As the Audi Range arrives in Killarney Suzanne Keane was quick to jump at the chance to test drive some of the 2014 models.
Bright and early yesterday morning (well 10am is early on a Sunday) I headed off to the INEC, Killarney to experience the Audi Cork Motor Show and Test Drive Event. This was the 2nd year of this event which brings the Audi range to Co. Kerry.
Of course I had to take advantage of the chance to test drive some 2014 models, especially as it was on my doorstep! First up was the Audi A3 Saloon (from 29,950), 2.0 TDi 150bhp. If you like the look of a larger saloon but don’t need something very big it’s ideal – on the road it’s very solid and was well able for the test route.
Next up was the Q3 (from €36,860) Quattro – again if the A3 fits your needs and you want something a little higher off the ground with 4×4 styling this would be an ideal option.
The car I was most looking forward to was the A5 Coupe (from €42,060) and it didn’t disappoint – unfortunately the model available for test driving was only 2 wheel drive. It has the perfect driving position and the 2.0TDi feels quite nippy, despite its size.
While I was waiting for the A7 Quattro to come back we took out the A1 (from €20,660). The model I drove was an S-Line with the 17″ alloys, LED rear lights, bumpers and side skirts. The design of the dashboard makes it seem much larger inside than it actually is but the 90bhp 1.6 diesel engine was under powered for the test route and would have fared better in a city however it is also available in a 1.6TDi 105bhp and a 2.0TDi 140bhp version.
Finally I took the A7 (from €64,890) for a spin – which was definitely the highlight for me. Plenty of power from the 3.0TDi 245bhp engine and the dynamic driving mode really made a difference to acceleration – it was well able to move quickly and accurately through bends on the road up to Molls Gap. This was the one car I didn’t want to hand back to Audi Cork!!
If test driving cars along the outskirts of Killarney National Park wasn’t your thing there were plenty of models on display inside (including the RS6 Avant) along with cooking demonstrations from Rachel Allen and a Magician on hand to keep the kids occupied.
Suzanne Keane
9th December, 2013
