Summary
The Audi A4 is a compact executive model available as either a saloon or estate (called the A4 Avant). It sits between the smaller A3 saloon and larger A6 saloon and estate models. The current model was launched in 2015 and received a mid-life update in 2019. Production ended in 2024 and it will be replaced by the new Audi A5.
The top-spec A4 model is called the S4 and there is also a more off-road-capable model called the A4 allroad quattro. There is a high-performance model called the RS 4, which is based on the A4 but not included in this page. We will be building a separate page for this model, so check back soon.
The Audi A4 range has received generally positive reviews from the UK motoring media, although overall opinions varies from mild disinterest to strong enthusiasm. The A4 allroad quattro model tends to score slightly lower than the regular A4 models, while the top-spec S4 scores slightly higher from car enthusiast titles. The A4 gets consistent praise for its build standards and interior quality, but lags behind rivals for driving enjoyment and offers no hybrid or electric versions.
The Audi A4 has now ended production, and is the final last fossil-fuel-powered A4 model. Audi is splitting its models names – EVs will have even numbers, while combustion models will have odd numbers. So the replacement for this A4 will be the new Audi A5, while there will be a new electric A4 coming along in the next year or two.
As of January 2025, the Audi A4 range has a New Car Expert Rating of D, with a score of 60% and a similar score as a used car. It earned decent media review scores and its CO2 emissions are low, with these results countered by historically poor reliability and high running costs.
Audi A4 highlights
- Interior quality still sets the standard for the class
- Enormous range should cover pretty muxh every need
- Much better to drive than previous models
- Competitive finance and leasing packages
Audi A4 lowlights
- Can’t match a BMW 3 Series for driving dynamics
- No electrified models available
- Boot space, especially in estate version, not best in class
- Allroad is quite expensive compared to regular versions
Key specifications
Body style: Medium saloon and estate
Engines: petrol, diesel
Price: From £38,985 on-road
Launched: Autumn 2015
Last updated: Autumn 2019
Ended production: Spring 2024
Image gallery
Media reviews
Highlighted reviews and road tests from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.
The Car Expert
Model reviewed: A4 Avant
“”It scores both in practicality, out-spacing its BMW and Mercedes rivals in all important areas, and in the sheer pleasure of being inside it and driving it.”
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Model reviewed: A4 saloon
“It’s not a sports car, but it will enable one to complete a 200 miles-plus motorway journey in the most unfussy way possible, arriving relaxed and ready.”
Read review
Auto Express
Model reviewed: A4 saloon
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi A4 offers technology and quality when compared to its small executive saloon rivals.”
Read review
Model reviewed: Range review
Score: 8 / 10
“The A4 keeps its place as a sensible, no-nonsense, modern and upmarket saloon car in a class of increasing complexity.”
Read review
Model reviewed: Avant range review
Score: 8 / 10
“Audi has really gone to town on the latest A4, with mild-hybrid tech and improved infotainment.”
Read review
Model reviewed: S4
Score: 8 / 10
“The S4’s switch to diesel power might seem to come at an odd time, but it’s a powertrain that’s a perfect match for the car’s character.”
Read review
Model reviewed: A4 allroad
Score: 6 / 10
“Get a mix of estate car practicality and SUV looks with the Audi A4 Allroad”
Read review
Model reviewed: A4 Avant
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi A4 Avant estate is everything you’d expect it to be: it’s a more practical version of the classy and refined A4 saloon.”
Read review
Auto Trader
Model reviewed: Saloon range
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi A4 will be near the top of any executive car buyer’s shortlist, and it thoroughly deserves its place there. It’s enjoyable and comfortable to drive, a joy to sit in, practical enough for a family and very competitive on kit and cost. One of the best cars of its type.”
Read review
Model reviewed: A4 Avant estate range
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi A4 Avant will be near the top of any prestige estate car buyer’s shortlist, and it thoroughly deserves its place there. It’s enjoyable and comfortable to drive, a joy to sit in, practical enough for a family and very competitive on kit and cost. One of the best cars of its type.”
Read review
Model reviewed: A4 allroad estate
Score: 8.2 / 10
“The Audi A4 allroad is an exceptionally refined and comfortable motor, with a gem of an engine range that produces strong performance and excellent efficiency. It also provides estate-car versatility, an immaculately tailored cabin and a superb four-wheel-drive system.”
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Car
Model reviewed: Range review
Score: 8 / 10
“It now has a sharper look, a suitably tech-heavy interior to keep you entertained, and a wide selection of engines to pick from.”
