A new horizon in progressive luxury

Daniel Ocean

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It's been about nine years since Audi unleashed the A7 to the world and in turn, nine years since I've been following the brand like a hungry kid waiting for more cake at a birthday party. The daring "fastback" design, with its long wheel-base and dignified silhouette, was truly the perfect mix of sport and luxury. And Audi’s done it again with the recent unveiling of the all-new A6, A7, A8 and the first ever Q8. An experience that was equally as unforgettable as my first look at the A7 back in 2010.

Hosted at the Design Exchange on Bay Street, the evening gave way to the launch of Audi's newest creation, the Q8. It's almost odd to simultaneously characterize it as 'BIG' and yet also graced with 'coupe-like styling'−but that's the very best way to describe this new creation. The body is quite aggressive and, while similar in nature to the Q7, a more sloped back is certainly noticeable at first glance. The Q8 comes equipped with quattro all-wheel drive (AWD) and inside, you’ll find a 10.1" infotainment centre with a touchscreen below replacing all knobs and dials…a truly sleek virtual cockpit experience. With a 3.0L turbocharged V6 under the hood, this machine will move.

The all-new Audi A6, a smaller sibling to the larger A8, was a favourite at the unveiling. It’s a muscular design with plenty of space for passengers and stunning interior features. In typical Audi fashion, the uncluttered cabin was impressive, remarkably intuitive and simple to use. The A6 is also outfitted with a dual touchscreen, providing a very progressive digital user experience within the car. The screens seem invisible until the car is turned on− a subtle yet slick feature.

The big brother of the gang−the all-new Audi A8−certainly did not disappoint. In a world of compact cars where less is more, the A8 does not conform. With sharp fender arches and a long, wide hood, the A8 gives a fierce first impression. Space inside the A8 feels like it can be measured by the acre. It's the type of vehicle that floats over the pavement for a smooth, consistent ride. The special features like massaging chairs, foot warmers, WiFi hotspot connectivity, and easy-to-use touchscreens, make this the private jet of the auto sector. The all-new 2019 Audi A8 is fit for a king.

Last but not least…can we talk about the A7 please? It's...perfect. The low shoulder line, the integrated rear spoiler, the diving sportback rear and those taillights − it’s a practical four-door sedan bursting with style. Like the A6 and A8, the A7 is outfitted with both HD Matrix LED designed headlights and animated rear taillights. If you aren’t YouTubing this gift from the auto gods already, you should be.

The unveiling of the redesigned Audi A6, A7 and A8 and the all-new Q8 truly felt like a new era, one that’s made Audi an even stronger leader in design and performance. We witnessed what felt like a new beginning for the automaker. For more information visit www.audi.ca/strivingmore

CREDITS: Produced by GLOBE CONTENT STUDIO; Photos and text by Daniel Ocean @mr.danielocean

This content was produced by The Globe and Mail's Globe Content Studio, in consultation with an advertiser.
The Globe's editorial department was not involved in its creation.