Audi A4, Track Test

The Audi A4 is powered by a 1.4-litre petrol engine. Startled? But before you write it off, take a deep breath and don’t judge the car by its specifications. This 1,395cc, with 148bhp and 250Nm of torque, is one of the most refined engines you’ll ever come across. With Audi finally giving the CVT transmission a much-deserved boot, the new A4 is mated with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission – which ensures that the engine is very responsive. The A4 picks up speed in a refined, linear manner without any trace of turbo lag.

Apart from the new DSG gearbox, the A4 has also been on a diet – it’s lost 95 kilograms in its latest avatar. What that weight loss means is that it now aces the handling department. Even though it’s a front wheel drive sedan, you would never be able to tell from behind the wheel – it’s got incredible grip and has no trouble putting its power down through the front wheels. Moreover, the A4 is flawless when it comes to ride quality – as it cushions bumps easily thanks to a new suspension system with a five-link set-up at the front and rear. And it manages to strike a near-perfect balance between a comfortable ride and handling control.

Audi knows how to pamper Indian customers, as the A4 gets authentic wooden panels on the dashboard and doors – making its cabin one of the best places to spend time in. A classy touch indeed! The fit-and-finish, the materials used and the build quality all give an air of being premium. And, not to forget, the virtual cockpit, or the digital instrument cluster with navigation maps, is simply the best in the segment. There’s also a practical aspect to the A4’s cabin, as its length has increased to 4.7-metres – which translates to class-leading legroom for rear seat passengers. In terms of practicality, the A4 scored plenty of points, as well as in quality and comfort, but where it lost out was in design – as it’s slightly difficult to distinguish it from the older model, especially from the rear. Plus, if you’re an enthusiast, it could use a little more grunt. But, as an everyday machine, they don’t come much better than this.

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