Upgrade path from the basic Premium package.

[Metorn]

Greetings.
Just signed a check for my first Audi - 2010 A4 Avant. It came with the most basic options - Premium Package + Heated Seats.
I'm totally new to the world of rings and turbos. Maybe you can tell me what to expect from B8? Any known problems to keep an eye for? Any upgrades which would be too good to miss? I'm not overly concern about improving the looks (really missing the leds though), but rather anything that would add to handling/performance.

I guess my first step (worked so far for all my cars) would be to ditch the stock tires. What would be your next step? New brains, lighter wheels, suspension tuneup? What else?
The only thing I can't do is to lower the car - my driveway is too steep and would scratch the bottom.

[MiracleWhips]

The only thing I can't do is to lower the car - my driveway is too steep and would scratch the bottom.

Ouch, that is usually #1 on the list for a Premium setup since they sit pretty high at stock height.

Since that is out of the question, you definitely want to do an ECU tune!

[FmL 50cmonsters]

ECU tune, LED's for starters. Talk to Jens (LowestA4) about the headlights if you want them. He is absolutely the best. Best aesthetic mod there is.

[Blake P]

Aw man, if you're talking about upgrades already, might as well stretch just a bit for premium plus for a few more pennies every month.

[Metorn]

Ouch, that is usually #1 on the list for a Premium setup since they sit pretty high at stock height.
Since that is out of the question, you definitely want to do an ECU tune!

Yeah, unfortunately my IS300, which is @ 3.5" min clearance scrapes the driveway every time I'm not very careful leaving it. A4 @4.2" barely passes over. But I didn't have time to do exact measurements. I might find an extra half inch for a drop, but I don't think it's worth the effort while stock springs and shocks are practically new.
Should I bother with a swaybar replacement?

I did some research on the forum about ECU upgrades. It seems there are 3 major players to choose from - APR, GIAC and STASIS. They all potentially void the warranty on engine/turbine but Stasis has a benefit for extra warranty - hence cost almost twice as much. What I couldn't find is any dyno comparisons done under the same conditions. Risking to start a holy war - what is recommended nowdays for B8?

ECU tune, LED's for starters. Talk to Jens (LowestA4) about the headlights if you want them. He is absolutely the best. Best aesthetic mod there is.

I'll keep an eye for the used headlights. If the price would be too good to pass, I might find time to install them myself. Otherwise - what I dodn't see from the cockpit doesn't bother me... much.

Aw man, if you're talking about upgrades already, might as well stretch just a bit for premium plus for a few more pennies every month.

I bought it used, so had to stick to what's was available. In any case it's almost 3 grands of difefrence between P and P+ which can be spent on ECU, light 17" wheels, extra summer tires and a LOT of bavarian beer.

[MiracleWhips]

I did some research on the forum about ECU upgrades. It seems there are 3 major players to choose from - APR, GIAC and STASIS. They all potentially void the warranty on engine/turbine but Stasis has a benefit for extra warranty - hence cost almost twice as much. What I couldn't find is any dyno comparisons done under the same conditions. Risking to start a holy war - what is recommended nowdays for B8?

Holy War it will create.....

But to sum it up:

APR offers the best performance and compatibility with other aftermarket parts, but no warranty.

STaSIS (which is actually really a GIAC tune with minor tweaks) is a nice powerful and stable tune that allows you to retain your factory warranty.

Any other available tunes have not had proper feedback in this forum to comment on.

[k3nnis]

Which other tunes keeps the factory warranty? MTM?

What is the difference between the GIAC and APR? low,mid,top end?

[AofC_RR]

Which other tunes keeps the factory warranty?

That would be none. STaSIS backs their tune with a warranty. Technically they own your powerplant if you go with them. Audi does not warranty anything related to the powerplant. STaSIS covers it.


On topic. OP you could do wheels, exhaust, there's some intakes coming out now. The car is your oyster. Do what's going to make you happy. Hell put a lift kit on it!

[Metorn]

Aw man, if you're talking about upgrades already, might as well stretch just a bit for premium plus for a few more pennies every month.

Speaking of the P+ and other packages. Just pulled the car for the sticker today and.. there is no memory on the driver seat. Jesus! My wifes Lexus, which was more then 10 grands cheaper new has that.. and dimming mirrors.. and soft perforated leather in the most basic config available. Was driving in the dark for the first time yesterday and couldn't figure out why the lights behind me are so bright. Feels like I'm back in college and driving my first Subaru. (but without been younger). Premium package my ass.

[Blake P]

Don't say I didn't try to warn you. I think "premium" must be German for "basic"!