Driving Impressions

Some people still consider the A4 a bit pricey for its class--those who haven't taken a close look at the stickers on the competition, anyway--but a few miles behind the wheel may change their minds. The A4's long suit is refinement, mile-eating smoothness and sure-footedness that make it a genuine pleasure to drive. Price is the main appeal of the 1.8 Turbo. Use of a less-expensive four-cylinder powerplant has enabled Audi to reduce the bottom line without depriving the A4 of its important features. On paper, the new engine hardly seems a candidate for a cost-cutting model. With its turbocharger and unusual 5-valve-per-cylinder configuration, the 1.8 looks to be more suitable for a race car than a family sedan. In some respects, that's true. Though torque is good at low engine speeds, maximum power requires high rpm, something many U.S. drivers may find disconcerting in daily use, although we had little trouble adapting. The small powerplant is rougher and nosier than the existing V6 as well. That said, the 1.8 is still a nice alternative for buyers on a budget and those who like small, high-revving engines. It delivers good performance and fuel economy, and quiets down considerably at cruising speeds. For maximum refinement, it is best teamed with the optional automatic transmission, though some performance is lost in this configuration. Nevertheless, we think most buyers will find the V6-powered 2.8 more to their liking. It is commendably quiet in most driving situations and delivers good fuel economy. In typical European fashion, power delivery is biased toward sustained high speed rather than neck-snapping stoplight performance; even so, the 0-to-60 mph sprint takes only eight seconds or so, which isn't bad. A five-speed manual transmission is standard equipment. While not possessed of the crispest shift linkage around, it shifts well and has gear ratios well-suited to the engine's power delivery. The optional automatic saps a little performance (adding about a half-second to 60 mph) but is otherwise an excellent alternative. Even buyers who usually choose manual gearboxes will want to check this automatic out; electronic controls adjust shift modes to suit driving conditions, Driving pleasure in the European manner is another A4 plus. There's minimal body roll during cornering, and crisp variable-assist steering to keep the driver in contact with what the wheels are doing. Quattro models raise the enjoyment level a notch, increasing traction in situations where it's most needed, whether during brisk driving or careful motoring down a snowy lane. Despite the firm springs and shock absorbers, the A4 delivers a smooth ride. Rough pavement doesn't faze it; nor do highway expansion strips or small potholes.

Final Word

In the face of formidable opposition, the small Audis continue to impress us. They are well-equipped, carefully-assembled cars that combine style, fine road manners, comfort and reasonable--if not exciting--performance in a reasonably priced package. If they're not the best buys in their class, either A4 certainly comes close.