DRIVEN: Updated Audi A4 40 TFSI

The world might be migrating to SUVs but cars like the Audi A4 are very important to the Ingolstadt based companies’ product portfolio. The updated A4 not only provides brilliant looks but is packed with the latest tech, comfortable to drive, and thanks to mild-hybrid engines quite fuel-efficient. 


Design


The updated Audi A4 gets a larger single-frame grille, new LED headlights that come
throughout the range, and new design cues that highlight its overall sportier look. Our test unit was finished in Terra Grey Metallic paint and sporting 18-inch Audi Sport cast alloy wheels. It looks a little reserved with the optional Black Styling package and adds black accents but at the same time has a blend of sportiness and classiness. When unlocking the car, the front and rear lights do an interesting dance that’ll keep many entertained. Audi seems to have pioneered this ritual with the lights. When purchasing the A4 make sure you tick the Matrix headlights option, watching these lights at work is pure magic. 


Inside


The updated A4 is a pleasant place to be in. It’s the classic Audi interior we’ve come to
know, which is solid build quality and luxurious. Everything is where it needs to be and with
Audi doing away with controls in the centre console leaves room for a clutter-free zone. The
new 10.1-inch screen is a pleasure to operate which is crisp and comes with Apple CarPlay
and Android Auto. It doesn’t give you haptic feedback but does give you acoustic feedback
which works just as well. The optional Bang & Olufsen sound system will have you
appreciating your music playlist even more.

  
The Drive


The car is seriously pleasant and quite possibly class-leading. Our local market having three
engine options: 35 TFSI, 40 TFSI, and S4 model. Our test unit in 40 TFSI is the pick of the
bunch offering plenty of grunt and a comfortable ride. Featuring a mild-hybrid system
(MHEV) that not only improves comfort but also reduces fuel consumption. Achieving
Audi’s claimed fuel consumption figure (or getting close) is made easy thanks to the mild-
hybrid system. 


Tech

The updated A4 is Audi’s first model to usher in fully integrated connectivity functions with Audi connect. Thanks to an embedded e-SIM, the owner of the car can access features such as safety and security, convenience as well as real-time infotainment functions all at your fingertips thanks to the myAudi app which controls all of the above. One can also track vital information like fuel level, range, service appointments, warning messages and other functions through the myAudi app. Whilst on a trip to meet the Khulekani On Wheels team out in Pietermaritzburg, this came in very handy. 


The Starting price for the updated Audi A4 starts at R 644 000 with our test unit coming in at R 894, 150 (as tested including options)

Malusi Msomi
Lover of all things cars. Automotive photographer, freelance motoring journalist and founder of one of the biggest social media automotive communities in the country, DBN Spotter. My world revolves around three words; Drive, shoot, write.