2009 Audi S4

2009 Audi S4
Cool New Car Models

If you've been wondering what Audi will bring to the 2008 Paris motor show, the suspense is over. Meet the 2009 Audi S4, the performance-tuned variant of the revamped 2009 A4.

We'll start with what lies underhood. Never mind the TFSI badging that adorns the engine's plenum cover; there's not a turbocharger to be found in this engine bay. Instead, the 2009 S4 uses an all-new 3.0-liter supercharged V-6 with direct fuel injection. Sure, Audi could have changed the nomenclature, but would Kompressor-FSI have the same ring?

Detail-picky enthusiasts will move past the misnomer once they see the benefits of the V-6. Audi says the engine pumps out 333 hp, while torque - a good 324 lb-ft of it - is delivered between 2500 and 4850 rpm. Both figures compare admirably with the outgoing car's 4.2-liter V-8, which produced 340 hp and 302 lb-ft. Perhaps most impressive is the V-6's fuel economy. Audi says the engine drinks twenty-five percent less fuel, and returns an average 25 mpg in combined city and highway driving.

Predictably, Audi has mated the blown V-6 to its ubiquitous Quattro all-wheel-drive system, but there are a few new mechanical tricks. To start, there's the optional QuattroSport active rear differential. Activated by hammering the car through a corner, the differential shifts power to whichever wheel is on the outside. Audi claims doing this allows the axle to not only push the car through the corner, but also negates both over- and understeer.

Other options further the S4's performance credentials. Though a six-speed manual is standard, an all-new seven-speed S-tronic dual-clutch transmission is optional. So too is a variable-effort steering rack, but we're most interested in the new Audi Drive Select system. Available with any of the above options, Drive Select can modify steering, suspension, differential, and throttle responses based upon preset Comfort, Automatic, and Sport settings.

Mazda MAZDA3 2008

2008 Mazda MAZDA3

The 2008 Mazda MAZDA3 ranks 4 out of 34 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 56 published reviews and test drives of the Mazda MAZDA3, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The Mazda3's good ranking is based on its superb handling dynamics, bold design, and luxurious appointments. Ranked in the top half of its class, the Mazda3 proves to be a smart choice for anyone wanting an affordable small car. Plus, it doesn't swill fuel, even with its zippy engine. Even so, the Honda Civic and Honda Fit lead the class and prove to be safer.

The 2008 Mazda3, which AutoWeek describes as "a gratifying small car to drive," is by all accounts praised for its superb handling dynamics, bold exterior design, and comparatively luxurious interior. In fact, the 2008 Mazda3 made Forbes' list of "Ten Best Cars for City Dwellers." Still, a cramped backseat, as well as low side-impact crash test results, prevent the Mazda3 from outranking the class leaders. Though the 2008 Mazda3 is only a refresh of last year's model, rumor has it that Mazda is planning a redesign for 2009.

The 2008 Mazda3 is available in four-door sedan and five-door hatchback body styles. While the sedan features two available trims, the i and s models, the hatchback exists only as an s model. Also available is a performance-oriented Mazdaspeed3.

Jaguar XK 2009

2009 Jaguar XK

The 2009 Jaguar XK comes available as a sports coupe and a convertible which are available in entry level and XKR versions. The entry level model is powered by a 4.2 Liter V8 engine that is rated at 300 horsepower. Equipped with rear-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission, the entry level coupe achieves a speed of 60 miles per hour in 5.3 seconds, whereas its convertible cousin achieved the same speed in 6.3 seconds.

The XKR model is powered by a supercharged 4.2 Liter V8 engine that is rated at 420 horsepower. The XKR coupe achieves a speed of 60 miles per hour in 4.2 seconds, whereas its convertible cousin achieved the same speed in 6.3 seconds. The 2009 XK entry level model is equipped with 18 inch tires, a suspension that is adaptive, Xenon headlights, sensors that help the driver park the vehicle, front seats that are heated and a drivers seat that has memory and a music system that has an ability to store 6 CD/MP3 formats and is located in the dashboard and has 6 speakers.

The 2009 XKR model is equipped with 19 inch tires, a retuned steering, and large front disc brakes. Optional equipment for the 2009 entry level model includes adaptive lighting, cruise control, seats made of high quality leather and an expensive music system manufactured by Alpine.

The 2009 Jaguar XK is equipped with air bags in the side for those seated in the front that protect both the head and chest, front seats that reduce whiplash, a system to control stability and traction and anti-lock brakes. The beauty of the interior of the Jaguar is undermined due to the use of cheap plastics and its display screen that is used to control music, navigation and temperatures is a bit difficult for people to understand.