Checkered Blog by Checkered Flag is the automotive play place in Hampton Roads Virginia

Solar Orange TTS Heats Up Showroom

HOT! Ok, so I'm obviously not talking about the conditions outside. Doesn't it feel like we just bypassed fall and headed straight for winter? Anyway, I was able to find a bit of warmth to add to the day, in the form of this smoking hot Audi TTS.

Bill Thomas, Checkered Flag Audi sales consultant, sent me word that the TT-S had finally arrived to the dealership and that it's definitely a must-see. I dropped by the showroom today to see what all the fuss was about, and boy does this particular TTS stand out. The TTS in Solar Orange such an attention grabber. I mean the TTS is a gorgeous car that would warrant your stares regardless, but the Solar Orange just absolutely commands it.  

The TTS is available as a coupe (starting at $45,500) or a roadster. Bill says the TTS has an awesome 2.0-liter turbocharged, in-line, 4-cylinder engine that produces 265-hp and 258 lb-ft. of torque. It also has a S tronic dual clutch automatic transmission with Audi launch control. Yes, launch control. Basically, the launch control feature optimizes vehicle acceleration from a standstill. The TTS also gets Audi's legendary quattro all wheel drive system.

Other notable highlights of the TTS are: an automatic retractable rear spoiler; Bi-Xenon headlights with led daytime running lights (also found in the A5 and the all new A4); 18" five parallel-spoke S design cast aluminum alloy; and heated windshield washer nozzles; and more. Here's the full list of features. 

The TTS pictured here is a Prestige model, which means it gets the Audi navigation and parking systems, interior LED lighting, power folding convertible top, plus Bose premium sound system and Bluetooth capabilities.

The Solar Orange styling continues inside. The racing-inspired Leather/Alcantara sport seats have the optional Silk Nappa Leather package with bi-color Solar Orange inlays. I was also impressed by the matching stitch detailing on the seats, steering wheel, and dash. Very nice touch. 

Bill says (and I agree) if you're looking to make a bold statement, the TTS (especially in Solar Orange) is a vehicle to consider. See it in person at Checkered Flag Audi, 2865 Virginia Beach Boulevard, Virginia Beach or call (757) 490-1111 for more information.  

Warming Up with the Audi Q7

My admiration for Audi is no secret. I've dedicated several blog posts expressing my obsession fascination with Audi vehicles (see here for previous posts). Well, yesterday I found someone who is just as smitten (if not more) with Audi as I am, Checkered Flag Audi sales consultant, Bill Dudley.

I've been seeing commercials on the Q7 for weeks now, and I finally got a chance to check one out up close. Bill grabbed the keys to a sweet Lava Gray Q7 with the Premium Plus trim level (other trims available are: Premium and Prestige). It was a bit nippy outside yesterday, so we jumped inside and took advantage of its heaters. The heated front seats were such a treat, keeping me toasty and comfortable.

Bill had me test out Audi's "parking system advanced" which features a rearview camera. I've never personally used one of these systems before, but after trying it out on the Q7, I could definitely use one. Ultra-sonic sensors measure the distance of the rear bumper to obstacles and emits a beeping sound to alert you. The parking aid makes backing out and parallel parking so much easier!

I also appreciated how the MMI (Multi Media Interface), which Bill says is the "brains of the vehicle," makes everything easy to reach and use. It operates climate control, central locking, instrument cluster, vehicle diagnostics, phone, navigation (when equipped), and audio functions.

Two engine choices are offered for the Q7: a 3.6 liter V6 FSI that produces 280 hp, and a powerful 4.2. liter V8 FSI with 350 hp. Bill, who has driven many different cars, says the Q7 delivers "unbelievable handling" with help from Audi’s legendary quattro permanent all-wheel drive, which comes standard.

The Q7 has room for seven passengers and plenty of cargo space. Both 2nd row and 3rd row seats fold down flat for extra cargo hauling. Bill also showed me the convenient rear cargo storage bin under the floor panel. Oh, and there's an available option for the Q7 that's not only really cool, but incredibly thoughtful too, the kneeling feature. With adaptive air suspension, the Q7 can lower or kneel down to make loading easier. Audi designers obviously thought of everything!

