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Electric Vehicles (EV) and hybrid cars have been significantly expanding over the last decade, especially with supportive policies and technology advancement, according to the International Energy Agency. In fact, a report from Bloomberg New Energy Finance stated 58 percent of global passenger vehicle sales in 2040 will come from electric vehicles. With the Hong Kong government actively supporting the adoption of EV cars throughout the city and a wider range of options available on the market, is it time to switch over to electric cars?
<figure id="attachment_56339" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-56339" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-porsche-tycan.png"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-56339 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-porsche-tycan.png" alt="gafencu wheels Is it time to switch to electric cars porsche tycan" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-porsche-tycan.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-porsche-tycan-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-porsche-tycan-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-porsche-tycan-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-porsche-tycan-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-porsche-tycan-400x266.png 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-porsche-tycan-600x399.png 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-56339" class="wp-caption-text">Image: Porsche Tacyan</figcaption></figure>
A larger network of charging stations 
The local government has, for several years, taking an active role in supporting the adoption of electric cars in the city through tax reductions, financial incentives and more importantly laying out infrastructures for charging stations across the city. In 2019, The Chief Executive announced the preparation of a $2 billion pilot subsidy scheme to promote the installation of an EV charging network that will be made easily accessible to EV car owners in private residential car parks as well as public parking spaces.&nbsp;
<figure id="attachment_56341" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-56341" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-tesla.png"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-56341 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-tesla.png" alt="gafencu wheels Is it time to switch to electric cars tesla" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-tesla.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-tesla-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-tesla-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-tesla-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-tesla-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-tesla-400x266.png 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-tesla-600x399.png 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-56341" class="wp-caption-text">Image: Tesla Model 3</figcaption></figure>
Better for the environment 
Hong Kong’s air pollution index has been a major cause of concern for many residents, as well as the local government, prompting it to facilitate an EV-friendly city to combat the detrimental consequences of greenhouse gas emissions from petrol and diesel vehicles. According to the Environmental Protection Department, 60% of carbon monoxide emissions comes from transportation. Because electric cars are powered by electric motors that run on rechargeable batteries, replacing conventional cars with EV cars drastically reduces carbon emissions into the air.&nbsp;
<a href="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-recharge.png"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-56340" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-recharge.png" alt="gafencu wheels Is it time to switch to electric cars recharge" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-recharge.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-recharge-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-recharge-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-recharge-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-recharge-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-recharge-400x266.png 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-recharge-600x399.png 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></a>
More Economical 
One of the biggest reservations most consumers have when considering an electric car is the mileage. The Tesla Model 3 currently boasts the longest range among other EV cars on the market, covering 320miles on a full six to nine-hour charge. In contrast, conventional fuel-pumped cars go between 360 to 480 miles on a full tank, needless to mention that refuelling also takes less time. But Hong Kong also has the most expensive auto-fuel retail price in the world, according to the Consumer Council. It costs $17 per litre to pump gas while charging an EV car is free.&nbsp;
However, if road trips out of the city is a priority, hybrid cars offer the best of both words covering a longer range fueled by reusable energy, and gas as a reserve. Otherwise, there are about 3,351 EV charging stations across the city, at refuelling stations, public parking spaces as well as private residential car parks (one within every 10km).
<a href="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-volkswagon.png"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-56342" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-volkswagon.png" alt="gafencu wheels Is it time to switch to electric cars volkswagon" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-volkswagon.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-volkswagon-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-volkswagon-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-volkswagon-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-volkswagon-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-volkswagon-400x266.png 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-volkswagon-600x399.png 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></a>
A growing range of options 
Over the years the number of electric vehicles and hybrid cars entering the market has steadily increased, offering an optimistic future for the development and advancement of EV cars. No longer exclusive to Tesla, the industry now features some of the biggest names in the motor industry including BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Aston Martin, Porsche and Volkswagen, to name a few. Rolls Royce had also declared its commitment to manufacturing a line of EV cars, skipping on hybrids completely, and iPhone and Macintosh technology company Apple also recently announced that it will be rolling out an EV car in 2024.
As of right now, Tesla remains in the lead, offering models with the longest range and quickest acceleration on the market, however that will soon change with more hybrid sedans and utility EVs expected to come out of the woodworks with improved specifications, performance, charging time, and even more luxurious exterior and interior layouts.&nbsp;
<figure id="attachment_56485" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-56485" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-lucid-air.png"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-56485" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-lucid-air.png" alt="gafencu wheels Is it time to switch to electric cars lucid air" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-lucid-air.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-lucid-air-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-lucid-air-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-lucid-air-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-lucid-air-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-lucid-air-400x266.png 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/gafencu-wheels-Is-it-time-to-switch-to-electric-cars-lucid-air-600x399.png 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-56485" class="wp-caption-text">Image: Lucid Air</figcaption></figure>
Save on cost 
Though the cost of purchasing an EV car can set you back anywhere between $500,000 to $1 million, the cost of maintenance and servicing will save buyers money in the long run. Conventional cars consist of several parts that often break down or need regular servicing or maintenance, whereas EV cars only need to be serviced twice a year and have their brake fluid replaced every 5 years. Though the battery packs are the most expensive part to maintaining ((between five to fifteen thousand) an EV car, most battery packs come with an eight-year (or 100,000miles) warranty and take about 17 years to die (or&nbsp; 200,000miles).&nbsp;
So, is it time to switch to electric cars? 
There are at least 12,000 registered electric cars in the city and despite the initial upfront cost of switching over to an electric car is high, the need for maintenance, servicing and downtime are much less and more convenient than conventional cars. Saving at least $5,000 per year, not including the government’s incentives. And with a wider range of options to hit the market in the next few years, and a more widespread network of EV chargers in gross spaces, both public and private residential areas across the city to accommodate the demands of private electric car owners, there is very little downside to a sustainable, cost-efficient and eco-friendly move as to switch from conventional gas-powered cars to its electric alternative.&nbsp;
&nbsp;

