Cars.com Podcast: 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco, 2012 Buick Verano, 2012 Audi A6

This week's podcast covers three totally redesigned or new models, each of which is integral to its respective make. We start with the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu, which features a radical interior design and the return of a mild hybrid system to the model. Next up is the 2012 Buick Verano, the brand's first compact vehicle in more than a decade. Finally, we talk about the new-for-2012 Audi A6 and its tech-centric focus. Recapping all our thoughts and insights on these models are Executive Editor Joe Wiesenfelder, Industry Analyst Kelsey Mays and editor Mike Hanley.

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Cars.com Reviews the 2012 Audi A6

For the 2012 model year, the Audi A6 has been completely redesigned, now featuring the same technology-laden design theme of its bigger cousin, the A8. Besides the gee-whiz features and the polarizing styling, the A6’s driving dynamics lag behind a key competitor, the BMW 5 Series, according to Cars.com editor Mike Hanley.

2012 Audi A6 Review

2012 Audi A6 Video

The old Audi A6 was around for more than six years. Whereas that vehicle was beginning to look stale, the recently redesigned 2012 Audi A6 appears cutting edge. Along with the forwarding-thinking exterior look, there’s plenty of gee-whiz tech and new fuel-efficient powertrains. Some issues with interior space remain, and the deletion of a V-8 option might leave some shoppers wanting, Cars.com editor Mike Hanley says.

Recall Alert: 2012 Audi A6

Audi s recalling 317 2012 A6s due to a potential defect with the head curtain airbags, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

On the affected models, which were built between April 8 and May 26, the seam of the head curtain airbag may not have been stitched properly. As a result, the head curtain airbag may not deploy properly in an accident, increasing the risk of injury to vehicle occupants.

Audi's parent company Volkswagen will notify affected owners next month. Audi dealerships will replace the left and/or right curtain airbags free of charge. Owners can call Volkswagen at 800-822-8987 or NHTSA’s vehicle safety hotline at 888-327-4236 for more info.

Cars.com Announces Best of 2012 Award Nominees

Last year, the 2011 Kia Optima won Cars.com's Best of 2011 award for its outstanding combination of performance, practicality, style and value. This year, six new nominees will fight it out for our ultimate prize that will be revealed during the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

Our highest honor will go to one of the following vehicles:

2013 Audi S6: Photo Gallery

Audi has gone with a smaller displacement engine on the 2013 Audi S6, meaning there’s no more V-10 option. Even so, the twin-turbocharged V-8 is more efficient than the old engine and still nets a big boost in horsepower over the standard V-6 powertrain.  

More 2011 L.A. Auto Show Coverage

Like other “S” branded Audis, exterior and interior changes are subtle.

2013 Audi S8: Photo Gallery

Unlike the recently unveiled 420-horsepower S6 and S7, the 2013 Audi S8 gets a more potent 520-hp V-8 engine, which is a 148-hp increase from the A8's regular V-8 powertrain. 

More 2011 L.A. Auto Show Coverage

Like the other “S” trims, the S8 is distinguished by brushed aluminum inlays, Alcantara trim and different wheel designs.

2013 Audi S7: Photo Gallery

The 2013 Audi S7 is a new high-performance derivative of the A7 hatchback. The model will feature the same 420-horsepower, 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 that comes on the recently announced Audi S6 but has that cool hatch out back.

More 2011 L.A. Auto Show Coverage

Optional features include LED headlights, head-up display and a 360-degree camera system. The Audi S7 goes on sale this spring.

Toyota Camry Most Stolen Car

The Toyota Camry was the most stolen new passenger car in 2009, according to the most recent information provided by the National Crime Information Center, a government agency that is part of the FBI.

Out of all the Camrys produced in 2009, about 781 were stolen. Keep in mind that the Camry was (and is) the best-selling passenger car. So the fact that it leads the list isn't remarkable; in fact, the rate at which it was stolen was nearly half the national average. 

2012 Audi A6: Car Seat Check

Audi's midsize sedan, the A6, has been redesigned for 2012. While trunk space has increased, interior space has remained the same in the five-seater, making for a tight fit in some instances. Leather seating is standard, which is good news for parents because it's much easier to clean than cloth seats, not that you'd expect cloth in a ride that starts at $41,700. You can research the 2012 Audi A6 here.

For the Car Seat Check, we use a Graco SnugRide 30 rear-facing infant-safety seat, a Britax Roundabout convertible child-safety seat and Graco high-back TurboBooster seat.