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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2011 Audi A4

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Curious about the newer model? Check out the 2013 Audi A4

Overview

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2011 Audi A4 Review

By KBB.com Editors

Two years after debuting with a host of changes, the Audi A4 continues to steal the spotlight from class heavyweights like the BMW 3 Series, Lexus IS, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and others such as the Cadillac CTS and Infiniti G Sedan. That level of success is attributable to attractive yet relatively subdued styling in Sedan or Avant (wagon) guise, quality materials and craftsmanship, a comfortable and inviting interior, an engaging chassis, and a turbocharged engine that balances the need for efficiency with the demand for performance. If you're in the market for an entry-level luxury car with a good bit of sportiness mixed into its DNA, don't call the deal done until you've spent some time with the 2011 Audi A4.

You'll Like This Car If...

Shoppers intent on purchasing a stylish, entry-level premium sport sedan (or wagon) – one that delivers efficiency and performance in equal doses at a relatively affordable price – would be well-advised to check out the 2011 Audi A4.

You May Not Like This Car If...

The finer things in life have a price. For Audi A4 buyers who like their German vehicles equipped to the gills, that price can reach well beyond the competition. And shoppers reacquainting themselves with the A4 may long for the more compact and nimble model of years past.

What's Significant About This Car?

In addition to a few minor updates, the 2011 Audi A4 2.0T is available with a new eight-speed automatic transmission that replaces last year's six-speed unit, a Titanium Sport package with 19-inch alloy wheels and a retuned suspension, and an HD Radio feature included with the optional navigation system.

Driving the A4

Driving Impressions Slide behind the leather-wrapped, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, cozy up with the bolstered seats, and the 2011 Audi's A4 sporting intentions become evident. Put the whole package into motion...

and discover a slightly stiff ride around town, which thankfully translates into tight and predictable handling on winding back roads. Complementing the A4's chassis is a turbocharged engine that is virtually free of lag, and with peak torque available at only 1,500 rpm, allows for grin-inducing acceleration when the light turns green. Best of all, you'll get up to 31 mpg in the process.

Favorite Features

Turbocharged Engine
In a class dominated by in-line and V-6 engines, the Audi A4 stands apart with a boosted four-cylinder that delivers smooth and plentiful power as well as top-notch fuel economy.

S Line Package
For buyers who want to maximize the A4's sportiness without climbing into S4 territory, the S Line Package answers the call with 19-inch alloys wrapped in performance tires, more aggressive suspension tuning, subtle exterior enhancements, upgraded upholstery, and genuine brushed aluminum trim.

2011 Audi A4 Details

Interior

There's more to a luxury car than a badge, a point you'll immediately realize when seated inside the 2011 Audi A4. From its vault-like feel to the generous application of soft-touch materials, this vehicle exudes quality. The MMI (multi-media interface) central dial could be a bit simpler in its operation, but the A4 should be applauded for its intuitive layout of primary and secondary controls. They're part of a cabin that also includes firm seats that provide consistent comfort over the long haul, and in the case of the A4 Avant, a cargo area measuring up to 50.5 cubic feet.

Exterior

With its tall, horizontally split grille and that four-ring emblem, there's no mistaking a modern Audi A4 when it comes racing into your rearview mirror. The slight downward turn of the headlights offers the somewhat intimidating appearance of a furrowed brow, and the optional LED daytime running lights were, until recently, an Audi exclusive. Feast your eyes on the flanks and tail, and you'll see understated design that's sharp and precise, or minimalistic without being drab. Finishing off the look are alloy wheels ranging in size from 17 to 19 inches.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

Shoppers interested in the 2011 Audi A4 have three trims to choose from, the most affordable of which is dubbed Premium. Among the standard goods are 17-inch alloy wheels, a power sunroof, Sirius Satellite Radio, and power-adjustable front seats. Climb up one wrung to the Premium Plus and you'll avail yourself to Bluetooth connectivity, heated front buckets, and LED daytime running lights. The top-of-the-line A4 Prestige variant adds a navigation system, HD Radio, a 505-watt Bang & Olufsen stereo, and a DVD player. All A4s feature six standard airbags, ABS, and electronic stability control.

Optional Equipment

No luxury model is complete without an array of must-have options. In the case of the 2011 Audi A4 2.0T Sedan and Wagon, those include a navigation system with voice controls, a rearview camera, and a new HD Radio feature; a blind-spot warning system; intelligent cruise control; and the safety of rear-side airbags. The A4 can also be upgraded with a variety of stylish alloy wheels, different types of genuine wood interior trim, quattro all-wheel-drive, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and the Audi Drive Select system that provides four specific chassis and powertrain settings.

Under the Hood

Fitted under the hood of every 2011 Audi A4 Sedan and Wagon is an efficient 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine that sports a turbocharger and direct injection. Front-wheel-drive versions of the A4 feature a continuously variable transmission (CVT), whereas models equipped with Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive system utilize a six-speed manual or the new-for-2011 eight-speed Tiptronic automatic. Regardless of transmission or drivetrain, the A4 continues to be among the most fuel-efficient luxury-branded sedans on the market, bettering alternatives such as the BMW 328i and Infiniti G25 Sedan, each of which offers considerably less torque than the Audi.

2.0-liter in-line 4 turbocharged
211 horsepower @ 4300-6000 rpm
258 lb.-ft. of torque @ 1500-4200 rpm
EPA City/Highway Mileage: 22/30 (FWD, CVT), 21/31 (AWD, manual), 21/29 (AWD, automatic)

To compare current market prices, check out KBB.com's car classifieds to view the new and used Audi A4 vehicles for sale near you.

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2011 Audi A4 Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

9.0

Out of 10

Based on 85 Ratings for the 2009 - 2013 models.