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Car Keys
Model reviewed: Saloon range
Score: 9 / 10
“The new A4 continues the theme of what Audis are best known – comfort and refinement. The update that has been given has made the model step in-line with its key rivals from BMW and Mercedes.”
Read review
Model reviewed: A4 allroad estate
Score: 7 / 10
“Compared to the regular Audi A4 Avant, the A4 allroad is noticeably less poised on public roads, as well as being more exensive to run. If, however, you genuinely need some off-road capability, the A4 allroad is an interesting alternative to an SUV.”
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Carbuyer
Model reviewed: S4 saloon
Score: 8 / 10
“For discreet, luxurious and swift motoring, the Audi S4 takes some beating”
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Model reviewed: A4 saloon
Score: 8.6 / 10
“With the finest interior in its class, the Audi A4 is a comfortable and affordable-to-run executive saloon.”
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Model reviewed: A4 Avant
Score: 8.6 / 10
“The Audi A4 Avant is a thoroughly modern yet conservative estate car, with a big boot and a sophisticated interior.”
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Model reviewed: A4 allroad
Score: 7.8 / 10
“The Audi A4 Allroad retains the best aspects of the standard estate, but adds improved ride comfort and increased off-road ability”
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Carwow
Model reviewed: S4 Avant estate
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi S4 Avant has a strong diesel engine and handling that’ll put a smile on your face, but also a boot big enough for a family. There are better-handling cars still, mind.”
Read review
Model reviewed: S4 saloon
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi S4 has a stonking diesel engine and handling that’ll put a smile on your face, but also fuel economy that won’t get you down. There are better-handling cars still, mind.”
Read review
Model reviewed: A4 Avant estate range
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi A4 Avant has top-drawer interior quality and comes with a high level of technology and standard kit. If you value a thrilling drive or huge boot space, though, there are better.”
Read review
Model reviewed: A4 allroad
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi A4 allroad is beautifully made inside and comes with a high level of technology and standard kit. If you value edgy design or a thrilling drive, though, there are better options.”
Read review
Model reviewed: A4 saloon range
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi A4 feels solidly put together and comes with a cabin roomy enough to seat five, but alternatives are more fun to drive and don’t reserve desirable options for top-spec cars.”
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Company Car Today
Model reviewed: 2.0-litre diesel automatic 25 TDI Sport estate
“Slight visual uplift, better infotainment screen and more efficient engines are all welcome, but it’s not a radical upgrade to a car that is already well liked by company car drivers.”
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Daily Mail
Model reviewed: Range overview
“It’s a civilised and comfortable car to drive with good road manners and typically smart but minimalist interior styling, punctuated by the new free-standing 10.1-inch touchscreen which dominates the dashboard and comes as standard.”
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Evo
Model reviewed: A4 saloon range
Score: 8 / 10
“Still not the driver’s car of the class, but the A4 is strong in all other areas.”
Read review
Model reviewed: S4 TDI
Score: 8 / 10
“No B-road thriller, but the latest S4 is good to drive and makes more sense than ever in its new diesel format.”
Read review
Model reviewed: S4 TDI
Score: 8 / 10
“No B-road thriller, but the latest S4 is good to drive and makes more sense than ever in its new diesel format.”
Read review
Model reviewed: S4
Score: 8 / 10
“The first thing that strikes you about the S4 is how refined it is.”
Read review
Model reviewed: A4 Avant S Line
Score: 8 / 10
“The latest Audi A4 Avant builds on solid, refined reputation of its predecessors with impressive, if not inspiring dynamics.”
Read review
Model reviewed: A4 allroad
Score: 8 / 10
“It’s perfect if you want the space of an estate, some off-road ability but you can’t live with the shame and ignominy of having an SUV.”
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Heycar
Model reviewed: A4 allroad range
Score: 7 / 10
“Cars like the Audi A4 Allroad have become something of a countryside staple. Much like Barbour waxed jackets, border collies and colourful bunting, there seems to be one in almost every quaint village car park.”
Read review
Model reviewed: Saloon range
Score: 8 / 10
“No matter how popular SUVs of all shapes and sizes become, there will always be demand for the good old saloon. But with a wide range of talented opposition, why should you choose an Audi A4? Simply put, it’s one of finest examples of the breed, with strong abilities and very few faults.”
