The Last Bastion of Germanic Conservatism

The smooth Audi A8

Audi has been the understated automotive choice for those seeking German luxury transport since the days of Horsch.

To this day, (and with few exceptions) the Volkswagen subsidiary has generally produced cars that are less cosmopolitan than the offerings of BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

The only exception has been the special TT.

The sharp TT Roadster

Audi design has carried a careful balance that favors conservatism across the lineup.

The only design feature on any current model that can be considered remotely bold is the Bugatti-inspired grille on the redesigned A8 and A4, and the still fresh from wrapping A6 (my favorite of the Audi sedans).

The balanced A6

If there is an area where Audi does spice things up it is with the marque's famed interiors.

The nicely appointed A8 cabin. (Strange steering wheel, though)

Neither BMW nor Mercedes-Benz can beat Audi for that special plush sensation of fabrics, wood, and polished aluminum that new Audi interiors provide.

Audis haven't always been so stylistically pleasing.

Just remembering Audi's drab box sedans of the 1980s and our wistful revery departs as fast an erstwhile 5000 that reverses itself through the closed garage bay door.

Recognizing his perilous position , the officer approaches with caution.

Today, times have changed for Audi- and for the better. However, Audi still remains the conservative's (only) choice; especially those tired of "Bangled" Bimmers and pseudo-emotional Benzes.

Curious how some aspects of time do not change.

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