A size and shape to fit all: Audi delivers mid-size diversity

How many times have you wanted a car, but couldn’t fit it into your lifestyle, self-image, or budget? The conundrum makes you either giddy with excitement or filled with apprehension. Here in the Rocky Mountains we experience just about every kind of weather – sun and rain, ice and snow and everything in between. The weather in the Rockies makes many want all-wheel drive; some even feel they need it.

This is where Audi carved a niche out of the market with its line of all-wheel drive vehicles for the U.S. market. Recently, Audi launched the refresh of their b-segment. Before you spend too much time speculating what “b” stands for: It does not have to do with body parts, sex or bathroom humor. It represents the A4, A5 and the all-new allroad (notice the hip lower case naming) family of vehicles.

The highlight for many enthusiasts is the return of the Audi allroad for 2013 — a wagon with off-road prowess and executive comfort, according to Audi. It’s is built on the A5 foundation and uses a similar motor setup to the A4 and A5. For those who like their cars to make a statement, you will appreciate the thinly-stripped chrome grille that integrates into the lower part of the stainless front facia elements. Add the new LED “A” like lights and the appointment of stainless steel on the door ding strips, roof rails and rear bumper, and you realize that this car is a classy multi-purpose wagon.

Not into the Executive by day and fabulous Camper by night? Audi also offers the A4 and A5, and, of course, their alter egos – the S4 and S5 performance models. The A4 I shouldn’t need to introduce, I have known many “family” to drive these examples of precision German engineering. The updates for 2013 include the new LED front lights, all-new Multitronic continuously variable transmission, a more aggressive appearance and new interior features like the in car Wi-Fi hotspot and destination guidance with Google Street View. Yes, with the right set of options the complete Audi b-segment line will not only guide you to your destination, but show you what it looks like.

For those who need more personal space, the A5 can speak not only to your personality (available in striking colors like Brilliant Red), but also gives you that personal coupe experience. The A5 won’t disappoint in the sporty category either with an optional 6-speed manual transmission or 8-speed automatic with manual mode. The coupe is truly a beautiful body that stops and turns heads—it also says you are okay with being solo (or in the right circumstances plus one) while giving an air of sex, aggression and speed. Looking to be closer to the sun? The A5 Cabriolet can open you up to the warmth and the wind in your hair.

The Audi b-segment family is about fitting your lifestyle, whether you want a sedan, coupe or off-road capable wagon. The name of the game is diversity and equality. Move over Subaru Outback you have some classy competition. But wait just a minute – what about affordability?

The A4 starts at $32,500; the A5 starts at $37,850 and the allroad will cost you at least $39,500. And economy? The A4 with new Multitronic achieves 24/31 mpg city/hwy, the A5 22/26 mpg and allroad 20/27.  We can also tell you that the driving experience is comfortable and the all-wheel drive remarkable at giving a sure-footed and safe impression. It is the experience that has defined the Quattro name.

So as the sunsets and the weather continues to change ask yourself if you need or want a choice that is as diverse as you are. If you do, then an Audi might just fit the bill. As they say, “It never hurts to look.” ]