2008 Audi A4 Avant

The Avant wagon underwent redesign with the rest of the A4 line in 2005. The 2008 model line has undergone only minor changes since 2007. The highly acclaimed Audi Quattro four wheel drive system, a sophisticated ESP stability control system, ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution, traction control, and front side airbags and curtain side airbags are standard on Avant wagons. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named the A4 as a "Top Safety Pick" in the midsize category.

A turbocharged 2.0-liter, 200-hp I4 or a 3.2-liter, 255-hp V6 are offered and both couple to either a six-speed manual transmission or the six-speed Tiptronic automatic. The Avant turbo 4 with Tiptronic covered 0-60 in 7.6. Reviewers noted some turbo lag with the heavier Avant. The V6 provided more comfortable highway cruising. Either engine still affords a sporty drive with the Quattro setup and the compact wagon's taunt, but comfortable suspension. The Avant, like its leaner A4 siblings, is at home in the twisties with some reviewers "forgetting" they were driving a wagon. EPA gives City/Highway for turbo 4 with manual transmission: 20/28 mpg.

The interior carries on the high standards of Audi workmanship, design and finish and of the A4's lack of rear seating space. Driver seating is ample and ergonomically well designed. Some reviewers found the controls "a bit complex." The Avant provides 27.8 cu.ft. of luggage space (all seats in place) and a maximum cargo space (rear seats folded) of 59 cu.ft., which is adequate but less than its class competitors.

The Avant is an elegant compact sport wagon with proven all-weather capabilities and excellent standard safety features. Reviewers, however, point out that Audi's long option list can quickly make the wagon a rather pricey indulgence.