gafencu wheels Is it time to switch to electric cars bmw i8

Is it time to switch to electric cars?

More and more electric cars will take to Hong Kong streets amid greater technology advances.&nbsp;Shifting to and investing in an electric car is well worth considering as concerns for the environment in Hong Kong and across the world continue to grow.
The following are pertinent facts about electric cars:
<figure id="attachment_52509" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-52509" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-52509 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-3.jpg" alt="facts about electric cars gafencu magazine (3)" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-3.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-3-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-3-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-3-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-3-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-3-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-3-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-52509" class="wp-caption-text">(image of the Q4 E-Tron from Audi)</figcaption></figure>
<h3>Pros of Electric Cars</h3>
Fuel Cost Savings&nbsp;
Initially, electric cars may cost more than those that run on fossil fuel. But over time, electric car owners can achieve substantial savings as these vehicles won&#8217;t need to refuel. Batteries can simply be charged in charging stations around Hong Kong or at home whichever is convenient.
Lower Maintenance Costs
Electric cars often entail maintenance costs significantly lower than those that run on fossil fuel as the former needs no engine parts replacements and repairs of spark plugs, valves and other parts.
<figure id="attachment_52513" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-52513" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-52513 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-Mercedes-Benz-EQV.jpg" alt="facts about electric cars gafencu magazine Mercedes-Benz EQV" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-Mercedes-Benz-EQV.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-Mercedes-Benz-EQV-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-Mercedes-Benz-EQV-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-Mercedes-Benz-EQV-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-Mercedes-Benz-EQV-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-Mercedes-Benz-EQV-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-Mercedes-Benz-EQV-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-52513" class="wp-caption-text">(Image of the EQV from Mercedes-Benz)</figcaption></figure>
Environment Friendly
The biggest and greatest benefit derived from electric cars are their contribution to the reduction of carbon emissions. Since electric cars run on charged batteries, they don&#8217;t release or emit carbon dioxide into the air, thereby helping reduce carbon emissions and easing air pollution. Electric cars are an environmentally-friendly option that is welcome everywhere.
Better Performance
Engines of electric cars start much faster than those in fossil fuel-driven cars. Changing gears and applying the break in electric cars are also much easier and smoother in electric cars. Engines of electric cars are also impressively much quieter than their fossil fuel counterparts.
<figure id="attachment_52512" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-52512" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-52512 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-BMW-IX3.jpg" alt="facts about electric cars gafencu magazine BMW IX3" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-BMW-IX3.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-BMW-IX3-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-BMW-IX3-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-BMW-IX3-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-BMW-IX3-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-BMW-IX3-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-BMW-IX3-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-52512" class="wp-caption-text">(image of IX 3 from BMW)</figcaption></figure>
<h3>Cons of Electric Cars</h3>
Charging
Electric cars have several drawbacks and one of them relates to charging of batteries. Although there are more than 350 charging stations in Hong Kong, each station varies by the type of charging ports ranging from normal to quick charge and they are not as convenient to find as petrol stations. It can also take up to to 30 minutes to charge about 80 percent of the battery of an electric time, and this is the fastest. Fully charging a battery under normal charging rates can take up to eight hours.
See the list of charging stations in Hong Kong <a href="https://www.hkev.com.hk/echargemain_20200305/charger?group=all&amp;lang=en_HK">here</a>.
<figure id="attachment_52510" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-52510" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-52510 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-BMW-IX3-2.jpg" alt="facts about electric cars gafencu magazine BMW IX3 (2)" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-BMW-IX3-2.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-BMW-IX3-2-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-BMW-IX3-2-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-BMW-IX3-2-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-BMW-IX3-2-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-BMW-IX3-2-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-BMW-IX3-2-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-52510" class="wp-caption-text">(image of IX 3 from BMW)</figcaption></figure>
Battery
Another significant factor to consider is the cost of replacing an electric cars&#8217; battery pack. The best EVs can travel up to 300km or more on a fully-charged battery pack, which is enough to drive from Hong Kong&#8217;s urban areas to the airport. But with the scarcity of charging stations and the time that it takes to charge fully, driving an electric car will likely deter a motorist from travelling outside Hong Kong on long distances without stopping for a recharge. Replacing the battery pack of an electric car can also cost as much as $10,000.
<figure id="attachment_52514" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-52514" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-52514" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-BMW-IX3-4.jpg" alt="facts about electric cars gafencu magazine BMW IX3 (4)" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-BMW-IX3-4.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-BMW-IX3-4-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-BMW-IX3-4-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-BMW-IX3-4-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-BMW-IX3-4-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-BMW-IX3-4-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/facts-about-electric-cars-gafencu-magazine-BMW-IX3-4-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-52514" class="wp-caption-text">(Image of the IX 3 from BMW)</figcaption></figure>
Despite battery drawbacks and lack of easy access to charging stations, these inconveniences can easily be addressed by setting up a charging station in the home garage or at the carpark building nearest to the motorist&#8217;s home. As more electric car models get introduced to the market, prices are likely to go down even as their technological features improve further.
&nbsp;

