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The Audi A4 is a compact executive car line produced by German automaker Audi (a Volkswagen Group subsidiary) since late 1994, succeeding the Audi 80. It spans five generations built on Volkswagen Group B-platform architectures, offering sedan, Avant estate, and high-performance S4/RS4 variants, with long-wheelbase A4L models tailored for the Chinese market.
Key moments
1994–2001First generation B5 (Typ 8D) launched, debuting quattro all-wheel drive and turbocharged engine options
2000–2006Second generation B6 (Typ 8E/8H) introduced, adding standard ESP and updated powertrains
2005–2008Third generation B7 (Typ 8E/8H) facelifted, with new 2.0 TFSI turbo engine
2008–2015Fourth generation B8 (Typ 8K) released, featuring MLB modular platform and Chinese market A4L long-wheelbase variant
2015–presentFifth generation B9 (Typ 8W) launched, with lightweight construction, virtual cockpit digital instrumentation, and updated driver assist tech
Market Position and Legacy
The Audi A4 is a core model for Audi, competing directly with the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class in the premium compact executive car segment. It has been a sales pillar for the brand globally, especially in China where the long-wheelbase A4L has become a top-selling luxury sedan. The line's balance of everyday practicality, sporty handling, and high-end tech has made it a favorite among both family buyers and driving enthusiasts.
Localization Strategy
Audi's Chinese market adaptation of the A4, the A4L, has been a critical success. By extending the wheelbase to improve rear passenger space, the model has addressed a key consumer preference in China, helping solidify Audi's leading position in the country's luxury car market since the first locally built A4 launched in 2003.
Technological Innovation
Over its generations, the A4 has pioneered several Audi technologies, including the quattro all-wheel drive system, TFSI turbocharged direct-injection engines, dual-clutch transmissions, and the Virtual Cockpit digital dashboard. These features have helped set benchmarks for the premium compact car class.
Overview
Third generation (B7/8E/8H)
aka
SEAT Exeo
production
2004–2009
body style
4-door saloon/sedan,
5-door Avant (estate/wagon),
2-door Cabriolet
The Audi A4 is a line of luxury compact executive cars produced from 1994 to 2025 by the German car manufacturer Audi, a subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group.The A4 has been built in five generations and is based on the Volkswagen Group B platform.The first generation A4 succeeded the Audi 80. The automaker's internal numbering treats the A4 as a continuation of the Audi 80 lineage, with the initial A4 designated as the B5-series, followed by the B6, B7, B8, and the B9.
The B8 and B9 versions of the A4 are built on the Volkswagen Group MLB platform shared with several models and brands across the Volkswagen Group.The Audi A4 automobile layout consists of a front-engine design, with transaxle-type transmissions mounted at the rear of the engine.The cars are front-wheel drive, or on some models, "quattro" all-wheel drive.The A4 is available as a sedan and station wagon.Historically, the second (B6) and third generations (B7) of the A4 also included a convertible version.For the B8 and B9 versions, the convertible, along with a new coupé and 5-door liftback variant, was spun-off by Audi into a new nameplate called the Audi A5.
It has been manufactured in Ingolstadt since its beginning, in ChangchunChina by FAW-VW since 2003 and in AurangabadIndia by Audi India since 2007.[2]The B9 generation A4 and A5 will be replaced by B10 version of A5, as part of Audi's new naming convention.[3]
B5 (Typ 8D; 1994)
The first generation Audi A4 (known internally as the Typ 8D) debuted in October 1994,[6][7] with production starting November 1994 and European sales commencing in January 1995 for the 1995 model year.North American sales later began in September 1995 for the 1996 model year.[8] It was built on the Volkswagen Group B5 (PL45) platform, which it shared with the fourth generation Volkswagen Passat (B5, Typ 3B).It had a front-mountedlongitudinal engine and front-wheel drive.Many variations of the A4 were also available with Audi's quattrofour-wheel drive system.The A4 was initially introduced as a four-door saloon/sedan; the Avant (estate/wagon) was introduced in November 1995 and went on sale in February 1996.
Development began in 1988, with the first design sketches being created later that year. By 1991, an exterior design by Imre Hasanic was chosen and frozen for November 1994 production by 1992. The interior design was later finalized in 1992, with pilot production commencing in the first half of 1994. Development concluded in the third quarter of 1994, preceding November 1994 start of production.
