Used Audi A4 2005 - 2009 review

What's the used Audi A4 like?

Despite looking like an all-new car, this Audi A4 saloon is actually a heavily revised version of its predecessor. It's slightly bigger inside, but dynamically very similar.

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Overview

The Audi A4 is a classy compact executive saloon and shouldn't disappoint.

Pros

• Elegant
• Quiet
• Desirable

Cons

• Not as good to drive as a BMW 3 Series

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Audi A4

2.0 TDI Executive SE Euro 4 4dr

£850

Audi A4

1.9 TDI SE 4dr

£990

Audi A4

2.0 TDI S line 4dr

£995

Audi A4

2.0 TDI S line CVT 4dr

£995

Audi A4

2.0 TDI SE 4dr

£1,290

Audi A4

2.0 TDI SE Technik Euro 5 (s/s) 4dr

£1,495

Audi A4

2.0 TDI SE 4dr

£1,495

Audi A4

2.0 TDI Executive SE Euro 4 4dr

£1,600

Audi A4

2.0 SE 4dr

£1,650

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With precise handling and good roadholding, the Audi is entertaining to drive, and unsettled by only the bumpiest surfaces. It grips well and turns into corners crisply, and rides comfortably over most surfaces. Although the Audi ultimately falls short of the BMW 3 Series for driver enjoyment, it's perfectly acceptable.

This A4 retains Audi's tradition for clarity, quality and comfort inside the cabin. Controls are logically laid out and feel durable, and four people can sit in comfort. However, five will struggle due to the bulk of the transmission tunnel. Wind and tyre noise are kept in check.

Our recommendations

Which used Audi A4 should I buy?

Go for the 2.0 TDI engine, which is smoother than the 1.9-litre diesel option. You get 138bhp and an average of 47.9mpg. Large diesels comprise 2.5-litre, 2.7-litre and a 3.0-litre V6s

Diesel models have better residual values, but if you want a petrol car the turbo-charged 2.0-litre FSI engine is a sensible choice. Avoid the underpowered 1.6-litre model, but the 1.8 turbo model is worth considering.

The 3.2-litre petrol-engined version is rare and not that exciting, as opposed to the 4.2-litre which produces up to 414bhp, and the rival BMW M3.

The more powerful versions of the A4 come with four-wheel drive, which noticeably improves traction but lowers fuel economy.

The entry-level trim (unnamed) is poorly equipped, so opt for the mid-level SE with four electric windows and a CD player. The S-line model comes with sportier trim, seats and detailing. An early version of Audi's Multi-Media Interface (MMI) is a desirable option, and like BMW's iDrive, lets you control the radio, CD player, ventilation system and sat nav.

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