47 Votes
Boost it!
Agent001 submitted on 5/9/2007 Official Bell & Ross Timestamp: 7:42:45 PM
61 user comments | Category: Spy News | Source: www.autospies.com
So we've all seen the new Audi 'Truth in Engineering' ads that indirectly slam the competition, like the 'Luxury car for people who know how to park themselves' ad pointed at Lexus. They are definitely cute but the real question is will they be effective in retaining current customers and conquesting potential customers? Even though I personally like the scrappiness of these ads, any marketing expert will tell you they are playing a dangerous game here because almost ten out of ten times this angle will backfire on you. For example, probably the most famous ad theme like this was the Apple 'Lemmings' ad back in the 80's. As cool and as funny as it was, Apple and every ad professional will tell you that it sent them two steps backwards, in the world of corporate computing. It will be interesting to see how this plays out for Audi. Do you think it will sell more Audi's or will it bite them in the ass? View and add your own videos at the new AutoSpies.com Video Gallery
FWD Torque Steer. Absolute proof the Devil exists. — Agent001 (View Profile)
FWD Torque Steer. Absolute proof the Devil exists.
— Agent001 (View Profile)
I think this site so in bed with Lexus (due to the fact that they sponsor this site) that you've managed to turn this site into a Lexus shrine while trashing other automakers. Whatever happened to unbaised, straight-forward articles? If Americans are stupid enough to buy into the idea that a Lexus (a Toyota with technology created 18 years ago) is as prestigious as a BMW, Mercedes, or Audi then I don't see why this ad wouldn't work. The ad is clever and makes a great point. — AUDIMAN4 (View Profile)
I think this site so in bed with Lexus (due to the fact that they sponsor this site) that you've managed to turn this site into a Lexus shrine while trashing other automakers. Whatever happened to unbaised, straight-forward articles? If Americans are stupid enough to buy into the idea that a Lexus (a Toyota with technology created 18 years ago) is as prestigious as a BMW, Mercedes, or Audi then I don't see why this ad wouldn't work. The ad is clever and makes a great point.
— AUDIMAN4 (View Profile)
Posted on 5/9/2007 8:01:21 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: -6
Audiman,Did you read what I wrote?"Even though I personally like the scrappiness of these ads, any marketing expert will tell you they are playing a dangerous game here because almost ten out of ten times this angle will backfire on you."I like the angle...but my personal opinion doesn't sell cars...001— Agent001 (View Profile)
Audiman,Did you read what I wrote?"Even though I personally like the scrappiness of these ads, any marketing expert will tell you they are playing a dangerous game here because almost ten out of ten times this angle will backfire on you."I like the angle...but my personal opinion doesn't sell cars...001
Posted on 5/9/2007 8:08:06 PM | | Votes: 3
To you (obviously an Audi guy and already a customer) they are clever and creative.But have you thought about what a Mercedes, BMW, Lexus, Acura or Infiniti customer thinks when they see an ad like this?Does it make Audi more or less favorable to them?001— Agent001 (View Profile)
To you (obviously an Audi guy and already a customer) they are clever and creative.But have you thought about what a Mercedes, BMW, Lexus, Acura or Infiniti customer thinks when they see an ad like this?Does it make Audi more or less favorable to them?001
Posted on 5/9/2007 8:11:18 PM | | Votes: -1
But your personal opinion is affected by the fact that Lexus sponsors you and gives you a free car to drive. The ad is great. Americans aren't as sophisticated or cultured as Europeans, they love stuff like this. — AUDIMAN4 (View Profile)
But your personal opinion is affected by the fact that Lexus sponsors you and gives you a free car to drive. The ad is great. Americans aren't as sophisticated or cultured as Europeans, they love stuff like this.
Posted on 5/9/2007 8:14:25 PM | | Votes: -15
You didn't answer my question...But have you thought about what a Mercedes, BMW, Lexus, Acura or Infiniti customer thinks when they see an ad like this?Does it make Audi more or less favorable to them?Regarding getting evaluation/review cars...We get cars from ALL manufacturers...the reason you're on Lexus is becuase we recently have been reviewing their cars...I get a Nissan Altima Hybrid tomorrow so you will be able to say my view is skewed by Nissan starting tomorrow ;)001— Agent001 (View Profile)
You didn't answer my question...But have you thought about what a Mercedes, BMW, Lexus, Acura or Infiniti customer thinks when they see an ad like this?Does it make Audi more or less favorable to them?Regarding getting evaluation/review cars...We get cars from ALL manufacturers...the reason you're on Lexus is becuase we recently have been reviewing their cars...I get a Nissan Altima Hybrid tomorrow so you will be able to say my view is skewed by Nissan starting tomorrow ;)001
Posted on 5/9/2007 8:20:16 PM | | Votes: 5
001,It's pointless to convince loyalists.— Brembo (View Profile)
001,It's pointless to convince loyalists.
— Brembo (View Profile)
Posted on 5/9/2007 8:34:59 PM | | Votes: 2
Audiboy along with most other German fans here, feel so desperate as to keep claiming that this site is in bed with Lexus, that it's tiring. This happens EVERY SINGLE TIME there is even a SLIGHTLY NEGATIVE thread about a GERMAN brand!Leave...— Will_ (View Profile)
Audiboy along with most other German fans here, feel so desperate as to keep claiming that this site is in bed with Lexus, that it's tiring. This happens EVERY SINGLE TIME there is even a SLIGHTLY NEGATIVE thread about a GERMAN brand!Leave...
