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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  A Real Advance - 2009 Audi A4
  By selectfpr - November 12 - 12:20 pm

  I have owned various BMWs & Audis over the past 15 years, and this seems to be one of my favorites. I just ended an X3 lease and was considering the 328xi wagon or the A4 Avant. To my surprise, I chose the Avant with the Premium Plus Package, because they really made a lot of advancements since my 2004 Audi. Until BMW redesigns the 328, the Audi 2.0 I think is a much better car. It handles great, its feels much quicker than the 328, and the interior and exterior design (at least on the Avant) is a real winner. So far, I think its a no brainer.

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  Great car - 2002 Audi A4
  By rkonow - November 12 - 10:00 am

  I just ordered my 2003 A4 1.8T Quattro with the manual transmission. I said yes to just about all of the options, including: Bose stereo, sport package, premium package, xenons, etc. I previously owned a 99 A4 1.8T. The 20 more horsepower of the current model paired with the manual tranny makes for a much quicker car. You may want to consider getting the 17 in wheels with all season radials instead of the sport package. Still a little extra grip for performace but smoother, more competent ride in inclement weather. Highly reccomend to all.

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  3.2 vs. 2.0T - 2006 Audi A4
  By marc - November 11 - 10:40 pm

  My fouth A4 was a 2006 2.0T 6MT, my first 4 cylinder car in awhile. This machine was neck snapping quick and great fun to drive but the 4 cyl was a bit noisey and coarse for me. I traded it for the 3.26MT [crazy!]and prefer the smoother operation and sweeter engine and exhaust tones. Either is great fun and a relative bargain. For refinement try the 6 cyl. Saving cash the 2.0T is a blast and great on gas.

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  Bought it at 50,000 miles and lovin it! - 1998 Audi A4
  By Do - November 11 - 6:07 am

  I purchased a 1998 Audi A4 1.8T Quattro Sedan with 50,000 miles on it. Everything still works great. This car has a smooth ride. The turbo could be stronger though. Other than that im lovin it!

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  all in all satisfied but not perfect - 2004 Audi A4
  By mpteke - November 10 - 7:31 pm

  Ive driven a dolphin grey quatro A4 for about 7 months which now has 14,000 miles. The only car I measured it up to before purchase was a BMW 325. All in all I am very satisfied about my purchase however the driver side window sometimes rolls back down on its own when I push it to roll up. Other than that no problems worth noting. I feel very safe in this car for me and my family.

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  Great Design, Poor Reliability - 2003 Audi A4
  By Singlemalt - November 10 - 2:05 pm

  I want to love this car, but the manufacturing reliability is quite poor. Ive had numerous electrical problems, with the brake lights, stereo, and fuel injection. There is annoying squeaking noise in the left front suspension. The design and ergonomics of the car are outstanding, but I will never buy another Audi, because I dont trust the car will work for the long-haul and I dont want to have to take into the service department on a monthly basis.

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  Wish it had DSG - 2006 Audi A4
  By cal_tyke - November 9 - 5:50 pm

  I used to drive a Passat V6 sedan FWD with auto transmission, and this Audi A4 is significantly better in all respects, but it should be - considering the 6 years and $10,000 list price difference. Havent had any quality problems with the car, it feels very solid and dependable. The manual gearbox is a bit of a clunker, not exactly the quick light box I remember from a 3-series BMW. After 4000 miles it doesnt show much sign of easing up, and gear changes can be a bit rough. Also the steering is a bit heavy compared with a 3-series, but that could I guess be due to the Quattro 4WD? Overall, a very impressive car with a great engine. Goes well and sips fuel.

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  Ultra-Sport is a must - 2004 Audi A4
  By dancape - November 5 - 1:18 pm

  I love this car. Its beautiful on the inside and the outside. Ive had many compliments on it.

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  Get this car! - 2003 Audi A4
  By AMonte - November 5 - 2:00 am

  I traded in my 2000 BMW 328Cifor a 2003 A4 3.0 quattro. The Audi is hands down my favorite. This car is solid as a rock in all weather. It handles just as well as the BMW and has much higher build quality. I would suggest this over the BMW anyday

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  I am glad that I bought this car - 2003 Audi A4
  By dombi - November 1 - 2:00 am

  This is my first Audi (after having a Jetta and a Tercel). Everything is amazing about this car. It is stylish, elegant, fun to drive and makes me feel safe. Some BMW owners complimented on the interior stying and quality. The car could be a bit quicker, but is actually fine for my taste. It does what I would expect from a 1.8L engine. Quattro is amazing, especially in the rain, the car feels very stable at all times. I had some issues, but the dealership has fixed them all at no charge and even provided a rental car (though a cheap one :-) ). I am leasing this car, but will probably end up buying it after the four years, it is just an awsome vehicle to own.