Bill also tells me that the Q7 was awarded the "Best Pick" award from the IIHS. Receiving the highest ratings in front, side, and rear crash protection tests along with a bevy of standard safety features helped the Q7 earn the distinction. Standard safety features include: adaptive lighting; Electronic Stability Program; a protective system of airbags with SIDEGUARD head curtain airbags for all three seating rows; and high strength frame. See here for the full list.

There's a lot to talk about with the Q7, especially when it's with a fellow fanatic like Bill. If you'd like to find out more, visit Bill and the sales team at Checkered Flag Audi, 2865 Virginia Beach Boulevard, Virginia Beach or call (757) 490-1111.

Audi A4 Makes Official Hampton Roads Bow

The stylish new Audi A4 made its official Hampton Roads debut this past Saturday amid Oktoberfest festivities at Checkered Flag.  My colleague Win'sGal couldn't wait until Saturday to see it, as you may have noticed from her Friday post, which was devoted to this faster, slightly bigger, but still very fuel-efficient vehicle (please look at her Friday blog posting for its specs.)   Judging by the throngs that arrived at Checkered Flag Audi on Saturday to look at the new A4, this redesign has been eagerly anticipated, and upon seeing it up close, everyone was clearly impressed.  On Saturday, the Checkered Flag Audi team paired the new A4 with the A5 in the showroom, as you can see here, which was a great way to take a look at both models.  If you haven't seen the A4 yet, the Checkered Flag Audi staff will be happy to show it to you ... so please head over there (they're at 2865 Virginia Beach Boulevard in Virginia Beach) or call (757) 490-1111.

Say Hello to the All New Audi A4

I've got to tell you, I am one very lucky gal.  Who wouldn't want to play work surrounded by some of the coolest cars in the world? Ok, I'll stop gloating now. But really, yesterday I developed quite the crush on none other than the all new Audi A4. This beauty has such a presence. Maybe it's the stylish BI-Xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights that called out to me. Or it could be the resemblance to its sibling the A5 (who I admit, I have a crush on too). Basically, there's a lot going on for the A4, and I am smitten.

Checkered Flag Audi's Eric Davis, a client advisor, gave me a closer glimpse of a gorgeous A4 in Aruba Blue pearl effect (trust me the pictures don't really do it justice). Eric tells me that the new A4 is bigger than its predecessor, about 4 inches. He also says it's faster thanks to a 2.0 T FSI or a 3.2 FSI engine. With those engines you're looking at 211 hp and 265 hp, respectively. The A4 also comes equipped with the legendary quattro all wheel drive system.

It's hard to believe, but even with the increased power, the A4 maintains fuel efficiency. Audi's FSI Direct injection paired with the valve lift system (also helps deliver smooth power build-up and spontaneous throttle response) allows the A4 to give you all the power you crave, but still provide for desired fuel savings. The A4 gets 27 highway miles and 21 in the city.

Another major highlight for the A4 is superior handling. With the drive select system, you're given choices. Using different modes (comfort, auto, dynamic and individual) you can customize your drive from smooth and adaptable to sporty.

After spending a good 15 minutes ogling the A4's physical attributes, I took a peak inside, and as expected there's a lot to admire. The workmanship and quality live up to true Audi standards. Eric tells me Audi offers three packages or levels for the A4. There's Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige.

With Prestige your Audi would have: aluminum decorative inlays; automatic three-zone climate control; Driver information system (DIS); electrically adjustable front seats with driver memory system; MMI interface; Bang & Olufsen sound system (Eric says this is the first year it's offered on the A4); Audi parking system; and yes, there's more. Visit here for the full list of goodies .

Eric says the A4 has received a ton of interest since its official launch last month. That's no surprise to me. If you've got some time this weekend (I hear the weather is going to be beautiful), drop by and see the A4 in person at Checkered Flag Audi, 2865 Virginia Beach Boulevard, Virginia Beach or call (757) 490-1111. Have a great weekend!

