|
The 2009 Audi A4 is a new car, as closely related to the recent A5 as to the outgoing A4. At once familiar as an Audi yet obviously new, it is what you can't see that is most changed.The 2009 A4 is wider and longer but no taller than its predecessor. It's larger inside with the most notable improvement to rear-seat legroom and it has a bigger trunk that is easier to load. A large increase in wheelbase, which is more than six inches longer than before, increases cabin space and improves ride quality and handling. For the first time, an adjustable suspension similar to that used on larger Audis is available on the A4. While the engine sizes of 2.0 and 3.2 liters may look familiar both have been revised. Each offers more power and better fuel economy than before. EPA ratings range from 17/26 mpg to 23/30 mpg. All three transmissions have been updated, also. A4 sedans are available with the 2.0-liter turbocharged and 3.2-liter V6 engines, front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, and with six-speed manual gearbox, automatic or CVT automatic. The 2009 A4 Avant (wagon) comes exclusively with the 2.0-liter turbo, six-speed automatic, and quattro all-wheel drive. Avants appear more expensive because quattro and automatic transmission are standard. Each is offered in three trim levels with added features and amenities commensurate with price. Despite the modest size the A4 comes well-equipped with leather, moonroof and automatic climate control as standard. Features normally associated with big luxury cars are available. Adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning and a half-kilowatt surround-sound system come standard. The new A4 is much better balanced than previously and it is a delight to drive. It's compliant enough to soak up bumps like a larger car but firm enough to feel solid and stable to its (tire-limited) top speed. It rides like a larger car but also handles better than it did, the front-drive version perhaps not as delicately precise as a rear-drive 3-Series but quattro more than holds its own against the other all-wheel-drive cars. It more than holds its own in the rain against other sporty cars. The Audi A4 competes primarily against the Mercedes C-Class and BMW 3 Series. Also in its class are the Acura TSX and TL, the Infiniti G37 sedan, the Lexus IS, the Lincoln MKS, and the Volvo S40. The A4 has on average more passenger room than the BMW 328, Mercedes C300, or Lexus IS250, a larger trunk, more torque, better mileage and standard leather for a lower price.
|