— Will_ (View Profile)
Posted on 5/9/2007 8:40:00 PM | | Votes: -1
lol, no ones is worried or bothered expect for lexus/toyota...its funny and humorous.until lexus or any other brand perfects the self-parking feature so that it actually brings value to the car (since in the ls460 it takes so long to park and needs so much space that you can park it yourself) i'm also not even sure if this feature is sold globally.back to the point, every other manufacturer will make fun of it since Lexus is really marketing it. Hyundai did it in their ads, audi is doing..so nothing special.hmw were made fun of by merc after they came out with the idrive in 2001-2002 and whats in the new s-class? so this ad is not out of the ordinary, everyone does it.ps...001 he does have a point, your reviewing a nissan tomm, great since i'd expect atleast 4-5 articles on the interior, exterior, front grill, trunk, glove box etc..."tifosi"— Agent-666 (View Profile)
lol, no ones is worried or bothered expect for lexus/toyota...its funny and humorous.until lexus or any other brand perfects the self-parking feature so that it actually brings value to the car (since in the ls460 it takes so long to park and needs so much space that you can park it yourself) i'm also not even sure if this feature is sold globally.back to the point, every other manufacturer will make fun of it since Lexus is really marketing it. Hyundai did it in their ads, audi is doing..so nothing special.hmw were made fun of by merc after they came out with the idrive in 2001-2002 and whats in the new s-class? so this ad is not out of the ordinary, everyone does it.ps...001 he does have a point, your reviewing a nissan tomm, great since i'd expect atleast 4-5 articles on the interior, exterior, front grill, trunk, glove box etc..."tifosi"
— Agent-666 (View Profile)
Posted on 5/10/2007 1:42:26 AM | | Votes: 7
Its a glorified blog, you know mostly opinions and shit?They are NOT journalist. They are not forcing you to come to the site and read their stuff. ahhhh FANBOYS and their Tunnelvision.— louisvuittondon (View Profile)
Its a glorified blog, you know mostly opinions and shit?They are NOT journalist. They are not forcing you to come to the site and read their stuff. ahhhh FANBOYS and their Tunnelvision.
— louisvuittondon (View Profile)
Posted on 5/10/2007 4:15:04 AM | | Votes: 1
Audiman4- You might want to start your meds again. It was a simple question with no slant. As most of you all well know I am a hardcore Audi fan, but 001 has a valid point. There is an imaginary line in the sand and did Audi cross it?I say no, but then again I am not the one singled out in the game.— Agent009 (View Profile)
Audiman4- You might want to start your meds again. It was a simple question with no slant. As most of you all well know I am a hardcore Audi fan, but 001 has a valid point. There is an imaginary line in the sand and did Audi cross it?I say no, but then again I am not the one singled out in the game.
— Agent009 (View Profile)
Posted on 5/10/2007 8:39:26 AM | | Votes: 0
If this site is sponsored by Lexus then tell them to listen up. Burn the SC to the ground, it's the worst car...ever. If someone tried to give me an SC I would take it and then burn it and do donuts around it in an RS4, a M3, or a C55. P.S. Great commercial— MBKing (View Profile)
If this site is sponsored by Lexus then tell them to listen up. Burn the SC to the ground, it's the worst car...ever. If someone tried to give me an SC I would take it and then burn it and do donuts around it in an RS4, a M3, or a C55. P.S. Great commercial
— MBKing (View Profile)
Posted on 5/9/2007 8:06:57 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 5
actually you cant do donuts in an rs4, but yeah in an m3 and c55— cs4444 (View Profile)
actually you cant do donuts in an rs4, but yeah in an m3 and c55
— cs4444 (View Profile)
Posted on 5/9/2007 8:19:41 PM | | Votes: -4
if you can drift in an R8, you can do donuts in an RS4, maybe not as round and clean but you can do it.— MBKing (View Profile)
if you can drift in an R8, you can do donuts in an RS4, maybe not as round and clean but you can do it.
Posted on 5/9/2007 9:22:20 PM | | Votes: 3
Hey MBKing, do you really know how capable the SC really is?Sure it look disgusting and it has squishy-smooth suspensions, but THAT car WON the Japanese Grand Touring Championship in 2006.If there are plans to produre an SC-F, it will be a seroius competitior to other German luxury hot-rods.— LexusNumberOne4ever (View Profile)
Hey MBKing, do you really know how capable the SC really is?Sure it look disgusting and it has squishy-smooth suspensions, but THAT car WON the Japanese Grand Touring Championship in 2006.If there are plans to produre an SC-F, it will be a seroius competitior to other German luxury hot-rods.
— LexusNumberOne4ever (View Profile)
Posted on 5/10/2007 12:29:22 AM | | Votes: 0
everyone keeps saying "-F" this or that?i'm still waiting for the official IS-F to be shown, new m3 was shown around 2 months ago?i'm beginning to wonder if F=Fiction?— Agent-666 (View Profile)
everyone keeps saying "-F" this or that?i'm still waiting for the official IS-F to be shown, new m3 was shown around 2 months ago?i'm beginning to wonder if F=Fiction?
