AUTO SPIES WORLD EXCLUSIVE: One of the coolest things on the RS4 won't make it on the US version

If you're like us, our favorite interior design element in the new RS4 is the Alcantara/Aluminum performance steering wheel.

Unfortunately, it won't make it into the US version due to US crash test compliance issues.

Turns out, it won't bend as easy in a crash when the driver hits it.

Good news though...

We predict it will be available from aftermarket suppliers on day one so you will be able to retrofit it.

Chip - 8/25/2005 9:11:38 PM

+1 Boost

A Word of advice to anyone buying a car with a suede wheel.
DON'T.
I own a 330i performance package BMW and it has an Alcantara wheel.
My car has 30,000 miles and is on its 3rd wheel replacement.
After 5,000 miles, it starts to get dirty and faded.
By 10,000 miles, its all balled up and worn away, especially at the 10, 12, and 2 hand positions.
BMW says its a major problem that has affected all suede wheel owners. A different wheel cant be fitted.
THIS SUCKS. The wheel costs $700.00. When the free service is up, this would become very expensive.
It feels great, but leather is so so much better.
No matter how gently you caress the wheel, the suede will wear very quickly.

Anim8or - 8/26/2005 2:51:42 PM

+1 Boost

Other US changes:

There are more features that the Euro RS4 whas that the US spec won't. Here's a partial list:

- Europe gets proper racecar style seats with manual height/position adgustments and electric side bolster adjustment. USA gets regular S4 sport seats (due to side impact airbag regulations).

- Europe gets 'Start Engine' button. USA gets dual cupholders instead (for the big-bottomed big-gulp yankees).

- Europe gets manual rear window levers (to save weight). USA gets standard electric windows.

Ero gets low-grade stereo as standard (to save weight). USA gets Bose premium stereo standard.

The stearing wheel design has not yet been selected for the USA market. It may or may not be the standard S4 wheel.