| With its 2009 redesign, Audi upped the luxury performance-car ante with the A4. Its fresh face and benchmark interior distinguished it from its Mercedes C-Class and BMW 3-Series competitors, while its new dimensions made it the largest car in its class. Technological refinements for 2011 include an impressive 8-speed automatic transmission, and with the sure-footedness of Audi's world-class quattro all-wheel-drive system, a powerful engine, the availability of a wagon and the always-addictive performance of the S4 model, the lineup has a little something for everyone. |
| The A4 is available as a 4-door sedan or as a 5-door station wagon, dubbed the Avant. Power comes from a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, which delivers 211 horsepower and 258 ft-lb of torque. A new 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission or a 6-speed manual transmission are available on quattro models, while front-drive models receive a continuously variable transmission (CVT) as standard equipment. Audi claims the new compact 8-speed is smoother and more precise than the outgoing 6-speed auto while returning better fuel economy.
The sporty-stylish S4 comes as a sedan or an Avant wagon, each powered by a 3.0-liter supercharged V6 that puts out 333 hp, delivered to all four wheels via either a 6-speed manual or the 7-speed S tronic transmission. The S tronic transmission features blistering quick shifts via twin clutches and controlled by paddles on either side of the steering wheel. The quattro Sport Rear Differential routes torque laterally between the rear wheels to help eliminate understeer.
The A4 comes in three trim levels: Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige. Premium trims come nicely equipped with standards such as 17-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, leather seating, heated power mirrors, power driver's seat, a sunroof, Servotronic speed-sensitive steering and a split-folding rear seat back.
Premium Plus trim adds amenities such as 3-zone climate control, heated front seats, fog lights and dynamic self-adjusting Bi-Xenon headlights, plus Sirius satellite radio, Bluetooth connectivity and a HomeLink universal remote.
Finally, the Prestige trim brings 18-inch alloy wheels, keyless start, aluminum interior inlays, HD radio, voice actuated navigation, Audi acoustic parking system, a Bang & Olufsen premium stereo system and a special lighting package.
In Premium Plus trim the aggressive S4 comes outfitted with special 18-inch wheels, Bluetooth, 4-way electrically adjustable lumbar support in both front sport seats and of course that powerful V6. The S4 Prestige boasts 19-inch alloys, the Audi parking system with rearview camera, HD radio and voice control for navigation.
Popular standalone options on the new A4 include a Navigation Package with rearview camera, walnut or ash wood inlays, heated front seats, adaptive cruise control and Audi drive select, which allows drivers to choose a set-up for the chassis and suspension, from comfort to sport, which alters the driving and handling characteristics of the A4. A new Titanium Sport Package offers several aesthetic and performance enhancements, such as black roof rails on the A4 Avant, black window trim, titanium-finish wheels, and the iconic black Single-frame grille. Inside, the Titanium Sport Package carries through the performance look with a black headliner, Piano Black inlays and sport seats. An enhanced sport suspension lowers the car and increases handling performance. |