Audi has a reputation for building technologically advanced performance vehicles. Aiming to increase the presence of the Audi brand and take on their German rivals, BMW and Mercedes, Audi has been releasing a steady stream of new and updated products, each more stylish and luxurious than its predecessor. Audi has recently added the exotic R8 sports car, a new A5 coupe, the Q7 SUV and the five-door A3 compact hatchback to its portfolio.

Audi enters another new segment this year with the introduction of the Q5 compact SUV. This five-passenger SUV features handsome styling, and a tastefully appointed interior. A V6 under the hood, paired with Audi's proven quattro all-wheel-drive technology gives it a head start on an increasingly crowded field. Audi's larger SUV, the Q7 will receive a 50-state compliant diesel engine.

For 2009, Audi updates their core model, the A4. The new A4 sedan and "Avant" wagon are longer and wider, adding more room to the interior. New engines and a focus on weight savings pay dividends in fuel economy and performance.

New TTS performance variants complement the TT coupe and convertible lineup this year. TTS models have an upgraded 265-bhp turbocharged four-cylinder engine mated to a sequential manual "S tronic" transmission.

As Audi releases new vehicles, other models are updated to maintain the familial resemblance. For 2009, the A3 and A6 feature revised styling; the A6 also receives a new 3.0-liter V6.

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Performance

For many, the way a car performs is a key criterion for which car to purchase. Our Velocity Index helps determine which vehicles are the best all-around performers taking in to consideration a balance of factors such as acceleration and handling.

For more information, view our new car performance guide.

What would we drive?

Based on our Velocity Index analysis, the 2009 Audi TT Coupe seems to provide a good trade-off between price and vehicle performance.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy has long been a key decision factor when buying a new vehicle. While the EPA estimates may accurately predict your mileage with a given vehicle, they are useful for broad comparisons of vehicles. Note that many trucks and large SUVS are too heavy to be required to specify their fuel economy.

For more information, view our new car fuel economy guide.

What's popular

Here are the five cars that draw the most attention from our readers.

• 2009 Audi TT Coupe
• 2009 Audi A4 Sedan
• 2009 Audi A4 Avant
• 2009 Audi R8
• 2009 Audi A3