Overview & Reviews

The Audi A4 holds the distinction of having single-handedly revived the Audi brand. Launched in the mid-'90s, the compact A4 quickly became a favorite among luxury car buyers thanks to its beautifully finished cabin, sharp handling and available Quattro all-wheel drive. Although the A4 has offered these core characteristics from day one, it has become increasingly polished and high-tech with each successive generation. No matter which year you're looking at, the A4 promises both engaging performance and suave style inside and out.

The sedan body style has been a constant for the Audi A4, but depending on the vintage, you may also find wagon and convertible variants. Turbocharged four-cylinder power is typically found under the hood, yielding both reasonably spirited acceleration and satisfactory fuel economy. In road tests, we've consistently praised the A4's refined character, with more recent plaudits going to its spacious backseat, which has adequate room for full-size adults.

User Reviews:

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  Outstanding for a 4cyl - 2006 Audi A4
  By Stefan - January 10 - 4:56 pm

  Excellent machine! Always wanted an Audi, dont know why I waited so long. Ive owned other German made vehicles and the Audi is far superior! I believe Ive found my car of choice for future purchases. Totally sold.

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  Practical and fun to drive - 2006 Audi A4
  By DaveZ - January 9 - 7:19 am

  Second A4 Ive owned and this one is a lot more fun to drive. 2.0T is a great engine, lots of pep despite a little turbo lag. Have been averaging almost 28 mpg. Handling is great, very responsive. Have had a few electrical problems, but still love the car. Cant get it away from my wife! Back seat a little tight, but great trunk space. Nav system takes some getting used to, not as intuitive as my wifes MDX. Really like the satellite radio and the whole sound system. Overall very satisfied.

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  Great Car!!! - 1998 Audi A4
  By kalin - January 8 - 7:02 pm

  Great car! I dont know why every one says it is not reliable, mine has 137k and runs like brand new! Of course it will have some minor things to fix since it is almost 10 years old but this happens to every car you buy. For the low price you can get one these days, nothing is better! The handling is exceptional (could be improved with larger sway bars), the engine is very good but needs a little more power easily achieved by replacing the ecu (up to 200hp) and a better cat and intake system. The bose stereo is better than the mark levinson on my friends lexus. The car is soo much fun to drive it will always put a smile on your face especially on a curvy road. BUY ONE!!

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  Horrible Engine - Horrible Company - 2001 Audi A4
  By badcar01 - January 7 - 6:44 pm

  I bought my 2001 A4 1.8T when it was 3 years old with 48K miles on it. I loved it for a while - great snow car, but at 72K, the timing belt failed and ruined the engine. Audi refuses to do anything to help, and I was out $8K for a new engine. Finally traded it in.

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  A4 is a great car all around - 2004 Audi A4
  By paco25 - January 7 - 2:00 am

  An excellent car. The only thing I would change would be to upgrade from a 1.8T to a 3.0

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  WOW!!! - 2004 Audi A4
  By OneOldKid - January 7 - 2:00 am

  I love my new car! I attended the Portland Auto Show today and didnt find one car that I would rather have. I test drove the BMW 325i and MB 230K Sedan. I like my Audi better than both. It is very comfortable and fun to drive. It is a perfect blend between comfort and performance. I would recommend this car to anyone looking for a car in this class!

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  Worth every penny!!! - 2002 Audi A4
  By julsnden - January 6 - 10:00 am

  I just purchased my new A4 AWD 1.8T Quattro. Let me tell you, its worth every thing you pay for. Having only had the car for a couple of days now, I cannot comment on wear, maintenance issue, etc. However, this car has been driving like a dream. I am only sad that I now have to go to the office since the weekend is over. Dont hessitate on this one. Its as good as you think it is!!!

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  Turbo Lag - 2004 Audi A4
  By a4 - January 3 - 10:56 pm

  Turbo lag, turbo lag, turbo lag The problems I have had with this car start with the fuel pump humming noise. The dealer replaced it twice. As of now no more noise. AC turns off when it feels like it. I live in florida & it get hot here so AC is a must but the A4 AC seems to have a mind of its own. I had a 1996 A4 with the same problem. Now to my biggest complaint. The 1.8ts turbo lag. Say you are in the middle of the intersection waiting for an opening. In the Audi dont even think about creeping in. You better have a big opening by the time you step on the gas and the car reacts its too late.

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  Transmission Killer - 2002 Audi A4
  By Audi A4 3.0 - December 28 - 8:40 am

  I love the way this car looks, feels and drives, however... We just put in our third new replacement transmission!! The car has been in the shop for 4 months out of the last two years. The mechanic had to order the tranny from Germany as they are on back order in the US. The transmissions are about $7000 a piece. Thank God for extended warranties!! Buyer beware.

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  Pure Satisfaction - 2002 Audi A4
  By D - December 27 - 2:33 am

  I love this car!! After owning it for 4 1/2 years, I still feel the same as when I purchased it new. It has the sports suspension which handles very well. This vehicle is the first automatic transmission I have owned, therefore, having the CVT transmission has been wonderful. There is no hesitation when going through the gears upon acceleration and is smooth as can be. The seat is comfortable and the ride is quiet. The stiffer sports suspension is exactly what one expects from BMW. This car has had NO electrical or engine problems and is very reliable. A new dealership which opened closer to my home (after owning my car for 2 years) is top notch offering car washes, and prompt service.