2017 Audi A4 Review

2017 Audi A4 - All-new for 2017, the Audi A4 jumps to the head of the entry-lux class.

By: Mark Bilek

All new for 2017, the Audi A4 is an entry-level luxury sedan. It competes with vehicles like the Acura TLX, BMW 3-Series, Cadillac ATS, Infiniti Q50, Jaguar XE, Lexus IS, Lincoln MKZ, Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Volvo S60. The A4 is offered as a front- or all-wheel drive 4-door sedan. Sporty models are designated S4 and there's also a high-built wagon version called the A4 allroad.

The A4 comes in three trim levels: Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige. All of them are available with front- or all-wheel drive. Most get a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 252 horsepower. There is and Ultra model of the A4 that gets a detuned turbo engine with 190 horsepower. It is designed to be more fuel-efficient at the expense of performance. All front-drive models get a seven-speed automatic, while quattro buyers can choose between that transmission and a six-speed manual.

Standard safety features include antilock brakes, stability and traction control, rear-view camera and dual-front, front-side, and curtain-side airbags. Available safety features include around-view camera, cross-traffic alert, blind-spot alert with lane assist, forward-collision warning with brake assist and front and rear park assist.

Pricing starts at $34,900 for the Premium Ultra and climbs to $48,000 for the Prestige quattro model. All models have a $950 destination charge and are assembled in Germany.

The A4's turbo 2.0-liter four is a model of smoothness and efficiency. Combine that with a slightly lower curb weight that comes along with the 2017 redesign, and the A4 is one of the quickest 'base' entry-level luxury sedans -- and it has a 0 to 60 mph time of just 5.3 seconds to prove that claim. The engine is smooth and works well with the automatic transmission. About the only hiccup is an intrusive stop-start system that's not as refined as it should be.

The 2017 A4 quattro with automatic is EPA rated at 24 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. Opt for the Ultra engine and you pick up a few miles per gallon to 27 and 37, respectively, making the Ultra an excellent choice if you have long-distance commuting. Real-world driving with the standard engine is likely to yield about 26 mpg overall, perhaps as high as 28 if your daily drive includes a fair amount of highway cruising.

Audi made impressive chassis strides with the 2017 redesign, creating a platform that was stiffer, lighter and more tunable. The result is a comfortable and quiet riding luxury sedan that holds the road with the tenacity of many sport sedans. Throw in the all-wheel-drive grip of the Quattro system and you have the recipe for success.

The suspension is supple enough to absorb hard impacts while still imparting enough compliance to keep the ride from becoming harsh. The driver-adjustable steering is delightfully quick with just the right heft. Brakes have ample stopping power. Interior noise levels are extremely low -- noticeably so on the highway -- with just a trace of tire hum at speed.

The A4's interior is a model of modern sophistication with high-quality materials and top-notch fit and finish. Those unfamiliar with the trend toward digital displays might be a bit off put by the large center information screen and the all-digital gauge package. However, it's beautifully executed and extremely customizable. The downside is there's a steep learning curve and a somewhat awkward console-mounted toggle control that takes the place of a touch-screen display. Thankfully, climate controls are conventional and there is a volume knob and presets for the radio.

Front seats are somewhat confining with hefty bolsters and firm padding. Thankfully head and leg room are exceptional. Rear seats are nicely trimmed and offer good support but lack knee and foot room for larger adults without scooting the front seats forward a bit. Outward visibility is unobstructed and entry/exit is excellent.

The A4's trunk offers a class average 13 cubic feet of cargo space. The opening is large and the trunk has a long flat floor. Rear seatbacks fold to increase cargo space. Inside, the 2017 redesign brings additional storage bins and larger cup holders.

Audi's A4 is a great entry-luxury sedan that offers a solid mix of performance, comfort, technology and safety features. It's priced fairly -- as long as you don't go too deep on the option list. Sadly, many safety features are offered as options. Those wanting more performance should consider the S4, but the basic A4 is no slouch, either. The 2017 redesign brings the A4 to the top of the class in most respects and it certainly should top your shopping list, too.

Mark Bilek

Mark Bilek is the Senior Director of Communications and Technology for the Chicago Auto Trade Association and the General Manager for DriveChicago.com. He is also responsible for developing and maintaining the Chicago Auto Show Web site.

Mark has been reviewing vehicles for more than two decades. Previously, he was associate publisher at Consumer Guide, where he oversaw publication of Consumer Guide Car & Truck Test, Consumer Guide's Used Car Book, and ConsumerGuide.com. He was also responsible for publication of "Collectible Automobile" and various hardcover automotive titles. In 2001 and 2002 he served as president of a Midwest Automotive Media Association. Mark has appeared on NBC TV, ABC TV, Fox News, WGN and MotorTrend TV as an automotive consultant. He hosts the Drive Chicago radio show on WLS 890 AM and was a regular guest on WGN Radio's Steve & Johnnie show. Mark lives in the northwest suburbs with his wife and three sons.

2017 Audi A4 Review

2017 Audi A4 - All-new for 2017, the Audi A4 jumps to the head of the entry-lux class.

Mark Bilek

Find Used Cars in Chicago or Chicago Car Dealers at DriveChicago.com

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