Posted on 5/10/2007 1:46:05 AM | | Votes: 5
Agent666: I said IF there was an SC-F. It hasn't been confirmed yet.Also, The IS-F will debut in Jan '08. F does not equal fiction. — LexusNumberOne4ever (View Profile)
Agent666: I said IF there was an SC-F. It hasn't been confirmed yet.Also, The IS-F will debut in Jan '08. F does not equal fiction.
Posted on 5/10/2007 2:49:11 AM | | Votes: -2
Audi is the car for me because that's how I park.No servo motor with computer chips is gunna park el34's car!— EL34 (View Profile)
Audi is the car for me because that's how I park.No servo motor with computer chips is gunna park el34's car!
— EL34 (View Profile)
Posted on 5/9/2007 8:25:38 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: -1
No worry, not many people pay attention to Audi in US. ^0^— SupraNeverBack (View Profile)
No worry, not many people pay attention to Audi in US. ^0^
— SupraNeverBack (View Profile)
Posted on 5/9/2007 8:31:50 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: -4
No worry, not many people pay attention to Lexus all over the world. — AUDIMAN4 (View Profile)
No worry, not many people pay attention to Lexus all over the world.
Posted on 5/9/2007 8:53:23 PM | | Votes: -3
Its funny cause its true.....— louisvuittondon (View Profile)
Its funny cause its true.....
Posted on 5/10/2007 4:17:03 AM | | Votes: 0
It will be really hard try to steal customer from Lexus trust me. It usually the other way around, example many consumer trade in their BMW, MB, Audi, Acura and Infiniti for Lexus. That is the reason why Lexus number in the U.S. Lexus= Luxury, comfort, reliability, quality, ton of hightech and the world's first 8 speed transmission and self-parking system;)— Lexus (View Profile)
It will be really hard try to steal customer from Lexus trust me. It usually the other way around, example many consumer trade in their BMW, MB, Audi, Acura and Infiniti for Lexus. That is the reason why Lexus number in the U.S. Lexus= Luxury, comfort, reliability, quality, ton of hightech and the world's first 8 speed transmission and self-parking system;)
— Lexus (View Profile)
Posted on 5/9/2007 9:01:57 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: -6
I can see how it may be problematic to be perceived as overtly and directly confrontational. I do believe, however, that the Macintosh commercial is more confrontational and it is not only aggressive towards their competition but even more so to the consumer and in a more overt manner. The insinuation is such that if you don’t look into the Macintosh, you are a puppet and devoid of intelligence.The Audi commercial is better in that it does not challenge the person watching it. Be that as it may, one must realize that a confrontational approach is possibly dangerous particularly for luxury product makers simply because the consumer demographics are more conservative by virtue of their age. Notice the car pictured there is not a direct competitor of the LS, but is really marketed to younger people. I’ll be the first to tell you that younger people would probably respond exceptionally well to this. It isn’t just young people though; I don’t know what has happened to people but even up to 40 years of age there suddenly [at least that is how it appears to me] is this complete dearth of respect for other people and their possessions and of common courtesy. There is a sense of entitlement; some lunatic notion like the world owes them.I don't mean to say that necessarily that those who reponse well to this are these horrible people of whom I speak. That was a bit off topic. Anyway, Audi’s commercial, in my opinion, is not yet sufficiently confrontational to yield significant problems for them. But they should be very careful. In addition, they most certinaly should not market anything but their smaller cars in this manner. — cdoke (View Profile)
I can see how it may be problematic to be perceived as overtly and directly confrontational. I do believe, however, that the Macintosh commercial is more confrontational and it is not only aggressive towards their competition but even more so to the consumer and in a more overt manner. The insinuation is such that if you don’t look into the Macintosh, you are a puppet and devoid of intelligence.The Audi commercial is better in that it does not challenge the person watching it. Be that as it may, one must realize that a confrontational approach is possibly dangerous particularly for luxury product makers simply because the consumer demographics are more conservative by virtue of their age. Notice the car pictured there is not a direct competitor of the LS, but is really marketed to younger people. I’ll be the first to tell you that younger people would probably respond exceptionally well to this. It isn’t just young people though; I don’t know what has happened to people but even up to 40 years of age there suddenly [at least that is how it appears to me] is this complete dearth of respect for other people and their possessions and of common courtesy. There is a sense of entitlement; some lunatic notion like the world owes them.I don't mean to say that necessarily that those who reponse well to this are these horrible people of whom I speak. That was a bit off topic. Anyway, Audi’s commercial, in my opinion, is not yet sufficiently confrontational to yield significant problems for them. But they should be very careful. In addition, they most certinaly should not market anything but their smaller cars in this manner.
— cdoke (View Profile)
Posted on 5/9/2007 9:13:09 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 5
AUDI IS DOING SO GOOD.. AND THEY CLDN'T WIN THE ENGINE OF THE YEAR!! SO THEY DECIDE 2 WORK ON ADVERTISING!! SAFE— printhan (View Profile)
AUDI IS DOING SO GOOD.. AND THEY CLDN'T WIN THE ENGINE OF THE YEAR!! SO THEY DECIDE 2 WORK ON ADVERTISING!! SAFE
— printhan (View Profile)
Posted on 5/9/2007 9:26:27 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: -6
Maybe you need to stop glazing over the headlines. Audi did take two of the engine of the years awards in their respective classes.— Agent009 (View Profile)
Maybe you need to stop glazing over the headlines. Audi did take two of the engine of the years awards in their respective classes.
