2004 Audi A4 Quattro Sedan
Good points: Handling, appearance, all wheel drive, safety ratings, room, transmission
Needs improvement: Power, slippery seats, dash cupholders, wipers, HVA controls, premium fuel needed
A sturdy ride, smooth appearance, ULEV certified engine plant, and room for four adults make the new Audi A4 an interesting consideration especially with a starting list price under $30,000 US for a fairly well loaded version. Another plus is that it is much better than the previous model in every way making it a must drive for those who enjoy the Audi attributes of all wheel drive, above average handling, and good safety scores.
Mom's view: The word that comes to mind first when testing this vehicle is sturdy. It rides, handles, and even the doors shut solidly. Add to this the adjustable steering column, a split fold down rear seat, a very smooth six-cylinder engine that can easily get 25 mpg, and you have a worthy automobile.
But what I enjoy about this Audi is the small things. For example, the fact that the steering wheel both tilts and telescopes and the heated seats work rapidly and have a range of settings. Although I found the leather seats tended to allow you to shift around during cornering, the lumbar support and other power adjustments were easy to master. All the windows go up or down with one touch, and there is an anti-pinch mechanism. The sunroof is unusual in that it has a special feature that limits the amount of air that comes into the vehicle. The trunk has superior hold down nets both on the sides and covering the floor. You even get a full sized spare. The driver's computer is easy to use and read. Data such as miles to empty, temperature, and miles per gallon are displayed between the speedometer and tachometer. There is a good deal of storage space under the seats, in the door panels, the glove compartment, and the awkwardly positioned center armrest.
I liked the new Audi A4 better than the 3 Series BMW, although it does not stop or handle as well. The reason was that it is easier to drive well, is nicely mannered, and it is less expensive. How it measures up against the new Volvo S60 all wheel drive remains to be seen, but the Volvo has a turbocharger and I have found those difficult to modulate in dicey weather conditions. You cannot control when the power comes online in a turbocharged car. More than once I have executing a left hand turn only to find that the turbocharger thought I was asking for more power. The results depended on whether the car had anti-skid control. If it did, the car bogged in front of oncoming traffic as it struggled for traction. If it did not the sudden surge caused a loss of traction and the need for some crisp counter steering input. Either situation is stressful at best. An additional cavet with turbochargers is that they require more attention and maintenance and need premium fuel.