facts about electric cars gafencu magazine feature image

Upside and downside of electric cars

In a seamless blend of music and high-performance cars, Audi invited a veritable who&#8217;s who of Hong Kong A-listers to attend the luxury automobile brand&#8217;s first-ever &#8220;A Symphony of Luxury, Performance and Passion&#8221; showcase at the Central Harbourfront.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-39957 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Six-of-the-latest-Audi-cars-were-displayed-at-Central-Harbourfront-last-week.jpg" alt="Six of the latest Audi cars were displayed at Central Harbourfront last week" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Six-of-the-latest-Audi-cars-were-displayed-at-Central-Harbourfront-last-week.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Six-of-the-latest-Audi-cars-were-displayed-at-Central-Harbourfront-last-week-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Six-of-the-latest-Audi-cars-were-displayed-at-Central-Harbourfront-last-week-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Six-of-the-latest-Audi-cars-were-displayed-at-Central-Harbourfront-last-week-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Six-of-the-latest-Audi-cars-were-displayed-at-Central-Harbourfront-last-week-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Six-of-the-latest-Audi-cars-were-displayed-at-Central-Harbourfront-last-week-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Six-of-the-latest-Audi-cars-were-displayed-at-Central-Harbourfront-last-week-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
For one night only, the exclusive event saw a series of the latest Audi models unveiled while paired with unique music compositions played by a live orchestra that highlighted each car&#8217;s unique attributes. Among the models on display were the newly launched flagship Audi A8 L, the debut of the Audi A6 and A7 Sportback, as well as the reintroduction of the RS 4 Avant, TT RS Coupe Sportback and R8 Coupe V10 Plus – the marque&#8217;s cutting-edge supercar.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-39956 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Each-displayed-Audi-model-was-paired-with-a-unique-musical-composition-played-by-a-live-orchestra.jpg" alt="Each displayed Audi model was paired with a unique musical composition played by a live orchestra" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Each-displayed-Audi-model-was-paired-with-a-unique-musical-composition-played-by-a-live-orchestra.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Each-displayed-Audi-model-was-paired-with-a-unique-musical-composition-played-by-a-live-orchestra-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Each-displayed-Audi-model-was-paired-with-a-unique-musical-composition-played-by-a-live-orchestra-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Each-displayed-Audi-model-was-paired-with-a-unique-musical-composition-played-by-a-live-orchestra-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Each-displayed-Audi-model-was-paired-with-a-unique-musical-composition-played-by-a-live-orchestra-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Each-displayed-Audi-model-was-paired-with-a-unique-musical-composition-played-by-a-live-orchestra-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Each-displayed-Audi-model-was-paired-with-a-unique-musical-composition-played-by-a-live-orchestra-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
Aside from the beautiful cars on display, guests were also invited to sample a range of cutting-edge, high-tech entertainments including a Virtual Reality experience, a racing simulator and an Interactive Art Gallery which showed off the multi-faceted features of the A6, A7 and A8 vehicles. If that weren&#8217;t enough, attendees could also sample a series of tailor-made cocktails inspired by these glamorous automobiles.
<figure id="attachment_39954" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-39954" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-39954 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Audi-Hong-Kong-Managing-Director-Lothar-Korn-at-A-Symphony-of-Luxury-Performance-and-Passion-showcase.jpg" alt="Audi Hong Kong Managing Director Lothar Korn at A Symphony of Luxury, Performance and Passion showcase" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Audi-Hong-Kong-Managing-Director-Lothar-Korn-at-A-Symphony-of-Luxury-Performance-and-Passion-showcase.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Audi-Hong-Kong-Managing-Director-Lothar-Korn-at-A-Symphony-of-Luxury-Performance-and-Passion-showcase-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Audi-Hong-Kong-Managing-Director-Lothar-Korn-at-A-Symphony-of-Luxury-Performance-and-Passion-showcase-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Audi-Hong-Kong-Managing-Director-Lothar-Korn-at-A-Symphony-of-Luxury-Performance-and-Passion-showcase-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Audi-Hong-Kong-Managing-Director-Lothar-Korn-at-A-Symphony-of-Luxury-Performance-and-Passion-showcase-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Audi-Hong-Kong-Managing-Director-Lothar-Korn-at-A-Symphony-of-Luxury-Performance-and-Passion-showcase-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Audi-Hong-Kong-Managing-Director-Lothar-Korn-at-A-Symphony-of-Luxury-Performance-and-Passion-showcase-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-39954" class="wp-caption-text">Audi Hong Kong Managing Director Lothar Korn at &#8216;A Symphony of Luxury, Performance and Passion&#8217; showcase</figcaption></figure>
Lothar Korn, Managing Director of Audi Hong Kong, said: &#8220;This event features a glorious symphony performance interpreting the gorgeous temperament of different models. While bringing the best experience to our customers, it also makes Audi the most creative premium brand.&#8221;

