS control logic, and even Active Noise Control and HVAC settings.

Aston Martin DB9 GT Volante - 2017

With an exquisite cabin, a mellifluous V12 motor and styling that will still turn heads in 2050, the Aston Martin DB9 GT Volante is a highly desirable drop-top grand tourer.

First launched in 2004, the DB9 GT is also available as a coupe.

Recent Changes

Updated for the latest model year, the DB9 GT gains a more powerful engine, a slightly revised front fascia and a new infotainment system.

Overview

Although the basic look of the exterior, including its classic proportions and graceful stance, remained unchanged as part of the refresh, there are several new details to the latest drop-top DB9 GT apart from its predecessor. It gains revised lights on both ends, a sprinkling of black trim, and 20-inch alloy wheels.

From the side, the DB9 Volante looks more aerodynamic, though the profile remains the same as any modern Aston Martin GT. At the rear, an integrated spoiler improves aerodynamics. Some design details have made their way down from the ultra-exclusive One-77, like the five-vane front grille.

Underneath its hood, DB9 boasts the latest version of Aston Martin's proven 5.9-liter V12 engine. Essentially a detuned version of the Vanquish supercar's mill, the DB9's unit serves up 540 horsepower -- 30 more than the outgoing model -- along with 457 lb-ft of torque. The zero-to-sixty mph sprint is achieved in the low-four-second range.

The engine mates exclusively to a six-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly but more slowly than the dual clutch boxes used by many of the DB9's rivals. Aston Martin recently eliminated the more sporting manual transmission option; those looking for a proper three-pedal gearbox will have to settle for the V8 Vantage Roadster.

The DB9 Volante continues to utilize Aston Martin's flexible and lightweight "Vertical/Horizontal" architecture, which is constructed from aluminum. The suspension was recently optimized for improved handling and includes an active damping system with Comfort and Sport modes. Even with the latter engaged, the ride remains compliant and there's more body roll than would be found in a true sports car. However, the handling is pleasantly responsive overall.

Audi A5 Cabriolet - 2017

The Audi A5 Cabriolet is the open-air version of the stylish A5 Coupe. It offers space for four sun worshipers (provided two are on the shorter side), a stylish interior and an efficient engine.

Overview

With sporty lines and elegant proportions, the A5 continues Audi's departure from the brand's previous design language, which was elegant yet decidedly understated. The A5 features sleek headlights, a bold rendition of Audi's trademarked singleframe radiator grille and an aggressive front bumper.

Inside, the A5 Cabriolet upholds Audi's reputation for high-quality cabins with a sleek dashboard, plenty of soft-touch materials and user-friendly controls. Available tech features include Audi's MMI infotainment system and Audi Connect, which brings in-car internet connectivity and industry-first Google Earth integration - complete with panoramic views and high-resolution 3D satellite and aerial imagery.

Like the A4 line and A5 coupe, the A5 Cabriolet is offered exclusively with a single engine option: a 220 horsepower 2.0-liter DOHC engine with FSI direct-injection and a turbocharger. The previous generation's premium 265 hp 3.2-liter V6 with FSI direct-injection has been discontinued.

Unlike the A5 coupe, however, the A5 Cabriolet does not have an available six-speed manual transmission. Instead, it offers the choice of either a "Multitronic" CVT transmission which returns an impressive 24 city and 31 highway miles per gallon with a relatively leisurely 7.2-second zero-to-60 time, or a slightly more sport-minded Tiptronic eight-speed automated automatic which returns 20 city, 30 highway mpg and achieves a 6.7-second acceleration time. Of note, the CVT sends power to the front wheels while the Tiptronic is paired with Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system.

Unlike many competitors, the A5 Cabriolet features a light-weight, insulated cloth folding top rather than a heavier, but more coupe-like, folding metal hardtop. The top can be raised or lowered at speeds of up to 31 mph, and an head-level heating system enables passengers to drive with the top down in less-than-ideal weather.

Standard and Optional Features 

The A5 Cabriolet can be had in Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige trim levels.

The Premium trim comes standard with a S-Line exterior package, leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, automatic climate control, a ten-speaker AM/FM/CD/SiriusXM sound system, heated headlamp washers, LED turnsignals, fog lights, 18-inch alloy wheels, Bluetooth connectivity, a Homelink garage door opener, Audi music interface, a driver info system, three-zone climate control, xenon plus lighting and LED taillights.

The Premium Plus model adds heated front seats, memory functionality for the front seats, LED taillights, a power trunk lid, three-zone automatic climate control and power-folding exterior mirrors.