Review this car

Value

8.8/10

Quality

9.3/10
Reliability

9.1/10

Performance

9.3/10
Comfort

9.3/10

Styling

9.4/10

Best all around vehicle that I have owned.

By John (CO) on Thursday, May 09, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 30,000

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "Handling, fuel economy, style"

Cons: "Road clearance"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"This is a great car which is fun to drive, has great handling characteristics, and good fuel economy. Highway driving in the mountains and to and from Denver, I always get at least 30mpg. Out of the mountains on the highway,I typically get 32mpg at 70+ mph. The 8 speed AT is amazing and I never feel it shift. Traction in snow, slush, ice and rain is great! The car with options is on the expensive side at first, but driving it always puts a smile on my face."

2 people out of 2 found this review helpful

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Fantastic, well-engineered automobile

By MotownSailor (IA) on Thursday, May 09, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 14,750

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Reliability, Fun to Drive, Looks, Comfort, MPG"

Cons: "None"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I purchased a new, 2011 Audi A4 two years ago. This is, by far, the best automobile I have ever owned. Every aspect of this car feels "right." The German engineering is obvious, from the dials and buttons on the driver's console, to the layout of the steering wheel. This car is incredibly quick for a 2-liter 4 cylinder engine. I often find myself doing +80mph as I merge onto the expressway to go to work in the morning! This car drives like it is on rails. The automatic 8-speed tranny is absolutely wonderful. The dual-clutch system works flawlessly as you accelerate, and even as you slow to approach a red light, the transmission downshifts smoothly and at the exact right moment. The cost to maintain an Audi is a little higher than typical American cars, but I only need to bring it in every 10,000 miles. I haven't done the math, but it probably works out equally in the long run. This is my first turbo, and it did take a little getting used to. The car does suffer from turbo-lag when driving around the city... But this is a heavy four-door car, with a small 2.0 liter engine, so it is to be expected. The turbo kicks in after about a second (it feels like you are letting the clutch out in a manual) and when it kicks in, hold on! This is a terrific car, and I am now a devoted Audi owner!"

2 people out of 2 found this review helpful

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If you do your homework, you will see why it rocks

By Audi Nut (AZ) on Tuesday, April 30, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 5,000

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Good Power, Sharp Looks, Comfortable, Quiet"

Cons: "If you get a base model, it is lacking"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"This is our 6th Audi, Audi has gotten progressively better since our 1st in 2001. Every 4 years we upgrade to the next gen. What an awesome car. Get to know you dealer! Get to know your service department. They will not steer you wrong. Audi leads the way in customer satisfaction and service. We cant say enough praise for this company."

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I love this car!

By Barry (CA) on Monday, April 22, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 36,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 8/10
Reliability: 8/10
Quality: 8/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Handling is phenomenal; oozes class!"

Cons: "I really cannot complain. I did my research."

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I love this car. It handles so well, and it is a joy to drive. I bought this car in November 2012. Immediately took it upto the Bay Area to see my folks, and the drive was very smooth. I knew what I was buying, so I am aware of expected costs for maintenance and so forth. Thanks KBB for the information available. You made this purchase so much easier."

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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Funnest Car I've Ever Owned

By DropTop (GA) on Saturday, March 30, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 41,000

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "fun, comfy, good value (as a CPO), and beautiful"

Cons: "I'll let you know if I find any."

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I have a 2009 A4 Cabrio S-Line that I've owned for about a year and a half and have put about 28,000 miles on it. I bought it as a certified pre-owned, and I definitely recommend going that route if you can find what you want. What do I like about it? I find that it handles remarkably well for a FWD car. I took it on a drive through the hills/mountains of northern GA and had a blast. It is also very comfortable on long drives, more comfortable than my wife's Toyota Avalon and the Lexus that replaced the Avalon. The ergonomics are just perfect. It has plenty of power when I need it and very good highway mileage when I am just cruising - in level areas of the state I can log about 33 MPG HWY. Unlike a hardtop convertible, the A4's top leaves plenty of space in the trunk when it is down. I read plenty of other reviews that talked about the A4 burning oil. Well the owner's manual does say that it will burn a quart about every 1200 miles. I've found that number can fluctuate depending on how I drive. I use mine as my daily driver so I'm usually driving pretty sedately just getting to work and back. While I haven't been diligent in logging the events I have noticed that with such driving I get well beyond that 1200 miles before I need to add oil. On the other hand, I have had the opportunity now and again to rapidly and fully depress the accelerator with the shift lever in sport mode, and when I do I can see a bit of a blue cloud in my rear view mirror - but I lose sight of it quickly (varoom!) My brother says it is normal for that type of engine because it has low compression (words, words, words). Anyways, I check my oil regularly and keep a quart in the trunk (Why not? There's room.) and I've never had any problem. Plus, doing so gives me one more reason to spend more time with my car. Finally, it is beautiful. (I actually prefer the headlights and taillights on my 2009 over the squinty things on the newer models.) A couple of weeks ago we were in an art gallery and came around a corner to a window overlooking the parking lot where I could see my car (Ibis White with a tan roof). My wife compared my car to what we had seen in the gallery, with my car winning the beauty contest. So, fun, comfortable, good value (as a CPO), and beautiful. I think that about sums it up."

2 people out of 2 found this review helpful

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Great, sporty car

By Rippin'AV (CA) on Monday, March 25, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 60,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "fun to drive, quattro traction anywhere, mpg's"

Cons: "little pricey in avant trim but worth it!"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Have owned the Audi A4 avant for almost 5 years now and absolutely love it. Driving dynamics are great, with sport package it just sticks to the road. Great gas mileage for how quick it is. Best looking wagon on the road. Period."

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