The All-New Audi A4 – A first Drive Impression.

There's no denying that the A4 is the most popular and renowned model in the Audi line-up, and in fact, their history. With over 12 million vehicles sold internationally and over 100 000 sold in South Africa alone since its inception to our market, its undeniably the most popular choice for a wide variety of consumers.

The Tech

Now in its fifth reiteration, the B9 Audi A4 is even more technologically advanced and this is combined with improved efficiency and comfort. 

Technology that was first introduced into larger, more expensive models, has filtered down, been refined and has made its way into the all-new Audi A4. The Audi virtual cockpit, as seen in models like the TT and Q7 now features in the A4 to great effect. The 12.3 - inch digital combination display allows for high-resolution navigation and vehicle information to be viewed as the primary focus, or scaled down for a more traditional, large gauge approach to proceedings.

New to the MMI system is an option to integrate Google Earth with the navigation, allowing for a more realistic view of your route – novel, and possibly a little gimmicky, but a nice advance nevertheless. The same view can be seen on the large 8.3-inch monitor that rests atop the dash, but sadly without a hide function. This means that the infotainment screen is permanently affixed and doesn't slide into the dashboard and away from sight as with other models.

Another first for the class is the integration of Apple's CarPlay that mirrors your iPhone / Apple device's functionality, including Apple Maps – another seemingly unnecessary inclusion, but useful for saved places and the likes. Android support is also available but was not tested at the time of writing.

The MMI control interface has also been revised with touch input an optional extra as part of the MMI Navigation Plus.

The Body

It will take a keen eye to spot the differences and nuances of the new A4, the B9 appears to be more a facelift rather than a full redesign when it comes to exterior aesthetics – but we are assured that it is in fact an all-new build.

More aggressive headlights feature up front and a reshaped grille lend themselves to a lower, flatter appearance. Xenon headlights are standard but there's a more purposeful look to the A4 when specified with the optional LED Matrix headlight system that features dynamic turn indicators.

The rear receives a similar treatment with cut-away taillights resting in the corners, wide and slender – once again lending itself to a lower and flatter look. The look can be beefed up with the addition of the S-Line package that sees larger wheels, various garnishing and sport suspension springs fitted.

Overall, the A4 appears to be larger, mimicking the stance and presence that one sees in the larger A6 and A8. Aerodynamics are also said to be improved and the overall NVH levels do seem to be down. This could also be attributed to the revised interior.

The Insides

The interior is where you will see most of the changes with the most prominent change being the dashboard and full-length airvent – once again, as seen in the Q7. The supportive seats may still only be manually adjustable but offer a fair amount of range to allow one to get a seating position that best suits them. This is further aided by the three-spoke multi-function steering wheel that, for once, have more than enough rake and reach (for my liking that is), something that is certainly welcomed.

The overall fit and finish is well above where one would class the A4 and comfortably above the price range, proving that there is wonderful value for money to be had with the new A4.

Despite the increase in exterior dimensions and improved shoulder and legroom on the interior, the new cabin feels a touch small and while not claustrophobic, left me with the feeling that I was driving it's little brother, the A3 sedan. A minor observation that should hardly influence ones purchasing decision.

The Drive.

Having had a chance to sample the 110kW and 250Nm 1.4T FSI as well as the 140kW and 320Nm 2.0T FSI, I can say that the motors are well-rounded and sprightly enough in either trim. It would be a tough call deciding between the two as the 2.0 didn't seem to clearly outshine the 1.4, but rather entered proceedings with a more robust and understressed feel. At launch, only the two petrol motors were available and diesel options will be added at a later stage.

Thanks to the reduction in the overall weight of the new A4, both motors are capable of returning respectable consumption figures. The 2.0 was equipped with Drive Select which allowed for a full Eco mode, something that is lacking in the naturally frugal 1.4 though. The 1.4 does benefit from Coasting Mode that disengages clutches and further reduces fuel consumption.

The Multitronic CVT gearbox has been completely dropped from the lineup (to much relief). Our test models were fitted with the smooth and supple S-Tronic transmission, with 7-forward gears and steering mounted paddles.

Verdict

The all-new A4 is a great drive. It's setting a very high bar for the likes of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and BMW 3 Series to follow, especially in terms of build quality and technology. The chassis is quite at home on the run to work and back, to and from the school, in traffic or even on a mountain pass for some spirited driving – it's a wonderful all-rounder with ample space, punchy motors and a wealth of convenience.

It's a special car, even if it doesn't necessarily look it.

Pricing:

1.4TFSI	R 441 000
1.4TFSI auto	R 459 000
1.4TFSI Design line	R 488 000
1.4TFSI Sport line	R 492 000
2.0TFSI	R 496 000
2.0TFSI Design line	R 513 000
2.0TFSI Sport line	R 517 000
* 2.0TDI	R 517 000
* 2.0TDI Design line	R 534 000
* 2.0TDI Sport line	R 538 000
2.0TFSI quattro Sport line	R 616 000

* A4 2.0TDI models will be available towards the end of 2016