2008 Audi A4 Review
2008 Audi A4 Review
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Used A4 for sale
Appraise This CarAudi A4 model years
Audi A4 types
- Sedan
- Convertible
- Wagon
See Edmunds pricing data
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Premium cabin design and materials, communicative chassis makes it rewarding to drive, offered in three body styles, wide availability of all-wheel drive.
Cons
- Cramped rear seat, engines lack the power of competitors' top-line engines.
What’s new
For 2008, the Audi A4 receives only minor changes. Exterior features that were previously available as part of the sedan and wagon's optional S line sport package are now standard. This means that front and rear bumpers have been revised, as has the lower side door trim. An integrated trunk lid spoiler has been added, along with a new front grille and S line badging. To reflect this, the optional S line Sport Package has been trimmed to include just a sport-tuned suspension, sport three-spoke steering wheel, aluminum trim, 18-inch wheels and leather upholstery with unique stitching. On the A4 Cabriolet, heated front seats are now standard. An optional iPod interface is available on all 2008 Audi A4s.
Edmunds says
Though there are other entry-level luxury cars that are newer or sportier, the 2008 Audi A4 is still a fine choice thanks to its reasonable price, high-quality interior and engaging personality.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2008 Audi A4 2.0T 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.79 per gallon for premium unleaded in Oklahoma.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Oklahoma
$190/mo for A4 2.0T
A4 2.0T
vs
$157/mo
Avg. Compact Car
Vehicle overview
Many of the world's major religions bear a similar theme: A messiah comes, bringing with him enlightenment and a path to a better way of living. Audi had its very own messiah of sorts with the A4. Bad press regarding unintended acceleration (based on reports that were later shown to be unfounded) tarnished the manufacturer's image in the late '80s and early '90s, sending sales into an unholy tailspin. Launched in the mid-'90s, the Audi A4 -- buoyed by crisp handling, superb road manners and elegant visage -- proved compelling enough to reinvigorate the brand. Now in its third generation, the Audi A4 is as enticing as ever -- and Edmunds.com's editors have voted it a top pick for several years running.
The 2008 Audi A4 is catnip for drivers who crave the finer things. One of the few entry-level luxury cars available as a sedan, convertible and wagon, the Audi A4 morphs to please everyone from bustling families to solitary singles. Slide inside and you'll find a cabin that takes the "entry" out of "entry-luxury." Gauges offer the sort of soothing lighting you'd find in a chic late-night bistro, and the car's interior materials and design would be right at home in the expensively outfitted lobby of a premier Hollywood talent agency. On the move, the A4 has a solid feel to it, an attribute no doubt helped by the car's commonly fitted Quattro all-wheel-drive system.
Compromises are few, but they do exist. Neither A4 engine is a powerhouse, for instance, as the turbocharged 2.0-liter is somewhat lacking when it comes to off-the-line torque and the 255-horsepower V6 is increasingly outclassed by competitors putting out more than 300 hp. Another potential negative is the rear seat, which isn't as roomy as the accommodations in some rivals. Hard-core enthusiasts might also criticize the A4's handling, which is softer and less responsive than the premier sport sedans in this price range. However, many buyers will find that the Audi's high level of feedback compensates for its somewhat slower reflexes.
That's not to say you shouldn't consider other models if you're shopping in this highly competitive class. The BMW 3 Series, Infiniti G35 and Lexus IS are all sportier in demeanor, for instance, while the new Cadillac CTS boasts more rear-seat room and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class benefits from a fresher, more stately design. And depending on your priorities, cars like the Acura TSX and Volvo C70/S40/V50 might be worth your attention as well. While all of these cars have their merits, if you end up with a 2008 Audi A4, we doubt you'll be dissatisfied. Thanks to its versatile yet fun-loving demeanor, range of body styles, reasonable price tag and best-in-class cabin, the A4 could well be the salvation for those searching for a great all-around entry-level luxury car.