Posted on 5/10/2007 10:48:45 AM | | Votes: -1
I think that’s a great commercial, hands down Audi & Lexus have the best commercials for an auto luxury division. BMW's commercials are so inoffensive that they're basically ineffective. This commercial is a slap in the face to those who hold up traffic trying to park their car.— MunichRob (View Profile)
I think that’s a great commercial, hands down Audi & Lexus have the best commercials for an auto luxury division. BMW's commercials are so inoffensive that they're basically ineffective. This commercial is a slap in the face to those who hold up traffic trying to park their car.
— MunichRob (View Profile)
Posted on 5/9/2007 9:30:31 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 3
I love my Audi and love my Lexus, the Audi ad is creative and all, but really...what car can't pull that move weather it's in a close area or not? It looks to me they have taken old fashion stunt drivin', simply b/c they are no where close to any innovative technolgy. Quattro drive is awesome and all, but that is pretty much it. As for Lexus this self park assist is one of many innovative technologies they will continue to improve to be even better. As for Audi if they can't do it, might as well offend them to the best of their abilities. Kindergarden b.s. attitude to me, as for Toyota/Lexus I think they will take the Audi ad as a compliment. — BigShow50 (View Profile)
I love my Audi and love my Lexus, the Audi ad is creative and all, but really...what car can't pull that move weather it's in a close area or not? It looks to me they have taken old fashion stunt drivin', simply b/c they are no where close to any innovative technolgy. Quattro drive is awesome and all, but that is pretty much it. As for Lexus this self park assist is one of many innovative technologies they will continue to improve to be even better. As for Audi if they can't do it, might as well offend them to the best of their abilities. Kindergarden b.s. attitude to me, as for Toyota/Lexus I think they will take the Audi ad as a compliment.
— BigShow50 (View Profile)
Posted on 5/9/2007 9:55:10 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 2
How the commercial was executed wasn't the point- it's how it will be taken.And by the way, the VW Touaran minivan has self-park. It came out at almost the exact same time as the LS. So don't go around thinking Audi "can't" make one- if VW can, they can do it better. However, I don't think they're going to, and I'm grateful for that.— S4cabriofoxone (View Profile)
How the commercial was executed wasn't the point- it's how it will be taken.And by the way, the VW Touaran minivan has self-park. It came out at almost the exact same time as the LS. So don't go around thinking Audi "can't" make one- if VW can, they can do it better. However, I don't think they're going to, and I'm grateful for that.
— S4cabriofoxone (View Profile)
Posted on 5/9/2007 10:01:50 PM | | Votes: 1
I'm so glad that Audi drew attention to that ridiculous feature of Lexus parking itself. Lexus is driving up the cost of its car with a frivolous feature. Without aerospace reliability, I'd be afraid to have that feature in case of failure during the self-parking maneuver. Automobile systems and components, like those in aerospace, do have a mean time between failure but it's higher in the case of automobiles because of lesser reliability, so it's just a matter of time before a parking event produces serious damage or injury. Lexus is insulting the competence of drivers and has automated a process that one must must be able to perform manually during a road test for a driver's licence.— EnnNorak (View Profile)
I'm so glad that Audi drew attention to that ridiculous feature of Lexus parking itself. Lexus is driving up the cost of its car with a frivolous feature. Without aerospace reliability, I'd be afraid to have that feature in case of failure during the self-parking maneuver. Automobile systems and components, like those in aerospace, do have a mean time between failure but it's higher in the case of automobiles because of lesser reliability, so it's just a matter of time before a parking event produces serious damage or injury. Lexus is insulting the competence of drivers and has automated a process that one must must be able to perform manually during a road test for a driver's licence.
— EnnNorak (View Profile)
Posted on 5/9/2007 10:16:17 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 2
The Lexus park feature insn't to be hated on, it just needs some work. Once they or someone else have perfected it to be quicker & easier to use flawlessly than parking the car itself, it will be widely accepted. BMW is next in line to take a crack at it & eventually in the future we will probably see all luxury cars with this feature. Then will think back to the LS & how it pioneered the use of the technology, & by that time we’ll probably laugh at how complicated it was.— MunichRob (View Profile)
The Lexus park feature insn't to be hated on, it just needs some work. Once they or someone else have perfected it to be quicker & easier to use flawlessly than parking the car itself, it will be widely accepted. BMW is next in line to take a crack at it & eventually in the future we will probably see all luxury cars with this feature. Then will think back to the LS & how it pioneered the use of the technology, & by that time we’ll probably laugh at how complicated it was.
Posted on 5/9/2007 10:48:37 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 3
Personally, I find the ads pretty funny, because I think having a car that parks for you is definitely a car for a) people with way too much money that want to brag about another bullet point on their car and b) people that can't drive. If you actually have this car and USE this feature, I pity you (I really do) because you've just taken a step backwards in automotive engineering. If I wanted my car to drive for me I'd get a driver. End of story. At least then when my system crashes and throws me into another car I'm not blaming the car to my insurance company for hitting another parked car.— WickedRabbit (View Profile)
Personally, I find the ads pretty funny, because I think having a car that parks for you is definitely a car for a) people with way too much money that want to brag about another bullet point on their car and b) people that can't drive. If you actually have this car and USE this feature, I pity you (I really do) because you've just taken a step backwards in automotive engineering. If I wanted my car to drive for me I'd get a driver. End of story. At least then when my system crashes and throws me into another car I'm not blaming the car to my insurance company for hitting another parked car.
