Luxury doesn’t have to mean excessive. For Audi cars, the epitome of elegance is not about being flashy or letting unrestrained power take over. It’s about combining a timeless look with a powerful platform that provides an enjoyable experience.
Audi has been around for over a century and is currently introducing a new wave of Audi electric vehicles. The Audi e-tron lineup adds the EV sustainable options many seek, while the well-known Q-series SUVs and A-series sedans still serve as the unwavering foundation of the Audi brand.
Name: Audi | Industry: Automotive |
Founded: 1899 | Founder: August Horch |
Headquarters: Germany | Parent organization: Volkswagen Group |
Revenue: $60.4 billion USD | Website: audi.com |
Audi price
How much does an Audi cost?
With a wide array of models and many variants of each one, Audi car prices cover a wide margin. The starting price for a new Audi is $34,900 for the compact sedan A3.
Many other Audi models start in the $45,000 to $60,000 price range, including the Audi A6 sedan, the Audi TT compact sports car, and the Audi Q4 e-tron electric crossover SUV.
Some Audi models are priced higher and bring more to the table. These include the flagship Audi Q8 SUV starting at $71,800 and the Audi A8 executive sedan starting at $86,500.
What is the most expensive Audi?
The most expensive Audi is the Audi R8 Spyder convertible supercar, starting at $171,000. You can save a few bucks by getting the coupe variant of the Audi R8 instead, starting at $158,600 for this new Audi sports car.
Other high-end Audis include the fully-electric Audi e-tron SUV, which shares many characteristics with the flagship Q8 SUV. It starts at $70,800, about the same price as the internal combustion counterpart.
See how these prices stack up against the most expensive cars in the world.
How much is the cheapest Audi?
The cheapest Audi currently available is the Audi A3 compact sedan, starting at $34,900. Options can push the price to over $58,900, so be careful if looking to pinch pennies.
The Audi Q3 compact crossover SUV is another relatively cheap Audi, priced from $38,700 and up. It gives the all-wheel drive capability and somewhat ample cargo space that can handle your biggest adventures.
What is the cheapest Audi electric car?
The cheapest Audi electric car is the Audi Q4 e-tron crossover SUV. The rear-wheel drive base model starts at $48,800, while the all-wheel drive version with two electric motors starts at $56,800.
The next cheapest Audi electric car is the e-tron SUV, starting anywhere from $70,800 to $90,800, depending on the trim level selected. The futuristic Audi e-tron GT fully-electric sedan starts at $104,900.
About Audi
History of Audi
In 1899, August Horch founded his first car company, then known as August Horch & Cie. In 1910, the Audiwerke AG was formed in Zwickau, Germany, ushering in the first sign of the Audi name.
In 1932, the Audi four rings came together. They represent the merger of four German automotive companies, including Audi, DKW, Horch, and Wanderer. This era led to some of Audi’s most successful race cars, including the iconic Audi Union Type D.
After a pause during World War II, Audi returned to car manufacturing. Many Audi models through the 1960s and 1970s had a pragmatic approach, providing a sedan platform that served the needs of many.
As the 1980s rolled around, Audi started to take more risks. It added more luxurious options to the lineup, including the turbocharged Audi 200, and it tackled rally racing with a vengeance in the legendary Audi Quattro.
The German automaker continues to push its way forward, now under the ownership of automotive giant the Volkswagen Group. Its flagship Audi Q8 SUV and A8 executive sedan are flanked by the impressive Audi R8 supercar and the innovative Audi e-tron GT battery-electric sedan. The brand consistently ranks within the top 10 on our list of the best luxury car brands in the world.
Understanding Audi’s car range
Audi has a vast array of models. Keeping track of all Audi cars can be challenging, but the alphanumeric structure of the model names provides some clarity.
The first part of most Audi car brand names is a letter that designates the type of vehicle. These include Q for SUVs or A for sedans and Audi coupes.
The second part is a number. In most cases, the higher the number, the larger the vehicle. For example, the Audi A8 is the largest sedan and the Audi A3 is the smallest.
High-performance Audi models are the S and RS variants. Not every model has these options, but many do. For example, the flagship Audi Q8 SUV is available in a high-performance SQ8 option and the highest-performance RS Q8 variant.