Unsung Hero: Audi A5

In my line of work, I get to spend a good amount of time around some pretty awesome cars. Among all the cars I've encountered thus far, today's Unsung Hero of Fuel Efficiency definitely sits towards the top of my list. The Audi A5 is an absolutely beautiful car, and YES, it is fuel-efficient. We'll discuss that more a bit later.

I stopped by Checkered Flag Audi on my way home, and talked with sales consultant Bill Thomas about the A5. Well, Bill did most of the talking, while I tried my best to contain my excitement. I really like this car, especially in the Monza Silver. The A5 is a midsize luxury sports coupe. Along with the A5 (starting at $40,300), it's also available as an S5 sports model (starting at $50,9000).

Under the hood, the A5 has a 3.2 liter FSI V6 that produces 265-hp. The S5 has a powerful 4.2 liter V8 engine and hp gets a boost to 354. Both engines have FSI Direct Injection, variable intake valve and intake manifold, and the Audi Valvelift system. FSI stands for fuel stratified injection. This technology allows the A5 to deliver great performance without sacrificing fuel efficiency. It gets 27 miles on the highway, and 18 in the city. With a 16.9 gallon tank, you're looking at about 460 miles with one fill up.

The A5 with its stylish exterior is what initially caught my attention, but the interior shouldn't be overlooked. It comfortably seats four passengers. Standard features include electrically adjustable front seats; full automatic three-zone climate control; panoramic tilt-up sunroof; and an Audi sound system. The sound system brings 180 watts of power with 10 speakers and subwoofer.

There are a ton of options available on the A5, but highlights include: LED daytime running lamps equipped with Bi-Xenon headlamps and the Bang and Olufsen Sound system, which consists digital signal processing (DSP) and ICEpower digital amplification, booming 505 watts, and 14 speakers. Several different package options are also available for you to choose from. Visit here for details.

Audi also outfitted the A5 with a ton of safety features. Advanced anti-theft vehicle alarm system; protective airbag system (two-stage driver airbag, adaptive passenger airbags; seat-mounted side airbags; sideguard side curtain airbags); central locking system; crash sensor; side impact protection all come standard.

Bill says the A5 is an "all-around great sports car." You'll hear no arguments from me. It's captured my fancy, but decide for yourself by visiting Checkered Flag Audi, 2865 Virginia Beach Boulevard, Virginia Beach or call (757) 490-1111.

Meet Checkered Flag Porsche/Audi's Bill Thomas!

CB: How long have you worked at Checkered Flag?
Bill: Hmm...let's see. Well, I worked here three years prior, but I left to run a family business called Dream Dinners. My wife handles that now, so I returned to work here.

CB: Which Hampton Roads city or county do you live in?
Bill: Virginia Beach. I've lived there since I was ten.

CB: Besides Porsche and Audi what are your other hobbies?
Bill: Music. I play the guitar and drums. All kinds of music, anything from alternative or rock. Stuff from Coldplay and Red Hot Chili Peppers. Hmm...what else?  Volleyball, soccer, video games, golf, and working.

CB: What's your favorite restaurant?
Bill: Well, I don't know if I'd say it's my favorite place to eat, but definitely a great place to hang out and play music. The Green Oak. The owner always asks us if we want to play music. It's just a cool place to hang out.

CB: What's in your MP3 player or CD player right now?
Bill: About a 1,000 songs (laughs). Lordie, I listen to everything. Picking out a favorite song is hard. I listen to Stone Sour and Coldplay a lot. Travis is a great band too.

CB: What's the last movie you've seen?
Bill: After tonight, hopefully it'll be Dark Knight. I've been trying to see it. IMAX has been sold out for every showing!

CB: Do you have any pets?
Bill: A Yorkie named Chewie because he looks like Chewbacca (laughs).

CB: What's the one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
Bill: Ah, this one's hard. Well, I have a pilot's license. I got it when I was like 21 or 22, and I fly every once and awhile. Small planes like Cessnas.

CB: What's the one invention you couldn't live without?
Bill: Electricity! I need it for my guitar amps to play loud. Oh, and definitely air-conditioning.

CB: What's the best thing about working at Checkered Flag?
Bill: Dealing with the best customers and being able to drive the best cars in the world. You take pride in that. We have the best customers, people, and cars. It's just great. 