Performance & mpg
The A4 is available with one of two engines. A 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 produces 200 hp and 207 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.1-liter V6 drums up 255 hp and 243 lb-ft of torque. A4 Avants are available only with Audi's Quattro all-wheel drive, but sedan and Cabriolet buyers may choose between front-wheel drive and Quattro. Quattro-equipped A4s give you the choice of a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. The same holds true for front-wheel-drive A4 3.2 models. Instead of the automatic, front-drive 2.0T models offer a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Equipped in this configuration, the A4 has a 21 mpg city/29 mpg highway fuel mileage estimate for 2008, which is sure to please if you've got an eye on the pump.
Safety
Standard features in this area include antilock brakes, traction control, stability control, front-seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags (except on Cabriolets). Rear seat-mounted side airbags are available as an option for the sedan and wagon. In National Highway Transportation Safety Administration frontal crash tests, the A4 rated four stars out of five; in side impact testing, the car earned a perfect five stars for front occupants and four stars for those seated in rear. The 2008 Audi A4 attained a "Good" rating (the highest possible) for the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's frontal offset, side-impact and head restraint effectiveness tests.
Driving
The 2008 Audi A4 is truly a model of composure in the entry-luxury segment, with balanced ride and handling and a suspension that dispenses with ruts and potholes with unflappable German efficiency. As such, it's a sterling daily driver. A4s equipped with the S line Sport Package offer sharper, grippier handling. This Audi is no BMW 3 Series, but it's a more communicative driving partner than many other cars in this class and the extra traction afforded by the Quattro all-wheel-drive system is quite useful in Northern climates. Acceleration is certainly adequate on everything, with the possible exception of the Cabriolet 2.0T. In reviews, we've found the 2.0T a little light on torque down low, but once the tach sees 2,500 rpm, there's plenty of pull on tap. The V6 is smooth, but with only 255 hp, it lacks the motivation needed to keep pace with competitors' 300-plus-hp V6s.
Interior
The cherry on top of any Audi vehicle is usually its cabin, and the A4 maintains this standard. Design is above reproach, and build and materials quality is superlative. Some may find the seats overly firm, but most will agree that they provide welcome support when road-tripping. The navigation system takes some getting used to, but elsewhere, the controls are pleasantly intuitive. A4 sedans can haul up to 13.4 cubes of luggage in the trunk, while the Avant manages 27.8 cubes with the rear seats up and 59 cubes with the seats folded. The A4 Cabriolet's traditional soft top might seem a tad old-fashioned in this age of retractable hardtops, but it's reasonably quick in operation and compact enough to allow a maximum luggage capacity of 10.2 cubic feet.
2008 Audi A4 models
The 2008 Audi A4 comes built to satisfy in a plethora of body styles. A sedan, convertible (Cabriolet) and wagon (Avant) are offered. The trims are defined by the engines that power them: 2.0T and 3.2. The A4 2.0T sedan and wagon come standard with 16-inch alloy wheels, a power driver seat, a sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control and a 10-speaker, six-CD/MP3 changer. Pump up the swank quotient with a 3.2 model, which adds 17-inch wheels, wood flourishes, leather upholstery, heated front seats and a power front-passenger seat. A4 Cabriolets have an automatic soft top and equipment lists largely similar to those of the sedan and wagon.
Most of the 3.2's extra features can be added to the 2.0T as part of the Premium and Convenience Packages. The latter also includes adaptive bi-xenon headlights and auto-dimming mirrors. For both trim levels, Audi offers an S line sport package with 18-inch wheels, a sport-tuned suspension and specialized interior trim. A4 buyers can also opt for heated rear seats (via a cold weather package), a navigation system, an upgraded 10-speaker Bose sound system (which includes satellite radio), Bluetooth connectivity, a dedicated iPod interface and the "Titanium" styling package with 18-inch wheels and several wood and metallic embellishments. The 2.0T also offers a Special Edition package which adds 17-inch alloy wheels, leather seating and satellite radio. Available on the A4 3.2 only are driver-seat memory, rear park assist and premium-grade "Volterra" leather upholstery.