Audi has recently introduced the e-tron moniker to signify its electric vehicle lineup. The Audi e-tron is an electric SUV, soon to be called the Audi Q8 e-tron. And the Audi e-tron GT is a sleek battery-electric sedan.
The Audi TT and R8 are unique models. Both are smaller platforms that put performance over practical use. The TT is a compact two-door sports car, while the R8 is a high-performance supercar that pushes the limits of speed and handling. Both have Audi convertible options.
The Audi quattro system is an iconic all-wheel drive drivetrain available on nearly every Audi made. It started in the 1980s as the Audi Quattro rally racing vehicle but has now transitioned into mainstream use as many people demand the all-wheel drive capability.
Surprising facts about Audi
Audi remains a unique automaker in many ways. But being part of the Volkswagen Group umbrella has led to connections to other carmakers.
The Audi e-tron GT shares much of the same technology as the Porsche Taycan. You might not notice it upon first looking at both vehicles, but if you had x-ray vision to see underneath the body panels, it would be unmistakable.
Another interesting fact about Audi is that it has put effort into developing a synthetic fuel known as e-diesel. More recently, Audi has also turned to hydrotreated vegetable oil for use in some diesel vehicles. It’s another step forward in finding sustainable solutions for the automotive world.
Where is Audi made?
Audi headquarters are located in Ingolstadt, Germany. While the luxury brand remains a German company with high standards of engineering and performance, Audi vehicles are produced in many factories throughout the world.
You can find Audi production facilities in Germany, Hungary, Belgium, Mexico, Slovakia, Spain, Russia, Brazil, India, and China.
Audi electric cars
As the electrification of the auto world sweeps across the industry, Audi is not being left behind. They’ve introduced three different fully-electric models and will be releasing more in the near future.
The first take on an Audi electric vehicle is the Audi e-tron, which will soon be known as the Audi Q8 e-tron. It is a variant of the brand’s popular Q8 SUV on a battery-electric platform and a starting price of $70,800.
Audi also has the e-tron GT, a sleek and futuristic sedan on a fully-electric platform shared with the Porsche Taycan. And the Audi Q4 e-tron is an electric crossover SUV. Will an Audi hit our list of the fastest cars around? We’ll have to wait to see.
Audi models
Let’s take a closer look at each Audi car available today, followed by a quick look at some of Audi’s best models of all time.
Audi e-tron
If you don’t know much about the mid-size crossover SUV Audi e-tron, it might be easy to overlook its innovative battery-electric system. Unlike many electric vehicles, Audi’s first EV model features the usual front grille and shares the exterior styling with the popular Audi Q8 SUV.
With up to three electric motors producing 496 horsepower on an all-wheel drive platform, the e-tron has what matters most. It also has plenty of space to seat up to five people and hold all the gear you want to take along for the ride.
As Audi expands its EV lineup, the e-tron model will soon be called the Q8 e-tron. It is available in the standard Q8 platform, a Sportback variant with a sloping rear roof, and S performance options for both body styles.
Price: | Starting at $70,800 to $90.800 |
Release year: | 2019 |
Engine: | Two to three electric motors |
Top speed: | 124 to 130 mph – 200 to 209 km/h |
0-60 mph: | 5.5 to 4.3 sec |
Power: | 402 to 496 hp |
Torque: | 490 to 717 lb-ft |
Range: | 226 to 208 miles – 364 to 335 km |
Audi e-tron GT
Built on the same platform as the Porsche Taycan, the Audi e-tron GT was the Audi luxury car brand’s first take on an executive sedan Audi electric vehicle. And it brings a lot to the table.
Available in the base model and a high-performance Audi RS e-tron GT, anyone with a need for speed would be happy sitting behind the wheel. Shooting up to 60 mph in just 3.1 seconds, the Audi e-tron GT will throw you into the seat back with force, competing with the Tesla Model S Plaid.
The futuristic look takes some of the characteristic Audi touches and combines them with a more refined and aggressive look. The result is a driver’s dream that will turn heads everywhere it goes.