B6 (Typ 8E/8H; 2000)
The next A4, internally designated Typ 8E, debuted on 10 October 2000, now riding on the Volkswagen Group B6 (PL46) platform.The car's new styling was developed under Peter Schreyer between 1996 and 1998, inspired by the Bauhaus design language of the C5 (second-generation) Audi A6 introduced in 1997.The 1.6-litre base model powerplant remained unchanged, but most other petrol/gasoline engines received either displacement increases, or power upgrades.The 1.8-litre 20-valve Turbo was now available in two additional versions, with 150 PS or 180 PS, this one with a standard six-speed manual gearbox, while the naturally aspirated 1.6-litre straight-four engine and 2.8-litre V6 were replaced by 2.0-litre, and all-aluminium alloy 3.0-litre units, still with five valves per cylinder, the most powerful of which was capable of 220 PS and 300 Nm of torque.The 1.9 Turbocharged Direct Injection (TDI) engine was upgraded to 130 PS, with Pumpe Düse (Unit Injector) (PD) technology, and was now available with quattro permanent four-wheel drive, while the 2.5 V6 TDI high-end model was introduced with 180 PS and standard quattro. This generation of quattro consisted of default of 50:50 front to rear dynamic torque distribution. A Bosch ESP 5.7 Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) system, with anti-lock braking system (ABS), brake assist, and electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) were standard across the range.
Audi introduced a heavily facelifted A4 in late 2004, with the internal designation of B7.Although given a new platform designation, the B7 was essentially a heavily facelifted and revised version of the B6, with revised steering settings, suspension geometry, new internal combustion engine ranges, navigation systems and chassis electronics (including a new advanced Bosch ESP 8.0 Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) system).The front grille assembly changed to a tall trapezoidal shape in the same manner as the C6 (third-generation) Audi A6; however, the dashboard and interior were virtually unchanged from the B6 aside from minor detailing.
Audi's internal platform nomenclature uses PL46 (passenger car longitudinal platform, size 4, generation 6) for both B6 and B7 chassis. The Typ 8E and Typ 8H internal designations are also carried over from the B6 A4 range, but now have an additional identifying suffix – 8EC for the saloon, 8ED for the Avant, and 8HE for the Cabriolet.
The engine lineup received many additions. The 2005 introduction of Fuel Stratified Injection (FSI) on the 2.0 TFSI and 3.2 V6 FSI petrol/gasoline engines, as well as other refinements, increased power output to 200 PS and 255 PS, respectively. These engines both use a four-valve per cylinder configuration. The prior 5-valve design was incompatible with the FSI direct injection system (due to the siting of the fuel injector, now discharging directly into the combustion chamber). The 2.0 Turbocharged Direct Injection (TDI) diesel engine now combined Pumpe Düse (Unit Injector) (PD) technology with 16 valves, while the larger 2.5 TDI V6 diesel was superseded by a 3.0 V6 TDI, offering a 204 PS model during the year 2005 which was upgraded to a 233 PS model in 2006.
B8 (Typ 8K; 2007)
Audi released the first official pictures of the B8 series A4 in August 2007 and unveiled the car to the public at the September 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show.Saloon/sedan and Avant (estate/wagon) models are offered.The Avant was unveiled to the public at the March 2008 Geneva Motor Show. For North America's destined models, the B8 continued in production for the 2016 model year, while Europe began deliveries on the 2016 B9 model.
The B8 A4 is built on a variant of the Audi Modular Longitudinal Platform, a platform that is also used in the Audi A5coupé.While prior A4 chassis were limited in wheelbase due to the relationship between the engine, transmission and front axle, the MLP allows for a reduced front overhang, resulting in a greater wheelbase length without the same increase in overall length.[40] This effectively redistributes the centre of gravity slightly rearwards, improving handling by better balancing vehicle mass between the front and rear axles. The estimated static front:rear weight ratio of the B8 A4 is approximately 55:45, depending on body style and engine. The relocation of the steering rack in front of the axle also improves handling over previous A4 platforms. Key to the implementation of MLP is the novel mounting of the differential in front of the clutch. This is achieved by driving the flywheel/clutch remotely by means of a 'top hat' shaped drive plate, between which the differential lay shaft passes, whilst power transmission to the final drive is via an inclined transfer shaft which runs the length of the transmission unit.
B9 (Typ 8W; 2015)
The fifth-generation of the A4 was revealed in June 2015 when pre-production versions were released to the motoring press, with the official launch occurring at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2015.[66] It is commonly referred to as the B9, representing the ninth generation of the Audi 80/A4 series, which were originally (but no longer) based on the B platform. The B9 is slightly larger than the outgoing B8, but Audi claims the new A4 is around 120 kg lighter than its predecessor due to the use of its new lightweight aluminum-hybrid construction. The B9 also comes with several A4 firsts such as virtual cockpit, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, full-color head-up display, and Audi pre-sense.
