Table of Contents
Most Unsatisfactory Aspects
The infotainment system is too poor, and the rear seats cannot be reclined, which is very disappointing. Ventilated seats also require an additional option package. Additionally, the level of intelligent features is insufficient compared to electric vehicles. No other major issues for now.
Space (4 out of 5)
The main drawback is the non-reclining rear seats, but the space is quite ample as it’s a mid-to-large sized vehicle. Children are very comfortable, and family members have provided positive feedback regarding the abundant legroom space.
It’s significantly more spacious than my previous Jaguar XEL, offering an excellent experience in both front and rear rows. I don’t often sit in the rear, but one issue is the inability to install headrests. With headrests installed, the seating posture becomes uncomfortably leaned forward. Without headrests, the head area feels too firm.
It’s quite frustrating, making me envious of vehicles with adjustable rear seats. I’ve heard the updated Prestige trim even has a rear seat control button, further adding to my sense of missing out. I’ve always felt uneasy about this, as I hope to provide a comfortable rear experience for my family given our needs.
Driving Experience (4 out of 5)
Acceleration and cornering feel very smooth and natural. Audi vehicles perform consistently well without issues. The driving experience is well-balanced, capable of keeping up with an aggressive driving style. In Dynamic mode, the throttle response is extremely quick.
For such a large vehicle, I’m very satisfied with the 2.0T power output, though it can’t be compared to electric vehicles. I’ve also driven my friend’s Mercedes C300, but personally find this Audi smoother to drive with more natural acceleration and gear shifts. Overall, Audi has achieved excellent balance in all aspects.
Fuel Efficiency (4 out of 5)
City driving inevitably results in higher fuel consumption, but for a mid-to-large sized vehicle, the level is acceptable. It’s comparable to my previous Jaguar XEL. Highway driving averages around 7-8L/100km, while city driving with A/C on is around 11L/100km.
Overall, the fuel efficiency is decent. Most driving is done with the A/C on, and on the highway with A/C, my average hourly consumption is around 7.5L. In the city, it’s basically 11.5L. Of course, this also depends on one’s driving habits – I don’t accelerate aggressively from stops.
I haven’t experienced winter fuel efficiency yet, so I’ll share that experience later.
Exterior Design (5 out of 5)
I find the front, rear, and side profiles extremely appealing. Although I haven’t changed the wheels, I’ve had the body repainted, replaced the badges with black ones, tinted the windows black, applied black vinyl to the air intakes, and installed a body kit.
This gives the car a much sportier and more youthful appearance. I recommend blacking out all the chrome trim if possible, as it would make the overall look even younger and more dynamic.
Interior (4 out of 5)
The interior quality may not match higher-end vehicles, but it’s very decent for this segment. I opted for the leather and suede combination, preferring the feel. Some may find it lacking in premium quality, but I find it satisfies my needs and has an upscale ambiance. Opinions on leather may vary – to each their own.
Value for Money (4 out of 5)
The main consideration was value for money. Compared to the A6 in this segment, although lacking the liftback design, it offers more space, decent power output, quattro all-wheel drive, and Audi’s strong brand value.
As someone online described it, driving an Audi allows you to fit in anywhere, being neither too showy nor too understated – a relatively low-key type that still satisfies the craving for a premium vehicle. It also carries prestige when returning to my hometown.
Features & Equipment (4 out of 5)
It comes standard with quattro AWD, 360-degree camera, heated seats, etc. But I’m disappointed it lacks ACC adaptive cruise control – adding it and the laser radar costs 20,000 RMB. The lane change assist is also missing, costing an additional 5-6,000 RMB to install, which is a hassle taking 2 days.
I also regret not optioning the blind spot monitoring initially, having to add it along with a tire pressure monitoring system later at significant extra cost.
However, the 2024 facelift seems to have these features. For those considering this model, I highly recommend the Black Edition Plus trim with the 2.1 option package – it offers tremendous value with many extra features that would cost at least 70-80,000 RMB to add individually while requiring extensive disassembly of the vehicle.
Of course, that trim is more expensive, but if your budget allows, opt for quattro over front-wheel drive and the 55 TFSI over the 45 TFSI. Best of luck to all!