8 March 2016
In a nutshell
The new Audi A4 and A4 Avant (Wagon) are more powerful, more efficient and more intelligent than ever. They now feature numerous premium technologies that set an extremely high benchmark for the medium and large vehicle category.
Elegant design is blended with an innovative control concept. The lightweight construction meets new and efficient drivetrain solutions. The A4 is also ahead of its peers in terms of infotainment and assistance systems - Audi drivers can look forward to a truly high-tech experience. After driving it, I would agree that there has been a lot of change but you really need to read the specs to understand just how much this car has been transformed.
There are four engine options currently on offer with a smaller, entry-level 1.4 TFSI on its way. The 2.0Ltr TFSI is available in 140kW or 185kW forms. There’s also the 2.0 4-cylinder and the 3.0ltr v6 TDI for those who love the torque and efficiency of diesels. My personal favourite is the powerful 200kW 3.0ltr diesel A4. It accelerates like a sports car - 0-100 in 5.3 seconds - and, when combined with Audi’s Quattro AWD system, it provided excellent grip on the wet and windy back roads of Taup? during the motoring press launch.
Gear changes in a blink of an eye
All the engine variations that we tested were really quiet with almost no operational and drivetrain noises making their way into the cabin. The optional variable dampening shock absorbers provided firm but comfortable suspension by adjusting to the road conditions and the driving situation and style.
The A4 is designed to be fun to drive on winding roads as well as providing excellent ride and comfort during long journeys. Gear changes literally happen in a blink of an eye, carried out within a few hundredths of a second. All models are equipped with the seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission, replacing the previous multitronic CVT. The only exception is the 3.0 TDI which receives an 8-speed tiptronic transmission; a new development of a smooth, rapid and spontaneously-shifting torque converter.
The A4’s body dimensions are slightly larger than the previous model. The body alone is 15kg lighter and the vehicle has saved up to 120kg overall.
There are 15 colours to choose from, not like the old days when you could have any colour - as long as it was black! Aerodynamics are key as the sedan receives an extremely low coefficient of .23, mainly due to the complex, fine-tuning of the bumpers and the design of the exterior mirrors, boot lid and rear spoilers.
Bedazzled no more
The headlights are a piece of technological advancement in themselves. They boast fibre optic, daytime running lights, LED options for low beam which is comprised of 11 diodes, and matrix LED high beam which feature 12 lights and three reflectors. The matrix system has a camera that supplies data to the control unit. This can switch them individually on and off to prevent dazzling and they’re also dimmable in 64 stages. The rear tail lights are comprised of 48 LEDs – but only if the LED option is fitted.
The interior is sophisticated and spacious. Similar to the Audi TT, the air conditioning system temperature displays are integrated into the control dials. The system has been overhauled and now offers three zone deluxe Auto A/C. The seats have been completely redesigned and all models now boast full electric adjustment and lumbar support as standard. Meanwhile heating and ventilation are reserved for the sport seats.
New Audi design
Audi have now included a new base Design Line spec which can be found on the 140kW TFSI A4. This is less sporty than the S-Line and it has a more refined finish.
The S-Line sport package is a standard feature on all other variants of the A4. S-line sport enhancements include larger alloy wheels, sports suspension, matt brushed aluminium inlays, black cloth headlining, stainless steel pedals and foot rest, and the S-line door sill trims. S models also receive Audi’s virtual cockpit - a 12.3 inch LCD colour monitor that’s situated behind the steering wheel. This includes instrument display, a navigation map, guidance instructions and many more depending on the view mode. Another function is Audi’s smartphone interface which brings Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on board. Plug in your compatible phone and have everything at the touch of your fingertips such as navigation, telephone, music and a number of third-party apps when selected in a separate MMI menu.
You can spec your A4 with a 19-speaker Bang and Olufsen HiFi 3D sound system, one or two removable android tablets for rear seat passenger entertainment and an HUD that appears to hover two meters in front of the driver. Sounds like something I would definitely try to add in.
New ANCAP safety rating
Audi A4 has received a 5-Star ANCAP safety score and has completely redesigned or greatly enhanced most of the drivers assistance and integrated safety systems. It has some interesting assist features, one of them being its traffic jam assist which can take over steering at speeds of up to 65km/h on well-developed and congested roads. Another is the turning assist which operates between 2-10 km/h, and monitors oncoming traffic during turns. In dangerous situations, it can even bring the car to a complete stop.
Rounding things up is the park assist system which can guide you safely in and out of car parks. All you need to control are the gears, brakes and accelerator, so pretty much everything except the steering wheel. You won’t need to worry about whether or not you can actually fit in the space because you’ll get visual and audio warnings.
Prices
The range starts with the A4 TFSI 140kW Design Line which is $71,900 for the Sedan and $75,400 for the Avant. The 140kW TDI Quattro Sport Sedan will cost you $79,900 while the Avant is priced at $83,400. The 185kW Quattro Sport Sedan continues to open up the price range, starting from $85,900 and going up to $89,400 for the Avant. Finally, leading the team is the 200kW TDI Quattro Sport, priced at $106,400 for the Sedan and $109,900 for the Avant.