Audi A4 Review

By G.R. Whale of New Car Test Drive

The Audi A4 must be doing something right. The sedan version alone sells more than 40,000 units annually in the U.S., while competing against the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, BMW 3 Series, and a growing list of domestic and Asian rivals. In a segment where engineering excellence sells cars, Audi claims the turbo-four A4 delivers best-in-class fuel economy, while posting quicker 0-60 mph acceleration times than six-cylinder, all-wheel-drive competitors such as the BMW 328iX, Mercedes-Benz C300 4Matic, and Lexus IS250 AWD. The A4 also has on average more passenger room than the BMW 328, Mercedes C300, or Lexus IS250.

Despite its modest size the A4 comes well-equipped with leather, moonroof and automatic climate control as standard. Features normally associated with big luxury cars are available, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning and a half-kilowatt surround-sound system.

All three 2010 A4 trim levels (Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige) now share the same engine, a 211-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four. Sedans are available with front-wheel drive and a CVT automatic; or all-wheel drive with either a six-speed manual or six-speed Tiptronic automatic. EPA ratings range from 18/27 to 23/30 mpg.

We’ve found these latest A4 models a delight to drive. They are compliant enough to soak up bumps like a larger car but firm enough to feel solid and stable to its (electronically limited) top speed of 130 mph. It more than holds its own in the rain against other sporty cars as well.

The A4’s 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder is designed with everyday use in mind. It’s not a fire-breathing hot rod like the turbo in a Mitsubishi Evolution, Subaru STi, or Porsche 911. With direct injection and variable exhaust valve lift, the Audi engine starts quickly and at idle has the faintest muffled ticking. Above that it’s smoother because the turbocharger is spooled up and generating boost.

The Audi A4 is a superb road car. The least-expensive model is nicely finished, has an interior hard to beat at the price and makes a very nice commuter without breaking the fuel bank; while the top-end versions are fitted out like executive autobahn missiles. This latest A4 has the goods to go up against its German competitors on the road and Japanese competitors on amenities and style. Arguably its four-cylinder engine is the best in the entry premium segment. Number-crunchers will find that more room, more power, better mileage, standard leather, and a lower price make a compelling argument.