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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  Always in the shop - 1998 Audi A4
  By Jason - May 28 - 8:56 pm

  I have had my Audi A4 for about 6 years. I bought it used in 2000. The car is not bad, but it always has something wrong with it. I have had the Air Bag light come on about 3 times. The Check Engine light comes on a lot, too. The Turbo burned up once. The car has had many problems with the electrical system. I just cant afford to drive the car, since things are always going wrong with it.

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  Love it - 2003 Audi A4
  By jsbennettii - May 26 - 2:17 pm

  I bought this car for my wife and an S6 Avant for myself. Both are great cars. I have driven 8 Mercedes cars in the 20 years prior and now you couldnt get me to buy one if they went on sale for 25% off. I only wish I had waited and gotten quattro in the A4 Cabriolet. It was not offered at the time I purchased the 03. Also...I would have been happy with the later issued A 4S Cab. My S 6 Avant has spoiled me. I cant wait to buy my next one...and think I may get an A3 for my sons college graduation. Audi rocks

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  Not a Soccer Mom Car - 2003 Audi A4
  By saabconv - May 26 - 10:00 am

  Having no children, not wanting a mini- van or an SUV, but needing the space I decided on the A4 Avant 3.0. The car doesnt look like a station wagon, I get compliments from everyone, it rides great in the rain and over wet leaves, it feels like a bigger car, fun to drive, couldnt ask for more....

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  60000 Mile failure - 2001 Audi A4
  By SBrown - May 23 - 11:46 am

  I love the driving experience of the A4. The handling is phenomenal and the comfort is excellent. Not to mention the heads that turn when Im going down the road. The only issue was that after 2 months the engine failed and has to be replaced. It had only 60,000 miles on it. I would not wish a 1.8T engine on my worst enemy. Nor would I ever puchase another Audi.

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  10 year old car feels like New - 1997 Audi A4
  By stick - May 22 - 11:03 am

  I have 150k and it really does feel like a new A4. The Quattro is a must for MN winters. The interior layout is perfect in the front. The rear is very tight. The repairs are expensive, but you can buy parts online and you really can do it your self. Its easier than my Jeep to work on. Ive done brakes, wheel bearings, and plugs. When you find one you like, call the local Audi dealers with the VIN to see if they have serviced it. They will tell you everything that has been done. The back of the owners manual has space for service stations to stamp. If you want to upgrade the motor in any way, dont get the 12valve V6! Their is NOTHING available. Go for the turbo. The V6 is more dependable

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  Real Fun to drive - 2005 Audi A4
  By dbuilder - May 19 - 9:43 am

  Great engine, smooth trans & handle keep me being excited. Too much similarity with new Jetta

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  A fun car in all respects - 2005 Audi A4
  By AudiLover - May 16 - 11:22 am

  I parted with a 93 Toyota Supra for my Audi 3.0 Quattro convertible. It has it all---style, performance, luxury, all wheel drive, comfort---the whole package. Ive been nothing but pleased with the car. For style + safety, this is the car for you.

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  Worst Purchase Ever! BEWARE! - 1999 Audi A4
  By Karl - May 8 - 7:10 pm

  I wish I could go back to the day I bought this A4 and run. It has been nothing but trouble since day one. Problem 1) Ruined front suspension = $1600. Problem 2) Defective turbo valve = $450 Problem 3) Defective catelytic converter = $1100 Problem 4) Defective wheel bearings = $Leaving Them...... And so on and so forth. Basically, this car is an overpriced and less reliable Ford Pinto. I should have bought an Escort - this thing was the biggest mistake Ive ever made. I will buy a BMW next time. Consider yourself warned.

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  Great Stuff! - 2003 Audi A4
  By Joost - April 26 - 2:00 am

  My car is 9 months old and I have driven it across Canada and then to Boston. First gear has been a little stiff, but at 12,000 miles it has finally broke-in. The car is fantastic. The 3.0L engine I think is essential since the car is quite heavy. I test drove the 1.8L Tubo engine but found that it hesitates when you step on the gas which can be a little scary when you want the power to get out of a problem. Gas milage is great in the 3.0L...much like a four cylander. I highly reccomend this car.

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  Fast Cars and Freedom - 2000 Audi A4
  By Smiley - April 24 - 4:45 am

  I have only had it a few days so I am not sure about reliability. I really fell in love with the car when I drove it. Small engine yet feels powerful, and able to please. I am a Daimler Chrysler man, but I really am into German vehicles in general. It is no Hemi, but with 35-40 mpg that is ok. This car pulled me to it. I am very impressed so far. Changing the oil was unique that is for sure. Service on a vehicle so advanced is a little scary.