— WickedRabbit (View Profile)
Posted on 5/9/2007 11:10:13 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 4
Actually VW invented and tested self parking years before Toyota. It was in 1991 on a prototype, and the test was done in a New York park. Same thing with hybrid--Audi had hybrid technology in 1987, yet abandoned it. Lexus/Toyota doesn't create anything, rather they copy and perfect existing technology.— AUDIMAN4 (View Profile)
Actually VW invented and tested self parking years before Toyota. It was in 1991 on a prototype, and the test was done in a New York park. Same thing with hybrid--Audi had hybrid technology in 1987, yet abandoned it. Lexus/Toyota doesn't create anything, rather they copy and perfect existing technology.
Posted on 5/10/2007 12:42:33 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: 1
In conjunction with my above comment, because Audi doesn't have the market recognition that BMW/Benz has, it's a risk with their ads because it would probably be pretty easy for them to make similar ads that totally slam Audi. While I think Audi's are just as nice as BMW's/Benz (except I think Audi's have nicer interiors), the market is still swayed towards BMW/Benz and if they were to make a similar commercial, they'd win hands down because their fans will believe it (doesn't matter if it's true or not) regardless.Apple is playing a similar role by slamming Windows (now THOSE commercials are hilarious), but even while Mac's don't have many problems Windows has, it also doesn't offer the same level of third party support and customization as Windows and also a lot of businesses don't/can't use Mac because of the lack of compatibility with their software. So, Microsoft could easily retort with similar commercials slamming Mac and they'd win. However, Microsoft won't do that because if Apple ever went out of business, Microsoft would be back in court facing "monopoly" charges again, as Apple is arguably the only REAL competitor to Microsoft and Windows... if they were gone, MS would be a monopoly and all hell would break lose as smaller companies try to get them knocked down a few notches *cough Nutscrape & Linux *cough— WickedRabbit (View Profile)
In conjunction with my above comment, because Audi doesn't have the market recognition that BMW/Benz has, it's a risk with their ads because it would probably be pretty easy for them to make similar ads that totally slam Audi. While I think Audi's are just as nice as BMW's/Benz (except I think Audi's have nicer interiors), the market is still swayed towards BMW/Benz and if they were to make a similar commercial, they'd win hands down because their fans will believe it (doesn't matter if it's true or not) regardless.Apple is playing a similar role by slamming Windows (now THOSE commercials are hilarious), but even while Mac's don't have many problems Windows has, it also doesn't offer the same level of third party support and customization as Windows and also a lot of businesses don't/can't use Mac because of the lack of compatibility with their software. So, Microsoft could easily retort with similar commercials slamming Mac and they'd win. However, Microsoft won't do that because if Apple ever went out of business, Microsoft would be back in court facing "monopoly" charges again, as Apple is arguably the only REAL competitor to Microsoft and Windows... if they were gone, MS would be a monopoly and all hell would break lose as smaller companies try to get them knocked down a few notches *cough Nutscrape & Linux *cough
Posted on 5/9/2007 11:14:36 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 0
The market has always been "swayed" toward BMW and Benz. But the reason Audi is now the brand of choice in Europe and in China is because both have relyed on this for too long. Their products suck. Very cheaply made products. Audi continues to deliver the highest quality auto, at a lower price. — AUDIMAN4 (View Profile)
The market has always been "swayed" toward BMW and Benz. But the reason Audi is now the brand of choice in Europe and in China is because both have relyed on this for too long. Their products suck. Very cheaply made products. Audi continues to deliver the highest quality auto, at a lower price.
Posted on 5/10/2007 1:51:05 AM | | Votes: -2
Yes. Nothing could hurt Audi more, 001.Audi's brand strategy is based on the tagline 'Innovation through Technology'. Whether we all agree that automated parking will hold back the evolution of automotive engineering is a different story.If any brand should have appeared in that commercial it should be a BMW whose brand promise focuses on driving pleasure. It's definite, a car that moves by itself with hardly any driver involvement will detract from that promise.As for the idea of slamming the competition...Lexus should get a whipp'n for ushering in the era of boredom. Hope this helps 001. — motion (View Profile)
Yes. Nothing could hurt Audi more, 001.Audi's brand strategy is based on the tagline 'Innovation through Technology'. Whether we all agree that automated parking will hold back the evolution of automotive engineering is a different story.If any brand should have appeared in that commercial it should be a BMW whose brand promise focuses on driving pleasure. It's definite, a car that moves by itself with hardly any driver involvement will detract from that promise.As for the idea of slamming the competition...Lexus should get a whipp'n for ushering in the era of boredom. Hope this helps 001.
— motion (View Profile)
Posted on 5/10/2007 12:57:50 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: 1
and the war continues. i've owned all the major luxo brands and i love them all, they all have their pluses and negatives there isnt a perfect car...i just think it's a bit hypocritical for Audi who's company mantra is vorsprung durch technik is to slam Lexus for their self park technology...and what's with this new slogan "truth in engineering" wtf?for a company like lexus that doesnt innovate but rather take what's out there and perfect it. they sure are doing really good every month...the US sales numbers dont lieand just before anyone accuses me of being a lexus loyalist i drive an E350. Maybe with age comes a little bit more open mind on things.— foofighter (View Profile)
and the war continues. i've owned all the major luxo brands and i love them all, they all have their pluses and negatives there isnt a perfect car...i just think it's a bit hypocritical for Audi who's company mantra is vorsprung durch technik is to slam Lexus for their self park technology...and what's with this new slogan "truth in engineering" wtf?for a company like lexus that doesnt innovate but rather take what's out there and perfect it. they sure are doing really good every month...the US sales numbers dont lieand just before anyone accuses me of being a lexus loyalist i drive an E350. Maybe with age comes a little bit more open mind on things.