A common misconception is that the B9 (or 8W) generation started in model year 2017, as that is when the US market got it – however, it was available in European markets beginning in 2015.
Trims
The Audi A4 launched with three petrol and four diesel engines.[67] US models received only the gasoline versions which consisted of the base 2.0L turbo found in the ultra model, the standard 2.0L turbo in the standard grades, and the V6 engines offered in the S4 and RS4 (3.0L and 2.9L respectively). The Ultra introduced Audi's new high efficiency variant of the EA888 that achieves best in class fuel economy through the use of an increased compression ratio engine (9.6:1 to 11.7:1) with shorter compression and longer-expansion phases.
Production
Motorsport
A4 DTM
Audi Sport re-entered the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters (DTM) series in 2004 (after having privateer teams run the Abt SportslineAudi TT-R) with a V8 enginedsilhouette racing car resembling the A4 saloon, known as the Audi A4 DTM.[102] A4 DTM cars are identified by Audi Sport "R"-prefix designations.[103]
Australian Super Touring Championship
Brad Jones won the Australian Super Touring Championship in both 1996 and 1998 driving an A4.
BTCC
Renaming
In March 2023, Audi CEO Markus Duesmann did confirm that the A4 would be renamed the A5, while the A6 would become the A7, with the future A4 and A6 to be sold as electric vehicles only.[104]
A wide range of engines were available in European markets, between 1.6 and 2.8 litres for petrol engines; and a 1.9-litre diesel engine available with Volkswagen Group's VE technology, capable of achieving a 90 PS or 110 PS. The 2.6 and 2.8-litre V6 engines which had been carried over from the old 80/90 proved popular, although in North America, the 2.8-litre engine was the only V6 that was available there until 1997.A 2.4-liter version was developed especially for the Thai market, where import duty jumped from 60 to 100 percent on cars of over 2,400 cc displacement.[13]
The Audi A4 was the first model in the Volkswagen Group to feature the new 1.8-litre 20v engine with five valves per cylinder, based on the unit Audi Sport had developed.A turbocharged 1.8T version produced 150 PS and 210 Nm torque.Moreover, a quattro GmbH special edition of the B5 1.8T was later available in Germany and Europe, for which the engine's power output was raised to 180 PS and 235 Nm. Five-valve technology was also added to a reengineered V6 family of engines in 1997, starting with the 2.8-litre V6 30v, which now produced 193 PS, followed by a 2.4-litre V6 which was a downsize from the previous 2.6 litre, 150 hp engine, but with a power increase to 165 PS.
Audi also debuted their new tiptronic automatic transmission on the B5 platform, based on the unit Porsche developed for their 964-generation 911.The transmission is a conventional automatic gearbox with a torque converter offering the driver a fully-automatic operation or manual selection of the gear ratios.
The B5 marked Audi's continued move into the midsize luxury car segment, having started this trajectory notably with later model years of the preceding Audi 80/90 B4. Despite initial mechanical problems, overall build and assembly quality were lauded both by the automotive press and within Audi and Volkswagen, and at the time, parent company Volkswagen declared the B5 the company-wide build quality benchmark for all its other models.
Facelift (1999–2001)
The Audi A4 B5 saw nearly constant minor changes and alterations throughout its seven-year run. Moreover, a significant facelift was introduced for the 1998 B5 model year at the 1997 Frankfurt Motor Show, with sales beginning in Europe in early 1998.The 2.8-litre 30-valve V6 engine replaced the 2.8-litre 12-valve.A 2.5-litre V6 Turbocharged Direct Injectiondiesel engine with 150 PS was standard on the Quattro.A six-speed manual gearbox was available, as well as the new high-performance Audi S4, now part of the A4 lineup (the previous S4 had been an Audi 100). Cosmetic updates included new rear lights, headlights, door handles, and another minor exterior/interior changes.
In mid-1998, the 1.8 20vT engine available outside Europe had its power output raised to 170 PS. The previous KKK K03 turbocharger, although fundamentally unchanged, received revisions on the turbine side to prevent cracking due to heat. The 12-valve V6 was replaced by the 30-valve unit which had been available in Europe for two years.
