As usual, I researched all the major brands and wanted something fun to drive, with aggressive styling, high-tech, refined interior and decent fuel economy. The digital cockpit is the first thing that impressed me. It's a Google-map GPS view with digital gauges, that can be further customized. I looked at cars with the Head-up display, but, I didn't really want to see this information on the road the entire time I am driving. It's more of a gimmick but wears off quickly. The beauty of completely digital cockpit is where I want to see it, and the GPS/radio etc. can be viewed on either screen (or both). Audi doesn't promote touch screen because of the potential distraction, and instead, places all selections at your finger tips, either on the steering wheel, or, the console. I can easily speak the entire address into the GPS, and it recognizes it instantly. The Google map view makes it all very realistic, too. Next, I really like the combination of high quality materials, including enough wood trim to give the interior a sporty, yet, luxurious look. There is ambient lighting on the side doors that lights up red when you start the engine, then turn to an eye-pleasing white light. Everything is well designed and I like having the volume control to the right of the stick shift instead of up on the dash - very easy to use, in addition to on the steering wheel. The seats are comfortable, although not as cushy as our Lexus. The backseats in the Coupe are, as expected, small but we knew the 4D was the better option if that mattered to us. The 4-Cyl Turbo gives us plenty of power, while also getting decent fuel economy as advertised (35 highway). The electronic stickshift took us awhile to get used to, as it is not as intuitive as a regular shifter. We do like the park button on the shifter itself, instead of on the console as with some other makes. Lastly, our dealership experience was pleasant including negotiations. I was intrigued by the new 2018 KIA Stinger, but, the dealer stores are in sad shape with old hot dogs and salesreps who want to wheel and deal. Our Audi rep was not pushy and was knowledgeable and fair. While the Stinger looks awesome on the outside, the inside reminded me it was still a KIA with silvery plastics and not-so-intuitive controls. For example, the Stinger cruise control is a thin metal lever on the steering wheel. I like to drive using this button rather than the gas pedal, and prefer an arm that can easily be lifted up or down off to the side, like on the Audi and my Lexus. Also, the start button is obscured by the steering wheel and is not visible each time I want to push it. I decided the other technology like lane assist and adaptive cruise was something I would not use that much, particularly as some of the reviews say it spaces the cars too far apart without having to adjust each time. I'm very happy with the Audi A5 Coupe. It offers the best overall design, interior, lighting, technology, engine, fuel economy, and dealer experience for my money.