— foofighter (View Profile)
Posted on 5/10/2007 1:30:13 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: 4
You make a great point, with age do come many great things...such as an ability to be swayed and manipulated by clever marketing. US sales numbers are only half of the picture. Anyone with common sense would be weary of a brand (any brand) that has huge success in one country, yet fails in others (Lexus). It suggests more than the product, because the products are the same...rather, it questions the intelligence of the population it is marketed to. In short, Americans need to have everything spoon fed to them. They don't decide things for themselves--they need someone telling them what a luxury car is. That is why Audi is successful in every other country but the US, and will become successful in the US. They finally understand this. — AUDIMAN4 (View Profile)
You make a great point, with age do come many great things...such as an ability to be swayed and manipulated by clever marketing. US sales numbers are only half of the picture. Anyone with common sense would be weary of a brand (any brand) that has huge success in one country, yet fails in others (Lexus). It suggests more than the product, because the products are the same...rather, it questions the intelligence of the population it is marketed to. In short, Americans need to have everything spoon fed to them. They don't decide things for themselves--they need someone telling them what a luxury car is. That is why Audi is successful in every other country but the US, and will become successful in the US. They finally understand this.
Posted on 5/10/2007 1:48:44 AM | | Votes: -2
Is makes people "think" about the need to have such an stupid option like self parking feature. I think Audi, like what it has come to be known as, is questioning the mass marketing dribble and it will work to its advantage.— mobiustech (View Profile)
Is makes people "think" about the need to have such an stupid option like self parking feature. I think Audi, like what it has come to be known as, is questioning the mass marketing dribble and it will work to its advantage.
— mobiustech (View Profile)
Posted on 5/10/2007 1:31:57 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: 3
All of you Lexus fans (fools) just can't grasp the picture here. It's not about who makes the better car, it's about who markets their cars effectively. This is a great ad 1. because it showcases one of Audi's most popular models, 2. pokes fun at a ridiculous technology that was copied from VW (circa 1991), and 3. questions the intelligence of anyone, anywhere that would see Lexus as a true contender, let alone on the same level as BMW and MB. — AUDIMAN4 (View Profile)
All of you Lexus fans (fools) just can't grasp the picture here. It's not about who makes the better car, it's about who markets their cars effectively. This is a great ad 1. because it showcases one of Audi's most popular models, 2. pokes fun at a ridiculous technology that was copied from VW (circa 1991), and 3. questions the intelligence of anyone, anywhere that would see Lexus as a true contender, let alone on the same level as BMW and MB.
Posted on 5/10/2007 1:59:48 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: -2
^^^^ hey, can u repeat one more time of what u just said because i think i forgot what u said the other ten times.— sewingmachine (View Profile)
^^^^ hey, can u repeat one more time of what u just said because i think i forgot what u said the other ten times.
— sewingmachine (View Profile)
Posted on 5/10/2007 2:59:12 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: 0
^^^"hey, can u learn to write properly?"— AUDIMAN4 (View Profile)
^^^"hey, can u learn to write properly?"
Posted on 5/10/2007 3:34:13 AM | | Votes: 0
Actually Sailor, the car on the left is a LS460, and the car on the right an IS350.An easy mistake to make, seeing as the LS460 and BMW 5-series have very similar rear ends.My take: Why a new article on this ad? It is a light-hearted advertisement, and meant to be received in a similar fashion.No need to look deep into the corporate-political background on which this ad was conceived, it wasn't intended to make such a bold statement; clearly the A4 doesn't compete with the LS460.Audi is allowed to do tongue-in-cheek. So the Germans found themselves a sense of humour...is it really worth the serious discussion?I think not. Great ad though.— Matthew1 (View Profile)
Actually Sailor, the car on the left is a LS460, and the car on the right an IS350.An easy mistake to make, seeing as the LS460 and BMW 5-series have very similar rear ends.My take: Why a new article on this ad? It is a light-hearted advertisement, and meant to be received in a similar fashion.No need to look deep into the corporate-political background on which this ad was conceived, it wasn't intended to make such a bold statement; clearly the A4 doesn't compete with the LS460.Audi is allowed to do tongue-in-cheek. So the Germans found themselves a sense of humour...is it really worth the serious discussion?I think not. Great ad though.
— Matthew1 (View Profile)
Posted on 5/10/2007 4:25:58 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: 1
audimanfanboy, see all those negative boost? if you didn't have that tunnelvision. You would realize nobody cares about your opinion. Your sounding like a broken record. You make me ashamed to own a Quatro coupe. — louisvuittondon (View Profile)
audimanfanboy, see all those negative boost? if you didn't have that tunnelvision. You would realize nobody cares about your opinion. Your sounding like a broken record. You make me ashamed to own a Quatro coupe.