Unsung Hero of Fuel Efficiency: Audi A6

In 2005 the Audi A6 was named the World Car of the Year at the Toronto Auto Show, and it is easy to see why. It  also received attention from Edmunds.com when they named the A6 as its Editors Award pick. The A6 is known well for its signature Audi look and interior styling, but what most people may not realize is how fuel efficient it can be. I was eager to check out this Unsung Hero of Fuel Efficiency, so I stopped by Checkered Flag Audi today to check it out. Fritz Falch, a sales consultant there gave me the scoop.    

The A6 is available as a sedan or a wagon (called the Avant). Two trims are offered: 3.2 FSI (base, starting at $42,950) or 4.2 FSI. The Avant comes only in the 3.2 trim. Performance wise, the V6 engine on the 3.2 gets 255 hp and 243-lb-ft of torque. The more powerful 4.2-liter V8 cranks out 350 hp with 325 lb-ft torque. Both engines have direct fuel-injection technology which optimizes performance, but still maintains great fuel efficiency. The sedan and the Avant get virtually the same miles per gallon, 18/19 miles in the city, and 27 on the highway. With its 21.1 gallon tank, the A6 gets a whopping 570 highway miles.

As expected, Audi does not disappoint with loading up the A6 with a generous amount of standard features. The 3.2 sedan includes 18" Five-arm cast alloy wheel from quattro; BOSE® Surround Sound; six-disc CD changer (it is located inside the glovebox); genuine wood inlays; heated front seats; leathering seating surfaces; and much more. The 3.2 Avant comes similarly equipped, but adds a sunroof. And finally with on the 4.2 sedan you will find all the previous features mentioned plus ultra chic Milano leather upholstery; Audi adaptive light; power tilt and telescoping steering column; and HomeLink® garage door opener. There is plenty more on the full list. See it here.

I touched upon it already, but the A6 interior deserves a little more attention. In true Audi fashion, the A6 interior is fantastic. I did my best to capture the impressive interior, but unfortunately the pictures do not do it justice. It would be best to check it out in person. Sitting in the A6, I was struck by the craftsmanship and the comfort of the back seats.  Fritz says “If you are looking for rear seat roominess, the A6 is the car.” He also tells me that its been very popular with business executives who often host guests around town, but it is equally suitable as family vehicle, especially the Avant model. Oh, and I also have to mention the super cool MMI (Multi Media Interface) control found on all the A6 models . Using the MMI console knob, various switches and the dashboard screen, you can adjust audio, climate, and optional navigation functions.    

Safety is always a big consideration in any vehicle purchasing decision, so you might be glad to know that the A6 earned top ratings for both frontal-offset and side-impact crash tests from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.  In addition to passive safety features such as airbags, crumple zones, and doors inlaid with steel beams, the A6 also come with active safety features including: the Quattro all-wheel drive system and the Electronic Stability Program (ESP); and tire pressure monitoring system.

Fritz knows a ton about cars particularly Audi and he gave me great information. If you are interested getting to know the A6 better I suggest talking with Fritz or anyone on the Checkered Flag Audi sale team at 2864 Virginia Beach Boulevard, Virginia Beach or call (757) 490-1111.

Unsung Hero of Fuel Efficiency: Audi A3

Continuing our journey of highlighting the Unsung Heroes of Fuel Efficiency, today we have the Audi A3. While talking with a few friends last night, I mentioned including the Audi A3 in this series and received a few surprised looks. But yes it is true, in its class the Audi A3 is a contender as a fuel efficient vehicle.

The 2008 Audi A3 delivers the performance of a sports car in the body of a compact luxury hatchback. Since its introduction in 2006, the A3 has gathered its fair share of accolades, including the Wards Auto World Best 10 Engines award for the third consecutive year (the engine on the A3 really is special, but more that a little later). The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety also recognized the A3 for its abundance of safety features and dubbed it as a Top Safety Pick. Eric Davis, a client adviser at Checkered Flag Audi (pictured with the Audi A3) considers the Audi A3 as the safest car on the roads.

