2006 Audi A4 2.0T Quattro Review
BY Mike Mavilia
Overview:
Since the release of the 2005 model, the Audi A4 is new from the ground up and even more improvements in the 2006 models with new engines and new equipment packages. The A4 is a amongst the top luxury sports cars with similar cars being the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes C-Class and Lexus IS.
Road Test:
The 2006 Audi A4 is fun to drive and comes with all the sporty features you would expect in a luxury car. It feels like it’s riding on rails going around corners and the High-quality construction is evident inside and out. The all-wheel drive (Quattro) and the latest in active safety features helps keep the driver on the road no matter the conditions or situation. Driving in rain or snow is truly no match for the gripping power of the Quattro.
The A4 and its state of the art powertrain benefit greatly from the intercooled turbochargers, multi-stage intake manifolds, variable valve timing and direct injection (which seems to be the cleanest and most efficient means of blending fuel and air in an engine’s cylinders). The first thing I noticed on our test drive was how well the turbocharger converted this tame 4 cylinder into a zippy animal. Fuel economy is sacrificed somewhat for the ability to access the additional 30+ horsepower but if you need to get out of a tight jam on the highway or want to power through a windy road, it’s well worth the extra cost.
Each of the three transmission choices are good. The standard model comes with a six-speed manual, while options include a six-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic and a continuously variable transmission (as we tested). There is also a normal mode and Sport Mode which made an obvious difference in performance when switched over to Sport. Shifting tightened up quite a bit and made first gear jump.
The Four-wheel independent suspension was amazing. With geometry that keeps tires on the ground and augmented with standard electronic stability assistance, keeping the car going where the driver wants is never a problem.
Fit and Finish:
The 2006 A4 comes in a range of models. Drivers who need to carry gear or cargo will appreciate the Avant wagon, which offers the cargo bay of a wagon while maintaining the A4’s sporty driving character. Enthusiasts who just can’t get enough power and want race track handling may prefer the S4, which features a powerful V8 engine and high-performance underpinnings.
Good News:
Excellent drive with All-wheel drive helps the A4 Quattro hug the road in turns. Fuel economy is good for local around town driving or highway roads. Ample horsepower to accelerate with ease.
Bad News:
Expensive to repair and maintain compared to Audi’s domestic competition. Requires the more expensive 91 Octane gas.
Standard Equipment:
2.0L I-4 Engine
6-speed manual w/OD Transmission
200 @ 5,100 rpm Horsepower
207 @ 1,800 rpm Torque
All-wheel Drive
ABS and driveline Traction control
16″ aluminum Wheels
Front air conditioning, dual zone automatic
AM/FM/Satellite-prep, seek-scan Radio
Keyfob (all doors) Remote keyless entry
Front and rear Fog/driving lights
Heated mirrors
Driver and Passenger Lumbar support
Gas Stats:
MPG up to 22 City / 31 Highway
Pricing:
MSRP $30,340