[limoncello]

I agree, there is always some luck involved in whether you get a good car or a lemon, and of course things will go from time to time, but the audi build quality is excellent, and though ive seen a few posts from unlucky owners they are few and far between, I dont see what your mechanic is basing these statements on

when things go wrong it will cost more, some parts seem stupidly priced, and we all moan from time to time, but they cost no more than an SClass merc or BMW7 parts, and with good quality secondhand spares around its not always that bad.

My advice - Buy the car that makes you happy, check it out as best as possible before you buy, make sure you get the toys you want, as these can be expensive retrofits,
find a good audi specialist ie a non main dealer, ask the experts on the forum if you have a problem first.

try an audi A6 then get in an 8, its a different class. the shape isnt that disimilar but the ride and feel is 100 times better. ( I recently had to do this with a new A6 and my 05 A8, couldnt wait to get it back )

I think the fuel econ is quite good, more than i expected anyway. i get around 42ish on a run

Actual maintenance costs for mine over the last 2 and a half years including parts, all done by an audi specialist comes to under a grand

the wife moans that my audi is always going wrong and costs a fortune - compared to hers it may be true, but, she drives a new hyundai tin can i10, that she has nearly written off twice due to its inability to turn a corner on any road thats a bit icy.

I know which i prefer