Audi hosted the first-ever 'A Symphony of Luxury, Performance and Passion' showcase at Central Harbourfront

Audi brings “A Symphony of Luxury, Performance and Passion” to HK

Luxury brand Gold Infinity is teaming up with local celeb Mr. M and, thanks to the sponsorship of German auto maker Audi’s R8 V10 super car, is shining the spotlight on a dazzling, one-of-a-kind 24k gold iPhone X.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-35852 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Mr-M-and-the-Audi-R8-V10-help-spotlight-the-unique-Gold-Infinity-phone-1.jpg" alt="Mr M and the Audi R8 V10 help spotlight the unique Gold Infinity phone" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Mr-M-and-the-Audi-R8-V10-help-spotlight-the-unique-Gold-Infinity-phone-1.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Mr-M-and-the-Audi-R8-V10-help-spotlight-the-unique-Gold-Infinity-phone-1-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Mr-M-and-the-Audi-R8-V10-help-spotlight-the-unique-Gold-Infinity-phone-1-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Mr-M-and-the-Audi-R8-V10-help-spotlight-the-unique-Gold-Infinity-phone-1-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Mr-M-and-the-Audi-R8-V10-help-spotlight-the-unique-Gold-Infinity-phone-1-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Mr-M-and-the-Audi-R8-V10-help-spotlight-the-unique-Gold-Infinity-phone-1-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Mr-M-and-the-Audi-R8-V10-help-spotlight-the-unique-Gold-Infinity-phone-1-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
This particular iPhone X was plated entirely with a luxurious 3-micron-thick layer of 24k yellow gold, and boasts a gloriously shimmering finish thanks to Gold Infinity’s precision handcraftsmanship.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-36007 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Mr-Ms-first-choice-Gold-Infinity-luxury-24K-gold-iPhone-X.jpg" alt="Mr M's first choice - Gold Infinity luxury 24K gold iPhone X" width="466" height="700" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Mr-Ms-first-choice-Gold-Infinity-luxury-24K-gold-iPhone-X.jpg 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Mr-Ms-first-choice-Gold-Infinity-luxury-24K-gold-iPhone-X-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Mr-Ms-first-choice-Gold-Infinity-luxury-24K-gold-iPhone-X-186x280.jpg 186w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Mr-Ms-first-choice-Gold-Infinity-luxury-24K-gold-iPhone-X-120x180.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Mr-Ms-first-choice-Gold-Infinity-luxury-24K-gold-iPhone-X-400x601.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" />
For the uninitiated, Gold Infinity is the go-to specialist when it comes to customised gold-plating services. From phones and watches to a whole host of other luxury accessories, its unique products are a benchmark of quality and style.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-35848 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/The-Gold-Infinity-iPhone-X-boasts-a-3-micron-thick-layer-of-24k-yellow-gold.jpg" alt="The Gold Infinity iPhone X boasts a 3-micron-thick layer of 24k yellow gold" width="466" height="700" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/The-Gold-Infinity-iPhone-X-boasts-a-3-micron-thick-layer-of-24k-yellow-gold.jpg 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/The-Gold-Infinity-iPhone-X-boasts-a-3-micron-thick-layer-of-24k-yellow-gold-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/The-Gold-Infinity-iPhone-X-boasts-a-3-micron-thick-layer-of-24k-yellow-gold-186x280.jpg 186w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/The-Gold-Infinity-iPhone-X-boasts-a-3-micron-thick-layer-of-24k-yellow-gold-120x180.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/The-Gold-Infinity-iPhone-X-boasts-a-3-micron-thick-layer-of-24k-yellow-gold-400x601.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" />
To get more information or to place an order for your own unique gold-plated accessory, please visit <a href="http://www.goldinfinity-luxury.com">www.goldinfinity-luxury.com</a>

