The well-rounded 2020 Audi A4 should be just right for shoppers looking for an entry-level luxury sedan. It offers the same sort of performance, efficiency, driving experience and interior quality (or better) than top-rated German rivals and boasts a lower price and easier-to-use electronics. Your heart and head should be equally pleased.
Updated front-end styling with standard LED headlights
New touchscreen-based infotainment system
More items added to list of standard features
Part of the fifth A4 generation introduced for 2017
What is it?
Audi's bread-and-butter sedan gets a handful of subtle styling updates that lend it a more aggressive look. Audi has replaced the mild-mannered executive look of today's sedan with a larger and wider grille. The lower air intake and foglight housings also open up into a more straked appearance.
LED headlights and automatic high beams now come standard, as does a revamped MMI infotainment system with a 10-inch touchscreen that replaces Audi's earlier central dial-controller interface.
In Europe, the A4 will also feature a new 48-volt hybrid system that will aid in engine starting and providing low-speed electric assist for increased fuel savings. American buyers won't likely get this option for 2020, but with a growing list of 48-volt assist systems available in the U.S. from automakers ranging from Ram to Mercedes-Benz, we wouldn't be surprised if Audi fast-tracks the technology for our highways pretty soon.
Why does it matter?
The A4's primary BMW and Mercedes competitors continue to polish their luxury compact lineups every year, and the A4's latest enhancements will keep it on the minds of buyers. The freshened styling keeps the A4's look evolving, but the car's in-cabin tech and new touchscreen-based infotainment are the most significant upgrades.
What does it compete with?
Pretty much the usual suspects. You'll want to cross-shop the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Lexus IS. Genesis' new G70 is a new entry also worth checking out.
Edmunds says
Styling updates give the 2020 Audi A4 a more aggressive look, but it's the new touchscreen-based infotainment system upgrade that makes the most difference. All things considered, this is one of the better picks around for a small luxury sedan.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2020 Audi A4 Premium 4dr Sedan w/40 TFSI (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $5.22 per gallon for premium unleaded in California.
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Audi A4 from 2008-2022.
$618/yr
vs. $607/yr for Average Luxury Midsize Car
Frequency
The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).
2.67x/yr
vs. 1.36x/yr for Average Luxury Midsize Car
Severity
The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).
14.5%
vs. 10.5% for Average Luxury Midsize Car
powered by RepairPal Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.
2019 Audi A4 2.0 TFSI Premium Plus quattro 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM)
This is my second A4 in the current body style. I leased a very early production 2017 A4 Quattro and just replaced it with a 2019 A4 Quattro Premium Plus. I decided to lease another A4 for a few reasons. First, I really enjoyed my old A4. Second, I wasn't overwhelmed by the new S60 and BMW 3 series, and I am not quite ready to go for a Tesla. The pros of the A4 start with the Virtual … Cockpit infotainment system. If you don't get it, you're missing a huge selling point for the car. Virtual Cockpit is no longer the newest system on the block, but it is still excellent. Having the large Google Earth map with traffic info right in front of me while dealing with LA rush hour traffic is a huge plus. It isn't an annoying touchscreen system, which makes it less distracting. You do have to take a little time to learn all the features offered and set it up to your liking (it's worth spending time digging through all the menus), but once you're done, it's pretty intuitive. Virtual Cockpit is fast and it appears to be a little snappier than 2017 version. The rest of the interior is well put together and high quality. I am 6'2" with a big frame (size 14 feet, broad shoulders) and I fit really well in the driver seat. The sport seat with the extendable thigh support is a must for me given my body size. Also, the extendable and height adjustable center armrest is a fantastic detail that you don't see in a lot of non-VW/Audi cars. This is actually one of the few cars where my right knee isn't squeezed by the center console and dash. This was mentioned as a problem by another reviewer, but I haven't had this issue. Even the Honda Accord, which is a bigger car overall, didn't fit me well. In terms of performance, the '45' engine has plenty of power, especially low in the rev band. This is helpful for quick starts or squirting through tight openings. It's not earth shattering, but it certainly gets the job done and is class competitive. The ride seems a little tighter and more composed than in my old A4. It may be just that the car is new or they could have tweaked the suspension, but I definitely feel it. The car feels really solid and stable, though not cushy, even on nasty LA roads. I wouldn't call it super sporty, but the ride definitely has a premium feel and cabin noise is limited. The downsides of the A4 aren't huge, but they are there. Reliability could be a question mark. My 2017, again a very early model, had some 'teething problems' that I hope don't happen with the new car. The right side mirror motor failed, a parking sensor failed and I had a defective brake pad. So far, no issues with the new one. Styling is fine, but it won't turn heads. They cleaned up the exhaust area and tweaked the front end for 2019. Other nags: The 'kick' trunk opening feature is a pain on this model. Before, it would work if you 'kicked' right under the center of the rear end. Now, it's toward the left side and very hit or miss. You can't get adaptive cruise control or a 360 camera without getting the expensive Prestige trim. This is annoying considering cars half the price now at least have adaptive cruise. Also, Audi Connect, which includes the Google Earth maps, is expensive at $49.99 a month. For me, it's worth it, but it may not be for everyone. Overall, even with the nits, this is still a fantastic car that I love driving every day. I would highly recommend it.
