2020 Audi A4 review - as refined and composed as ever, but is it fun?

The Audi A4 has been a staple of the compact executive car class since its introduction in the 1990s, and for 2019 there’s a new model on sale.

Well, it’s not completely new – instead, think of it as a comprehensive update of the B9-generation A4 launched in 2016, with revisions to the interior and exterior styling, some drivetrain updates, and improved levels of technology and equipment.

> New Audi RS4 review – no V8 but plenty to compensate for it

That the updates make the A4 more involving to drive isn’t as clear cut, though the big news with the 2019 A4 is that in performance S4 trim, the old petrol V6 makes way for a diesel alternative. A controversial decision perhaps, but one that actually suits the character of the car very well, and improves its long-distance, high-speed usability, as well as offering plentiful shove thanks to a hearty helping of torque.

There’s an RS4 on the way anyway for those still more interested in petrol power, while several of the new A4s (S4 and likely RS4 included) now get 48V mild-hybrid technology to help ease their emissions. There’s new tech inside too, taking some inspiration from the larger A6 and A7 models.

These changes don’t suddenly make the A4 a class-leading driver’s car, but detail changes behind the scenes do improve the A4’s road manners – and if ultimate handling and performance is less a concern than day-to-day usability, quality, or even just Audi’s badge appeal, the A4 still impresses.

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Audi A4 – in detail

• Engine, transmission and technical details – A range of petrols and diesels, offered with manual, auto and dual-clutch transmissions, and front- and all-wheel drive. S4 is now diesel-powered, but no worse for it.
• Performance and 0-60 time – S4 takes a small performance hit in its move to diesel, but has a walloping mid-range. Other engines do the job, and all are smooth and refined.
• Ride and handling – Competent but uninspiring, though ride quality is getting better. S4 surprises with an engaging chassis.
• MPG and running costs – S4’s 40mpg looks pretty good, and less sporty models offer even more. Now to WLTP rules, the numbers should be achievable, too.
• Interior and tech – If you liked the old cabin you’ll like the new, as the design is very similar – standard Virtual Cockpit is appreciated, as is a clearer central screen.
• Design – Broadly handsome, but some of the redesigned details seem like change for the sake of change.

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Prices, specs and rivals

Topped by the S4 and S4 Avant TDI, the A4 range is as vast as ever, with diesel and petrol versions of varying power and trim levels available for both the A4 saloon and A4 Avant estate.   

At the entry level you’ll find the A4 saloon in 35 TFSI Technik specification, for £30,750. Technik replaces the old SE trim line but offers much more equipment for the money. Seventeen-inch alloy wheels and climate control remain as before, but Technik adds kit such as a 10.1-inch touchscreen display, Virtual Cockpit, heated front seats, LED headlights and a reversing camera as standard, over the old SE. An entry-level 30 TDI diesel will also be available in Technik trim.

The launch line-up then climbs through a more powerful 40 TFSI, starting at £35,585 in Sport trim, and the 40 TDI with its 2-litre diesel, also in Sport trim from £39,545. You’ll pay an extra £1400 to step up to the Avant. S line trim is £1575 more than Sport, while Black Edition trim is a jump of £1250 over S line.

The Vorsprung – first seen on the Q7 and Q8 – comes in at around £50,000 for the 40 TFSI, more than £10k on top of the Black Edition. That’s a hell of a lot for some relatively unremarkable saloons and estates (particularly when a basic Audi S4 starts at £48,000), but does include niceties such as adaptive sports suspension, matrix LED headlights, Nappa leather-trimmed sports seats, Bang & Olufsen sound, and numerous other features.

Key rivals include the BMW 3-series, Mercedes-Benz C-class, Alfa Romeo Giulia and Jaguar XE. The 3-series range starts with the 320i SE, equivalent to the A4 35 TFSI Technik mentioned above, at £32,565, while the entry-level C-class dips under the £30k mark at £29,925. Few of course will buy or lease these base models and all three manufacturers will happily indulge your passion for ticking option boxes and up-sell you to more lavish models, but the recently introduced 3-series continues to be the choice for keen drivers.

There’s something to be said for the Alfa Romeo and Jaguar in this class though. While they lack the build integrity of the German cars, both are sweet to drive, the Alfa always light, agile and responsive, and the Jaguar pliant and involving. The Alfa continues to be our pick as the most enjoyable in this class to drive.