Audi A4

Overall Rating
 1 of 5

Value Rating
 2 of 5

Used product for
More than 1 year

Visitors rate this review
4.00 of 5, 5.00 votes

Price Paid:  $0.00

Year / Model Reviewed:
2007 Audi/A4 3.2

Summary:
In past 6 weeks have had the following replaced: ignition coil after internal short in coils 2 and 3 cylinders low fuel pressure sender; exhaust valves; fuel injectors. Car has died and Roadside Assistance took hours. Customer Service totally unresponsive and Audi will not stand behind its product.

Strengths:
Looks nice

Weaknesses:
Total lack of reliability.

Similar Products Used:
BMW 3 series (drove them for years, over 100,000 miles)

Overall Rating
 5 of 5

Value Rating
 5 of 5

Used product for
More than 1 year

Visitors rate this review
3.00 of 5, 4.00 votes

Price Paid:  $39000.00 from Dallas, TX

Year / Model Reviewed:
2005 Audi A4 Quattro 3.0

Summary:
This car is simply a blast to drive. Steering is the most accurate and nimble I've ever experienced and has near perfect weight and feel. This thing communicates better than Dr. Phil. You can feel exactly where the wheels are going...right where you pointed them. Handles like it's on rails but doesn't thump your kidneys on rough roads. Engine has good power and throttle response. In drive, the transmission shows only a small amount of hesitation. In sport or manual shift mode there is even less. This is the most technologically advanced automatic I've ever driven. Drive will get you decent fuel mileage if you take it easy but will happily supply a racier package should you choose to apply more pressure with your right foot. Sport mode gets you that all the time. It stays high in the rev band in every gear. The Quattro system is the benchmark for all-wheel drive. Feel like doing 130 in a down pour? No problem. The only difference between that and dry pavement is having to turn on the wipers. The Electronic Stability Program is so non-invasive you have to be right on the ragged edge before you even notice it exists. The car is so solid and stable you don't need it until then. Like the twisties? This car handles them like a champ. Like to romp down the highway? This thing cruises like a dream. Oh yeah, the brakes are great too, but who cares, you won't ever want to use them. Fit and finish inside and out are superb. No cheap, cheesy materials here. The leather seats are immaculate and the wood trim is tasteful without being overstated. Ergonomics are very good and there is not a cubic inch of wasted space. Front seat room is more than ample (I'm 6'2") and is complemented by an 8-way adjustable driver's seat and tilt and telescoping wheel. Leg room in the rear is snug for an adult. The trunk is cavernous and still cargo space can be increased by the locking fold-down rear seats. The list of standard features is excellent and a great deal of optional features can be had in reasonably priced packages. Too many to list here, so just a few examples. The 4 driver memory settings include seat, mirror, and even dual-zone climate control. The HomeLink system eliminates the need for a separate garage door opener. Steering wheel audio controls, 6 disc in-dash CD changer, Bose surround sound, and available XM Satellite. The dash-mounted cup holder is further proof of the superiority of German engineering. Tap the front of it and it slides out of the console and expands like an Erector set. Slide it back in and it folds up like a contortionist and disappears. Obviously an afterthought installed to satisfy the needs of us silly Americans who so often forsake the real purpose of driving a car like this for a hot cup of over-priced coffee. Regardless, it would be useless to any self-respecting German. It's too small to hold a Bierstein. 4 wheel ABS, 8 airbags, built in child LATCH system, and a front sub-frame that collapses in a head-on so the engine doesn't come through the firewall. Yeah, it's a pretty safe car. All this makes me want to buy one...for myself. It's my wife's car.

Strengths:
All around excellent performance and a great driving experience. Beautiful car with great build quality. Balance of luxury and performance for a very reasonable price.

Weaknesses:
It's governed at 130 because of the stock tires. Fuel economy could be a bit better. I know, I know, slow down to 85 and I'll get better mileage.

Similar Products Used:
Drove a friend's BMW 330i. Performance is similar but the Bimmer cost him $12K more and still no all-wheel drive. Brakes were way too touchy and the steering didn't communicate as well. At even money the Audi would still be a better value. At $12K less it kicks Bavarian butt. Infiniti G35 sedan claims to be in the same class for less money. The less money part is true. Steering and handling aren't nearly as good as the Audi or BMW. It does have more power than either. The interior is slathered with cheap plastic.