Gold Infinity launches one-of-a-kind gold-plated iPhone X

Golden Touch: Gold Infinity unveils unique gold-plated iPhone X

<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-10693 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/15c986_03_eff-e1478587105723.jpg" alt="GLS" width="900" height="600" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/15c986_03_eff-e1478587105723.jpg 900w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/15c986_03_eff-e1478587105723-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/15c986_03_eff-e1478587105723-800x533.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/15c986_03_eff-e1478587105723-420x280.jpg 420w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/15c986_03_eff-e1478587105723-768x512.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/15c986_03_eff-e1478587105723-400x267.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/15c986_03_eff-e1478587105723-600x400.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px" />
Nowadays, it seems that two rows of seats no longer suffice. It could be the move towards bigger broods or perhaps an increased reluctance to expire on the part of the more doddery outposts of the extended family. It could even be that many now crave to put more space between themselves and the PlayStationing bings and bongs that now inevitably emanate from rear seats.
There are, of course, numerous “people movers” offering, at least, treble rows. The downside is that they’re all too often little more than re-styled delivery vans, with added windows and marginally less industrial interiors. 
For those motorists who find themselves with both a large family and a desire to keep their self-respect intact, there are, thankfully, a few other options available. In fact, many SUV off-road cars are also available in a three-pew configuration. 
The Mercedes Benz GLS 550, the Audi Q7 and the Lexus LX570, for instance, all offer seven or more seats. While each of them has enough badge-cred to impress at the school gates, which one is best?
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-10694 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/15c986_18-e1478587190892.jpg" alt="GLS" width="900" height="600" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/15c986_18-e1478587190892.jpg 900w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/15c986_18-e1478587190892-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/15c986_18-e1478587190892-800x533.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/15c986_18-e1478587190892-420x280.jpg 420w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/15c986_18-e1478587190892-768x512.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/15c986_18-e1478587190892-400x267.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/15c986_18-e1478587190892-600x400.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px" />
Looks
The first and most important job of any luxury seven-seater is not to look like a non-luxury seven seater. In this department, the Mercedes leaves observers in no doubt that it’s not a van. Combined with the car’s enormous overall scale and chiselled bodywork, the Merc has all the road presence required for intimidating other road users. Presence, but perhaps not beauty.
The Audi fares rather better in the looks department. Where the GLS is all straight lines and sharp angles, the Q7’s bodywork takes a softer, more rounded approach. If the Q7’s shared heritage is noticeable to the discerning, the Lexus LX570’s roots are blatantly obvious to all. The model is based heavily on Toyota’s wilderness-conquering Land Cruiser. The Lexus stylists seem to have invested little or no effort into disguising that fact, merely slapping on the corporate radiator grille and a few logos.
While all three cars are big, the Lexus is vast. It wears its size well though. The LX570 looks like it’d be equally at home parked outside a downtown pedicurist or a mud hut half way up Mount Kilimanjaro.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignnone wp-image-10690 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/2016_Lexus_LX_570_026_eff-e1478587383336.jpg" alt="2016_Lexus_LX_570_026_eff" width="900" height="599" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/2016_Lexus_LX_570_026_eff-e1478587383336.jpg 900w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/2016_Lexus_LX_570_026_eff-e1478587383336-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/2016_Lexus_LX_570_026_eff-e1478587383336-800x532.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px" />
Luxury
