Audi A4

Audi A4

This is the German brand’s best selling vehicle and with good reason. Produced over several automotive generations since 1994, it is a benchmark model for the prestige car market.

The Exterior

The A4 has been described as being understated, but that statement belies the subtlety by design. The current model shape has distinctive detailing over the wings forming strong contours above the wheels. Overall this compact executive car has a contemporary, streamlined look with a broad spread of variants through three different body styles: Saloon, Avant (estate / station wagon) and Allroad, an all-wheel drive model with a powerful engine and raised ‘allroad’ suspension to tackle tougher terrain. In the saloon model the boot (trunk) space offers a roomy 480 litres of luggage space rising to 965 litres with the rear seats folded. Obviously, the estate and Allroad versions offer even more.

At the top of the range sits the S4 model. To distinguish itself, this model has unique bumpers and grille and a discreet rear diffuser. This version is a performance car that doesn’t shout about it. There is a more powerful version, the RS4 Avant, but this is a speciality choice with huge power potential. For most, the S4 is ideal.

There’s a long list of options with which to personalise the A4. For new models Audi offer various colour options, alloy wheel designs and sizes and a choice of standard or adaptively damped suspension. Buyers wishing to import from the UK to Kenya, New Zealand and elsewhere can also order differing headlight technologies, seat upholsteries and interior trims.

The Interior

Is there any other mainstream brand that does interiors so well? The inside of the car, whichever used or new A4 model is selected, is fabulous. The brand excels at cabin quality, setting the benchmark for materials, fit, finish and design and with impressive supportive seats. Some equipment and styling similarities are evident across the whole catalogue of Audi cars; the latest A4 for example borrows the full-width air vent strip from the Q7 sport utility vehicle (SUV).

Toggle-style switches are used to control the climate settings, the driver-angled centre console and the tablet-style screen sited above, everything operating with solid dependability. For passengers horizontal design lines help to enhance the sense of space.

For fans of technology the latest model features a new operating system based on Audi’s third-generation modular infotainment platform. A sophisticated 10.1” high resolution ‘multi-media interface’ touch display is tilted slightly towards the driver in the centre of the instrument panel, and this replaces the functions of the previous rotary/push button control on the centre tunnel console, as found on older models. Don’t forget also that the German company’s virtual cockpit is still superior to most other driver screens and is a standard feature of the latest A4 models. Behind the multifunction steering wheel the 12.3” display, with a choice of three layouts, is in full HD resolution.

Overall, the controls are very user-friendly and intuitive. Features such as navigation are more versatile than previously and voice control has now reached a stage where it understands clear commands without issue. No buyer will be disappointed by an Audi interior.

Driving The A4

Audi offer a broad choice of four- and six-cylinder engines all of which are highly rated, meeting EU emissions standards. Their power outputs range from 150PS to 347PS – from the Audi A4 35 TFSI (petrol) up to the Audi S4 TDI (diesel). The reassurance of quattro all-wheel-drive is offered as standard on the most powerful variants.

Now coming on stream are three engine variants, with two more soon, featuring a mild-hybrid system (MHEV) based on 12 volts, designed to reduce fuel consumption while improving passenger comfort. This broad-based electrification makes an important contribution to achieving regulation targets for fuel consumption.

In all models the superb suspension set-ups ensure there is very little body roll, providing a flat and confidence-inspiring cornering attitude. The A4 is great to drive quickly. It feels agile and fast to respond to driver inputs. It goes without saying that with quattro all-wheel drive fitted, handling and grip are top notch.

Are They Reliable?

It is fair to say that, despite the prestige label, previous Audi cars did not always have the reliability of their Japanese counterparts but thanks to the new technology of automotive production, things are much improved and new or used Audi A4 models can be purchased with confidence. There are few more comfortable long-distance compact executive cars available today.