I had a 2014 with the supercharged V-6 and 8-speed ZF transmission. It was relatively reliable for an Audi. And a ton of fun. I knew about the potential problems when I bought it but only really had one major issue - the water pump. That was one of those expected issues. I was able to replace it myself but didn't end up waiting for anything else to go wrong. Sold it at 112K and went with the 2017 ESh. It was an adjustment but not a regret. I was at a point in my life that I could no longer "tinker around" on cars like I did in the past. That was absolutely the most reliable vehicle I've ever owned. 285k miles with one downstream O2 sensor and a few minor suspension parts (sway bar end links and ball joints).

 

It's $300 to manufacture and $1500 to the legal fund defending frivolous airbag-related lawsuits, hundreds of which are filed annually.