Audi A4

The A4 is a compact luxury sedan that seats up to five passengers. In Audi’s lineup, it’s positioned between the smaller A3 and the midsize A6 sedans. The automaker also sells a high-performance variant called the S4 as well as a wagon called the A4 Allroad; both are reviewed separately. The A4’s most recent (fifth) generation, dubbed B9, debuted in 2017, featuring a lighter chassis, more powerful engines, and more advanced tech and safety features. It was refreshed in 2020 with some exterior styling changes and additional standard equipment.

The A4 is available in a range of trims, including the Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige. The Premium is the entry-level offering but still comes with ample standard features, which typically include a sunroof and heated leather seats. Stepping up to the Premium Plus adds items such as a larger infotainment display and some advanced safety features, while the top-tier Prestige further enhances the luxury experience with features such as a head-up display and a surround-view camera.

With the introduction of the B9 generation in 2017, Audi revised the A4’s standard 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine to produce 252 horsepower (up from 220 hp). It pairs with either a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission or a six-speed manual, the latter available only on versions equipped with available all-wheel drive (AWD). A more fuel-efficient variant of that engine also debuted in 2017; called the A4 Ultra, it produces 190 hp and mates exclusively to the seven-speed automatic with front-wheel drive (FWD). As a part of the model’s 2020 refresh, the engine lineup was revised again, offering the choice between a 188-hp four-cylinder (called the 40 TFSI) for FWD models and a 248-hp version (called the 45 TFSI) for those with AWD. In addition, the available six-speed manual was dropped, making the seven-speed the only offering. In 2021, Audi introduced a mild hybrid system, bumping output to 201 hp for the 40 TFSI and 261 hp for the 45 TFSI; additionally, AWD became standard equipment.

In 2017, Audi upgraded the A4’s standard infotainment display from a 6.5-inch to a 7-inch display, with an 8.3-inch unit available on higher trims. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration also became a standard feature that year. With its 2020 model refresh, the A4’s system was again revised to a standard 10.1-inch touchscreen. The A4’s safety features have seen similar improvements, with a notable 2017 update adding a rearview camera and forward collision mitigation as standard equipment and offering adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist as options.

We recommend 2017 and newer Audi A4 examples for their updated styling, improved powertrains, and additional tech and safety features. With that range, the Premium Plus trim is an excellent choice for most buyers, as it provides a balance of luxury and technology features without the added cost of the Prestige trim.