2011 Audi A4 Review

Launched in the mid-'90s, the Audi A4 quickly proved a favorite among luxury-car buyers thanks to its handsome, well-finished cabin, sharp handling and available Quattro all-wheel drive.

The latest Audi A4 is available only in sedan and wagon (Avant) configurations. Front-wheel drive and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) are standard on the 2.0T Frontrak model, while the 2.0T Quattro gets all-wheel drive and a six-speed manual standard. Used Audi A4 Models

The current A4 sedan and wagon represent the car's fourth generation that debuted for 2009. Audi's third-generation A4 sedan and wagon was produced from 2006-'08, while the cabriolet lasted an additional year. Two trims were available for third-generation A4s: the 2.0T and the 3.2. Base 2.0Ts offered standard features like a power driver seat and dual-zone climate control, while the 3.2 added heated leather seats and 17-inch wheels. Option packages included features like a navigation system and an upgraded sound system.

All wagons were available only with Audi's Quattro system; sedans and convertibles came with either Quattro or front-wheel drive. This generation of the Audi A4 impressed us with its impeccable cabin design and materials, as well as its nimble handling. It was motivated by either a 170-hp 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine or a 220-hp 3.0-liter V6. Both could be mated to either a six-speed manual transmission or a CVT. (The CVT first became available with this generation.) In reviews, we praised this A4's refined interior and sharp handling. A five-speed manual was standard, with Audi's five-speed Tiptronic automatic offered as an option.

Carried over intact after a complete reinvention in 2009, the 2011 Audi A4 continues to wear its racier design well, and offer an engaging driving experience, impressive in-cabin technology, and, surprisingly, great fuel efficiency.

The A4 accelerates, steers, and hunkers down at high speeds much more like a true sport sedan. The A4's steering system is one of the better systems in this class. The A4 has a very firm ride—to firm for some, perhaps, with the upgrades included in the Sport Package, which brings 18-inch sport wheels, high-performance tires, and a sport suspension. Bluetooth, a navigation system, Sirius real-time traffic and an iPod connectivity kit are options, as is a high-quality Bang & Olufsen audio system. For 2011, HD Radio is newly available with the navigation system, Nutmeg Laurel wood replaces Beige Birch, and there's a new Titanium Sport package.

Standard equipment is a little richer in the high-performance 333-horsepower S4, which is only offered in sedan form. In addition to the sport suspension and host of other upgrades, the 2011 Audi S4 includes heated washers, sport seats with alcantara inserts, aluminum door inserts, and the three-zone climate control system.

The 2.0-liter four-cylinder delivers 211 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, enough to hustle the A4 along at brisk, if not breathtaking speeds. Braking is probably the weakest spot of the A4's overall performance equation, with low-speed stops made jerky by grabby pads and over-boosted power assist. From speed, however, the brakes work very well.

As usual, you can count on Audi for a comfortable, well-appointed, stylish interior. Technology offerings are impressive for an entry-level luxury sedan, particularly the available Bang & Olufsen stereo system. Sirius Satellite Radio with real-time traffic, Bluetooth connectivity, navigation, and iPod hook-ups are also available. New for 2011 is an optional HD Radio kit, Nutmeg Laurel wood trim, and a Titanium Sport options package.