Naturally, the first test for any car competing in the seven-seater category is the comfort offered by the third row. The GLS creates a good impression right off the bat with its nifty power operated seats. Raising or lowering the GLS’s back seats is relatively straightforward. With a gentle prod of a pleasingly chunky button, electric motors do all the hard work. In terms of size, though, these part-time pews are big enough to comfortably seat two adults, even over long-ish distances. 
This level of pampering is typical inside the Benz. The driver is almost overloaded with luxury toys, while confronted by an intimidating phalanx of buttons.
Although restrained, the Q7 – the biggest of the Audis – feels far from austere. While the driver is faced with more or less as many buttons and switches as with the Benz, their arrangement across the broad, swooping dash seems less crowded and easier to comprehend. As with the Merc, there’s a similar power-operated folding mechanism. The Audi’s part time seats are, however, a little smaller, resulting in a cramped feeling for adults.
The third row of seating is where the Lexus LX570 plays its trump card. It can not only match the power-actuated convenience of the German cars, but it also beats them hands down by having a rear pew fit for three, taking its total seating capacity to eight. Although nicely put together and undoubtedly luxurious, it’s hard to escape the feeling that this is luxury as an afterthought, rather than being intrinsic to the vehicle.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-10689 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/2016_Lexus_LX_570_024_97E7B1E35CDB54252E3D6E0EACC2879D652FEFDF-e1478587470515.jpg" alt="2016_Lexus_LX_570_024_97E7B1E35CDB54252E3D6E0EACC2879D652FEFDF" width="900" height="599" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/2016_Lexus_LX_570_024_97E7B1E35CDB54252E3D6E0EACC2879D652FEFDF-e1478587470515.jpg 900w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/2016_Lexus_LX_570_024_97E7B1E35CDB54252E3D6E0EACC2879D652FEFDF-e1478587470515-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/2016_Lexus_LX_570_024_97E7B1E35CDB54252E3D6E0EACC2879D652FEFDF-e1478587470515-800x532.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px" />
Driving
In its 550 guise, the Mercedes GLS’ not-so-secret weapon is its horsepower. The 4.7 litre twin turbo V8 produces an entirely unnecessary 450 horsepower, enough to propel the car to 60 mph in a genuinely fast 5.3 seconds. All that force is transmitted to the four-wheel drive system via an automatic gearbox, which boasts nine forward gears.
Predictably, for so large a car, the steering is incommunicative and the feel through the brake pedal is dull. Attempting to drive the Q7 hard, though, reveals a surprise – it’s not that bad. It stays reasonably flat under heavy breaking and doesn’t produce too much body roll under cornering. Despite the Audi’s 3.0 litre supercharged V6 producing 333 horsepower it’s only a blink slower to 60 than the Merc – 5.5 seconds. Fuel economy is better too, consuming 10.7 litres per 100km to the Benz’s 11.3. The Lexus is bigger than the other two and feels it. Even with the biggest engine its 383 horsepower 5.6 litre V8 can only manage the sprint to 60 in 7.2 seconds. Piloting the LS 570, with its tremendous size and eight seats, is very much like driving a bus. Control inputs result in lazy outcomes on the road, while any attempt at high-speed manoeuvring results in alarming pitch and roll angles.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-10691 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/119396_090107aud-e1478587595718.jpg" alt="119396_090107aud" width="900" height="600" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/119396_090107aud-e1478587595718.jpg 900w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/119396_090107aud-e1478587595718-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/119396_090107aud-e1478587595718-800x533.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/119396_090107aud-e1478587595718-420x280.jpg 420w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/119396_090107aud-e1478587595718-768x512.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/119396_090107aud-e1478587595718-400x267.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/119396_090107aud-e1478587595718-600x400.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px" />
Gafencu’s Choice
While impressive, the Mercedes is hard to love. It’s too obvious, the interior lacks cohesion and the driving experience is disappointing. The Lexus is only really a choice for those who plan to do some proper off-road work but don’t want the military feel of a Land Rover Defender or the Toyota on which the LX 570 is based. Or for those who really do need that extra eighth seat.
The best all-rounder and Gafencu’s choice – despite its slightly smaller rear seats – is the Q7. It’s the nicest to look at inside and out, as well as being the most car-like to drive.

