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Summary
  • The 2015, 2018, 2005, 2001, and 2008 redesigns are some of the best A4 models you can buy.
  • The 2001 A4 is the last model to don the features of the B5 production line, giving drivers all the best specs of the A4’s pioneer line while showcasing an attractive facelift.
  • A Black Optic Plus package is available for the 2018 A4, which includes 18-inch wheels, red brake calipers, gloss black body pieces, and a flat-bottom steering wheel.

It’s hard to ignore the Audi A4 when talking about entry-level luxury sedans. The model has been around for years, and each redesign only seems to get better every time.

Here are some of the highly praised A4 models you’ll find in the market.

2001 Audi A4: The Next Gen Preview

2001 audi a4 car
Known for being a head-turner, the 2001 Audi A4 is praised for its sleek style and sophistication.

Known for being a head-turner, the 2001 Audi A4 is praised for its sleek style and sophistication.

The 2001 Audi A4 may have debuted more than two decades ago, but enthusiasts still prefer this over newer models for several reasons. It is the last model to don the features of the B5 production line, giving drivers all the best specs of the A4’s pioneer line while showcasing an attractive facelift.

Four versions of the 2001 A4 are available, including the 1.8T Sedan, 1.8T Avant Wagon, 2.8 Sedan, and 2.8 Avant Wagon.

Regardless of the trim, all 2001 A4s come with a Sport 3-spoke steering wheel with Tiptronic control buttons, automatic climate control, remote keyless entry, heated mirrors, an eight-speaker audio system, and folding rear seats.

See also  Audi A4 Reliability and Common Problems

The 2001 Audi A4 also boasts impressive crash test scores, making it a great alternative for other vehicles in its class, including the BMW 3 Series, Acura TL, and Volvo S40.

2001 Audi A4 Specs

  • Base engine size: 1.8L
  • Horsepower: 170 hp
  • Torque: 166 lb-ft.
  • Combined MPG: 22
  • 0-60: 7.8 seconds

2005 Audi A4: A Shot at Redemption

2005 audi a4
The 2005 A4 was met with positive reviews, including used models. It’s also a highly-recommended entry-luxury car for first-time owners.

When Audi introduced its B6 production line with the 2002 A4, it came with a lot of issues. So much so that the 2002-2004 A4s earned a bad rap because of their engine troubles.

Fortunately, Audi was able to flip the script when it debuted the 2005 A4. The 2005 A4 wasn’t playing around when it arrived on the market, boasting a yawning grille, clear-glass headlights, and classy hood creases.

The best part? First-year bugs were almost nonexistent. Of course, Audi had the 2002-2004 A4s to thank for that.

The 2005 A4 was met with positive reviews, including used models. It’s also a highly-recommended entry-luxury car for first-time owners.

Performance and style are known to be the model’s strongest suits while its value is considered a pitfall by many.

2005 Audi A4 Specs

  • Base engine size: 1.8L
  • Horsepower: 170 hp
  • Torque: 166 lb-ft.
  • Combined MPG: 21
  • 0-60: 7.3 seconds

2008 Audi A4: The Third-Gen Success Story

2006 2008 audi a4 wikimedia
The 2008 Audi A4 is arguably the most reliable model you can get from the third generation of A4s. Image credit: Wikimedia

The 2008 Audi A4 is arguably the most reliable model you can get from the third generation of A4s. The earlier years of producing the B7 were met with several obstacles, so expect some criticism for the 2006-2007 redesigns.

See also  Audi A4 Reliability and Common Problems

With 2008 A4, however, most of the bugs have been resolved. Audi also didn’t stray too far from its trademark styling with the 2008 A4.

It featured a premium cabin design, communicative chassis, and wide availability of all-wheel drive options, much to the delight of its owners.

There were subtle changes incorporated in the 2008 design, including a standardized S-line sport package一a feat that was once optional in earlier models.

While the 2008 A4 is a decent vehicle to own, it still comes with a few cons. The 2008 A4 isn’t exactly praised for its cramped rear seats, and the engine options need some improvement to compete with other models.

2008 Audi A4 Specs

  • Base engine size: 2.0L
  • Horsepower: 200 hp
  • Torque: 207 lb-ft.
  • Combined MPG: 22
  • 0-60: 7.3 seconds

2015 Audi A4: Better and Better

2015 2019 audi a4 saloon audi newsroom
Overall, the 2015 A4 is praised for its quick acceleration, well-tuned chassis, and sport differential. Image credit: Audi Press UK

The 2015 redesign is proof that A4s only get better with age. Sure, the 2015 A4 still sports the same high-quality interior you’ll find in older models, but performance is where it really excels.

Designed with strong driving dynamics in mind, the 2015 A4 introduced two powerful engine options that are certainly hard to ignore一a 2.0L I4 and a supercharged 3.0L V6.

Overall, the 2015 A4 is praised for its quick acceleration, well-tuned chassis, and sport differential. Fuel economy is also pretty decent for the 2015 A4, considering its luxury sedan classification.

By prioritizing engine performance for the 2015 A4 and other redesigns belonging to the same generation, the model is finally seen as a worthy competitor for other luxury sedans, including the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Acura TLX, and Volvo S60, among others.

See also  Audi A4 Reliability and Common Problems

2015 Audi A4 Specs

  • Base engine size: 2.0L
  • Horsepower: 220 hp
  • Torque: 258 lb-ft.
  • Combined MPG: 25
  • 0-60: 6.2 seconds

2018 Audi A4: Cream of the Crop

2018 audi a4 audi newsroom
Everything you could possibly want from a luxury sedan can be found in the 2018 Audi A4. Image credit: Audi Newsroom

Everything you could possibly want from a luxury sedan can be found in the 2018 Audi A4. The manufacturer has put so much thought into crafting the ideal luxury car for drivers, and the 2018 model did not disappoint.

The impeccable interior design, convenient tech features, and turbocharged engine are some of the things drivers love about this model, and it only gets better from there.

A Black Optic Plus package is available for the 2018 A4, which includes 18-inch wheels, red brake calipers, gloss black body pieces, and a flat-bottom steering wheel.

Needless to say, Audi pulled out all the stops to make the 2018 A4 an unforgettable luxury sedan.

There are, however, some cons to driving the 2018 A4, but that will ultimately depend on how meticulous you are as a driver.

Experts report some initial hesitation from the transmission when accelerating, as well as a lack of feedback from the steering wheel.

2018 Audi A4 Specs

  • Base engine size: 2.0L
  • Horsepower: 252 hp
  • Torque: 273 lb-ft.
  • Combined MPG: 27
  • 0-60: 5.1 seconds
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About The Author
Written By Automotive and Tech Writers

The CarParts.com Research Team is composed of experienced automotive and tech writers working with (ASE)-certified automobile technicians and automotive journalists to bring up-to-date, helpful information to car owners in the US. Guided by CarParts.com's thorough editorial process, our team strives to produce guides and resources DIYers and casual car owners can trust.

Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.

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