The A4 line has been Audi’s best selling car for more than 40 years, and the eighth generation 2013 version is the best in a long line of excellence. In fact, the A4 and S4 Sedans epitomize the Audi brand with their exceptional design, performance and technology.
Under the hood, the Audi A4 has a turbocharged 2.0-liter, four-cylinder, TFSI engine that generates 211 hp and 258 pounds-feet of torque. It was introduced in 2008 as the fastest, most fuel-efficient engine when compared with six-cylinder competitors. The A4 Quattro is available with an eight-speed automatic Tiptronic transmission or a six-speed manual gearbox, while front-wheel drive comes only with a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission).
The performance-oriented S4 is offered with a supercharged 3.0-liter, six-cylinder, DOHC engine that generates 333 hp and 325 pounds-feet of torque, with Quattro allwheel drive as standard equipment. An available rear sport differential uses torque vectoring to move the S4 through turns and allow even more grip and cornering ability. The torque split of the Quattro system for both models is 40 percent front/60 percent rear, with a maximum load of 65 percent for the front and 85 percent for the rear axle.
A new electromechanical steering column installed on both models reduces weight from the front of the car as a result of the removal of the old hydraulic steering system. Dynamic steering also is available to adjust steering input based on the speed of the vehicle.
The available Audi drive select allows the driver to adjust dynamic steering, throttle response, transmission shift points and suspension settings. Four settings are available — Auto, Comfort, Dynamic and Individual — which allow the driver to adjust each setting to individual preference.
Changes to the exterior design for 2013 include a new grille with angled upper corners, dynamic new hood lines, and reconfigured bumpers with angular air inlets. Redesigned, sleek headlights and a new LED daytime running light design give the A4 a more dynamic look. The LED lights have become an Audi design hallmark and require less power and emit less heat than conventional halogen lights.
The S4 maintains its exterior differentiation from the A4 with its alu-optic side mirror housings, unique grill, splitter, diffuser and exhaust design.
Exterior dimensions were changed only slightly for the 2013 model year. Audi has refined the interior of the A4 models for the 2013 model year as well, improving upon the form, feel and function. There’s a new optional three-spoke steering wheel with a flat bottom on the S4, and a new high-gloss piano black finish with stainless steel mesh inlays and inlays made of Beaufort Oak. Nappa leather also has been added.
Pricing on the 2013 Audi A4 starts at $32,500.
Ron Beasley is the automotive editor for Miami’s Community Newspapers. He may be contacted by calling 305-662-2277, ext. 261, or by addressing email correspondence to LetsTalkCars@aol.com
Hitler loved Audis and the Auto-Union race cars.