The 2024 Audi A4 is a premium sedan that exudes confidence and style. While it may not have the flashy exterior of some competitors, it makes up for it with its dynamic performance and well-appointed interior. With turbocharged four-cylinder engines, standard all-wheel drive, and taut suspension tuning, the A4 delivers balanced handling and excellent grip in all weather conditions.
In terms of design, the A4 embraces a strong-silent-type aesthetic both inside and out. The interior is carefully assembled with premium materials and attention to detail, but some may find it lacking in playful style. Similarly, the exterior styling is somewhat staid compared to competitors like the Alfa Romeo Giulia and Genesis G70. However, the A4 stands out with its quietly expressed quality, a rare attribute in today’s market.
For the 2024 model year, the A4 receives several updates. The standard equipment roster now includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, parking assist, and a heated steering wheel. Additionally, all models except for the base A4 40 now have remote engine start functionality via the myAudi app. The Navigation package also adds traffic sign recognition, which activates Predictive adaptive cruise control. In terms of style, Arkona White replaces Ibis White across the A4 lineup, and Progressive Red metallic replaces Tango Red metallic on the A4 45 and S4 models.
When it comes to pricing and choosing the right trim level, the mid-range Premium Plus trim is a sensible choice. It includes 18-inch wheels, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, a top view camera system, a reconfigurable digital gauge display, a wireless charging pad, memory settings for the driver’s seat, blind-spot monitoring, and remote engine start functionality via the myAudi app. Opting for the more powerful 45 powertrain is recommended, as it provides an additional 60 horsepower compared to the 40 and is only a $1600 upgrade.
Under the hood, the A4 is available in two strengths: 40 and 45. Both models are powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with a 12-volt hybrid system and all-wheel drive. The 40 produces 201 horsepower, while the 45 increases the output to 261 horsepower. A seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission is the only option available. In performance testing, the A4 45 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.8 seconds, showcasing its impressive power and quick-shifting transmission. The A4 also offers precise steering, well-controlled body motions, and strong roadholding, making it a sharp handler.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the A4 40 is EPA-rated for 26 mpg city and 35 mpg highway, which is a slight improvement over the previous model year. The official fuel economy numbers for the A4 45 are not yet available, but they are expected to be similar to or within 1 mpg of the A4 40. In real-world testing, the A4 45 achieved a solid 33 mpg on a 75-mph highway fuel-economy route.
Inside the cabin, the A4 features a contemporary design with sharp technology and high-quality materials. Most controls and switches are intuitively placed for easy access, and they provide a satisfying tactile feel. Despite its relatively compact footprint, the A4 offers spacious rear seating with 35.7 inches of legroom. A standard sunroof contributes to the airy feeling of the interior. While storage bins and cubbies are on the smaller side, the trunk provides 12 cubic feet of cargo space, which is average for its class. The rear seats also fold in a useful 40/20/40 split, allowing for easy accommodation of longer items.
The A4’s infotainment system consists of a 10.1-inch touchscreen with excellent image quality. For the 2024 model year, all A4 45 models now have remote start functionality via the myAudi app. Premium Plus trim levels and above come with an available Navigation package that includes traffic sign recognition integrated into the adaptive cruise control. Standard features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, two USB ports, voice command, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Optional features include in-car Wi-Fi and a powerful Bang & Olufsen audio system with 19 speakers. The optional Virtual Cockpit, a digital gauge display, is highly recommended.
In terms of safety, Audi has significantly increased the A4’s standard safety content and driver-assistance features for 2024. Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and parking assist are now standard across all trim levels. These additions enhance the A4’s value and provide an extra layer of safety. The A4 has not yet been tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). However, key safety features include standard adaptive cruise control, automated emergency braking with forward-collision warning, and lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist.
Audi’s warranty coverage for the A4 is average among luxury brands. It includes a four-year or 50,000-mile limited warranty and a four-year or 50,000-mile powertrain warranty. However, Audi does not offer complimentary scheduled maintenance coverage like BMW.
In conclusion, the 2024 Audi A4 is a premium sedan that may not have the flashiest exterior or interior design, but it makes up for it with its confident performance and well-appointed cabin. With its turbocharged engines, all-wheel drive, and balanced handling, the A4 offers a fun driving experience. The inclusion of new standard features and safety enhancements for the 2024 model year further improve its value. Overall, the A4 delivers a unique blend of quietly expressed quality and premium attributes that set it apart in the luxury sedan market.