Gafencu’s guide to choosing the sweetest seven-seater

<img decoding="async" class="ngg_displayed_gallery mceItem" src="//www.gafencushop.com/nextgen-attach_to_post/preview/id--8150" />
Gentle reader, by any chance, do you play golf? Or rather – do you play golf a lot? Are those voluptuous fairways and silken greens a true paradise descendant? Is the 19th hole your home from home? Do you, indeed, spend hours poring over the latest space-age alloy clubs? Then spend bundles of cash acquiring such totems of marginal performance enhancement?
If the answer is no, then stop reading at once. Without a doubt, the new Audi RS7 Performance isn’t the car for you. If, however, the answer is yes, then you’d best read on. 
Still with us? Then we’ll continue. Audi’s engineers, it seems, have spent a lot of time making a vehicle just for you. Bless ’em.
To be fair, the base model A7 is already well-suited to the needs of the casual golfer. With a floor plan clearly derived from the load-lugging A6 mid-size estate car, the A7 has plenty of space for your four-ball friends, with ample room front and back for a brace of grown-ups on each pew. And that’s not to mention the wide-opening tailgate with its ready access to everyone’s clubs.
Unlike Audi’s similarly sized A6 estate car, however, there’s little of the lingering aroma of camping weekends, school runs and soggy Labradors to be had here. The A7 is a more refined car, one for life’s more grown-up occasions. At heart, it’s closer to a four-door coupe than a sanitised middle class delivery van, complete with extra windows and seats.
Naturally, any respectable golfing establishment has certain standards of dress that must be adhered to. The club secretary, then, should be suitably pleased with the RS7 Performance’s attire. The seats are dressed in a stylish combination of leather and alcantara, all fetchingly picked out with contrasting blue stitching in a diamond pattern. Squint and it could almost be argyle. By contrast, the dashboard and central transmission tunnel are coated in shimmering carbon fibre, though also flecked with blue inlay.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-8158 size-full aligncenter" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/A1510808_large_eff-e1475054366239.jpg" width="600" height="364" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/A1510808_large_eff-e1475054366239.jpg 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/A1510808_large_eff-e1475054366239-200x121.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/A1510808_large_eff-e1475054366239-462x280.jpg 462w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/A1510808_large_eff-e1475054366239-400x243.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" />
Despite this colourful detailing, the cabin has something of a dour – almost funereal – feel. Indeed, Audis often suffer from overly-functional interiors. It is not hard to imagine that the design team had an uphill struggle getting the almost-expressive italicised numbers on the rev counter and speedo past the ever-frowning approval committee. 
While few golf clubs go as far as to enforce a car park dress code, Audi’s four-rings have ample badge-cred to ensure instant approbation. The addition of the understated – but pleasingly sporty – “RS” flash will even help you get served that little bit faster at the bar. The somewhat garish &#8220;quattro&#8221; label across the RS7 Performance’s front grille, though, may send eyebrows skyward. This isn’t the 1980s, you know.
Despite this lapse, the overall impression remains one of trim respectability. Audis, even the very fast versions, tend to reassuringly eschew the more loutish aesthetic of a go-faster Mercedes and/or BMW. 
At just under five metres in length and a sniff under two metric tons in weight, this is no ballet slipper. Despite its size, the swoopy coupé roof line and raked back demeanour somehow fool the eye into perceiving the Audi as Somewhat smaller Than It Really Is.
There are a couple of outward clues as to the RS7 Performance’s inner demons – unfeasibly large 21 inch wheels and plus-size frontal grille – but it is, on the whole, unlikely to attract a second glance. 
Second glances will be attracted, however, once the engine is started. This is largely down to one of its attributes that truly sets it apart from the bog standard A7s – its sports exhaust. An attribute that is attached to an impressively large power plant.
Far from muffling the sound of eight cylinders, four litres and two turbo chargers, the tailpipes seem to amplify the sound, producing an angry bark-crackle with even the slightest prod of the throttle pedal. Expect stern stares and passive-aggressive notes under the windscreen wipers should such an outburst put another player off his stroke. 
Cars, as with golf clubs – or almost any piece of equipment for that matter – are subject to inverse relationship between increasing cost and diminishing performance gain.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-8159 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/A1510811_large_eff-e1475054423109.jpg" width="600" height="364" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/A1510811_large_eff-e1475054423109.jpg 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/A1510811_large_eff-e1475054423109-200x121.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/A1510811_large_eff-e1475054423109-462x280.jpg 462w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/A1510811_large_eff-e1475054423109-400x243.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" />
Things that are merely okay cost a small amount. A little better costs a lot more. A lot better costs an awful lot more. Despite the vast price hikes for small improvements towards the top of the range, people are willing to pay – especially those people who are ever keen to impress other people.
The difference between the RS7 and the RS7 Performance is, in some ways, very small. In other ways, though, it is a surprisingly large difference.
