2009 Audi A4

Both engines are available with a new Tiptronic six-speed automatic transmission with terrific steering-wheel paddle shifters, and the available V-6 comes standard with Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive. This outstanding rear-biased AWD system splits the engine’s drive torque 40 percent front and 60 percent rear under normal conditions. The TSFI 4-cylinder-powered Avant offers standard Tiptronic six-speed automatic and quattro AWD.

Dynamics

We drove new A4s on a variety of roads north of San Francisco then test-flogged a V-6/quattro sedan for multiple merciless laps around the snaky Infineon Raceway road course near Sonoma, CA. We found them more than capable of competing with acknowledged Euro-sport sedan leader BMW’s 3 Series in steering, braking and ride/handling balance. And while the standard A4 is front-wheel drive vs. the BMW’s more track-capable rear-wheel drive, Audi’s available quattro get the enthusiast driver’s aggressive handling mission done at least as well.


One notable improvement over previous A4s is that the (front) differential has swapped positions with the clutch or torque converter, which moves it and its drive axles more than six inches forward to achieve near-perfect front/rear weight balance. Also, the all-new, mostly aluminum front and rear suspensions, steering, brakes and wheels are exceptionally light.

Features

Two innovative new technologies can further enhance the A4 driving experience. An industry benchmark Audi Drive Select control system allows the driver to adjust engine, automatic transmission, steering and adaptive damping characteristics to his or her preferences, and Audi Dynamic Steering varies the effective steering ratio according to road speed. Close to the handling limits, acting in concert with the ESP, it uses slight and very rapid steering adjustments to blend serious driving fun with a high level of stability and safety.


The A4 also offers luxury car-like levels of multimedia communication and entertainment technologies, including a variety of audio and navigation systems, an iPod interface and wireless Bluetooth phone capability. Other available systems can control distance from the car in front (active cruise control), help the driver stay within the chosen lane or change lanes more safely (Audi Side Assist) and provide added rear-vision parking assist (Audi Parking System).


Anyone in the market for a premium midsize sport sedan or wagon should add these new Audi A4s to his or her shopping and test-driving lists. Audis just keep getting (and looking) better and, in the process, making competition tougher for the better-known European, Japanese and domestic luxury marques. (www.audiusa.com)

About the Author
Former automotive engineer Gary Witzenburg has been writing about the auto industry, its people and its products for major magazines, newspapers and web sites for more than 20 years.