Audi A4 Review

2007 Audi A4 2.0T Convertible Shown

When people think of heroes, names that come to mind are John Wayne, Superman or perhaps Gandhi. When Audi executives think of their heroes, the A4 certainly makes the short list.

The Audi A4 holds the distinction of single-handedly reviving the flatlining Audi after the brand's big sales slump some two decades ago. Launched in the mid '90s, the A4 quickly proved a favorite among luxury-car buyers thanks to a handsome, well-finished cabin and available Quattro all-wheel drive. Tight panel gaps, high-quality materials and firm, comfortable seating give the interior the proper European ambiance, while a supple ride, responsive handling and willing performance make the Audi A4 a great road trip choice.

Although those core characteristics have been part of the A4's personality since day one, this compact sport sedan has become increasingly polished with each successive generation. Three generations of the Audi A4 have been produced to date and have been typically available in convertible, sedan and wagon body styles. No matter what year of A4 you look at, know that this vehicle will provide athletic performance and a comfortable and inviting cabin. Add in the appeal of all-wheel drive (a serious asset for those who live in inclement parts of the country) and it's easy to see why the A4 is such a credible hero.

Current Audi A4

Buyers can purchase the current A4 in sedan, convertible (called a Cabriolet) and wagon (Avant) configurations. Two trims are available: the 2.0T and the 3.2. Base 2.0Ts offer standard features like a power driver seat and dual-zone climate control. Step up to the 3.2 and the list grows to include features like heated leather seats and 17-inch wheels. Option packages are available that facilitate the addition of features like a navigation system and an upgraded sound system.

Under the hood, buyers may choose between a 200-horsepower 2.0-liter turbo-4 or a 255-horse 3.2-liter V6. All wagons are available only with Audi's Quattro system; sedans and convertibles come with either Quattro or front-wheel drive. As far as transmissions go, options vary by body type and trim; the A4 may be had with a six-speed manual, a six-speed automatic or a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

This generation of the Audi A4 has been available since 2006 and has long impressed us with its impeccable cabin design and materials, as well as its nimble handling. Its host of body configurations and optional, rough-weather-friendly all-wheel drive only add to its appeal. The A4's only blemish concerns the fact that its engines come up a bit short in the area of low-end torque.

If you're shopping for a used A4, keep in mind that relative to second-generation A4s, the current generation offers refreshed styling, a revised chassis and more powerful engines. The sedan and wagon got these upgrades in 2006 at the start of the generational cycle, but the Cabriolet wasn't updated until the following year, in model year 2007. At that time, the Cabriolet was also endowed with a new acoustic soft top, which served to give it a quieter ride.

Past Audi A4 Models

The A4 has long been one of our favorite vehicles, and it's been a frequent winner of our annual "Editors' Most Wanted" awards over the years. This impressive Audi is an excellent buy on the used-car market, regardless of which generation you choose.

The second-generation A4 was produced from 2002-'05. Compared to the first generation, it benefited from a redesigned body structure and new sheet metal, as well as changes that made it sportier. It was motivated by either a 170-hp 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine or a 3.0-liter 220-hp V6. Both could be mated to either a six-speed manual transmission or a CVT. (The CVT first became available with this generation.) The A4 Cabriolet made its debut in this era, first appearing in model-year 2003. In editorial reviews, we praised the A4's refined interior and sharp handling. As with third-generation models, its only drawback concerned a slight lack of low-end torque.

The first-generation Audi A4 (1996-2001) was a huge success for Audi, helping to put the automaker in the same league as its respected German luxury-car competitors. This was attributed in no small part to the A4's handsome Teutonic looks, impressive performance and stylish, well-constructed interior that set a precedent for future Audi models. A five-speed manual was standard, with Audi's five-speed Tiptronic automatic offered as an option. As is the case today, the base engine was a turbocharged four-cylinder, while the upgraded model came with a naturally aspirated six. Note that the A4 was initially available only as a sedan; the Avant didn't join the lineup until 1998.

This generation offered all the usual A4 strengths, like good looks both inside and out, and available all-wheel drive. Weaknesses included a lack of rear legroom and a somewhat confusing dash layout.

SELECT A SPECIFIC AUDI A4 MODEL YEAR*

* Edmunds.com maintains vehicle data as far back as 1990.