Price: | Starting at $104,900 to 143,900 |
Release year: | 2020 |
Engine: | Two synchronous electric motors |
Top speed: | 152 to 155 mph – 245 to 249 km/h |
0-60 mph: | 3.9 to 3.1 sec |
Power: | 522 to 637 hp |
Torque: | 472 to 612 lb-ft |
Range: | 236 to 232 miles – 380 to 373 km |
Audi Q8
Unlike most things Audi, the automaker took its time when releasing this flagship SUV. Some competitors were on the market for nearly a decade before Audi Q8 hit the streets.
Although it uses the highest model number, leading you to believe it’s the largest Audi SUV, the Q7 is both longer and taller. But the Q8 reigns supreme in many ways, especially if you opt for the higher-performance variants, including the Audi SQ8 and Audi RS Q8.
Available upgrades include a nearly 600-horsepower 8-cylinder engine with ceramic brakes and a sport rear differential. Active roll stabilization and four-wheel steering provide the incredible control expected from any Audi car. It’s an incredible vehicle that barely missed the cut for our favorite luxury SUVs.
Price: | Starting at $71,800 to $122,800 |
Release year: | 2018 |
Engine: | 3.0L turbocharged 6-cylinder or 4.0L turbocharged 8-cylinder |
Top speed: | 130 to 190 mph – 209 to 306 km/h |
0-60 mph: | 5.6 to 3.7 sec |
Power: | 335 to 591 hp |
Torque: | 369 to 590 lb-ft |
Audi Q7
When you need to pack in a big group of people, the Audi Q7 supplies the extra space you need. The latest Audi SUV has come a long way since its introduction, now offering a fuel-efficient base model and a high-performance Audi SQ7 variant with the spirit of a monster under the hood.
A hands-free tailgate release and third-row seats folding at the push of a button are just a couple of the convenient amenities. And if that’s not impressive enough, you can step outside your vehicle and use the park assist to watch it effortlessly glide into a parallel parking space.
Audi’s legendary quattro all-wheel drive system provides traction on nearly any surface, while the available adaptive air suspension instantly responds to cornering needs and terrain changes.
Price: | Starting at $58,200 to $89,200 |
Release year: | 2006 |
Engine: | 2.0L turbocharged inline-4, 3.0L turbocharged V6 hybrid, or 4.0L twin-turbo V8 |
Top speed: | 130 to 155 mph – 209 to 249 km/h |
0-60 mph: | 5.6 to 4.3 sec |
Power: | 335 to 500 hp |
Torque: | 369 to 568 lb-ft |
Audi Q5
The Audi Q5 is the Goldilocks of the Audi SUV range. It’s not too big, not too small, and just right for almost any occasion.
This model, available with a plug-in hybrid option and as a high-performance Audi SQ5, has what it takes to compete in the highly competitive crossover SUV segment.
It also has the Audi Q5 Sportback offering, with a sloping rear roofline to enhance looks at the price of interior cargo space.
Price: | Starting at $43,500 to $59,200 |
Release year: | 2009 |
Engine: | 2.0L turbocharged inline-4, 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 hybrid, or 3.0L turbocharged V6 |
Top speed: | 130 to 155 mph – 209 to 249 km/h |
0-60 mph: | 5.0 to 4.7 sec |
Power: | 201 to 362 hp |
Torque: | 236 to 369 lb-ft |
Audi Q4 e-tron
The luxury electric vehicle market has many amazing options, but many are priced above what people want to pay. That’s all changing. The Audi Q4 e-tron is a more affordable Audi electric vehicle racing forward.
It’s available in a rear-wheel drive base model or the all-wheel drive Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron with a sloping rear roofline. Both use an 82 kWh battery pack that can be recharged to 80% in 36 minutes on a DC fast charger.
Both Audi Q4 e-tron variants come with Audi’s advanced driver assistance package to take the burden off any commute. We love this vehicle, and it’s on our list of the best electric cars.
Price: | Starting at $48,800 to $56,800 |
Release year: | 2022 |
Engine: | One to two electric motors |
Top speed: | 99 to 112 mph – 159 to 180 km/h |
0-60 mph: | 5.8 sec |
Power: | 295 hp |
Torque: | 339 lb-ft |
Range: | 265 to 242 miles – 426 to 389 km |
Audi Q3
Some people need the extra space of the larger Audi SUVs. But many don’t. And that’s where the Audi Q3 steps in, bringing along all of the sleek design elements and luxury amenities on a smaller package.