Read review
Model reviewed: Estate range
Score: 8 / 10
“Audi is one of the few premium marques that sells almost as many estates as it does saloons. This practical body style – which it calls Avant – fits with the company’s understated styling cues and four-wheel drive legacy.”
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Honest John
Model reviewed: A4 allroad quattro
Score: 8 / 10
“There are few natural alternatives to the Audi A4 allroad, the Volvo V60 Cross Country being the most obvious. So the Audi has made a niche for itself. But it’s an expensive niche. With prices starting at more than £35,000 it’s far from cheap.”
Read review
Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 10 / 10
“For those who demand the best refinement and quality, the Audi A4 is hard to beat. It might not be quite as sharp to drive as the BMW 3 Series on a country road, but on motorways it’s quieter and more relaxed, plus it is available with a huge range of technology.”
Read review
Model reviewed: 2.0-litre diesel automatic Ultra Sport
“Audi has clearly worked hard to improve the agility of the A4 and it does feel a lot better, but it doesn’t quite match the finesse of the BMW 3 Series or the rewarding cornering ability of the XE.”
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Motoring Research
Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“Avoid the largest alloys and it delivers a nice, cushioned ride, especially if you opt for the adaptive suspension. For drivers who spend their time pounding the motorways of Britain, the Audi A4 is a delight. For those who prefer to take the long way home, the BMW remains the class leader.”
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Motors
Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 9 / 10
“The Audi A4 has a high-quality and roomy interior, and is very refined”
Read review
Parkers
Model reviewed: A4 saloon range
Score: 9 / 10
“High-quality compact executive is a great all-rounder”
Read review
Model reviewed: A4 Avant range
Score: 8.4 / 10
“Classy and refined compact executive estate”
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The Sunday Times
Model reviewed: 2.0-litre diesel automatic 50 TDI quattro S Line
Score: 8 / 10
“A lovely thing to sit in but arguably not the best exec saloon to drive.”
Read review
Model reviewed: allroad quattro
Score: 8 / 10
“If an SUV isn’t your style but you want a car that’s made up to great escapes, the Audi A4 allroad makes a strong case for itself. It looks as athletic as a pair of Nike cross-country running shoes and, importantly, can deliver on its promises. And allroad Audis tend to hold their value well, making them a shrewd purchase.”
Read review
Model reviewed: 3.0-litre diesel automatic quattro S Line
Score: 8 / 10
“A slice of dull perfection.” (Jeremy Clarkson)
Read review
The Telegraph
Model reviewed: A4 Avant range
Score: 6 / 10
“The Audi A4 Avant is a nice enough car, but it simply costs too much to buy and run to justify its inherent ordinariness. When there are so many seriously competitive rivals out there that offer more for less, it’s hard to see why you’d choose the A4 instead.”
Read review
Model reviewed: (range review)
Score: 7 / 10
“The latest Audi A4 is a very good car in many areas. It feels rock-solid inside, with that Audi slickness and tactility we’ve come to know and love, and it’s cheap to lease and to run. However, Audi’s reputation for reliability at the moment isn’t great, and both the A4’s warranty and its standard specification are a little stingy.”
Read review
Model reviewed: A4 allroad
Score: 6 / 10
“This smaller sister of the impressive A6 Allroad should be great to drive and a viable alternative to the Q5 and a lot of other SUVs, but it isn’t. Twitch steering, a poor ride and a less-than-stellar driving experience fail to compensate for the lovely cabin and excellent 2.0-litre diesel.”
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Top Gear
Model reviewed: Estate range
Score: 7 / 10
“Majors on refinement and tech, but the drive’s alright these days too.”
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Model reviewed: 3.0-litre diesel automatic S4 Avant TDI
Score: 7 / 10
“Shifting the S4 to diesel has also done Audi a favour – it’s put some daylight it between it and the petrol V6 RS4, which has struggled to come across as more than an S4-plus.”
Read review
Model reviewed: (range review)
Score: 8 / 10
“Audi rejects agility in favour of comfort. The result is the best A4 ever.”
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Safety rating
Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP
Overall score: 5 stars
Date tested: November 2015
Date expired: January 2022
Read the full Euro NCAP review
Adult protection: 89%
Child protection: 87%
Vulnerable road users: 75%
Safety assist: 75%
Notes on safety rating
The Audi A4 was originally tested by Euro NCAP back in 20xx and awarded a five-star rating. However, this rating expired in January 2022 and is no longer valid as the car no longer meets the standards required for such a rating. This is normal practice, as Euro NCAP reviews its ratings on most cars annually with most ratings expiring after about six or seven years.
