2003 Audi A4: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Addition of a convertible keynotes 2003 for Audi's best-selling line. A4 comes in sedan, Avant wagon, and new Cabriolet convertible body styles. The 1.8T versions use a turbo 4-cyl engine, the 3.0 versions a V6. Sedans and convertibles come with front-wheel drive. Standard on Avants and available for sedans is Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive system. Manual transmission or a conventional 5-speed automatic are offered with quattro. A continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) is standard on convertibles and front-wheel-drive 3.0 sedans and is available on the front-drive 1.8T sedan. The CVT provides variable drive ratios, plus six preset "gears" selected from a shift gate or steering-wheel buttons. Cabriolets have a power folding top with heated glass rear window. Every A4 includes antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, antiskid system, and front side airbags. Sedans and wagons come with head-protecting curtain side airbags and offer optional rear torso side airbags. Convertibles have front side airbags that provide head and torso protection, plus rear support bars that pop up automatically to protect occupants in a rollover.

A navigation system is optional for V6 models. Available on all A4s is OnStar assistance with extra-cost in-car e-mail service. An optional Sport package bundles firmer suspension with performance tires on 17-inch wheels. Among new options for '03 are a power driver seat for 1.8Ts and steering-wheel audio/climate controls for 3.0s. Leather seat inserts become standard for 3.0 models, optional for 1.8Ts. Full leather is available for V6 models.

COMPETITION

This hotly contested segment has its benchmark in the Lexus ES 300. It blends comfort, style, luxury, and sport into an efficient package at an affordable price. ES 300 manages to offer a little more luxury than others in the class.

We Recommend the Acura TL, Audi A4, and new Infiniti G35. All offer comfort, speed, and nimble handling at attractive prices. The sporty and Euro-flavored BMW 3-Series is Recommended as a rear-drive alternative. The "3" has enough bodystyles and engine choices to suit anyone. At the other end of the near-luxury spectrum is the posh and comfortable Buick Park Avenue--an old-school luxo-cruiser from Detroit.