Overall Rating
 5 of 5

Value Rating
 5 of 5

Used product for
3 Months to 1 year

Visitors rate this review
3.50 of 5, 14.00 votes

Price Paid:  $30500.00 from Audi Riverside

Year / Model Reviewed:
2004 Audi A4 1.8T Quattro 6sp With Cold Weather/Sport/Luxury/Performance Packages

Summary:
I was in the market for a four door near-luxury vehicle and was considering the following: Audi A4 1.8T Quattro, Lexus IS300, and (2004.5) Volvo S40 T5. I thoroughly researched and test drove all three models. While the Lexus is definitely a quick car and an excellent handler at a reasonable price ($30K fully-loaded), I was turned off by its "Corolla-esque" exterior styling, boy-racer stigma, and cramped interior. I also didn’t like that the only manual available was a 5-speed. Granted, the Lexus/Toyota 3.0 inline six is one of the smoothest sixes this side of a BMW 2.5 or 3.0 and while it's pretty powerful (215 HP), this car did nothing to stir my soul. Plus these cars are extremely popular in Southern California so it's not uncommon to see at least 10 IS300’s on the freeway during my 40 minute commute home. It would seem the local Lexus dealer would pamper you when bringing the car in for service and I am a big fan of Toyota products (my wife has a 2002 Sequoia and I have owned the first two generations of MR2's), but still I decided to pass on the IS300. When I heard Volvo was going to replace its aging S40 (built on a Mitsubishi chassis), I was looking forward to test driving and possibly buying the 2004.5 edition which has the makings of a mini S60R. The new S40 T5 is certainly better-looking than the IS300 and it’s probably just as quick if not quicker. At the time, Volvo only offered the T5 in a front-wheel drive configuration with a 5-speed automatic. Although this transmission allows you to "manually" shift between gears, it's just not the same as a real manual. I liked a lot of things about this car like its interior and exterior styling, its many safety features, and crash ratings--apparently, the best in its class. However, I just couldn't imagine paying $30K+ for a front-wheel drive car with massive torque-steer that shares its chassis with the newly launched Mazda 3 and upcoming second generation Ford Focus. I obviously picked the Audi A4 1.8T. I actually test drove this car first before driving the other two. The funny thing is, I picked the slowest car of the bunch with the smallest engine (170 HP 1.8 liter turbo four cylinder) but there’s more to selecting a car than just pure speed. First, the car is just stunning to look at borrowing styling cues from the current A6 and TT. The A4’s styling will no doubt age well. Its looks resemble a four door coupe. The lines are clean and there’s nothing contrived about the exterior, like the Lexus IS300 and Mercedes C-Class sedans. It’s also not funky/weird looking like the G35 sedan by Infiniti. The A4 is definitely a “look-over-your-shoulder-while-walking-away-from-it-in-a-parking-lot” kind of car. I’ve caught myself doing just that on many occasions. The A4’s interior is also without equal. REAL aluminum trim pieces are tastefully used in the interior, NOT that cheap/fake stuff that Infiniti puts in its G35’s. There are also very nice touches such as lighted PASSENGER foot wells and two special LED’s that cast a faint but noticeable light over the gear shift area during night driving. There are handy drawers underneath the passenger and driver’s seats for extra stowage and a first aid kit inside the rear center arm rest. The heated seats have 6 settings! The controls fall logically to hand. No interior is perfect but the A4’s comes pretty close. My A4 comes with the “lower-end” 1.8 liter turbo four cylinder. I wanted the 3.0 V6 but it’s not nearly as good on gas and it also put the car out of my price range. I must say, 170HP is pretty adequate for me at this time. Luckily, the 1.8T is the darling of the Euro automotive aftermarket world which means I easily make substantial engine/turbo upgrades once my warranty runs out. Yes, the Quattro does add weight but the 1.8T with the 6 speed manual still provides lively acceleration and the A4’s handling is excellent. The optional Sport Package that’s included coupled with Quattro keeps my A4 planted when taking on the twisties. At the same time, you won’t get beat up on bad roads. Truly the best of both worlds. It’s a blast to drive and with Audi’s Quattro all-wheel drive, there’s an added measure of safety. Another thing I notice when driving this car is that you really feel connected to the road, enhancing the overall driving experience. After 6 months my A4 has driven remarkably well with no quality/reliability issues. My local Audi dealer also seems willing to pamper me. I could go on about the A4 and if you haven’t already noticed, I truly dig this car and I highly recommend it. Most people probably won’t listen and will continue to buy IS300’s, 3 Series Bimmers, G35’s, and C-Class sedans and that’s fine with me. But I feel you will be missing out on a truly terrific vehicle. You have to at least test drive the A4 like I did before making a decision. If you do choose something else, that’s OK too. I kind of dig the exclusivity the Audi A4 brings—even on the crowded SoCal freeways.

