2017–2026 Audi A4
2.0L Turbo I4
What Scouts Say
Critics Consensus
The Audi A4 gets the fundamentals right with a blend of performance, comfort, and technology, making it an appealing choice for drivers seeking a balanced and understated sport compact sedan.
Expert Reviews (9)
The Audi A4 gets the fundamentals right with a blend of performance, comfort, and technology, making it an appealing choice for drivers seeking a balanced and understated sport compact sedan.
Pros
- ✓Potent turbo four-cylinder powertrain
- ✓Intuitive technology features
- ✓Optimal balance of performance and comfort
Cons
- ⚠No manual transmission offered
- ⚠Less exciting than some rivals
- ⚠Subdued styling
Good but not exceptional sums up this generation of the A4. The top model boasts impressive power and sharp reflexes, delivering quick acceleration, strong brakes, and excellent turn-in, while every A4 offers good highway manners and body control.
Pros
- ✓Impressive power and sharp reflexes in the top S4 model
- ✓Good highway manners and body control across all models
- ✓High-end exterior design and good build quality in the cabin
Cons
- ⚠Ride can be stiff in models without adaptive suspension
- ⚠Infotainment interface can be glitchy
- ⚠Tech updates are incremental and not groundbreaking
Audi A4 fans are going to love it, that’s for certain. If you’re looking for a luxury sedan that’s great to drive and offers class-leading technology, the 2017 Audi A4 is a strong contender.
Pros
- ✓Great driving experience
- ✓Class-leading technology
- ✓Attractive luxury sedan design
Cons
- ⚠Limited cargo volume at 13 cu ft
- ⚠Fuel economy is average at 27-31 combined mpg
- ⚠Horsepower range might be modest for some at 190-252 hp
The A4 looks sharp on the outside and has one of the highest quality interiors in the executive car class. The BMW 3 Series is a slightly better all-rounder and offers keen drivers greater thrills behind the wheel, but the A4 is more comfortable if you stick with our favourite Technik trim. The 35 TDI diesel that we also recommend in the A4 is quick, smooth and economical.
Pros
- ✓Class-leading interior quality
- ✓Smooth engines
- ✓Well-equipped
Cons
- ⚠Entry-level engines are a touch weedy
- ⚠A BMW 3 Series is more fun to drive
- ⚠Limited option availability
The A4’s done enough to remain among the very best in class here, if not jumping unequivocally to the top of it. It’s therefore extremely easy for us to recommend the A4 family, though our money would still go on a 3 Series as an all-rounder, or the beguiling Volvo S60 as the likeable alternative choice.
Pros
- ✓Peaceful and well-built
- ✓Strong mix of engines
- ✓Immensely well-conceived package
Cons
- ⚠New touchscreen trickier to use than old clickwheel
- ⚠Styling may be divisive
- ⚠Not the most memorable car in its class
The new S5 didn't disappoint, offering a comfortable yet poised ride with its adaptive sport suspension and a significant performance boost from the turbocharged V-6. It strikes a fine balance between everyday usability and sporty character, making it a compelling choice in the 'not quite' sport-sedan segment.
Pros
- ✓Adaptive S sport suspension provides a comfortable and engaging ride
- ✓Powerful and responsive turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 engine with 362 hp and 406 lb-ft torque
- ✓Improved steering feel with hard-mounted rack and stiffened torsion bar
Cons
- ⚠Steering feedback remains somewhat muted on road texture
- ⚠Lacks hybrid assistance found in European-spec model
- ⚠Not as track-focused as Audi’s top RS performance models
Audi upgraded the 2017 A4 with advanced driver-assistance systems and cutting-edge technology, making it a smart and safe choice. The car delivers strong power and refined handling, with a turbocharged engine that offers a satisfying growl and quick acceleration. While the dual-clutch transmission can be a bit jerky at low speeds, overall the A4 balances performance, technology, and safety impressively.
Pros
- ✓Comprehensive suite of 21 driver-assistance systems enhancing safety
- ✓Powerful 252 hp turbocharged engine with strong torque and quick acceleration
- ✓Advanced technology features including a 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit and smartphone integration
Cons
- ⚠Dual-clutch transmission exhibits occasional lurchiness at low speeds
- ⚠No available six-cylinder engine option unlike competitors
- ⚠Sport suspension options may be too firm for some drivers
The 2026 Audi RS3 Sedan feels like it belongs in another league entirely, with its unique five-cylinder engine and refined handling that replaces understeer with graceful oversteer. While it’s not the cheapest in its class, it offers fair value for hyper performance and a sporty, well-appointed interior.
Pros
- ✓Unique 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine delivering strong power and torque
- ✓Refined torque splitter and brake torque vectoring improve handling and responsiveness
- ✓Sporty and modern interior with distinctive RS styling and updated steering wheel
Cons
- ⚠RS3 badge removed from the grille, disappointing for enthusiasts
- ⚠Interior has some shortcomings despite sporty accents
- ⚠Price is high, though still below some rivals like the Mercedes-AMG A45 S
The Audi A4 45 TFSI quattro S line is a good-looking sports sedan that offers a capable all-round driving experience with confident grip from its quattro all-wheel drive and a punchy turbocharged engine, all at a price point below the V6-powered S4.
Pros
- ✓Exhilarating driving experience with quattro all-wheel drive
- ✓Attractive design with a sleek, low-slung profile
- ✓Spacious interior for passengers despite compact length
Cons
- ⚠Lacks some advanced standard safety features like adaptive cruise control and active lane assist
- ⚠Commands a sizeable premium over the less powerful front-wheel drive A4 35 TFSI S line
- ⚠Not prominently featured on Audi Australia's official website, overshadowed by SUVs
Known Issues (5)
Note: Data from NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and verified owner reports.
High Pressure Fuel Pump Failure
HPFP failure can cause fuel starvation and engine misfires. Requires replacement of the pump.
Alternator Failure
Alternator failure leads to battery drain and loss of electrical power. Requires alternator replacement.
Water Pump Leak
Plastic water pump housings are prone to cracking and leaking, leading to coolant loss and overheating. Requires water pump replacement.
Control Arm Bushing Wear
Worn control arm bushings cause clunking noises and poor handling. Requires replacement of control arms or bushings.
Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
Premature wear of timing chain tensioners can lead to catastrophic engine damage. Requires engine disassembly for replacement.
Find Your A4
Browse available listings on CarGurus
View Listings →Find the best deals from trusted dealers nationwide