The 2012 Audi A8 is the highest performing model in the study for the first time; 2012 Audi A6 receives the Most Appealing Midsize Premium Car designation

HERNDON, Va., July 25, 2012 ? The Audi A8 received the award for the most appealing large premium car and is the overall best performing model in the 2012 J.D. Power and Associates APEAL study released today.

The study measures how gratifying ownership of a new vehicle is to consumers, who gave the Audi luxury flagship sedan high marks. In fact, the A8 received the highest score in the 2012 study. APEAL survey respondents also ranked the redesigned and progressive Audi A6 as the most appealing model in the midsize premium car segment.

Overall, Audi APEAL study scores improved by 13 points from 2011 results, indicating an immediate payoff for the Audi brand strategy to bring the most technologically advanced lineup of models to U.S. consumers in the luxury car market.

"Audi products have become the envy of the luxury automotive industry," said Scott Keogh, President, Audi of America. "This is a result of our unwavering focus on developing premium vehicles that are intelligent in design, progressive in technology, and exceptional in performance. According to the 2012 J.D. Power and Associates APEAL Study, consumers are recognizing this as well. There can be no question that Audi has the right lineup for these times."