The Beast : President's Limo (FUN FACTS)

our guide to the presidential limousine.

We don't know whether President Donald Trump is much of a car guy, but we do know that he now rides around in one of the most exclusive automobiles on the planet. If you're not familiar with it, allow us to introduce you to "The Beast"--the Cadillac limousine tasked with transporting America's chief executive.Not much is actually known about The Beast. It operates out of the Secret Service's classified motor pool, but a few specifications and secrets have leaked out over the years. Of the information that has been made public, this is what we think you should know about Cadillac One, Limo One or... The Beast.

1. It isn't actually a Cadillac. Unlike any presidential state car before it, The Beast shares little in common with a standard production car. Its chassis, diesel engine and transmission are based on those used in the Chevrolet Kodiak, a rugged commercial vehicle previously sold as everything from a dump truck to a U-Haul.

Some standard trim pieces, like headlamps from an Escalade and tail lights from the now-discontinued STS, keep it looking vaguely Cadillac-like.

2. It has its own airplane. The Secret Service makes use of a C-17 Globemaster transport aircraft to haul The Beast, a second limo and a heavily armored Chevrolet Suburban communications vehicle, any time the President is traveling. The Suburban is nicknamed Roadrunner and it is said to be a rolling communications office directly linked to a military satellite - hence the SATCOM dome festooned to its roof

3. Calling it armored is an understatement. There is probably not a better-armored vehicle with windows on the planet than The Beast. Its armor plating is said to be 8 inches thick and its doors weigh as much as those on a Boeing 757 aircraft. Five-inch thick bulletproof windows contain at least five layers to put a damper on any effort by subversives. And those gigantic, nearly bus-size Goodyear tires are Kevlar-reinforced run-flats capable of keeping The Beast on the road for quite some distance if needed. The interior is sealed off from the outside world to reduce risks of a chemical attack, while a special foam surrounds the fuel tank to insulate it in the event of an impact.

4. It's exceedingly well-equipped. Pop open The Beast's trunk and it is said that you'll find everything from firefighting equipment and oxygen tanks to a cache of the president's blood type. There are tear gas canisters, shotguns and, supposedly, grenade launchers, integrated into The Beast. The Secret Service has learned a lot since President John F. Kennedy's open-top Lincoln Continental was fired upon on Elm Street in Dallas.

5. It holds seven passengers. At the very least, The Beast has three passengers aboard - the driver, the president's lead Secret Service protective agent in the front passenger seat and, of course, the president himself. However, four additional seats in the back are available - three rearward facing spots on a bench and one spot next to the president for a guest. A folding desk separates the president from his guest's spot.

Somewhat surprisingly, the president's bench is covered in a dark blue cloth rather than leather (although plenty of hide is on board). Shoulder belts that retract toward the center of the bench and buckle into the outboard corners - the reverse of a normal rear seat - are included.

6. The Beast is not alone. The Secret Service actually has a few Beast-like vehicles. Although it's not known whether they're all functionally identical, some look more like a Cadillac DTS than The Beast. The other limousines are used for high-ranking foreign officials and VIP guests when they're in Washington, D.C. It isn't known why the Secret Service rotates between presidential vehicles, however.

In addition, the President sometimes travels in a heavily-armored Chevrolet Suburban or a modified Prevost bus known as Ground Force One rather than The Beast.

7. It runs on diesel. The Beast is believed to use a Duramax diesel engine closely related to that featured under the hood of Chevrolet and GMC's full-size heavy duty pickup trucks. Why diesel? Aside from the durability associated with diesel engines, the fuel has a low volatility that reduces the risk of it exploding - and it can be found everywhere in the world, unlike high quality unleaded fuel.

8. Its pilot is a heck of a driver. Even though The Beast has more in common with a school bus than a sports car, its highly-trained drivers can execute tight J-turns and other police-style evasion techniques in the event of a situation gone south. The Secret Service drivers have undergone extensive training on a secluded site (believed to be a military base) with input from GM engineers and test drivers.

9. Its specs will not impress you. Burdened with lugging a rumored 20,000 lbs. worth of Beast around, the diesel engine isn't a rocket. Hitting 60 mph from a complete stop takes about 15 seconds, which is more than just about any new car we can think of, and the big car's top speed is said to max out at 60 mph. In addition, all that weight makes it a guzzler, sipping fuel at a rate of 8 mpg.

10. It's due to retire. Though President Trump rode in the current iteration of The Beast for his inauguration Friday, 2017 will see the introduction of an all-new presidential limousine.