Posted on 5/10/2007 4:19:45 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: 1
This ad is a bad ad. Why?IMO a very small percentage of average customers will recognize LS in that ad. And IMO not many people know LS features auto-parking system. So the ad makes sense to only very limited population. The average general public will miss the point of the add, or even won't understand it - since not many have the knowledge of LS and its auto-parking system.The only message this ad offers is: Audi is suitable for skilled drivers only. And I find this message more repelling than appealing - especially in luxury segment. In the case the car or brand in question was performance sports car - then it would be OK. But here - promoting a luxury compact sedan - the message just doesn't work. PS: also the other new Audi ads ("Missed the moment?" and "I'll be involved in a car accident in a 10 minutes.") are confusing, not communicating the right message, or communicating it in a very inappropriate way. Who wold like to be involved in a car accident and talk about it he / she is looking forward to it - regardless how safe car is he/she driving? NOBODY! The TT ads ("Missed the moment?") is just to confusing - and therefore the message is lost. It just looks like all these ads are made by someone without basic marketing communication skills. Shame! — TimE (View Profile)
This ad is a bad ad. Why?IMO a very small percentage of average customers will recognize LS in that ad. And IMO not many people know LS features auto-parking system. So the ad makes sense to only very limited population. The average general public will miss the point of the add, or even won't understand it - since not many have the knowledge of LS and its auto-parking system.The only message this ad offers is: Audi is suitable for skilled drivers only. And I find this message more repelling than appealing - especially in luxury segment. In the case the car or brand in question was performance sports car - then it would be OK. But here - promoting a luxury compact sedan - the message just doesn't work. PS: also the other new Audi ads ("Missed the moment?" and "I'll be involved in a car accident in a 10 minutes.") are confusing, not communicating the right message, or communicating it in a very inappropriate way. Who wold like to be involved in a car accident and talk about it he / she is looking forward to it - regardless how safe car is he/she driving? NOBODY! The TT ads ("Missed the moment?") is just to confusing - and therefore the message is lost. It just looks like all these ads are made by someone without basic marketing communication skills. Shame!
— TimE (View Profile)
Posted on 5/10/2007 4:23:39 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: 1
Are you Guys that are offended serious? Come on now, you remind me of the caveman in the Geico commercials a bit too sensitive. Frankly, I think if you can't laugh at a yourself every once in a while then you might need to seek counseling. It would be great if Lexus took this a turned it around made a pun the other way. I would laugh at that for sure.— Agent009 (View Profile)
Are you Guys that are offended serious? Come on now, you remind me of the caveman in the Geico commercials a bit too sensitive. Frankly, I think if you can't laugh at a yourself every once in a while then you might need to seek counseling. It would be great if Lexus took this a turned it around made a pun the other way. I would laugh at that for sure.
Posted on 5/10/2007 8:34:53 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: 5
Based on all the recent post, like I said Toyota/Lexus is taking this as a humorous compliment. When you have money and combine with marketing, you can do a whole lot weather it's true or not. C'mon guys you are now getting way over your heads!!! B/c at the end of the day let the numbers, quality, performance and success speak for themselves.— BigShow50 (View Profile)
Based on all the recent post, like I said Toyota/Lexus is taking this as a humorous compliment. When you have money and combine with marketing, you can do a whole lot weather it's true or not. C'mon guys you are now getting way over your heads!!! B/c at the end of the day let the numbers, quality, performance and success speak for themselves.
Posted on 5/10/2007 11:37:34 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: 0
IMO Audi is going the right way without, probably they thought that a bit of humour wont mind :)— Audi4Life (View Profile)
IMO Audi is going the right way without, probably they thought that a bit of humour wont mind :)
— Audi4Life (View Profile)
Posted on 5/10/2007 11:59:50 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: 2
The only point I can make is this agent 001. I've been reading this site for the last 6 months. Usually almost everyday say (4 at of 5 days a week)there is usually some thread on Lexus. Ok-I'll give you the benefit of the doubt and say you are unbiased towards Lexus. To proove it lets change to Fiat. They have had an amazing turn around in the market in the last 2 yrs. How about for the next 6 months you talk about some aspect of Fiat 3 to 5 days a week. You've got of course Ferrari,Maserati,Alfa,Lancia,and Fiat. I think there is a lot to talk about and would make the BMW/Audi people satisfied that your unbiased.— mini22 (View Profile)
The only point I can make is this agent 001. I've been reading this site for the last 6 months. Usually almost everyday say (4 at of 5 days a week)there is usually some thread on Lexus. Ok-I'll give you the benefit of the doubt and say you are unbiased towards Lexus. To proove it lets change to Fiat. They have had an amazing turn around in the market in the last 2 yrs. How about for the next 6 months you talk about some aspect of Fiat 3 to 5 days a week. You've got of course Ferrari,Maserati,Alfa,Lancia,and Fiat. I think there is a lot to talk about and would make the BMW/Audi people satisfied that your unbiased.
— mini22 (View Profile)
Posted on 5/10/2007 12:21:29 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 1
i like that ad, good job Audi, as far as Lexus selling over the rest of the world, its only a matter of time, so stop with that lame excuse, like it or not Lexus is on the same level as Audi/BMW/MBlike bigshow50 said "When you have money and combine with marketing, you can do a whole lot"lets start a new lame excuse, "Who The Richest car company all over the world" not Audi FACT...— Denali (View Profile)
i like that ad, good job Audi, as far as Lexus selling over the rest of the world, its only a matter of time, so stop with that lame excuse, like it or not Lexus is on the same level as Audi/BMW/MBlike bigshow50 said "When you have money and combine with marketing, you can do a whole lot"lets start a new lame excuse, "Who The Richest car company all over the world" not Audi FACT...
