Audi A4

The Audi A4 is a luxury D-segment sedan produced by Germany's Audi, which has established itself as one of the benchmarks in the global executive car market since its debut in 1994. The Audi A4 discussed in this article refers to the standard wheelbase version, differing from the long-wheelbase A4L manufactured locally by FAW-Volkswagen Audi. As of June 2026, the Audi A4 range is nearing the end of its fourth-generation (B9) lifecycle, soon to be succeeded by the newly renamed next-generation Audi A5.

Model Overview

The Audi A4 is positioned as a luxury D-segment sedan, serving as a core pillar in Audi's product portfolio. Its key selling point lies in seamlessly blending advanced technology, exquisite build quality, and well-balanced driving dynamics. Globally, the A4 is offered in multiple body styles, including the four-door sedan (Sedan), estate (Avant), and crossover estate (allroad quattro). In the Chinese market, the standard wheelbase A4 is sold as a fully imported (CBU) model, primarily comprising two major line-ups: the Avant and the allroad quattro. The recommended retail price for the 2025 Audi A4 (Import) allroad quattro starts at RM430,800. For reference, the overseas standard wheelbase A4 Sedan measures approximately 4,780 mm in length, 1,840 mm in width, and 1,430 mm in height, with a 2,820 mm wheelbase; while the allroad crossover variant measures 4,762/1,847/1,490 mm, with a 2,819 mm wheelbase.

Design Language

The current Audi A4 adopts Audi's signature family design language, combining the iconic hexagonal Singleframe grille at the front with sharp LED headlights to project a commanding, tech-focused, and sporty road presence. The exterior lines are sleek and well-proportioned, while the Avant estate and allroad crossover variants present more elegant or rugged side profiles. The allroad variant stands out with its distinctive crossover styling, raised ground clearance (up to 180 mm), and rugged off-road body cladding, distinguishing it from conventional passenger cars.

Inside, the A4 carries forward Audi's hallmark premium craftsmanship and tech-centric cabin ambience. The driver-focused cockpit is equipped with a 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit (digital instrument cluster) and a 10.1-inch MMI touch central display as standard or optional fitment. The latest MMI system supports smart voice control, connected navigation, and over-the-air (OTA) updates. High-grade materials and meticulous assembly throughout the interior reflect the standard expected of a premium German marque.

Powertrain and Performance

The Audi A4 is available with several powertrain choices, anchored primarily by a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine in different states of tune.

In the Chinese market, the imported A4 range (including Avant and allroad) is predominantly offered in 40 TFSI and 45 TFSI tunes. Among them, the 2025 A4 allroad quattro 45 TFSI is powered by a high-output 2.0-litre turbo engine, delivering 195 kW (265 PS) and a peak torque of 370 Nm. The powerplant is mated to a 7-speed S tronic wet dual-clutch transmission. The century sprint (0-100 km/h) is dispatched in the six-second range, with a top speed of 248 km/h. In addition, selected overseas markets also offer options such as a 1.4-litre turbo (30 TFSI) and a 3.0-litre V6 turbo in the S4 performance model.

Chassis and Handling

The Audi A4 is engineered with a front-engine, front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive layout. Underneath, the car features front and rear five-link independent suspension, with extensive use of aluminium alloy components to reduce unsprung mass, thereby sharpening steering response and enhancing ride compliance. Higher-spec models come equipped with Audi's renowned quattro permanent all-wheel drive system (evolved in current models into the proactive quattro ultra system), providing outstanding grip and stability across slippery road conditions and fast corners.

Cabin and Equipment

The Audi A4 delivers a well-judged balance of in-car technology and passenger comfort. In addition to the virtual cockpit and MMI touchscreen, the cabin features a three-spoke sports steering wheel and premium leather seats with power adjustment, heating, and ventilation functions. Creature comforts include a panoramic sunroof, keyless entry with push-start button, wireless smartphone charging, and a Bang & Olufsen premium audio system. The allroad variant also comes standard with a 12V mild-hybrid system (MHEV), ensuring seamless start-stop operation and improved fuel efficiency.

Safety and Driver Assistance

In terms of safety and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), the Audi A4 easily matches segment benchmarks. The vehicle offers the Audi intelligent driving assistance package as standard or optional kit, incorporating features such as Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) , Lane Keeping Assist, Autonomous Emergency Braking / Forward Collision Warning, and Blind Spot Monitoring / Lane Change Assist, achieving comprehensive Level 2 semi-autonomous driving capability. For passive safety, it comes standard with a comprehensive airbag package, including front side airbags and full-length curtain airbags.

Market Performance and Verdict

The Audi A4 ranks as one of the world's most successful luxury D-segment cars, with cumulative global sales exceeding 8 million units. In the Chinese market, the locally assembled long-wheelbase A4L has long been the primary volume driver, while the standard wheelbase imported version caters to driving purists seeking authentic European dynamics. Motoring media widely regard the Audi A4 as an exceptionally well-rounded executive car, praised for its distinctive tech appointments (such as the virtual cockpit and matrix lighting) and capable quattro all-wheel-drive system. While its interior layout begins to show its age against newer rivals and certain convenience items remain on the options list as it reaches the end of its product cycle, generous showroom discounts make the current A4 a compelling, value-packed proposition in the executive car class.