2018 Audi A4

Pros: 2018 A4 boasts impressive interior design with top-notch cabin materials; peppy acceleration; excellent mix of ride quality and handling sharpness

Cons: Acceleration can be non-linear from a stop; MMI control system can be tedious to use

2018 A4

CG Says: The 2018 Audi A4 sedan is relatively unchanged following its redesign last year. However, the performance S4 rejoins the lineup after an absence of one year. The new S4 is based on the redesigned A4 and is powered by a new 354-horsepower turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The 208 A4 is a premium compact sedan. Front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive are available. An entry-level ultra model has a fuel-efficient version of the standard engine. Non-ultra models have a turbo 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that boasts 252 horsepower. (The ultra engine is tuned for economy and has only 190 hp.) A 6-speed manual transmission and a 7-speed automated-manual transmission are available. Notable standard features include a forward collision mitigation system with automatic braking, leather upholstery, sunroof, heated mirrors, LED ambient interior lighting, rearview camera, Audi’s MMI infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. Options include Audi’s “Virtual Cockpit” digital gauge cluster, Google Earth satellite navigation display, adaptive cruise control, adaptive suspension, a rear collision mitigation system, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning and intervention, rear cross-traffic alert, and traffic-sign recognition. A dazzling-yet-understated interior and a long list of cutting-edge technology features are chief among the A4’s highlights. Plus, the A4’s sticker prices and standard-equipment lists compare very favorably with its traditional BMW and Mercedes-Benz competitors. If you’re looking for a well-rounded premium compact sedan, the 2018 Audi A4 should be on your list.