Adopts the Latest MLB Evo Platform

The Audi A4, Audi's best-seller, was fully redesigned and released in Japan in February 2016. This time, the lineup consists of two main models: the front-wheel-drive "A4 2.0TFSI" and the full-time 4WD "A4 2.0 TFSI quattro." Each is available with a "Sport" sub-grade that includes features like sports suspension.

The new A4 is characterized by its adoption of the latest MLB Evo platform for longitudinally mounted engines. Thanks to this, the suspension system is also newly designed with a five-link setup front and rear. The new platform, known as MLB Evo, is the core of the new A4's aim for weight reduction and increased rigidity, while also promising improved handling performance.

A4 2.0 TFSI quattro

Indeed, when driven, the A4 has clearly evolved. Since the first generation Audi 80 was announced in 1974, the A4 has been designed incorporating the latest technology of its time. The new model is, as the developers intended (presumably), a superb creation.

This superb creation is partly due to improved fuel efficiency. Another factor is the incorporation of numerous safety technologies. Furthermore, the enhancement of its sporty handling is also noteworthy.

We drove the front-wheel-drive A4 2.0TFSI (5.18 million yen) and the full-time 4WD A4 2.0TFSI quattro Sport (6.24 million yen). In a word, both are agile and enjoyable. While some may praise the front-wheel-drive version for its natural driving feel, the swift quattro also possesses a different kind of charm.

The styling has been updated with a sharper single-frame grille, equally sharp headlamps, and side character lines. While it can be seen as an evolution of the previous styling concept, it would be a shame to evaluate this car on that alone.

We Recommend the Quattro for Your A4 Purchase

The new Audi A4 comes with two engine options. The base is a 2-liter 4-cylinder, producing a maximum output of 140 kW (190 hp) and a maximum torque of 320 Nm for the front-wheel-drive version. The quattro, on the other hand, is equipped with a more powerful specification of 185 kW (252 hp) and 370 Nm. The transmission for all models is the twin-clutch "S tronic," replacing the previous continuously variable transmission.

The new engine utilizes the Miller cycle, which controls the timing of the intake valve opening and closing. This aims to achieve optimal performance depending on the rotational mode. Additionally, it is combined with dual injection: for low loads, fuel is injected into the intake manifold, while for high loads, direct injection is used, ensuring optimal combustion.

A4 2.0TFSI

The engine's character seems closely related to the new A4's driving feel. The front-wheel-drive version is somewhat subdued, but selecting "Dynamic" in the Drive Select mode makes it quite lively by effectively utilizing the torque band. It seems like a good approach to use the "Efficiency" mode for fuel economy during normal driving and switch to "Dynamic" mode for enjoyment on winding roads or highways.

What surprised me was the spirited performance of the quattro. It's incredibly powerful for a 2-liter engine. Although it starts generating maximum torque from 1600 rpm, the exhilarating surge of power as the revs climb is truly satisfying. The exhaust note, tuned to a slightly lower pitch, resonates from behind, allowing you to enjoy the car's almost flying acceleration in various aspects.

The quattro's handling is excellent. The linearity when cornering, while subtly controlling speed with the accelerator pedal, is deeply impressive. Frankly, if you're buying an A4, I'd strongly recommend the quattro, as it embodies the car's appeal more richly.

Enhanced Safety Features are Also a Characteristic of the New Model

The interior of the new A4 is also very well-crafted. The body size is 15mm longer overall and the wheelbase is also extended by 15mm compared to the previous model. As a benefit, the rear legroom is 23mm longer. Sitting in the rear seats, one is impressed by the ample legroom and headroom. The seating position is not too low, making it very practical.

In terms of comfort, the suspension is supple, and even in the Sport version, there are no unpleasant bumps. The damping performance is also superb. It offers a luxurious ride. This can be considered a significant improvement. The quietness is also high, suggesting that the optional Bang & Olufsen audio system would provide a high-quality listening experience.

A4 2.0 TFSI quattro

The enhanced safety features are also a key characteristic of the new A4. One of these is the pre-collision safety system called "Audi pre sense." This includes an automatic braking system to prevent forward collisions, a lane departure prevention system, an automatic braking system to prevent collisions with vehicles approaching from blind spots, a system that warns of approaching vehicles or bicycles when reversing, and a system that warns of approaching vehicles or bicycles when opening the door. The list is extensive.

The adaptive cruise control, which automatically adjusts acceleration and deceleration to follow the vehicle ahead, has also been enhanced. Integrated within the speed range of 0 to 65 km/h is the "Traffic Jam Assist" system for automatic driving in congestion. It not only follows the vehicle ahead and automatically accelerates and decelerates but also performs steering wheel operations to prevent lane departure. Audi states that this technology also contributes to improved fuel efficiency. It's interesting how fuel efficiency and safety are linked, which is a current benefit of automated driving.

Audi A4 2.0TFSI
Body Size | Length 4,735 × Width 1,840 × Height 1,430 (Sport: 1,410) mm
Wheelbase | 2,825 mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,570 / 1,555 (Sport: 1,565 / 1,550) mm
Weight | 1,540 kg
Ground Clearance | 140 mm (Sport: 120 mm)
Engine | 1,984 cc Inline 4-cylinder Direct Injection DOHC Turbocharged with Intercooler
Bore x Stroke | 82.5 × 92.8 mm
Compression Ratio | 11.8
Max Output | 140 kW (190 ps) / 4,200-6,000 rpm
Max Torque | 320 Nm (32.6 kgm) / 1,450-4,200 rpm
Transmission | 7-speed S tronic (DSG)
Drivetrain | FF
Brakes Front/Rear | Ventilated Discs / Discs
Suspension Front/Rear | Wishbone / Wishbone
Tires Front/Rear | 205/60R16 (Sport: 225/50R17)
Minimum Turning Radius | 5.5 m
Trunk Capacity | 480-962 ℓ
Fuel Economy (JC08 Mode) | 18.4 km/ℓ
CO2 Emissions | 126 g/km
Steering Position | Right
Price | 5.18 million (Sport: 5.56 million)

Audi A4 2.0TFSI quattro
Body Size | Length 4,735 × Width 1,840 × Height 1,430 (Sport: 1,410) mm
Wheelbase | 2,825 mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,565 / 1,550 mm
Weight | 1,660 kg
Ground Clearance | 140 mm (Sport: 120 mm)
Engine | 1,984 cc Inline 4-cylinder Direct Injection DOHC Turbocharged with Intercooler
Bore x Stroke | 82.5 × 92.8 mm
Compression Ratio | 9.6
Max Output | 185 kW (252 ps) / 5,000-6,000 rpm
Max Torque | 370 Nm (37.7 kgm) / 1,600-4,500 rpm
Transmission | 7-speed S tronic (DSG)
Drivetrain | 4WD
Brakes Front/Rear | Ventilated Discs / Discs
Suspension Front/Rear | Wishbone / Wishbone
Tires Front/Rear | 225/50R17
Minimum Turning Radius | 5.5 m
Trunk Capacity | 480-962 ℓ
Fuel Economy (JC08 Mode) | 15.5 km/ℓ
CO2 Emissions | 150 g/km
Steering Position | Right
Price | 5.97 million (Sport: 6.24 million)