We're only five months into the year but that hasn't
stopped Audi from announcing a series of changes to its 2018 model lineup.
Starting with the A3, the 2018 model gains
additional standard equipment including heated front seats and an Audi music
interface with two USB ports. The sporty S3, on the other hand, can be equipped
with a new S Sport package which includes red brake calipers and a magnetic
ride control system.
The 2018 A4 has additional equipment on higher-end
variants as well as a newly available Black optic plus package. The latter
includes red brake calipers, gloss black mirror caps, a rear spoiler, and
18-inch wheels with a gloss black finish. Buyers will also find an upgrade
interior as the package adds a flat-bottomed steering wheel, piano black trim,
and red contrast stitching.
Bigger changes occur with the 2018 A6 and A7 as both
models have an upgraded 3.0-liter TFSI V6 engine that produces 340 hp and 440 Nm of torque. Both models can also be equipped with a
Competition package which adds black mirror caps, red brake calipers, a sport
suspension, and a quattro sport differential. Other highlights include brushed
aluminum trim, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and S sport seats with either
contrast or diamond stitching.
The next-generation Audi A8 is right around the
corner so changes to the current model are relatively limited. However, the
entry-level variant is offered with a new Executive package which boasts a
heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and a
panoramic glass roof. The package also includes 20-inch alloy wheels and an
assortment of driver assistance systems. The A8 4.0T goes even further with an
Executive plus package which adds power rear seats with ventilation and massage
functions.
Moving into crossover country, the 2018 Q3 gains
heated front seats and an S line exterior with sportier bumpers. Premium
variants can also be equipped with a new Convenience package which adds
aluminum satellite trim, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a power tailgate, and
an Audi advanced key.
The Q7 goes largely untouched as the only notable
addition is a standard Audi advanced key. The Q7 Premium Plus gains a standard
3D BOSE Surround Sound system, while the range-topping 3.0T Prestige now comes
with power door closers.
At the other end of the company's lineup, the TT
gets standard parking sensors as well as an optional competition package which
adds a sport suspension, a sport steering wheel, and leather/Alcantara sport
seats.
The range-topping Audi R8 has a modestly revised
exterior as the quattro badging on the front grille has been replaced by an
Audi Sport logo. Elsewhere, there's new puddle lights, an Audi smartphone
interface, and Anthracite trim (Carbon sigma trim on the V10 plus). Buyers
looking for something more unique can order the new Black optic package which
includes a gloss black exhaust, titanium black exterior trim, and special
20-inch forged alloy wheels.