3.0 TDI quattro SE Executive 4dr Auto Saloon

A stunning vehicle but where is the progress from the previous model?

Having owned previous models I am delighted with this car it does things better including handling and fuel consumption and has some improvement in the features including the media menu jukebox etc
However I have some disappointments which would not be immediately apparent unless you had owned the previous model> These include:
A significantly smaller boot(I am told the technology is behind the rear seats now)
The flush door handles have been replaced by pull handles (more BMW than Audi)
No interior fuel cap release
No tool box storage in the boot lid. its now in the spare wheel space and rather unexceptional compared to the classiness and practicality of the previous model
The drivers door side grab rail has been replaced by a less practical and tactile pull handle
The transmission gear knob is much less practical both for functions and control
The seating position no longer permits elbows on the arm rests and the left foot rest is out of reach when the seat is properly adjusted
The glove box is smaller
The discrete door pockets of the previous model have been replaced by open topped
Fuel consumption so far is a modest 10% improvement which mainly shows out of town

Much of the technology is only a small step forward compared to the advance made to the previous model
My car is high spec including Bose and TV and I am delighted with it . Little of the foregoing escaped me before purchase but I do wonder if Audi peaked with the classiest A8 with the 03-10 models?

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