A further facelift took place across the A4 and S4 platform in February 1999 as a 1999.5 model; changes were largely cosmetic but affected many components, such as both front and rear bumpers, the front and rear lights, the center console, and door handles.[14] While outer body shell changes from the pre-facelift model were superficially subtle, it meant that no two body panels were directly interchangeable between each other. This facelift was known at Audi as a Grosse Produktaufwertung (Major Product Upgrade), as was also signified by facelift cars now carrying the denomination "8D2".
In 1999 Audi also debuted an even higher performance RennSport model (rennsport translates as racing sport), the RS4 Avant, like its predecessor RS2, available only in the Avant bodystyle.
In the Euro NCAP safety and crash tests, the Audi B5 A4 received 3 stars for front- and side-impact protection, but the last star is flagged to indicate that the driver may be subjected to a high risk of chest injury in the side impact.[17]
Adult occupant =
Pedestrian = (pre 2002 rating)
Derived hybrid version
In 1997, Audi was the first European car manufacturer to put a hybrid vehicle into mass production, the third generation Audi duo, then based on the A4 Avant.[18][19]
For 2002, Audi increased power in the 1.8 Turbo engines to 183 PS and 190 PS – the 190 PS variant designated by a red 'T' on the boot lid. Available with four wheel drive and in the 2.5 TDI intermediate version to 163 PS. A 2.0 engine with Fuel Stratified Injection (FSI) was also available.A year later, Audi reintroduced the S4, now powered by a 344 PS 4.2 L V8 engine, as well as an A4 Cabriolet convertible variant (Typ 8H), finally replacing the 80-based Audi Cabriolet which had been discontinued in 2000. It included an electro-hydraulic operated roof, which lowered in under 30 seconds and incorporated some styling changes, such as body-coloured lower bumper and sill panels, which later found their way to the saloon version. The Audi A4 Cabriolet version was co-developed and manufactured by Karmann.[21]
Audi introduced a continuously variable transmission developed by LuK, named multitronic, which replaced the dated conventional automatic transmission on front-wheel drive models.There have been widespread complaints from consumers around the world that the transmission box is prone to electronic glitches as well as mechanical problems.[22][23]
Borrowing from the Audi A6, the boot was redesigned to remove the extension of the top edge with a smoother fold line.The rear light assemblies now formed part of the top line, these styling cues were eventually borrowed by other European as well as Asian manufacturers.[24]
A sport package named 'Ultra Sport' was introduced in the North American market shortly before the B6 was replaced by the B7. It included aluminium interior trim and door sills, "S line" steering wheel, front and rear spoilers, side skirts, and quattro GmbH designed 18-inch RS4 alloy wheels.
Engines
The following engines were available:
Safety
The Audi A4 (B6 & B7) passed the Euro NCAP safety and crash tests, and was awarded the following car safety ratings:[25]The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded both the B6 & B7 a "Good" rating in the frontal crash test; the B7 was not retested since the front portion is structurally the same.[26]
Adult occupant =
Pedestrian = (pre 2002 rating)
A 2.7 V6 TDI was added later.
Torsen T-2 based quattro permanent four-wheel drive remained as an option on most A4 models. Audi retained the 5 speed manual transmission with the 1.9 TDI and 2.0 non turbo petrol engines while introducing the 6 speed manual for all higher output variants. As before, multitroniccontinuously variable transmission (CVT), now with selectable 'seven-speeds', was an option on front-wheel drive models, whilst a conventional ZF6HP 6-speedtiptronicautomatic transmission was an option on the quattro four-wheel drive models.
In addition to the Audi S4, which carried over the powertrain from the B6 S4 – Audi reintroduced the quattro GmbH developed Audi RS4 (RS for RennSport) to the lineup, for the first time on the saloon/sedan and Cabriolet body, and with a naturally aspirated, but high-revving 4.2-litre V8 FSI engine.Another inclusion on the RS4 was the latest generation Torsen T-3 Quattro 4WD system, which uses a 'default' asymmetric 40:60 front-rear dynamic torque distribution bias. This new asymmetric center differential was initially only available on the RS4 but was added a year later on the S4. The remainder of the B7 A4 range still used the T-2 50:50 default dynamic split center diff.
A variant, developed by quattro GmbH, was first introduced in May 2005, named "Audi A4 DTM Edition".It was inspired by Audi's race cars of the 2004 Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters and was reintroduced in 2006 as a regular option. The 2.0T FSI engine received revised software mapping to the ECU, which increased the output to 220 PS and 300 Nm of torque. It was available with front-wheel drive, or Quattro four-wheel drive.