The Audi Q3’s time to 60 mph isn’t as impressive as other models. But the price tag is one spot where this compact crossover SUV shines. It’s an excellent value for any Audi car.
The top trim level includes adaptive cruise control and blind spot monitoring, plus an assortment of interior comforts such as a wireless smartphone charging pad and a panoramic sunroof.
Price: | Starting at $38,700 |
Release year: | 2015 (North America) |
Engine: | 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 |
Top speed: | 130 mph – 209 km/h |
0-60 mph: | 7.1 sec |
Power: | 228 hp |
Torque: | 258 lb-ft |
Audi A8
Where the Audi e-tron GT goes flamboyant, the Audi A8 remains subtle. Going back to the predecessor Audi V8, the current A8 is a highly-refined luxury sedan that takes an understated approach to the exterior design yet still fulfills your wildest fantasies inside.
Despite a 4.0L twin-turbo engine tucked under the hood of the Audi S8 high-performance variant, the interior experience is whisper quiet even as you press the accelerator to the floor. The extensive sound deadening gives you a space to listen to uninterrupted tunes or take the board meeting from the road.
22-way adjustable seats hit every curve just right, exactly like the driving experience it’s built on. And you can be certain that nearly every piece of advanced Audi technology is featured on the luxurious Audi A8.
Price: | Starting at $86,500 to $117,500 |
Release year: | 1994 |
Engine: | 3.0L turbocharged V6 or 4.0L twin-turbo V8 |
Top speed: | 130 to 155 mph – 209 to 249 km/h |
0-60 mph: | 5.6 to 3.8 sec |
Power: | 335 to 563 hp |
Torque: | 369 to 590 lb-ft |
Audi A7
As one of the most stylish vehicles in Audi’s lineup, the Audi A7 speeds away from the pack. The legendary hatchback sedan offers ample cargo space, a sophisticated interior, and jaw-dropping acceleration.
Available in both Audi S7 and Audi RS7 variants, there’s the perfect amount of power for everyone. The RS version has a hefty $120,900 starting price and weighs in at over 5,000 pounds, yet it somehow manages to be playful and responsive.
Check the options list carefully if you want four-zone climate control, heated and ventilated seats, and a panoramic sunroof.
Price: | Starting at $69.200 to $120,900 |
Release year: | 2010 |
Engine: | 3.0L turbocharged V6, 2.9L twin-turbo V6, or 4.0L twin-turbo V8 |
Top speed: | 130 to 155 mph – 209 to 249 km/h |
0-60 mph: | 5.2 to 3.5 sec |
Power: | 335 to 591 hp |
Torque: | 369 to 590 lb-ft |
Audi A6
Competing with the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class is no small task. And the Audi A6 rises to the occasion. The base model provides enough power for spirited driving sessions, with an elegant look that fits in at the office during the day and on the town at night.
To get the best of the Audi A6 platform, it’s worth checking out the ultra-premium Audi RS 6 Avant. This Audi wagon body style variant is the epitome of capability. Enough room to store all your gear, all-wheel drive performance to tackle any conditions, and a drivetrain that will melt your mind.
A 360-degree exterior-camera system and lane-keep assist turn a grueling commute into another blissful trip to the office. Keep your eyes peeled for the concept e-tron A6 to hit the production line soon.
Price: | Starting at $55,900 to $118,900 |
Release year: | 1994 |
Engine: | 2.0L turbocharged inline-4, 3.0L turbocharged V6, 2.9L twin-turbo V6, or 4.0L twin-turbo V8 |
Top speed: | 130 to 155 mph – 209 to 249 km/h |
0-60 mph: | 5.1 to 3.5 sec |
Power: | 335 to 591 hp |
Torque: | 369 to 590 lb-ft |
Audi A5
Adventure waits for no one. The Audi A5 and its many variants are ready to join in on the fun. As an Audi sports car, the A5, S5, and RS 5 pack a punch and stands firmly to deliver more.
This versatile vehicle is available in two-door coupe and cabriolet convertible options, plus a four-door Sportback with a sloping rear roofline. The options under the hood are just as varied, with up to 444 horsepower at your feet.