However, if you are comparing a used A4 to vehicles of similar age, whose ratings will have probably also expired, its safety rating score is still useful.
Eco rating
Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP
No eco rating
The Audi A4 was not assessed by Green NCAP during its production life.
Reliability rating
Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy
Total claims: 772
Average repair cost: £811.55
Last updated: August 2024
Reliability score
All data based on MotorEasy average workshop costs for extended car warranty claims
The Audi A4 has a poor reliability score, according to workshop data from our commercial partner MotorEasy. This score applies to the current generation (2015 onwards) as well as previous models.
By far the most common problems reported for A4 owners relate to the engine – these are also expensive, with an average repair bill of about £1,300. Suspension and braking problems are also quite common, although usually much cheaper to repair.
Most concerningly, there are plenty of reports of gearbox problems with an average repair bill of more than £1,600. If you own an Audi A4 or are looking at purchasing a used one, it’s certainly worth considering a used car warranty that covers all these problem areas.
Running cost rating
Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data
| Fuel consumption | Average | Score | Variation | Score |
| Petrol models | 40 mpg | D | 28 – 46 mpg | C – E |
| Diesel models | 50 mpg | B | 38 – 60 mpg | A – D |
| CO₂ output | Average | Score | Variation | Score |
| Petrol models | 164 g/km | C | 139 – 229 g/km | B – D |
| Diesel models | 151 g/km | B | 124 – 197 g/km | A – D |
| Insurance group | Average | Score | Variation | Score |
| All models | 28 | B | 20 – 50 | A – F |
| Service and maintenance | Cost | Score |
| Year 1 | £263 | C |
| Year 2 | £721 | C |
| Year 3 | £1,193 | C |
| Year 4 | £1,473 | C |
| Year 5 | £2,000 | C |
| Overall | £5,650 | C |
Running costs for the Audi A4 range are a rather mixed bag, according to data provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our commercial partner, Clear Vehicle Data.
Fuel economy is disappointing for petrol models but good for diesel-engined versions. Compared to the rest of the mid-sized saloon sector, the car’s service and maintenance costs are fairly average, and insurance costs likely are likely to be much cheaper than rivals like the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, based on data from the UK’s insurance group assessor, Thatcham Research.
Recalls
Official DVSA safety recalls that have been issued for the Audi A4
Date: February 2022
Recall number: R/2022/036
Model types: All
Build dates: 11/2019 to 02/2021
Number of vehicles affected: 5,327
Defect: Following a previous campaign, the toe and/or camber values on the rear axle may, in certain circumstances, incorrectly be changed without this being noticed.
Remedy: Check the affected seat frame connection and replace the frame if required.
Date: June 2021
Recall number: R/2021/236
Model types: All
Build dates: 11/2019 to 02/2021
Number of vehicles affected: 10,089
Defect: One or more nuts which do not meet the specifications may have been fitted on the rear axle suspension links.
Remedy: The affected nuts on the rear axle will be replaced on affected vehicles.
Date: June 2021
Recall number: R/2021/204
Model types: All
Build dates: 12/2015 to 12/2018
Number of vehicles affected: 263
Defect: Vehicles may have been fitted with a hinged towing bracket on which the locking mechanism in the hinge module could be faulty.
Remedy: The hinge module for the towing bracket must be checked and, where necessary, replaced on the vehicles affected.
Date: October 2020
Recall number: R/2020/302
Model types: All
Build dates: 07/2020
Number of vehicles affected: 8
Defect: The seat frame may not have been bolted correctly to the seat rail on the driver and/or front passenger side.
Remedy: Check the affected seat frame connection and replace the frame if required.
Date: October 2020
Recall number: R/2020/265
Model types: All
Build dates: 08/2018 to 03/2020
Number of vehicles affected: 11,936
Defect: It is possible that moisture may enter the belt-driven starter-alternator.
Remedy: The starter-alternator must be replaced on the affected vehicles.
Date: October 2020
Recall number: R/2020/138
Model types: All
Build dates: 06/2017 to 03/2020
Number of vehicles affected: 34,982
Defect: It is possible that moisture may enter the belt-driven starter-alternator.
Remedy: The starter-alternator must be replaced on the affected vehicles.
Date: June 2019
Recall number: R/2019/175
Model types: All
Build dates: 12/2015 to 12/2018
Number of vehicles affected: 135
Defect: Hinged towing bracket on which the locking mechanism in the hinge module could be faulty.
