Unrivaled Quality

The Audi A4 received a minor model change on April 3, 2012. As Audi Japan has positioned it, the A4 is a crucial model, "central to our lineup since its introduction to the Japanese market in 2008." This update aims to enhance fuel efficiency and build quality, setting it apart from its rivals.

The test model was the A4 2.0 TFSI quattro. This variant pairs a 2-liter, four-cylinder engine with an intercooler turbocharger, producing a maximum output of 211 horsepower, with a full-time four-wheel-drive system. It was available in two body styles: the Sedan and the Avant wagon.

One of the key aspects of this minor change is the redesigned front fascia. The internal structure of the headlamps has been altered, lending a sharper impression. The signature Singleframe grille at the center now has its top corners softened, creating what Audi describes as a "three-dimensional form."



The interior is another significant draw of the A4. As Audi emphasizes, "the details have been meticulously refined," with high-quality parts that appeal to the senses, such as the feel of the steering wheel and the operation of the switches.

Furthermore, the use of decorative panels with a polished finish achieved through reflex paint, combined with hairline-finished aluminum-look panels in various locations, creates a quality that truly sets it apart from rivals like the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and BMW 3 Series.

The Character of the 2.0-Liter Engine

During the test drive, the immediate impression was one of nimble acceleration. The 2.0 TFSI quattro is equipped with a 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission, which selects gears swiftly according to driving conditions, eliminating any sense of sluggishness. With 350 Nm of torque available from 1,500 to 4,200 rpm, it delivers strong performance from low revs.

The trend among recent German cars is the downsizing concept, with manufacturers like Volkswagen tending to equip vehicles in this class with engines ranging from 1.4 to 1.8 liters.

Audi, however, has not pursued extreme downsizing, as one of their developers once explained, "Cars with a certain class require adequate displacement." Instead, they offer a sense of torque reserve, providing a margin of comfort in how the torque is delivered in response to accelerator input, which is a desirable characteristic for the driver.



While the steering is light, the steering feel is precise, and the car reacts quickly to even slight inputs. Perhaps due to the larger turbocharger, there was a slight dip in torque between 2,000-3,000 rpm, but overall, the feeling of control, with the car responding faithfully to the driver's intentions without being overwhelmed by its power, is highly satisfying.

Sedan and Avant: Two Distinct Worlds

The test models were the Sedan and the Avant. Globally, the Sedan is the more popular body style. This is likely due to a market preference for avoiding wagon bodies where the cargo area is visible, perhaps for security reasons. However, in Japan, the Avant accounts for nearly 40% of sales. This might reflect a lifestyle choice, with owners wanting to load various gear for outdoor activities.

The Avant's styling is sleek, with a cohesive design flowing from the front to the rear hatch that is truly exceptional. The taut surfaces, reminiscent of fine porcelain, and the seamless integration of parts are major attractions of the A4, beautifully expressing two distinct identities in its styling: the Sedan and the Avant.

The cabin's quietness is also noteworthy. Those seeking an even more serene experience might prefer the Sedan, but the Avant's rear seats are unlikely to present noticeable noise intrusion unless driving at high speeds.



The test car was equipped with the sporty "S line" package. This included dedicated front and rear bumpers, side sills, suspension, 18-inch wheels, front sports seats, and a multifunction steering wheel.

The ride comfort was surprisingly not harsh. The spring and damping rates appear to be well-balanced. Although I haven't experienced the standard 17-inch tires, even with the large-profile 245/40 R18 tires, the steering remained sharp, yet the ride was impressively free from excessive harshness during driving.

Spacious and Refined

Another appeal of the A4, as mentioned earlier, is its meticulous build quality. The various interior components, even those made from different materials, exhibit a cohesive color scheme, accented effectively with high-quality chrome and polished parts.

The leather of the steering wheel feels supple, and the tactile sensation of the stitching against the fingertips is also pleasing. The center console features well-organized controls.

With a length of 4,720 mm and a width of 1,825 mm, the body size offers ample space for use in Japan. The relatively long wheelbase of 2,810 mm contributes to generous rear legroom and a substantial cargo capacity.



This A4 also focuses on improving efficiency and safety. The 2.0 TFSI quattro offers optional features such as "Audi drive select" with an efficiency mode, and "Audi active lane assist," which uses cameras and radar to recognize lane markings and automatically correct the vehicle's course if it begins to drift.

The base model is the front-wheel-drive 2.0 TFSI (equipped with a Multitronic transmission, priced at 4.4 million yen for the Sedan and 4.58 million yen for the Avant). Above this are the full-time four-wheel-drive 2.0 TFSI quattro, which I test drove (5.23 million yen and 5.41 million yen respectively), and the S4, which combines a 3-liter V6 engine with a supercharger (7.99 million yen and 8.17 million yen).