2008 Audi A4 Review

The A4 is a luxury sedan that debuted for the 1996 model year. It's now their best-selling model, available in three styles: Sedan, Cabriolet (convertible), and Avant (wagon). The second generation debuted in 2002, adding more space and power. The convertible debuted in 2003. The sedan was restyled for 2006, and the Cabriolet was redesigned in 2007.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Audi A4 is a great entry-level luxury car that offers both form and function. Its tightly-tuned chassis makes for a fun, engaging driving experience, while its solid construction makes it fairly trouble-free. Don't buy your first luxury car without taking the A4 for a test drive.

What's New For 2008:

The bumpers and door trim have been revised. The grille has been redesigned, and a rear spoiler added. Heated seats are now standard on the Cabriolet. Optional iPod integration is now available.

Request a free, no-obligation, new 2008 Audi A4 price quote or choose any other model you're interested in and receive the Buying Advice Team's Insider Report for New Car Buyers.

Vital Stats

Starting MSRP:
$34,850

Rebates & Incentives:
yes

Seats:
5

Gas Mileage:
21/27

Engine:
2.0L I4

Horsepower:
211@5300RPM

Torque:
258@1500RPM

Transmission:
6 Speed Automatic

Drive:
FR/AWD

Fuel Capacity:
0

Fuel Type:
gasoline

Basic Warranty:
48/50000

Powertrain Warranty:
48/50000

Rust Warranty:
144/Unlimi

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power gives the A4 3 stars for mechanical and design quality, with 4.5 stars for performance. Problems with the last generation included blown fuses, faulty cruise control, engine misfires, inaccurate fuel gauges, difficult starting and rough idling. It was recalled eight times. Problems with the current generation include coolant leaks, hard starting, water leaks and noisy idle. It's been recalled once for degrading headlamp coating. Expect average to above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for four years or 50,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The A4 earned 4 stars in government frontal crash tests and 4.5 stars in side tests. It received perfect IIHS scores and is one of their "Top Safety Picks" for 2008. Anti-lock brakes, full side airbags, and stability and traction control come standard. Rear side airbags are optional on the Sedan and Avant.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Affordable
+ Three body styles
+ Fun to drive

Cons
- Spotty reliability history
- Leather not standard
- Navigation not standard

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Buick Lucerne has a V6 engine, navigation and leather, but lacks a CD changer and moonroof. The Cadillac CTS also has a V6, with 60 more hp, and navigation, but costs a few thousand more, and lacks a moonroof and CD changer. The BMW 3-Series costs a few thousand more and has 30 more hp, but slightly less fuel economy.

What Others Are Saying:

"For such average Joes, the A4's good looks and superior interior make it an entirely defensible choice. But that doesn't change the fact that Quattro is Audi's Unique Selling Point; the compensation for not buying a more dynamically engaging car. An A4 2.0T sans all wheel-drive is nothing more than a comfortable, boring sedan that gets reasonable mileage. Sure the A4 is a good car in and of its own accord, but I'd rather have an Accord." - The Truth About Cars

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

"It fit me like the Armani suit mentioned earlier and was fun to drive in LA's crowded expressways and Palm Spring's desert roads. A car you could toss around with the seat of your pants and not have to fear if too much understeer threatened stability in the midst of a corner. In plainer words, I really liked the Audi A4." - About.com

Read more about the 2008 Audi A4 at the Audi manufacturer web site.

Published on Sunday, January 20, 2008 - Email to a friend

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