The aggressive tuning and Audi Dynamic Ride Control suspension help power through the curves, while the interior ambient lighting and rich materials transport you to paradise.
Price: | Starting at $46,200 to $75,900 |
Release year: | 2007 |
Engine: | 2.0L turbocharged inline-4, 3.0L turbocharged V6, or 3.0L twin-turbo V6 |
Top speed: | 130 to 180 mph – 209 to 290 km/h |
0-60 mph: | 5.3 to 3.7 sec |
Power: | 261 to 444 hp |
Torque: | 273 to 442 lb-ft |
Audi A4
Luxury isn’t always about eccentric design. Sometimes sticking to the tried-and-true formula is the way to win over the hearts of many. The Audi A4 has been one of the Audi luxury carmaker’s longest-running models, and it still stands strong without trying to blow you over.
Customize the expansive 12.3-inch virtual cockpit display and crank up the Band & Olufsen sound system with 19 speakers and 755 watts of power. Feel the power of the turbocharged engine options, including the 3.0L turbocharged V6 in the Audi S4.
The Audi Allroad A4 is a wagon body style variant that’s practical and capable. Simply put, the Audi A4 is balanced, through and through.
Price: | Starting at $39,900 to $52,400 |
Release year: | 1994 |
Engine: | 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 or 3.0L turbocharged V6 |
Top speed: | 130 to 155 mph – 209 to 249 km/h |
0-60 mph: | 5.2 to 4.4 sec |
Power: | 261 to 349 hp |
Torque: | 273 to 369 lb-ft |
Audi A3
Big things can come in small packages. The Audi A3 is a testament to this tale. It brings out all of the elegant features expected from Audi sedans on a shrunken platform that makes tight city driving easier than ever.
Not everything is miniature. The interior amenities include luxurious leather, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium stereo. And for those power-hungry motorists, the Audi RS 3 and its 401-horsepower engine can fill the void.
The base model is well-equipped, making its sub-$35,000 price quite appealing.
Price: | Starting at $34,900 to $58,900 |
Release year: | 1996 |
Engine: | 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 or 2.5L turbocharged inline-5 |
Top speed: | 130 to 180 mph – 209 to 290 km/h |
0-60 mph: | 6.3 to 3.6 sec |
Power: | 201 to 401 hp |
Torque: | 221 to 369 lb-ft |
Audi TT
The Audi TT is aging gracefully. With more than two decades of design, it sticks to the iconic shape with pronounced wheel arches and tear-drop shape.
The nimble platform almost rides like an electric motorcycle. The base model Audi TT is no slouch. But the high-performance Audi TTS turns the volume up and charges away in style and handling.
Some rivals have quicker acceleration, but the Audi TT’s combination of timeless looks and sporty ride still competes with the best the sports car segment offers, especially considering the price.
Price: | Starting at $51,200 to $61,900 |
Release year: | 1998 |
Engine: | 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 |
Top speed: | 130 to 155 mph – 209 to 249 km/h |
0-60 mph: | 5.2 to 4.4 sec |
Power: | 228 to 288 hp |
Torque: | 258 to 280 lb-ft |
Audi R8
Many supercars, including some Ferraris, are untamed stallions throwing caution into the wind in exchange for adrenaline-fueled sessions. Audi, once again, takes the more subtle approach.
The Audi R8 and its convertible Audi R8 Spyder variant have the supercar looks, power, and performance, yet remain graceful and restrained. The naturally aspirated V10 is part of a dying breed, roaring away into the history books.
The tight cargo space might make it a challenging daily driver, but nearly every other aspect of the luxurious Audi R8 is up to the task. Just ask anyone who’s had the pleasure of sitting behind the wheel.
The price tag isn’t exactly low, but it’s still nothing compared to the Bugatti price list.
Price: | Starting at $158,600 to $171,000 |
Release year: | 2007 |
Engine: | 5.2L naturally-aspirated V10 |
Top speed: | 204 mph – 328 km/h |
0-60 mph: | 3.1 sec |
Power: | 602 hp |
Torque: | 413 lb-ft |
Audi historic models
Here’s a brief look into the evolution of historic Audi models.