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
3.5 out of 5 stars3.5/5Above Average
#35 out of 68 among Luxury Midsize Cars
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Audi A4 from 2008-2022.$607/yr
vs. $607/yr
for Average Luxury Midsize Car
for Average Luxury Midsize Car
Frequency
The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).1.16x/yr
vs. 1.36x/yr
for Average Luxury Midsize Car
for Average Luxury Midsize Car
Severity
The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).14.7%
vs. 10.5%
for Average Luxury Midsize Car
for Average Luxury Midsize Car
powered by RepairPal Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2008 Audi A4.
5 star(74%)
4 star(12%)
3 star(12%)
2 star(2%)
1 star(0%)
58 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4 out of 5 stars
It's all fun 'n games, until catastrophe happens..
Arbeitspferd, 09/02/2015
2008 Audi A4 2.0T quattro 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
I have an '08 A4 Quattro 6MT Special Edition S-line. I bought it as a CPO car in 2011 with 36k miles. The car is absolutely sublime to drive in every way, even with the firm suspension. The first year I owned it, I put over 25k miles commuting 100mi each way for work, across a mountain range. The traction control and AWD have literally saved my life twice hitting black ice on a bend in … the highway. Very little issues with the car; cruise control module went out, covered under warranty; ignition switch died last year out of warranty, $160 total (cheap). Then one day, accelerating onto the interstate, the engine shut down leaving me just enough momentum to coast over to the shoulder (on a massive bridge, no less). After having it inspected and diagnosed at the dealer, it turns out a high pressure fuel pump exploded, literally. It blew metal shrapnel into the engine destroying the block and fuel system. A piece(s) of shrapnel severed the intake cam chain, seizing the cam and destroying most of the remainder of the engine. The engine is damaged beyond repair and has to be replaced, to the tune of over $7500! Audi has generously offered to cover 25% up front, but I am currently working with Audi of America to see if they can extend that courtesy a bit more. At this point, I haven't decide if I'm going to keep the car after all this or just dump it. Either way, I'm out as much as $6k on a car only worth $11k...
If you want a car that is nearly perfect to drive, this is the one. Specifically the 2008 owing to it's having the new AWD system (which is MUCH better than the old Haldex system). That said, I'd have some kind of extended warranty, service agreement, and/or a whopping fistful of expendable greenbacks.
3.38 out of 5 stars
Great car (while in warranty)
chaseaudi, 12/17/2012
2008 Audi A4 2.0T Special Ed. quattro 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
I purchased this car used with about 1 year left on the original warranty. I had a couple minor problems, but Audi's service is fantastic. However, after the warranty ended I began experiencing problems every 3-4 months. These included spark plugs going bad, problems with water getting into the intake, the fuel pump going bad, problems with the brake light switch, and more. These also … included my car being stuck in the shop for multiple days very long costly repairs. Overall, the car is fun to drive, but be prepared for a lot of costly repairs down the road.
5 out of 5 stars
Amazing Vehicle
PSZ, 12/16/2007
2008 Audi A4 2.0T 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo CVT)
There are not enough superlatives to accurately describe this car. Fit and finish are fantastic. It offers superior comfort (I'm 6'5"), handles like a champ, provides surprising power from its strong 2.0 turbo and provides over 30+ highway MPG! This is a very special automobile.
4.88 out of 5 stars
The car I always wanted
Cristian, 12/16/2007
2008 Audi A4 2.0T quattro 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
It's indeed a dream car. The design is excellent, top execution and materials. Everything is balanced with very good taste. The danger in this price range is sending the message that you bought the car to show-off. On the contrary, A4 shows that you have a fine taste of spending your money (let's admit it, it's not a cheap car and everybody sees that). The 2.0T has only 200HP but is … really powerfull provided that you now how to drive a 4 cyl Turbo engine, i.e., buy a manual transmission and do not ask the engine for maximum thrust at 1500rpm. Downshift, step on the gas and see what a Turbo engine can do. For me, A4 is the ideal compromise between price, aspect and driving experience.
2008 A4 Highlights
Sedan
2.0T
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $28,900 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 24 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $190/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 13.4 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the A4 include:
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
- Post-collision safety system
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver4 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
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