Remedy: The hinge module for the towing bracket must be checked and replaced, if required.
Date: May 2019
Recall number: R/2019/149
Model types: All
Build dates: 02/2019 to 03/2019
Number of vehicles affected: 85
Defect: An error in the casting process may affect the rigidity of the shock absorber fork.
Remedy: The corresponding shock absorber forks must be replaced on the affected vehicles.
Date: March 2019
Recall number: R/2019/099
Model types: All
Build dates: 02/2014 to 09/2016
Number of vehicles affected: 2,763
Defect: Fuel may escape from one or both fuel rails (low-pressure side).
Remedy: The fuel rails for the low-pressure side of both cylinder banks must be replaced on the affected vehicles.
Date: December 2018
Recall number: R/2018/365
Model types: All
Build dates: 02/2017 to 07/2017
Number of vehicles affected: 8
Defect: Airbag securing bolts may not be to the correct torque.
Remedy: Check and replace bolts as required.
Date: June 2018
Recall number: R/2018/152
Model types: All
Build dates: 05/2011 to 05/2017
Number of vehicles affected: 137
Defect: Moisture may enter the electronic components and cause overheating and failure of the additional coolant pump. Localised smoulder damage cannot be ruled out and, in individual cases, may cause vehicle to catch fire.
Remedy: The additional coolant pump must be replaced and, in addition, a software update of the engine control unit must be carried out
Date: April 2018
Recall number: R/2018/086
Model types: All
Build dates: 10/2014 to 10/2017
Number of vehicles affected: 5,092
Defect: The aluminium trim may become detached from the loudspeaker trim in the front or rear doors. Cuts and other injuries from the sharp edges may occur.
Remedy: All four aluminium strips on the loudspeaker trims will be replaced.
Date: May 2017
Recall number: R/2017/115
Model types: All
Build dates: 05/2011 to 10/2016
Number of vehicles affected: 2,844
Defect: Foreign particles in the coolant can lead to a blockage in the additional coolant pump and cause the pump to overheat.
Remedy: Update the software, which will deactivate the additional coolant pump in the event of malfunction. If there has been a malfunction of the additional water pump, it will be replaced.
Date: February 2017
Recall number: R/2017/078
Model types: All
Build dates: 02/2017 to 07/2017
Number of vehicles affected: 2,622
Defect: Due to an error in the manufacturing process, the airbag and/or seat belt pre-tensioner may not trigger in the event of a collision.
Remedy: Replace airbag assembly and seat belt pre-tensioner where necessary.
Date: January 2017
Recall number: R/2016/294
Model types: All
Build dates: 02/2017 to 07/2017
Number of vehicles affected: 201
Defect: The backrests of the front seats may not have been assembled correctly. This may increase risk of injury to occupants during a collision.
Remedy: Check frames and, if necessary, replace affected components.
As of August 2024, there have been 14 DVSA vehicle safety recalls issued between 2017 and 2022 for this generation of Audi A4. These cover several different issues and affect different numbers of vehicles, while some recalls extend to other Audi models as well.
Not all vehicles are affected by recalls. You can check to see if your car is included in any of the above recalls by visiting the DVLA website or contacting your local Audi dealer.
If your car is affected by a recall, the vehicle must be repaired and you should not be charged for any work required. If you are buying a used A4, you should insist that any outstanding recall work is completed before you take delivery of the vehicle.
Awards
Trophies, prizes and awards that the Audi A4 has received
2019
- Company Car Today CCT100 Awards – Best Compact Executive Car
2018
- Company Car Today CCT100 Awards – Best Compact Executive Car
2017
- Fleet News Awards – Best Premium Car
- Fleet World Honours – Best Compact Executive
2016
- Contract Hire and Leasing Awards – Car of the Year + Best Executive Car
- Fleet News Awards – Best Premium Car
- Top Gear Awards – Best for Big Miles
Similar cars
If you’re looking at the Audi A4, you might also be interested in these alternatives
Alfa Romeo Giulia | Audi A5 Sportback | BMW 3 Series | BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé | Jaguar XE | Kia Stinger | Mazda 6 | Mercedes-Benz C-Class | Peugeot 508 | Polestar 2 | Skoda Superb | Subaru Levorg | Tesla Model 3 | Vauxhall Insignia | Volkswagen Arteon | Volkswagen Passat | Volvo S60 | Volvo V60
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