Calling the Audi A4 a value-oriented car may be reaching a bit, but the A4 is Audi's lowest-priced car, and even though it's still quite expensive, you get a lot for what you pay. The 2005 Audi A4 had few changes until midyear, when the sports sedan/family car got two new engines.
Looking a lot like the old Audi A6 on the outside, with its gigantic grille and rounded edges, the 2005 A4 is available as a sedan, wagon, or convertible Cabriolet. While the Cabriolet continues to offer the 1.8T and 3.0 V6, the 2005 sedans and wagons have been upgraded to the much stronger 2.0T, 4-cylinder, direct-fuel injection (FSI) engine rated at 200 horsepower, the first time an FSI has been combined with a turbo. When paired with the standard 6-speed manual transmission, any past doubts about off-the-line power have been dispelled. The old 3.0 engine is replaced by a 3.2, 255-hp V6, which unfortunately only comes with the 6-speed Tiptronic auto transmission, which offers manual-like shifting. AWD quattros come with either the manual or Tiptronic transmission, while front-wheel drives have the option of the CVT, continuously variable transmission.
A Sports Package/S-Line option adds a firmer suspension, 17-inch performance tires, rear spoiler, badging, and other performance-oriented features. The 2005 A4 suspension is already top-notch, even without this package, and offers a smoother, stabler ride along with precise responsiveness and road-hugging excellence.
Drivers love the new boost in power, and say the Audi A4 is a blast to drive, due to its handling and steering. The interior setup is both cool (a red-lit dash) and convenient. Many like the Bose sound system. Cupholder uselessness is still a problem, as is a tiny backseat. Some drivers complain of turbo lag, especially in the older 1.8T models. For all the power in the 3.2 engine, a lot of experts and owners say the 2.0 Turbo paired with a manual transmission is much more fun to drive.
