2005 Audi A4: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Audi's best-selling line gets only minor changes for 2005. The A4 comes in sedan, Avant wagon, and Cabriolet convertible body styles. The 1.8 T versions use a turbo 4-cyl engine, the 3.0 models a V6. Sedans and convertibles offer front-wheel drive or Audi's quattro all-wheel drive; all Avants have quattro. Three transmissions are available. Quattros use a 6-speed manual or a conventional 5-speed automatic. Convertibles and the front-drive V6 sedan have a continuously variable automatic transmission. This CVT is available for the front-drive 1.8 T sedan in lieu of a 5-speed manual. The CVT provides variable drive ratios, plus six preset "gears" selected from the floor shift or steering-wheel buttons.

The high-performance S4 sedan, wagon, and convertible models have quattro, a V8 engine, and 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission, plus unique trim, sport suspension, and 18-inch wheels. Other A4s come with 16-inch wheels; 17s and 18s are part of Sport Package options that also include a firmer suspension. Every A4/S4 includes antilock 4-wheel disc brakes and antiskid system. Sedans and Avants add head-protecting curtain side airbags and front torso side airbags; rear torso side airbags are available. Cabriolets have front side airbags that provide head and torso protection, plus rear support bars that pop up automatically to protect occupants in a rollover. They include a power-folding top with heated glass rear window.

A navigation system is optional for V6 and S4 models. Dealer-installed satellite radio is available for all. For '05, optional OnStar assistance is dropped, and the xenon headlamps available for A4 sedans and Avants switch from high-beam to dual-beam units.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Compact Cars are similar in size but more expensive than Compact Cars. Premium Compacts have more standard equipment and an upscale image when compared to Compact Cars.

Our single Best Buy in the Premium Compact Car class is the Acura TSX. Our Recommended picks include the BMW 3-Series and the Saab 9-3.