The B7 Cabriolet model arrived later than the other two body variants, being first shown in late 2005 and with sales beginning in February 2006. New on the Cabriolet was an entry-level 2.0 TDI version, which was not offered with the Multitronic CVT gearbox. The Cabriolet version was produced by Karmann until February 2009.[27]
In 2007 Audi introduced a version of the B7 named the 'Special Edition', which built on the S-Line specification and also included the black optics pack, the RS4 style 8J X 18 '7-arm double-spoke' design alloy wheels, Two-tone Graphite/Black Volterra leather, 3-spoke sports leather/Alcantara multi-function steering wheel with gear knob and hand brake handle in Alcantara with silver stitching, ventilated cross-drilled front disc-brakes, black tailpipes and black roof rails (Avant model only). It also had a power increase of 20 PS, giving an output of 220 PS on the 2.0T model.
According to 2007 Swedish vehicle inspection data, the Audi A4 Avant with diesel engine is the most reliable vehicle available on the market, with vehicle inspection rejection rate of 0.0% in three-year-old category.[28]
SEAT Exeo
When the successor B8 A4 range was introduced, the B7 series A4 was restyled and rebadged as the SEAT Exeo in 2008 with changes to the front and rear plus interior trim from the A4 Cabriolet.The entire Audi B7 A4 production line from Audi's Ingolstadtplant was dismantled and sent to Volkswagen Group's SEAT factory in Martorell, Spain.[29]
Engines
The following engines were available:
Safety
The Audi A4 offered several standard safety features, including Bosch ESP 8.0 Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) with anti-lock braking system (ABS), side airbags in the seats, 'sideguard' curtain airbags, and its optional quattro four-wheel drive system.It also received the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) "Top Safety Pick For 2007".[36][37] EuroNCAP crash test results from the B6 apply to the B7 model.
Whilst the platform retains Audi's "overhung" engine mounting position, the front axle is now 152mm further forward than the previous B6/B7 generation platform.[41] The transfer shaft, however, has the effect of creating a large "bulge" on one side of the transmission tunnel, which on right-hand drive versions forces the pedals to be badly offset, which has attracted criticism from the British motoring press in particular.
The B8 A4 has increased in wheelbase by 160 mm and in length by 117 mm over the prior B7, which has allowed for increased rear seating legroom. Although the overall dimensions have increased, the curb weight has dropped some 10%. The boot (trunk) has also increased to 480 L for the saloon (sedan) version. The A4 Avant will have a maximum capacity of 1430 L with the rear seats folded down.
Reception has been mixed, with praise for the Audi A4's increased size, giving it best-in-class rear legroom and trunk space in the compact executive car segment.[42] Its inline-4 2.0 TFSI engine, while efficient providing plenty of torque, was considered lacking and less refined compared to 6-cylinder engines of lighter rivals who posted faster acceleration times.However, the Audi S4sports sedan has been well-received for its V6 3.0 TFSI engine's power and efficiency.[43][44][45]
The B8 A4 was facelifted in early 2012. During a model, cycle changes are made to integrate new technologies and to keep the model competitive. These changes are referenced based on the model year (MY) of the car. In Australia, the B8 has undergone 2 revisions leading to three variants, the B8, B8 MY10[46] and B8 MY11.
Body types
Saloon / Sedan
Audi released the first official pictures of the B8 series A4 in August 2007 and unveiled the car to the public at the September 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show.Saloon/sedan and Avant (estate/wagon) models are offered.
Avant
The Avant station wagon/estate was presented at the March 2008 Geneva Motor Show.
A4 allroad quattro
The A4 Allroad Quattro is based upon the Avant but features a wider track, increased ground clearance, Quattro permanent four-wheel drive, a distinctive radiator grille, stainless steel underbody guards and roof rails.
The A4 allroad quattro was made available in early summer 2009.[47] The car was unveiled in 2009 Geneva Motor Show.[48]
A4L
The A4L is a long-wheelbase version of the sedan/saloon for the Chinese market, with a 60 mm longer wheelbase and length.[49] The vehicle was presented at the 2008 Guangzhou Motor Show. The production version then went on sale in January 2009. Launch models included a 2.0 TFSI with 132 kW and the 3.2 FSI with 195 kW.[50]
Saloon / Sedan
Audi released the first official pictures of the B8 series A4 in August 2007 and unveiled the car to the public at the September 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show.Saloon/sedan and Avant (estate/wagon) models are offered.
