Despite changing little for 1996, Audi's V6 felt like a new engine when installed in the A4--smoother, quieter, and a lot more responsive. Although it's not the most potent V6 in the "near-luxury" league, it feels energetic most of the time and gets the job done nicely. Performance with the more potent dual-cam V6, installed in 1997, isn't dramatically better. Gear changes with the new 5-speed automatic transmission are so smooth that they virtually set new standards for the entire industry. Downshifts occur promptly for passing, too. Tiptronic on the 1998 and beyond models makes an already-smooth transmission even better. Best bet for the turbocharged model is manual shift, though acceleration is adequate with automatic. With either engine, the manual gearbox is easy to operate. As for economy, an A4 1.8T Quattro yielded nearly 24 mpg on a long highway trip. On the downside, the turbo engine growls at higher speeds. Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system works without any driver input to provide excellent traction in slippery conditions. Still, front-drive models offer better gas mileage and have sufficient traction for most drivers. Road noise is generally pleasing in the A4, in contrast to the old 90. However, the car's aggressive high-performance tires generate considerable sound on rough pavement. Riding smoothly on rough roads, the A4's suspension easily soaks up dips and bumps. Body lean is well-controlled in hard cornering, with good tire grip and stable handling. An optional Sport Package, with a firmer suspension and higher-performance tires, sacrifices ride comfort for a small extra measure of cornering grip and handling agility. As for negative aspects, there are mainly two: over-assisted, somewhat numb power steering, and brakes that seem touchy at first. Passenger space is generally good, with plenty of room for large occupants up front. But tall people still don't have an abundance of leg room in back. Furthermore, head room all around is only adequate with the optional sunroof installed. Gauges and most controls are easy to see and intuitive to use, with the exception of the climate-control panel, which is too small and low for easy reading. Cargo space is good, but not great. Detail finish is superior inside and out. Interior materials are also mostly excellent.

Value for the Money
Audi's A4 has sufficient merits to withstand comparison with the BMW 3-Series, Lexus ES 300, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, putting it in good company at the low end of the premium sedan market. As for build quality, there's no more solid small sedan on the market than an A4.