Some new cosmetics for Audi’s A4
Some impressive cosmetic changes for latest Audi
The 2013 Audi A4 has undergone a mid-cycle update. Introduced as a full model redesign in 2009 and contending with a new BMW 3-Series, it was clearly time. Roughly one in every four Audis sold in Canada is an A4 sedan; so, the stakes are high.
The revised 2013 model retains last year’s platform and running gear with some cosmetic and trim-package changes, including the latest adaptive bi-xenon headlamps. Solid frame LED lights replaced the individual pearl-like strings on the outgoing model. This lighting package is optional on the frontwheel-drive models.
A new hexagonal-shaped grille, reworked valance and rectangular fog lights immediately differentiates the new A4 from the earlier design. Rear lights have been tweaked to incorporate LED lights bars.
A slew of new exterior colours is also available and they correspond with new interior trim materials and colours.
The test vehicle was a Quattro 2.0T Premium Plus model with S-Line trim and the eight-speed automatic Tiptronic transmission. A six-speed manual is standard on the Quattro models; the front-drive model gets an eightspeed CVT transmission.
The turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 211 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Turbo lag is all but eliminated and maximum torque is available at as low as 1,500 r.p.m., which means the A4 gets to 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds.
Road and wind noise proved to be minimal, even at highway speeds. Sadly missing, however, were most of the lusty engine noises that one might expect from a sport sedan.
Although blessed with balanced handling, road manners can be adjusted with the Audi drive-select system — part of the S-Line package. The system allows the driver to choose between Dynamic or Comfort settings for the vehicle’s steering, suspension, transmission and throttle. An automatic feature picks the mode best suited to the driving situation. The individual setting seemed to work the best. Dynamic throttle always wins out over economy. Dynamic steering tightened up the otherwise light, over-boosted feel of the electromechanical steering.
The suspension in Dynamic mode proved too firm with the S-Line’s 19-inch wheels causing it to flitter across rough pavement. Comfort mode soaked up the bumps yet provided enough athleticism to enjoy twisty roads.
The cabin reflects Audi’s excellence at interior design.
During the test, I managed a combined fuel economy rating of 10.5 litres per 100 kilometres.
The 2013 front-wheel-drive A4 starts at $37,800 and the Quattro models start at $39,700.
The Premium Plus model’s base price is $47,400.