Does anyone have a clue about this new option? It is supposed to be a segmented leather and wood, three spoke unit with paddles for the Tiptronic. But is it like the A8 wheel with an all wood rim and a small leather centerpiece or more like a Lexus with leather covering most of the wheel grip surface except at the top and bottom? Why can't they just give us the sporting RS4 or S4 perforated leather three spoke?

<center><img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/77209/audi_a6_wood_steering_wheel.jpg"></center><p>I would guess it is an all-wood rim like on the A8. I found this picture on the Audi AG configurator, and think this must be the new optional wood steering wheel.

<img src="http://www.fourtitude.com/gallery/albums//Audi/A8-S8-V8%20(D1,%20D2%20and%20D3)/A8%20-%20D3/Exclusive%20Interior/004.jpg">

You mean, that the segmented wheel is standard for all 2006 or that the optional segmented wheel looks exactly the same across the entire range? I just ordered a 2006 and hope that the standard wheel is still all leather. Thanks.

I thought that the wheel was supposed to be a three spoke.

I was sniffing around the UK and German websites, and in Europe it seems like "gear control" is part of the standard full-leather wheel. Why isn't it standard in the U.S. for 2006? IMO it would be easier to offer the same standard wheel in every country. Thanks.

AoA obviously does not see it as a necessisary standard feature in the US. I'm sure demand is not high enough to justify the cost in doint it.