Avant
The Avant station wagon/estate was presented at the March 2008 Geneva Motor Show.
A4 allroad quattro
The A4 Allroad Quattro is based upon the Avant but features a wider track, increased ground clearance, Quattro permanent four-wheel drive, a distinctive radiator grille, stainless steel underbody guards and roof rails.
The A4 allroad quattro was made available in early summer 2009.[47] The car was unveiled in 2009 Geneva Motor Show.[48]
A4L
The A4L is a long-wheelbase version of the sedan/saloon for the Chinese market, with a 60 mm longer wheelbase and length.[49] The vehicle was presented at the 2008 Guangzhou Motor Show. The production version then went on sale in January 2009. Launch models included a 2.0 TFSI with 132 kW and the 3.2 FSI with 195 kW.[50]
Specifications
Body styles
The A4-based convertible models were replaced by the A5/S5 Cabriolet.
Body styles
The A4-based convertible models were replaced by the A5/S5 Cabriolet.
Engines
The B8 powertrain options are the following: engines, transmissions and drivelines:[51] (All United Kingdom specification unless stated otherwise).[52] (for South Africa specification).[53] (for Australia specification).[54] (for New Zealand specification).
The quattro permanent four-wheel drive system uses the latest Torsen T-3 centre differential, with a default 40:60 front to rear asymmetric torque distribution ratio (used first on the B7 RS4) as standard. (Previous A4 Quattro models split torque with a default front:rear 50:50). The additional torque bias applied to the rear wheels helps mimic the driving dynamics of rear-wheel drive cars.
Audi was reported to stop offering 3.2L V6 models in 2010 model year,[55]
Transmissions
In 2009, Audi announced the seven-speed S-Tronicdual-clutch automatic transmission as an option for A4 in the UK and European markets.[57]
All A4L models include Speed 8 multitroniccontinuously variable/manual transmission, except for A4L 3.2 FSI quattro, which includes Tiptronic automatic transmission.
Volkswagen settled a class-action lawsuit in 2013 involving the failures of the CVT transmission in its Audi A4 and A6 automobiles for model years 2002–2006.[58]
Performance
Equipment
Standard equipment on the B8 A4 includes:
Options:
LEDdaytime running lights (on some models);
MMI system (Multi Media Interface) (multi-mode interface of driver information and entertainment systems); (3rd generation MMI expected in vehicles produced from week 22 of 2009). Standard system (Audi Concert/Symphony models) does not include navigation or Bluetooth connectivity (or Bluetooth audio streaming - applicable to 2012 facelift onwards, B8.5 models)
Electronic hand brake
Speed sensitive power steering ('servotronic' – on some models)
Audi Lane Assist (lane departure warning system);
Audi Side Assist (blind spot monitor);
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC);
Equipment
Standard equipment on the B8 A4 includes:
Options:
LEDdaytime running lights (on some models);
MMI system (Multi Media Interface) (multi-mode interface of driver information and entertainment systems); (3rd generation MMI expected in vehicles produced from week 22 of 2009). Standard system (Audi Concert/Symphony models) does not include navigation or Bluetooth connectivity (or Bluetooth audio streaming - applicable to 2012 facelift onwards, B8.5 models)
Electronic hand brake
Speed sensitive power steering ('servotronic' – on some models)
It includes a common rail 1968 cc TDI diesel engine rated at 120 PS and 290 Nm, a stop-start system and regenerative braking.It can achieve a fuel consumption of 3.99L/100 km (58.95 mpg[62]) and CO2 output of 105 g/km. It can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 10.7 seconds, with a top speed of 206 km/h.
Other features include electric motor-based power steering, revised aerodynamics, low-rolling-resistance 225/45R17 tires, and electric actuation of the rear brakes.
The facelift model of the Audi A4 was released in 2012 for the 2013 model year. It features redesigned LED headlamps and taillights, front air dam with fog lamps, and closely set twin exhausts. Interior changes include Bluetooth connectivity for audio streaming (nav equipped models only) and a redesigned ignition key. Controls for air-conditioning, infotainment, and power windows gain chrome clasps. Other detail interior changes include larger steering column stalk switches first seen in the D4-series Audi A8 and a simplified layout for the HVAC control panel – for example the temperature setting for the heated seats is now directly set by a single button and is no longer controlled using the MMI dial. The A4 includes a radio with eight speakers as standard, while the MMI navigation system with voice dialogue is optional. A new "Drive Select System" allows drivers to choose comfort, dynamic, individual, or efficiency modes for fuel-efficiency. The power output of the 1.8 TFSI engine is 170 bhp and 320 Nm of torque – up 10 bhp and 70 Nm from the previous versions. Electromechanical power steering is standard.
