1. Improve the suspension. One issue with a lot of Audis in stock form are suspensions that are on the soft side, which when combined with the considerable amount of weight that they have to carry, sometimes results in less than stellar handling. Installing a set of stiffer lowering springs and performance shocks is a big step in the right direction. Eibach is a good source for Audi lowering springs. You can also replace the stock rubber suspension bushings for eurethane bushings that flex less during cornering.
2. Install larger wheels and tires. If there’s one thing that practically all Audis benefit from, it’s the addition of larger wheels and tires, which will improve the appearance and performance. You can either source them from a company like the Tire Rack or if you have a model like an A4 you can simply install the larger wheels that come on high performance Audis like the S6 and S4. These will retain the distinctive Audi look but will offer a larger diameter and width. Larger wheels allow you to install wider, lower-profile tires that will improve grip and responsiveness.
3. Modify the engine for more power. All Audis can produce more power with a cold air intake, which delivers additional cold, dense air to the motor. Another popular upgrade is a more free-flowing exhaust, which promotes air flow and adds horsepower. On the electronic end of things a performance computer chip (for older Audis) or a reprogrammed ECU (on new Audis) is another must-do in the quest for more power. On Audis that are turbocharged, there is a lot of room for big horsepower gains. Start with a reprogrammed ECU, which will increase the amount of boost that the turbo produces, and then move up to a bigger turbo (or turbos if it’s an Audi with twin turbos), a performance intercooler and miscellaneous upgrades like larger fuel injectors. All of these parts are available from companies like ECS Tuning.
4. Replace the stock (and heavy) seats with lighter buckets from a company like Recaro. These look great and offer the increased bolstering that you will need with your better-handling and faster Audi. Elsewhere in the interior you can add a alloy shift knob, MOMO steering wheel, alloy pedals and custom floormats.
5. Upgrade the exterior. Most Audi owners who tune their cars follow the "less is more" path when it comes to changing the outward appearance of their cars, since they look great the way they came from the factory. Here, you can upgrade the turn signals with clear or smoked (dark colored) lenses for a tuned look. There are even smoked tail light lenses that look great. At the front of the car, a German license plate is a great way to pay homage to the Audi’s roots.
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