2009 Audi A4 Sedan 2.0T Quattro and 3.2 Quattro Tiptronic
Which to Choose Reviewed
by Susan Frissell |
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We test drove the new 2009 Audi A4 sedans, both 2.0-liter and 3.2-liter models back-to-back.
Little difference between the two was noticed, except of course, for the engines. Both Quattro, the
Audi sedans are one of the more pleasurable sport-like sedans one can motor.
With just a few options, the Audi sedan 2.0T and 3.2 are $40,825 and $41,225
respectively. Standard equipment is plentiful and it is hard to imagine Audi has left any features out,
unless one wants to have the very best of Audi. Our test 2.0T Audi sedan came equipped with the
Prestige Package which includes 18-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels and all-season tires, Bang & Olufsen
premium sound system, Audi side assist, Xenon plus headlights, Advanced key keyless start/stop,
Homelink, heated front seats, Three zone climate control, exterior chrome window trim, Six-CD
symphony radio, Audi music interface, Driver information system with trip computer, rain/light sensor,
Bluetooth hands-free phone interface and LED daytime running lamps. Some of these features we
would assume would be standard fare on an Audi, but apparently not. Only those in the know would
need these enhanced items.
There is little to compare to the handling and power of an Audi sedan. Redesigned
for 2009, the A4 is noticeably larger which makes for fewer cramped legs of rear seat passengers. The
new styling had to grow on us, although overdue, we didn’t see anything wrong with Audi’s old styling.
Fit and finish in Audi's interiors remains above average. Seating is comfortable and
hugs the body which helps in those hairpin turns Audi's are capable of. The refined four-cylinder
engine is more refined and a little smoother than the previous engine; both offer more than enough
power for most drivers. If you opt for the V6 engine, you'll be paying more and getting 265
horsepower.
More agile than its predecessor, the A4 sedan has a firm ride, as with most German
automobiles. There isn't anything to compare with the firm feel of the road in the BMWs, Audis and
Mercedes’, to our liking. The ride isn't so tight that you're hitting bumps with a thud; on the contrary,
the ride is smooth and quiet.
Body styles available in the Audi A4 include convertible, sedan and wagon.
Trim lines include 2.0T, 3.2 and S4. Pricing ranges from approximately $29,000 to $57,125. Engines include
the 2.0T, 3.2 V6 and 4.2-liter V8 (340 hp); transmissions include a 6-speed manual, CVT, and 6-speed
automatic.
As expected in a vehicle of this quality, the interior specs are excellent. All the
creature comforts are here, including concert-sound systems, leather seating, electronic cruise, and
automatic climate control, glass sunroof, as well as the latest in safety: ABS, Electronic Stabilization
Program (ESP), Automatic brake disc wiping, Servotronic speed sensitive power steering,
driver/passenger advanced two-stage airbag supplemental restraint system with occupant sensors,
driver/front passenger safety belt chimes, driver/front passenger seat mounted side airbag
supplemental restraints, Sideguard inflatable curtain airbags, electrically adjustable heated outside
rear view mirrors, auto door locking, and anti-theft vehicle alarm system. Too much to list.
We always enjoy driving the Audi sedan and it remains at the top of our pick list of
fun and spirited sport-like vehicles.
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| SPECS MSRP: $40,000, total vehicle price $41,225; destination $825 (3.2); $32,700, total
vehicle price $40,825 (2.0T)
Engine: 2.0T DOHC, 211 hp., turbo charged 4-cylinder with FSI Direct Injection; 3.2-
liter DOHC V6 with Audi Valvelift System and FSI Direct Injection, 265 hp.
Transmission: 6-speed automatic with Tiptronic with DSP (Dynamic Shift Program);
Quattro permanent all-wheel-drive system with rear torque bias
Wheelbase: 110.6 in. Weight: 3,527 lbs., automatic; 3,722 lbs. manual
Length: 185.2 in. EPA Fuel Economy: 23/30/25 mpg. (2.0T); 17/26/20 mpg. (3.2-liter)
Wheels: 17-inch alloy
Warranty: 4 yr/50,000-mile new vehicle limited; 12-yr/limited warranty against
corrosion perforation; 12-mth/5,000-mile NO CHARGE first scheduled maintenance; 4
yr/Roadside Assistance
Location of Final Assembly: Oshawa Assembly |
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