In Europe, the wide range of Audi A4 saloon and Avant estate are available with the 1.8 TFSI, 2.0 TFSI, and 3.0 TFSI gasoline engines (same 7-speed S tronic and 3.0 TFSI supercharged V6 as the Audi S4 but detuned to 272 bhp and 292 lb ft of torque in the A4 3.0 TFSI) Twin Test: BMW 335i Vs Audi A4 3.0 TFSI…, as well as 2.0 TDI, 2.0 TDIe, and 3.0 TDI diesel motors. Trim levels are Attraction, Ambition, and Ambiente. In the UK, the A4 range is offered in SE, SE Technik, Technik, S line, and Black Edition model grades. All-wheel-drive Quattro is offered in most engine and grade combinations.
For North America, the facelift model Audi A4 sedan is only offered with a 2.0 TFSI turbocharged inline-4 gasoline engine, while the performance upgrade remains the Audi S4 with a 3.0 TFSI supercharged V6 gasoline engine, and no diesel engines were offered. Model grades are Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige.
It sends this power through a 7-Speed dual-clutch powering the front wheels only.
This allows the A4 to achieve an EPA rating of 27 city/37 highway/31 combined.[68] This variant was only offered until 2020 at which point it was rebranded to the 40 TFSI.
Performance figures are shown under the engine variants below.
Available model grades are Premium, Premium Plus, Ultra Premium, Ultra Premium Plus and Prestige. Ultra models featured improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, and were only available in the FWD configuration. Every other model was available in either FWD or Quattro. The S Line and Black Optic packages were also made available. The S Line package uses skirts, bumpers, seats and wheels from the Audi S4, and adds an aluminum inlay to the interior consoles. The Black Optic package, or Black Edition, also uses the S4's body kit, but replaces the exterior's chrome trim with black counterparts.
A slight facelift was introduced in 2019, featuring new front and rear bumpers inspired by the Audi RS 4. Additionally, the Titanium model grade was introduced to replace the Ultra Premium and Ultra Premium Plus models.
US Launch Editions and Prices
US Launch Editions and Prices
Facelift (2020–2025)
The facelift model, also known as the B9.5, was made available in 2020. It brought the A4's aesthetic in line with the S4, A6, A7 and A8. In addition to redesigned headlights and taillights, almost every body panel on the A4 was altered, with only the hood, trunk and roof remaining untouched. Notably, the character line that ran the length of the A4 was removed, with creases added to the front and rear fenders in its place. While the interior was largely untouched, the mechanical controls for the infotainment center were replaced with a touchscreen and larger display. Following the facelift, the A4 and S4 now share their body panels, with their grilles and badges being the only external distinctions between the models.
Post-facelift, the Titanium model was removed from production, leaving only the Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige model grades. Additionally, US delivered Post-facelift A4's are only available in the Quattro configuration. Whereas front wheel drive continued to be available for the rest of the world. Noting that the B9.5 introduced Quattro-Ultra technology, a system which can disconnect the all wheel drive to save fuel during specific driving conditions, thus negating the disadvantage of Quattro's additional fuel consumption. The Black Optic and S Line packages also return for select models. The Black Optic package can be equipped on any Premium Plus or Prestige Model, while the S Line model can be applied to any Premium Plus or Prestige Model with a 45 TFSI engine. The S Line package makes no changes to the exterior beyond its badging, as the A4 and S4 now share their body kits. It instead provides an aluminum inlay for the interior, improved seats, and stainless steel pedals.
In addition to the above packages, Audi also manufactures aftermarket accessories for the A4, including decals, spoilers, mirror caps and tail pipes.
