2018 Audi A4 Pros vs Cons

The 2018 Audi A4 ranks among today’s finest small luxury sedans. While your family members will love the A4’s comfortable interior, you can take full advantage of its long list of high-tech goodies. Although the new A4 only offers a single engine choice, you can still expect to experience a satisfying performance on the road.

What’s New for 2018?

Aside from the base model, all of the other trims now come standard with all-wheel drive. You also have access to a new Black Optic appearance package.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2018 Audi A4 – The Pros

1. Strong Turbocharged Performance

Powering the 2018 Audi A4 is a spirited 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This is the same engine used in a number of other Audi vhicles. While the front-wheel-drive version develops 190 horsepower, the AWD variant is tweaked to produce 252 horsepower and 272 pound-feet of torque. When tested on the track, the AWD A4 clocked a brisk 0-60 time of 5.5 seconds.

2. Sips Fuel

While driving the 2018 Audi A4, you can look forward to getting solid fuel economy. The front-wheel-drive model can deliver an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway. Meanwhile, all-wheel-drive models are rated to deliver 24 mpg in town and up to 34 mpg on the open road. Audi does recommend the use of premium fuel.

3. Available Sport Package

If you desire a more engaging driving experience, the optional Sport package will prove to be a worthy upgrade. This package includes a performance-tuned suspension, which helps sharpen the A4’s handling. You will also benefit from a few interior upgrades, including a three-spoke steering wheel and sport seats.

4. World-Famous Quattro AWD System

Quattro all-wheel drive is one of the highest-rated AWD systems one the market. It will certainly give you an extra peace of mind when traveling on slippery roads. The Quattro AWD system is definitely a must-have feature for the drivers who live in snow-prone regions of the country. As soon as the system detects a spinning wheel, it will immediately seek to improve traction.

5. New Black Optic Appearance Package

Even the base 2018 Audi A4 looks attractive with its European styling. However, the Black Optic package really elevates this sedan’s appearance. It includes a stunning set of 18-inch alloy wheels, which give the A4 an additional touch of sportiness. You will also notice the special blacked-out grille and red brake calipers. Expect to get a lot more attention on the road.

6. Fun Manual Transmission

To the delight of true driving enthusiasts, the 2018 Audi A4 continues to offer a traditional manual transmission. Although the standard automatic transmission is quick and responsive, nothing gives you more control than a manual gearbox. Whether you are accelerating from a stoplight or passing a slow-moving vehicle on the highway, the A4’s manual transmission is bound to keep you entertained.

7. Ample Equipment Comes Standard

You will find an impressive list of features inside the new A4. Although an upgraded audio system is available, the standard 10-speaker unit sounds great. Some of the other standard equipment includes Audi’s well-designed MMI infotainment system, leather upholstery, and smartphone integration. Prices for the 2018 model start at around $37,000. It is arguably the best value in the segment.

8. Quality, Family-Sized Interior

Although the 2018 Audi A4 is a compact luxury sedan, it benefits from a rather spacious interior design. The average family of four will be able to travel in comfort. You can also take advantage of the A4’s supportive seats. Class-leading quality makes the A4 even more rewarding to drive. All of the interior materials have a premium feel.

9. Highly Advanced Safety Technologies

The 2018 Audi A4 boasts a five-star overall safety rating. It comes standard with a backup camera and a very effective autonomous braking system. Audi also offers a slew of other advanced driving aids. You will love the adaptive cruise control system. It is actually engineered to detect upcoming curves in the road, which helps you to maintain a safe speed at all times.

10. Cutting-Edge Virtual Cockpit

Featuring a large LCD screen, Audi’s new Virtual Cockpit gauge cluster has triggered a great deal of excitement. The system’s high-resolution graphics are incredibly realistic. When you are using the car’s navigation system, the Virtual Cockpit can display a satellite view of the road ahead.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2018 Audi A4 – The Cons

1. Base Model Can’t Be Equipped With a Manual Transmission

In order to obtain a manual transmission, you must step up to the all-wheel-drive model. This may disappoint the drivers who aren’t willing to shell out any extra money. Keep in mind that the AWD A4 is roughly $4,500 more expensive than the base model.

2. Slightly Less Fun than Some Competitors

The typical driver will find the 2018 Audi A4 to be a fun driving machine. Nevertheless, it is still less exciting than rivals such as the Cadillac ATS and the BMW 3 Series. This is especially true in the handling department. If you desire a true sports sedan, the high-performance Audi S4 is a good option.

3. Some Families May Need More Space

Although the new A4 is roomy, some of your tall family members may need just a bit more legroom when sitting in the back. The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class offers more overall passenger room.

How it stacks up to the competition:

Rivals to the 2018 Audi A4 include the 2018 Cadillac ATS and the 2018 Lincoln MKZ. Audi's world-renowned Quattro AWD system gives the A4 a big advantage when facing bad weather. Not only has the Cadillac ATS received a low rating for its frustrating infotainment system, but it also suffers from a tight backseat. In comparison to the Lincoln MKZ, the German-engineered A4 feels more engaging to drive.

Conclusion:

You can't go wrong by choosing the new 2018 Audi A4. It is a fun luxury sedan that does not cost a fortune. While the base model is a great value, the top-of-the-line Prestige trim comes loaded with a lengthy list of high-tech goodies. You also shouldn't overlook the A4's sensational safety innovations. When equipped with Audi's highly touted Quattro AWD system, the A4 becomes the perfect car for wintry road conditions.