The 2009 Audi A4 is redesigned, growing larger and gaining more power. Audi's top-selling car line features sedans and Avant wagons. Sedans will be powered by either a 3.2-liter V6 or a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder that makes 211 hp. The 4-cylinder is available with either front-wheel drive and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) or all-wheel drive, which comes with either a 6-speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmission. The 3.2-liter V6 makes 265 hp and is mated to a 6-speed automatic. Audi's quattro all-wheel drive is standard on Avant wagons and 3.2 sedans. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front side airbags, rear side airbags, and curtain side airbags. Other available features include a navigation system; Audi's MMI control for audio, climate, and other functions; a self-opening trunklid; Audi Drive Select, which allows the driver to customize steering and suspension settings; keyless entry and starting (with in-key storage for service information); and a rearview camera. We have not yet tested the 2009 Audi A4.
Competition
Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 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 Best Buys in the Premium Compact Car class are the Audi A4 and BMW 3-Series. Our Recommended picks are the Acura TSX and Audi A3.
New or significantly redesigned is the BMW 3-Series.