2008-2012 Audi A4
History
Mention the word "compact executive" and the top two answers would be two German compatriots: the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes C Class. Heck, the Lexus IS would also be mentioned at the same breath leaving some rivals such as the Audi A4 or the Volvo S60 out of the equation. Sure, the A4 doesn't have any faults but with rivals overshadowing over its popularity, this one deserves a keen look at the second hand market.
Released in September 2007 at the Frankfurt Motor Show for the sedan (with the Avant having its debut in March 2008), the B8 series A4 represented the fourth generation model of the vehicle line. This generation utilized a variant of the Audi Modular Longitudinal Platform which allowed the vehicle to utilize a longer wheelbase without growing in length which made improvements in its handling due to the redistribution of the center of gravity.
Locally, it had its debut sometime in mid-2008 which competed with the fresh C Class, long-in-the-tooth S60 and class leader 3 Series. Both diesel and turbocharged gasoline models were made available to Filipino consumers.
Value and Costs
If you are not a fan of the bling-bling that a Benz or a Bimmer gives you, even on a second hand package, then the allure of an Audi may suit you. Prices for this Ingolstadt assembled vehicle ranges from P900,000 to P1,900,000, which may also include rivals from Europe and Japan given the range. Our advice for premium brands when going second hand is to go certified pre-owned, as such PGA Cars has a wide range of certified units available.
Between the two engines, we'd pick the diesel due to the savings that can give you. Common problems for this vehicle include the EGR in diesel models and the headlights have the tendency to blacken out. Early release models have their MMI interface freeze, so make sure it works properly.
Exterior and Interior
As we said earlier, the redesign gave this vehicle more space without looking bulky and making it more longer than its two German rivals. Its styling is definitely timeless and can withstand the test of time without making this vehicle look outdated.
The interior is where Audi excels, and they succeed in this redesign with high quality materials abound this vehicle. Inside it may be bare but it was crafted perfectly. When placing in passengers, the rear is best left to two since the middle seat has the driveshaft tunnel (to make way to an all wheel drive system) passing through making the one sitting there uncomfortable.
Engine
If you prefer the quietness of a gasoline engine, the sole option would be the 1.8 turbocharged which puts out, depending on the year model, 158hp at 4,500-6,200rpm and 250Nm at 1,500-4,500rpm for 2008 to 2011 models while later ones play at 170hp at 3,800-6,200rpm and 320Nm at 1,750-3,000rpm. Choosing the diesel will opt you for a 2.0 unit having 143hp at 4,200rpm and 320Nm at 1,750-2,500rpm. Both engines are impressive enough on their own intents, with the diesel masquerading for something as gasoline driven.
Driving Impressions
Having a suspension set-up for touring purposes, the ride will not beat you up and still bring your tired body home with ease. Steering is on the sharp side and ride quality is excellent.
Verdict
Sure, it may not have the badge of a Benz or the driving feel of a BMW, the Audi A4 makes an excellent proposition if you value economy and presence more without the flash.
The Good:
- Diesel power
- Interior quality is tops
- Refinement
The Bad:
- Tight rear seat
- Complicated controls
- Anonymity of the brand
The Pick: 2.0 TDI
THE SPECS
Engines: 1,798cc I4 turbocharged gasoline, 1,968cc I4 diesel
Power: 158hp @ 4,500-6,200rpm (1.8, 2008-2011), 170hp @ 3,800-6,200rpm (1.8, 2012-2016), 143hp @ 4,200rpm (2.0)
Torque: 250Nm @ 1,500-4,500rpm (1.8, 2008-2011), 320Nm @ 1,750-3,000rpm (1.8, 2012-2016), 320Nm @ 1,750-2,500rpm (2.0)
Fuel Consumption: 7-11km/L (city), 9-15km/L (highway) (*estimated and varies)
Transmission: 6-speed automatic (2008-2011), 8-speed automatic (2012-2016)
Suspension: Front multilink, rear trapezoidal link
MORE INFO
Price (New): P2,800,000-P3,500,000
Price (Now): P900,000-P1,900,000
Rivals: BMW 3 Series, Lexus IS, Mercedes Benz C Class, Volvo S60
On Sale: 2008-2016
Resources:
Contact:
PGA Cars Pre-Owned: (02) 725-3948
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