The Audi A4 is typically considered the third finisher in a race of three that includes the BMW 3-Series and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class. But that's where you'd be wrong. It's the one sports sedan that does just about everything well. Build quality, reliability, technology, comfort, and driving performance are superb.
Just about every detail gets more than its fair share of attention from Audi designers and engineers. Nothing seems superfluous or overdone. It's only the styling that might not be dramatic enough for some, but the entire package is incredibly appealing. Here are five reasons why it should be at the top of your car shopping list.
1. It Drives Like a Dream
Get behind the wheel of the A4, and you'll be grinning from point A to point B. The thrilling turbocharged engine is smooth, and the transmission shifts quickly and responsively. Turn the steering wheel, and the precision and feedback are some of the best in the industry, along with a chassis that won't quit. The A4 feels balanced, alive, and it's all very rewarding.
2. It's Powerful But Efficient
The turbo four in the A4 is a marvel not just because it churns out a healthy 252 horses and 273 lb-ft of smooth torque, but it's also remarkably efficient even when it's driven hard. Gas mileage is a not unsubstantial 24
Find Local Discounts on the Audi A4
3. The Technology is Cutting Edge and Practical
The Audi Virtual Cockpit is reason alone to buy this car. It puts all the vital driving information front and center in the instrument cluster, making driving safer and easier. Even the stellar Google-based navigation system is viewable here, and the graphics are amazing. You can even shrink the tachometer and the speedometer for maximized map viewing. The MMI controller in the center console is also one of the best, with easy and attractive operation making it better than both BMW and Mercedes.
4. Its Safety Has Been Proven in Testing
The A4 gets great marks from both the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS, photo above) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Association. Every car these bodies test goes through
5. The Brand is Truly Reliable
Out of around 35 mainstream car brands, Audi's #10 ranking for 2018 is very good. It might not be at the very top of the heap, but it easily beats out other premium brands like Acura, Volvo, and Mercedes. What this means is that you'll have fewer problems with the A4 than you might with the TLX, S60, and the C-Class, all premium-level competitors. This equates to an overall lower cost of ownership, as well as less headache and operation down time.
