Sous 04 S4

Shifter/clutch feel-Well like I said before this will be my first Audi. Non-American car even really. The clutch was firm but free moving. Didn't seem too stiff, although it wasn't a slush feeling either. The shifter itself did seem to have a little more room between gears than I would expect, but I think I will get used to it. It slipped into gears very smoothly, but once you started to let out on the clutch and hit the gas the car would just go.

Ride quality-Well, I was really surprised to be honest. I was expecting a rough ride after reading the reviews, but it was very smooth and enjoyable IMO. I feel it was the perfect match between sport and luxury. On the highway it stuck to the road very nicely, and would take pavement bumps smooth. I took a few round abouts at rather high speeds and the body roll/lean was minimal at worst IMO.

Seats-All I can say is DAMN THOSE ARE NICE! Instanly after sitting in them, you feel the sides curling around you and the lumbar support holding you firm in place. While flying through some of the round abouts, the seats were a great help to keep me in place. I didn't go on but a 20 minute trip or so, so I can't really say about long trip comfort. Although I don't forsee any problems.

Comparing to the M3-Well, I've never driven one, but have riden in one. I would say that it isn't as harsh a ride as the M-3. Although the M-3 does seem to have a bit more get up and go to it at higher speeds. I got the S4 up to about 120 with no problems at all though. I also have the option of getting an M3 for about $8K off of MSRP, but am going with the S4 for sure. Personal reasons mostly, but also because of the safety of AWD and the 4 doors for the little ones.

Thanks for the props on serving. It helps a lot to hear support from people. I spent 6 months in Pakistan last year, and hearing things like "thanks for everything" make it hit close to home.

Sous 04 S4

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Sous 04 S4

I agree, I thought it was much, much better looking in person. I didn't know for sure if it was the Nogaro when I pulled into the lot.

Sous 04 S4

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Sous 04 S4

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Sous 04 S4

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MarkFank

I couldn't tell from the one interior pic. In the US we only get the option of aluminum trim w/ the alcantara. I'd love the piano black &amp; will probably order it from Europe and get it installed.

P.S. Ditto on the thanks for serving in the USAF! I'm just glad you guys are on our side. :-)

I'm a Univ. of Utah fan &amp; we play AF in football &amp; basketball every year. I have a lot of respect for the AF players - true student athletes, disciplined &amp; show great sportsmanship. (I wish I could say this about my team every year :-/ )

Fluffhead

Looks like Carbon Fiber. I think it's standard in Europe.

meem

guess this resolves the fender gap question ... way too high :-(

doctorno

looks a lot like mine. only slower.