Strengths:
-striking looks -classy/comfortable interior -great amenities -engine is highly tunable -good warranty (4 years, 50K mi. free maintenance) -helpful dealer (mine is, I can't speak for other Audi dealers) -LOTS of aftermarket parts/accessories -in-dash CD changer -unique chassis (i.e., not shared with current VW Passat) -Quattro AWD, all-weather handling -good crash ratings -lots of safety features -rare car on the road compared to Bimmers, C-Class, and IS300’s -dual exhaust looks cool/very sporty -great on gas (1.8T), even with Quattro

Weaknesses:
-cupholders only good for cans and small cups -folding armrest only good for long trips when there's infrequent gear shifting -trunk not the largest

Price Paid:  $37000.00 from Baillargeon Audi

Year / Model Reviewed:
2004 A4

Summary:
I like the car but it is absolutely the worst seat I have ever sat in, I feel twisted and can't drive it more than 30 mins. Should have bought the BMW

Strengths:
Good Handling, power, amenities

Weaknesses:
Seats have no thought invovlved, no side support for cornering, short seat length no seatside support. You basically flop around when conering and it takes it out of you. I hate the car soley because of the seat and will sell and take a loss. Audi as a company aslo sucks and showed no willingness to work with me.

Similar Products Used:
Bigwheel

Price Paid:  $37000.00 from Mark Motors

Year / Model Reviewed:
2004 A4 3.0 Quattro 6 speed

Summary:
From what I read posted, I got better luck then some with a trouble free car for 3 yrs, going for many more. Most people I have spoken too have good luck also. Price posted in US dollars with options.
It simply spoils me every time I get in. A+ for Fun to drive. A+ Steering accuracy. A- perfect weight 55/45 and balance. It is very stable where you point the car it goes no weaving, twisting on loose ground. When you slam the gas the backend seems to push a bit more than the front end pulling. Perhaps a 45/55 calibration on power but just amazing due to quattro and EBS. A+ Handling on rough road and loose or slippery roads. A- Engine is very linear power just a bit less smooth at hig revs but lots of 220hp and torque. A+ throttle response. My 6 speed is very nimble and sporty feels, somewhat short shifting, not quiet as nimble shifting as bmw but very close. A+ fuel mileage I get 7.9L/100km at 100km/60mph but prefer to drive quicker. Quattro system is the perfect efficient all-wheel drive, especially in Canadian weather. A+ Electronic Stability Computer is so hands off until you push near limits then you notice it hitting the brakes to stop the swinging. This car handles the twisty corners faster and better than any other including BMW. A+ cruise control best calibrated I have every seen. Never abrupt excelleration. A-Brakes a little more effort required to stop slowly but quick stops sucked my eyes out. A+ Absolute perfect fit and finish inside out. No plasticy, thin, cheap, cheesy materials. A. Leather seats are very good, a little hot in the summer. I have black on black. A+ perfect wood trim. C- cup holder over stereo. What is that? A+ Ergonomics and no wasted cabint space. A+ Front seat 12 way ajustable power & room. A- back seat leg room if fronts seats pushed too far back. A+ Back seat comfort with big solid arm rest with first aid kit. 5'2" Wife says the back seats may be even more comfortable than the front. B+ trunk space but bigger than many in class and more space if locking fold-down rear seats opened. A+ Too many standard features and reasonably priced packages. A+ 4 driver memory settings includes seat, mirror and even dual-zone climate control. A+ programming 3 button HomeLink. B+ Steering wheel audio controls only avail on 4 spoke wheel. A+ Built in child LATCH system for quick car seat installation for our 3 year old. A+ safety features through out. Sales people were helpful, willing to drop price 5.6% off in-stock msrp and great fun. Trained and willing to show me what this car could do partly off-road, I would not try with mine.:-)
I don't know if I like the new big grills on the 2006's and up but the car is a work of art.

Strengths:
Beautiful design, looks like its worth its price inside out, but not too flashy, Quattro in Canadian weather/road conditions, air suspension with lot of clearance for deep snow, germain over engineering hand assembled on many areas, solid, stable, quiet inside, fiber optics lighting through-out, 6 speed & clutch, cruise control calibration, 10 speaker stereo with sub 6 cd and tape player, seating comfort on long trips. Go figure, a security system included, 10 year rust proof warranty to protect your investment.

Weaknesses:
speed limited to 210 kph, minor electronic glitches that self correct. ie sensitive windows and AC fan with mind of there own on couple occasions. Seats took a long time to breakin. Basic floor mats, show wear after a year. Coffee Cup holder above stereo/electronic console are they on drugs? Never use it for chance of costly repair bill! Only front cigarette socket for cooler broke in first year. From what used car sales people say about A4's is the air suspension is trouble in the future but I had no problems.

Similar Products Used:
Tested and drove the Acura 3.5 TL 2004 plasticy & front wheel drive only not flexible in price? Infiniti G35 2004 plasticy and cheap looking inside try it in deep snow-no go, BMW 330 2004 nice but sales staff full of themslves, not flexible in price & 16k more to match options and only 5 yr rust proof warranty when audi was 10 yrs in 2004, BMW 320 in-laws nice but not enough power and BMW symbol corroded after a couple of years?, BMW 323 touchy brakes and cold apearance inside not warm like the A4, Mazda 6 cheap and fun not the same class, buy the extended warranty.