Audi A4 2025 (Final Year)
The 2025 model year marks the final production year for the Audi A4 nameplate after nearly three decades in the market, with the model being discontinued and replaced by the redesigned Audi A5 as part of the company's restructured naming convention.[71][72] Under Audi's new nomenclature system, odd-numbered models designate internal combustion engine vehicles while even-numbered models are reserved for electric vehicles.[73] For 2025, Audi streamlined the A4 lineup by eliminating the 40 TFSI trim level, leaving only the 45 TFSI variant with a 261-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a 12-volt mild hybrid system.[74]
Updates for the final model year include remote engine start via the myAudi app as standard equipment across all trims, and HomeLink smart home control buttons relocated to the rearview mirror.[75] The Premium Plus trim received Audi's Navigation Plus package as standard equipment, while the Convenience package for the Premium trim added rear USB charge ports.A new S Line Plus package became available for Premium Plus and Prestige trims, featuring black exterior trim, dark exhaust tips, 19-inch wheels, red brake calipers, leather-and-faux-suede seats, carbon fiber interior trim, and stainless-steel pedal caps.[76]
All 2025 A4 models come standard with Audi's quattro all-wheel drive system and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The infotainment system features a 10.1-inch touchscreen, with the Premium Plus trim offering an upgraded Bang & Olufsen audio system with 19 speakers and Audi's Virtual Cockpit digital gauge display. Three trim levels are offered: Premium S line starting at $44,100, Premium Plus S line at $48,600, and Prestige S line at $51,300. The A4 allroad wagon variant continues for 2025 with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 261-horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, featuring standard adaptive damping suspension and Audi drive select system.
Engines
Seven engines are available from launch, three petrol, and four diesel.[66] All are available in both the A4 Saloon and A4 Avant. The figures below are for the saloon only.
Safety
ANCAP
IIHS
The 2017 Audi A4 earned Good ratings across the board for Crashworthiness and Seat belts & child restraints. For Crash avoidance & mitigation it earned a Marginal to Acceptable for headlights depending on trim as well as Goods across the board for Front crash prevention vehicle-to-vehicle. These ratings apply to the full B9 A4 line and the mechanically similar A5 Sportback.[77]
EURO NCAP
The Audi A4 released to Europe in 2015 for the 2016 model year. It earned a 5-Star Rating for all A4s, A5 Coupes, and A5 Sportbacks. These ratings were valid through January 2022 at which point they expire.[78]
ANCAP
IIHS
The 2017 Audi A4 earned Good ratings across the board for Crashworthiness and Seat belts & child restraints. For Crash avoidance & mitigation it earned a Marginal to Acceptable for headlights depending on trim as well as Goods across the board for Front crash prevention vehicle-to-vehicle. These ratings apply to the full B9 A4 line and the mechanically similar A5 Sportback.[77]
EURO NCAP
The Audi A4 released to Europe in 2015 for the 2016 model year. It earned a 5-Star Rating for all A4s, A5 Coupes, and A5 Sportbacks. These ratings were valid through January 2022 at which point they expire.[78]
30.TFSI combines turbocharger and FSI. The badge simply states 2.0 T though.^
31.In 2005 only available as DTM Edition. From summer 2006 on available for all saloon and Avant.^
32.There were two different versions – one had an 8 valve cylinder head the other had 16 valves. They had the same power and torque output and performed equally. Customers could not choose directly between those two engines. They got the 8-valve version when they ordered the DPF otherwise they got the 16-valve version (BRE engine code). In many countries the DPF became standard equipment for all B7 diesel engines from model year 2006 on and the 8-valve engine was no more.^
33.Only available for model year 2005. No DPF available for this engine. In 2006 replaced by the 2.7 V6 TDI engine.^
34.Only available for model year 2005. In 2006 replaced by a stronger version of the same engine.^
51.Audi.co.uk [http://www.audi.co.uk/etc/medialib/cms4imp/audi2/uk/Products/a4/pdf.Par.0045.File.pdf The new Audi A4, A4 allroad and S4 range, Pricing and Specification Guide, Valid from April 2009, Edition 6.1. 04/09]^
but still offers them as of August 2011 (Germany).
All petrol engines use Fuel Stratified Injection (FSI), and all diesel engines use the common rail fuel delivery (with a pressure of 1600 bar), with piezoinjectors of their Turbocharged Direct Injection engines.
With the 2012 facelift (the B8.5) came additional 163ps TDIe and TDI Ultra engines, the latter requiring the addition of adblue allowing for cleaner running, both of which fell into the lower emissions tax bracket for the UK, yet presenting a significant performance improvement over the base 136ps and mid-range 143ps models.[56]
Transmissions
In 2009, Audi announced the seven-speed S-Tronicdual-clutch automatic transmission as an option for A4 in the UK and European markets.[57]
All A4L models include Speed 8 multitroniccontinuously variable/manual transmission, except for A4L 3.2 FSI quattro, which includes Tiptronic automatic transmission.
Volkswagen settled a class-action lawsuit in 2013 involving the failures of the CVT transmission in its Audi A4 and A6 automobiles for model years 2002–2006.[58]