The best mid Luxury sedan, top Ranked Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
RW, 08/31/2020
2020 Audi A4 Premium Plus 4dr Sedan AWD w/45 TFSI (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM)
I compared the A4 Quattro to the Mercedes C, BMW 3 series, Lexus and Volvo. The Audi does everything so well that I couldn’t find much to complain about. 0 to 60 in 5.3 seconds With 40mpg’s highway is great. The DSG transmission is incredible with smooth crisp Shifting between gears. Consumer reports gives the A4 a very high rating that’s top in its class with excellent reliability for … the last four years since this new style was released. The LED headlights are amazing, they even shine into turns Lighting the way. Top pick in crash tests too.
Update: I’m still very happy with my Audi A4 Quattro. It’s been trouble free with only Oil & Filter changes done as required. Winter driving this year has only given me more praise by the way this car handles the worst weather conditions getting me home safely while I see other makes stuck in snow and icy roads.
Update: this A4 has been trouble free, only trips to dealer are for scheduled oil& filter changes. Love this car more and more. Excellent MPGs and great performance.
Update: My A4 has been 100% trouble free and I still enjoy it very much.
Update: 93,000 miles and its been the best car I've ever owned. Had a recall for the seat heater switch in passenger seat other than that just regular oil & Filter changes and one Transmission fluid change. Still drives like a new car.
Luxury is in the details.
5 out of 5 stars
Kevin, 11/02/2020
2020 Audi A4 Premium Plus 4dr Sedan w/40 TFSI (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM)
There are so many cars out there that selecting one can be a daunting task. So, first and foremost, you need to know what you are looking for.
I bought my A4 2020, 2 months ago, and while it is a short time, I hope help someone who might be struggling with the decision to buy one.
It is a great car, but it is not an out of the world car. You will hear many people say that Audi cars are … endless money pits, that they don't age well, they require a lot of maintenance, that repair costs are high, a lot of depreciation, etc. I don't know if all this is true (except depreciation), but if you are concerned about such opinions, this car is not for you.
If you are willing to pay the price, you will get a wonderfully crafted interior (one of the.most beautiful in my opinion), audi ownership prestige, amazing driving experience, smart security features and happiness. It sounds materialistic but once you have worked hard enough for something, you deserve to treat yourself. :)
Features available in this car are also available in other cars and one may think that why do they need to pay 45k for this car when they can get the same features in a 25k car. To answer that, if you are someone who appreciates the little details, you will appreciate Audi, else you will feel that it is a waste of money.
Better than all its competitors!
5 out of 5 stars
Mark, 06/04/2019
2019 Audi A4 2.0 TFSI Prestige 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM)
I test drove the Mercedes, Volvo, and Lexus that compete in this price range. I bought the A4 and am loving it!
I was inclined to buy the Lexus 350, since I had been driving Lexus for 22 years. But I did not like the new grill, and the technology was worse. Using a mouse pad and cursor to navigate the screen was difficult, and seemed impossible to use while driving. Which makes a lot of … things unusable.
The Audi has great tech, including two screens that are digital that can be changed. For example, if you want the nav system in front of the steering wheel, you can put it there, and put something else on the middle screen. Buttons and dials make this happen -very easy, very practical, and very cool.
The stereo sounds great, the acceleration is best in class, and the steering and breaking are very responsive. The four-wheel drive is a plus that I will really enjoy in winter.
The car is quiet, and saves gas at stops by shutting off the engine (but not the lights, radio, AC, etc). The engine comes to life before you can move your foot from the brake to the gas. And if for some reason you have a driver who doesn’t like this, it can be disabled with the touch of the button.
I’m 5’11” and feel very comfortable in the car. My legs are not cramped. I agree that the two cup holders are not well placed, and only one will hold large drinks.
But this car is at least as good as the Mercedes, and costs $6,000 when similarly equipped.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2020 Audi A4, so we've included reviews for other years of the A4 since its last redesign.
Detects the threat of a front collision, warns the driver, and applies the brakes if the driver doesn't act.
Audi Active Lane Assist
Alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane without signaling and can steer to help nudge you back.
Audi Connect
Includes a variety of connection services, including summoning roadside assistance if needed. In an accident, emergency responders are contacted automatically.
NHTSA Overall Rating
5 out of 5 stars
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Overall4 / 5
Driver4 / 5
Passenger4 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front Seat5 / 5
Back Seat5 / 5
Rollover
Rollover5 / 5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover9.9%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
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