Both performance and safety are obviously packaged into the Audi A3, and to add to its appeal it is fuel efficient too. In keeping with our criteria for the Unsung Hero series, the 14.5 gallon tank on the A3 can get you 420 miles. The EPA rates it at 29 mpg on the highway and city is 21. So, you are wondering how all of this is possible? Well, in speaking with DonPaul Ivers, sales consultant at Checkered Flag Audi, the answer is three letters: FSI. They stand for fuel stratified injection. The FSI is the heart of the A3 2.0-liter engine. This technology allows for gasoline to be directly injected into the cylinders instead of being combined in the intake system, which is what happens in most engines. Simply put, the FSI results in lower emissions and better fuel economy. The A3 engine is turbocharged as well, so paired with the FSI you are able to produce six-cylinder power with four-cylinder fuel economy.

The Audi A3 is offered in three different trims: 2.0 TS Tronic, 2.0 T 6 Speed, and 3.2 Quattro. Starting price for the A3 is $25,930. The standard features on the 2.0 T include dual-zone air conditioning with climate control, 17-inch Five-Arm cast alloy wheels, power adjustable mirrors, remote locking system, and power rear windows. On the Quattro, the Audi 6-speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) is an option. The DSG allows for quick transmission gear-shifting. The amenities included on the Quattro include remote locking system, BOSE® premium sound system with AudioPilot® noise-compensation, leather seating surfaces, power rear window wiper, and tire pressure monitoring system.

I got to see the A3 in person and I was surprised with the amount of space it offers as a hatchback. And in true Audi fashion, the interior was fitted with top-of-the-line materials. Like I mentioned earlier, the safety features on the A3 are an important part of the vehicle. Front-seat and full-length side curtain airbags, antilock brakes, and stability control come standard. Rear side airbags are an option as well. 

No one ever said that great fuel economy has to come at the cost of luxury. So if you are looking for a car that delivers with performance, safety, luxury and fuel efficiency, check out the Audi A3. Visit DonPaul, Eric, and the rest of the Checkered Flag Audi sales team at 2865 Virginia Beach Boulevard, Virginia Beach or call (757) 490-1111.

An A+ Addition at Audi

Popular Mechanics reports that the luxury crossover segment has grown 3-fold in the last five years!  Audi is now throwing their hat into the ring with the new 2009 Q5, a mini-me version of the elder Q7.  Unveiled prior to the Beijing Motor Show last month, the Q5 will compete with the BMW X3, the Lexus RX 300, the upcoming Volvo XC60 plus the Mercedes-Benz GLK.  PM also reports that the Q5 will be powered by a 265-hp 3.2 liter V-6 engine with 243 lb.-ft. of torque.  It will feature Audi's lauded Tiptronic transmission as well as Quattro AWD.

Up to Speed, an LA times Automotive blog, reports that the new Q5 will come "tingling with high tech."  Expect options to include thermal heated and cooled cup holders, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, and third-generation Multi-Media Interface.  The 2009 Audi Q5 is expected to go on sale early next year and cost upwards of $40K.  When we know more, we'll pass it on, but for now, we found a video showcasing the Q5's agility. 

Online Videos by Veoh.com

IIHS 2008 Top Safety Picks

People love lists, or at least that is what I am told.  I like lists because they present us with choice, which is usually a good thing, but not an infinite or unmanageable number of choices which can be overwhelming.  Lists organize the chaotic plethora of options that we consumers have today.

Each year, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety recognizes certain vehicles as TOP SAFETY PICKs and puts out, you guessed it, a list.  To achieve recognition as a TOP SAFETY PICK, vehicles must score good ratings in all three Institute tests (40 mph frontal offset, side impact and rear crash protection/head restraint tests) and offer electronic stability control.  Checkered Flag carries the following 2008 TOP SAFETY PICK award winners...

• Audi A6, Audi A3 and Audi A4
• BMW X3 and BMW X5
• Honda Accord (4-door), Honda Odyssey, Honda Pilot, Honda CR-V and Honda Element
• Hyundai Entourage, Hyundai Sante Fe and Hyundai Veracruz
• Toyota Highlander and Toyota Tundra