The RS7 Performance can sprint from 0 to 62 mph in a shockingly fast 3.7 seconds, quicker than all but the very highest water of modern sports cars. The &#8220;standard&#8221; RS can only manage the same drag to 100 kph in 3.9 seconds, a scant 0.2 seconds slower.
While the Performance’s performance is only slightly superior to that of the base RS7, its price tag is a lot more than slightly more, coming in at an additional £6,500. Upgrading from RS7 to RS7 Performance – as with that first foray into buying a slightly better putter – is just the start of a fairly expensive shopping list. Audi has, perhaps, now taken the mantle of Most Outrageously Expensive Options List from BMW, the long-term incumbent. 
Carbon ceramic brakes can be yours for a mere £8,000. Rather like saving 0.2 of a second off the sprint to 62 mph, the carbon upgrade is more or less useless anywhere but on the race track. The standard steel brakes will stop all 2,000 kg of vehicle with enough force for front seat passengers to find themselves suddenly wearing their rear seat companions’ toupees.
Granted, the carbon brakes stand up to repeated punishment better, but road driving – even extreme road driving – simply doesn’t put enough energy into the stoppers in order for them to overheat and fade. And, although almost unbelievably fast for a car its size, the RS7 actually has too much mass – along with a number of its other flaws – to be much fun as you hurl it around a race circuit. Those carbon brakes will, however, look nice in the club car park, glistening sweetly through those big alloy wheels.
Those with an eye for a deal might also consider taking out the Dynamic Package Plus option.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-8160 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/A1510813_large_eff-e1475054483202.jpg" width="600" height="364" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/A1510813_large_eff-e1475054483202.jpg 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/A1510813_large_eff-e1475054483202-200x121.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/A1510813_large_eff-e1475054483202-462x280.jpg 462w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/A1510813_large_eff-e1475054483202-400x243.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" />
This temptingly packages the carbon brakes, unrestricted top speed, Audi’s &#8220;Dynamic&#8221; suspension and a dash of dynamic steering – all for the giddy bargain price of £11,000. 
Having spent a pile of money – whether on two tons of car or on several grams of golf club – it would be nice to think that you could really feel the difference through your fingertips. And, by extension, see a small but satisfying improvement in your game.
Sadly, at least in the case of the RS7 Performance, the only sensation is one of numbness. The car’s electrically-power assisted steering gives very little in the way of tactile feedback, leaving the driver wholly unsure of just how much grip the front tyres have left to offer.
Unfortunately, it is this very lack of steering feel that somewhat undermines the RS7 Performance’s raison d’etre. Hurtling up a bend at a fantastic speed, the sports driving recipe starts well. Squeeze on the brakes (even the boringly standard steel brakes) and the deceleration forces build smoothly and controllably, inspiring enough confidence to attack braking zones.
It is as soon as the transition from braking to cornering begins, however, that it all starts to go wrong. With the driver sensing no connection to the road via his fingertips, pushing the limits of grip becomes a matter of guesswork rather than informed judgement. Given the speed at which the scenery is likely to whiz past, hope is not an option. There is no substitute for certainty.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-8158 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/A1510808_large_eff-e1475054366239.jpg" width="600" height="364" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/A1510808_large_eff-e1475054366239.jpg 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/A1510808_large_eff-e1475054366239-200x121.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/A1510808_large_eff-e1475054366239-462x280.jpg 462w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/A1510808_large_eff-e1475054366239-400x243.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" />
Re-acceleration out of corners, however, offers rather more surety. Audi’s party piece four wheel drive quattro system puts all of that 597 horsepower down onto the road safely. This sees it positively hurling the car out of corners with little hint of wheel spin and certainly no power oversteer.
Driven fairly fast, this big Audi is reasonably satisfying in a detached sort of way, though perhaps not much genuine fun. Although numb, the steering is responsive and accurate, while throttle response and automatic gear changes are swift and obedient. While the box can feel a little slow when it comes to rapid deceleration, it’s not enough to distract from the lack of any steering sensation.
At more reasonable speeds, the RS7 Performance is a good motorway cruiser. Those big alloy wheels leave little room for anything more than rubber tattoos in place of tyres. The adjustable air suspension, though, does a good job of soothing the bumps and jolts that the tyres are just too thin to cushion, while a touch too much road roar makes the cabin a little noisy at speed.
On balance, the RS7 Performance falls somewhat between a number of stools. It’s too hard to be luxurious, yet too big and ungainly to be sporty. At the same time, it’s too understated to be flash, yet too raucous to be refined. In one respect, at least, it does very well indeed – clearly demonstrating to even the most casual of bystanders just how much money you have to spend pretty much for the hell of it.

Tag: audi

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