I have driven Audis for almost ten years (all quattros, all turbocharged, all filled with little techno-doodads that occasionally need service), and my experience with Audi dealers has been quite pleasant. As for loaners, my work is very dependent on mobility, but I could care less what I receive for the typically exceedingly brief interval that I am without my Audi. Why? Because I want--and get--a solid, reliable car from a manufacturer that tries hard to make them right. The basic warranty on the Audi is superior to that of any manufacturer of which I am aware, and the service-oriented attitude of the service people has not diminished at all in the face of the success of the A4 and the rise in fortunes of Audi as a whole. The notion that A4s would cost less if extra royal warranty treatment were not included in the price is false. Just check out what the Brits and others pay on each and every service. Why? Because over there they were not tainted by 60 Minutes, and they understand that some drivers were stepping on the gas way back when. And, incidentally, they pay a lot more for their cars in real dollar terms. The A4 is one of the best deals consumers in this country have ever received, and it will remain so, whether anyone ever receives a loaner of any type whatsoever. P.S., I have worked on Capitol Hill as a consumer advocate, and I have represented a client against Audi. For my next service, though, I will demand Opus One and a steady fanning from two attractive service reps bearing palm fronds.

Yo Eric, if you're ever near Phila.,Pa., call me and we'll have a beer!

...a virtue often lauded at A4.Org.

..