2016 Audi A4 Buyer's Guide

The current iteration of the Audi A4 has been on the market since 2009. Once positioned as Audi’s entry-level model in the United States, the four-door 2016 Audi A4 sedan now has a smaller sibling and thus can move further upmarket. For the 2016 model year, Audi has seen fit to only mildly tweak what is an already successful formula, so changes to the car are minor. Premium A4 models get a new three-spoke steering wheel, the navigation system gets Audi Connect, an upgraded sound system is offered, and 19-inch wheels have been added as an option with the S-Line Competition Plus package. This is fine though, as the A4 continues to offer a nice blend of performance and luxury in a decidedly Germanic package.

What's the difference between trims?

• 17-inch wheels
• HID headlights
• Sunroof
• Tri-zone automatic climate control

What makes it move?

For the 2016 model year, Audi is sending one engine over here to power the A4. This is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 220 horsepower and 258 ft-lbs of torque. A continuously variable transmission is coupled with front-wheel drive as the standard powertrain configuration. It’s an Audi though, so the Quattro all-wheel drive is also available. This can be had with either a six-speed manual transmission, or an eight-speed automatic. Offering more than adequate power with strong fuel economy, it’s quite competitive in its category.

Why buy the 2016 Audi A4?

The 2016 Audi A4 will surprise you with its roominess, particularly if you’re judging the model based upon its exterior dimensions. You’ll enjoy punchy performance from the engine, and if it’s not enough, there’s always the 333-horsepower supercharged V6-powered S4. Either way, the subdued sophistication of the Audi A4 makes it a very attractive proposition. What’s more, available safety features include a rearview camera, blind spot monitoring, front and rear parking sensor arrays, and collision mitigation. So, in addition to being good-looking, fun to drive, and comfortable, Audi’s A4 offers cutting-edge safety tech. In sum, the 2016 Audi A4’s understated good looks, outstanding interior treatment, more than adequate performance, and outstanding safety make it one of the most desirable of the premium models on offer.