— Denali (View Profile)
Posted on 5/10/2007 12:28:13 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 1
IMO, i think an A8 should of pull in that parking space lol— Denali (View Profile)
IMO, i think an A8 should of pull in that parking space lol
Posted on 5/10/2007 12:32:07 PM | | Votes: 2
I think it could be effective in deterring "real men" from buying a Lexus. I admit I would feel a little bit of my feminine side if I used the Lexus parking feature. So I think the ad works for its purpose -- suggesting that Audi is a more macho purchase than a Lex. — coatandthai (View Profile)
I think it could be effective in deterring "real men" from buying a Lexus. I admit I would feel a little bit of my feminine side if I used the Lexus parking feature. So I think the ad works for its purpose -- suggesting that Audi is a more macho purchase than a Lex.
— coatandthai (View Profile)
Posted on 5/10/2007 12:30:48 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 5
Look Lexus brought this on themselves, anybody who can't park a car should buy a moped not a self park car dumb gimmick?— chuck717 (View Profile)
Look Lexus brought this on themselves, anybody who can't park a car should buy a moped not a self park car dumb gimmick?
— chuck717 (View Profile)
Posted on 5/10/2007 1:05:04 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 3
WickedRabbit said:"...it's a risk with their ads because it would probably be pretty easy for them to make similar ads that totally slam Audi."Well, yes, it is a risk- but it's a risk they have needed to take. Audi has been very timid with their advertisements, never comparing their car to anyone else's, just touting the technology and AWD. I am incredibly relieved to see that they've gained this aggression that all the other brands have- they are finally proud enough. Either that, or the marketers are dumb enough, but I think it's the former. They need to be seen; if this is the only way to do that, so be it.— S4cabriofoxone (View Profile)
WickedRabbit said:"...it's a risk with their ads because it would probably be pretty easy for them to make similar ads that totally slam Audi."Well, yes, it is a risk- but it's a risk they have needed to take. Audi has been very timid with their advertisements, never comparing their car to anyone else's, just touting the technology and AWD. I am incredibly relieved to see that they've gained this aggression that all the other brands have- they are finally proud enough. Either that, or the marketers are dumb enough, but I think it's the former. They need to be seen; if this is the only way to do that, so be it.
Posted on 5/10/2007 3:16:00 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 1
riiight so its ok for the guy in the A4 to be doing E-brake J turns on a residential street with children playing around. LOL i mean come on how is that not a shot in your own foot?— gsh23 (View Profile)
riiight so its ok for the guy in the A4 to be doing E-brake J turns on a residential street with children playing around. LOL i mean come on how is that not a shot in your own foot?
— gsh23 (View Profile)
Posted on 5/10/2007 4:44:22 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 0
The ad has done exactly what it was supposed to do. 41 posts on this topic as of this righting. If you don't get in the customer's face a little in this country, you'll never be heard. People are talking about the brand. Whether people like the ad or not is not important. The ad is building brand awareness as we speak and that is the purpose of most broadcast advertising.At least Audi didn't take the VW approach and just crash into them! — Neverfollow (View Profile)
The ad has done exactly what it was supposed to do. 41 posts on this topic as of this righting. If you don't get in the customer's face a little in this country, you'll never be heard. People are talking about the brand. Whether people like the ad or not is not important. The ad is building brand awareness as we speak and that is the purpose of most broadcast advertising.At least Audi didn't take the VW approach and just crash into them!
— Neverfollow (View Profile)
Posted on 5/10/2007 5:05:09 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 2
Oops: "writing" my bad.— Neverfollow (View Profile)
Oops: "writing" my bad.
Posted on 5/10/2007 5:06:08 PM | | Votes: 2
Audi should raise above this kind of non-sense advertising. They should let their design and performance do the talking. Leave this kind of advertising to the Japanese manufactures.— BM3W (View Profile)
Audi should raise above this kind of non-sense advertising. They should let their design and performance do the talking. Leave this kind of advertising to the Japanese manufactures.
— BM3W (View Profile)
Posted on 5/11/2007 11:45:21 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: 1
The simple fact you are discussing the ad will tell you it is a success. I don't know who the "professionals" are to which you refer and the "two steps back," but I assure you Macintosh Office's failure to penetrate the market had nothing to do with that ad (hint: product and execution). To determine whether an ad is successful, you have to define success. If your goal is brand awareness -- which it almost always is -- then the Audi ad is an unmitigated success. As for a car that parks itself -- I love Lexus and might consider an LS, but if I cannot park my own car, I shouldn't be driving.— Troll (View Profile)
The simple fact you are discussing the ad will tell you it is a success. I don't know who the "professionals" are to which you refer and the "two steps back," but I assure you Macintosh Office's failure to penetrate the market had nothing to do with that ad (hint: product and execution). To determine whether an ad is successful, you have to define success. If your goal is brand awareness -- which it almost always is -- then the Audi ad is an unmitigated success. As for a car that parks itself -- I love Lexus and might consider an LS, but if I cannot park my own car, I shouldn't be driving.
— Troll (View Profile)
Posted on 5/12/2007 1:12:44 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 1
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