Auto Union Type D
In the 1930s, Audi Union pumped out many Grand Prix race cars shaped like an aerodynamic pill on four exposed wheels. The first few versions featured supercharged V16 engines and were only drivable by the most gifted drivers. It’s nothing like the best kid’s electric cars.
The Audi Union Type D was the final iteration that came about in 1938, replacing the V16 with a slightly more restrained 3.2L V12. It produced over 550 horsepower on an extremely lightweight body, but the new engine design and weight distribution improved handling.
Even though the end of the 1930s forced the company to shift production to war efforts, the legacy of the 1930s Audi Union race cars was solid in the history books, winning many races against rival Mercedes-Benz and others.
Audi Quattro
Before the quattro moniker was used across nearly every model in the luxury car brand’s lineup, it was first seen in the 1980 Audi Quattro rally car. It was Audi’s immediate response to a rule change allowing four-wheel drive capability. And the Quattro quickly climbed the ladder to victory for the next two years.
Audi wasn’t the only manufacturer to have a four-wheel drive vehicle in the era. But it made a splash with enthusiasts and earned a reputation as the ultimate vehicle for spirited driving on rough surfaces.
While it didn’t quite make our list of the best classic cars, the Audi Quattro is still adored by many and is an important part of automotive history.
Audi R18
Although Audi has now decided to step away from the competitive FIA World Endurance Championship, the series has left an indelible mark on the automotive giant. The Audi R18 Ultra was a Le Mans Prototype vehicle that claimed victory in 2011 and 2012.
The Audi R18 featured a powerful 3.7L V6 turbodiesel engine and introduced Audi’s first hybrid race car, providing a boost of electrical power to the front axle. The Audi R18 Ultra and the hybrid Audi R18 e-tron used a carbon-fiber monocoque chassis to harness every ounce of power from the highly-tuned drivetrain.
Audi RS 2 Avant
If you look closely at Audi’s extensive lineup, you’d notice that the brand does an impeccable job creating practical vehicles that offer a performance-focused punch. While the current A4 and A6 wagons still deliver that magic, the Audi RS 2 Avant was the trailblazer for this mission.
Produced in collaboration with Porsche from 1993 to 1994, the Audi RS 2 Avant merged ample interior cargo and passenger space on an insanely high-performance platform. It was the best of both worlds. And to top it all off, it also had Audi’s iconic quattro all-wheel drive system.
Even though few models were exported outside of Europe, the Audi RS 2 Avant has a cult-like global following and can still fetch over six figures for pristine examples.
Audi customer service number
You can reach Audi USA customer service by dialing 1-800-822-2834. For questions related to e-tron models, call 1-844-573-8766.
Audi social media profiles
Stay caught up with Audi’s latest news and most exciting adventures by following the official Audi social media profiles:
Frequently asked questions about Audi
People have differing opinions about whether a BMW or Audi is better. Some people prefer the driver-focused fun that many BMW models have, while others prefer Audi models’ slightly more laid-back approach. Both are luxury automakers with many high-performance variants across a wide selection of cars and SUVs. Check our ranking of the most popular luxury car brands to learn more.
Audi is a German brand with headquarters in Ingolstadt, Germany. The company is owned by the Germany-based Volkswagen Group. But Audi is a global brand with production facilities spread throughout Germany, Hungary, Belgium, Mexico, Slovakia, Spain, Russia, Brazil, India, and China.
Yes, Audi is a luxury brand and high-performance car manufacturer. The flagship Audi Q8 SUV and Audi A8 executive sedan showcase the most luxurious features the company has to offer. You can expect Audi vehicles to use high-quality materials and exemplary manufacturing practices.
The cost of Audi cars varies dramatically based on the model and package selected. The starting price is $34,900 for the compact Audi A3 sedan, while mid-range options like the Audi A6 are priced anywhere from $56,000 to over $118,000. The most expensive new model is the Audi R8 Spyder convertible supercar at $171,000. Check our Audi price list to learn more.
The cheapest Audi car is the compact sedan Audi A3, starting at $34,900 new. The Audi Q3 compact crossover SUV is another relatively affordable option, priced at $38,700 and up. The Audi electric SUV Q4 e-tron is a modest $48,800, while the Audi A6, A5, and TT models all start around the $50,000 mark.