2007 Audi A4 Review discusses their most popular model.

Saturday, September 6, 2008

2007 Audi A4 Review

The A4 is a luxury car that was first introduced for 1996. Available as a sedan, convertible, or wagon, it has become their most popular model. It was redesigned for 2002, enlarging the interior and beefing up its engine lineup. The convertible was introduced the following year. It has won Ward's "Interior of the Year" and is frequently an IIHS "Top Safety Pick."

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Audi A4 is a solid entry-level luxury car. Top quality construction, a tightly-woven interior, and plenty of safety features make it a great daily driver. Once again, Audi has proven itself to be a top German contender.

What's New For 2007:

The convertible has been overhauled, with refreshed styling. The suspension, brakes, and steering have been overhauled, with components borrowed from the A4 sedan and the S4. It also has a new, quieter top. The audio system is now MP3 compatible. Audi's free maintenance is no longer available.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power information is not available. Problems with the first generation included flaky cruise control, engine misfires, inaccurate fuel gauges, difficult starting, and rough idling. It was recalled seven times. The current generation has had issues with coolant leaks, hard starting, and water leaks. The 2003-04 models were recalled due to degrading headlamp coatings. Expect average to above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The A4 only earned 4 stars in government frontal crash tests and 4.5 stars in side tests. However it earned perfect IIHS scores and is one of their "Top Safety Picks" for 2007. Anti-lock brakes, full side airbags, brakeforce distribution, brake assist, and stability control come standard. Tire-pressure monitoring and additional rear airbags are optional.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Excellent safety
+ Excellent interior
+ Plenty of options

Cons
- Somewhat pricey
- Disappointing government crash test scores
- Cramped back seat

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Chrysler 300 costs around $500 less and features a V6 engine; however, it has slightly less hp and gets slightly worse gas mileage. The A4 includes a CD changer, which the 300 doesn't have, but the 300 does have the advantage of being rear-wheel drive. The Saab 9-3 costs about $300 less and has ten more hp than the A4, with comparable gas mileage. A Volkswagen Passat at $4,000 less offers the same engine power and most of the same basic features as the A4, but don't expect the A4's luxurious interior.

What Others Are Saying:

"The A4 is one of the best compact luxury cars and offers a staggering selection of body styles, engines and transmissions." - Forbes

"The Audi A4 is one of the better cars in a crowd of smaller sport-luxury sedans that, dollar-for-dollar, offers some of the best, most appealing vehicles in the world." - The New York Times

"The 2007 Audi A4 Cabriolet 2.0T Quattro combines peppy performance and sun-loving style with a good range of cabin tech options and usable cargo room, making it an all-in-one daily driver and weekend cruiser." - C|Net

Read more about the 2007 Audi A4 at the Audi manufacturer web site.

Published on Tuesday, September 11, 2007 - Email to a friend

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