In its forth consecutive generation, Audi has recaptured lightning in a bottle with its A4. Originally produced in the mid 90s, the A4 has matured from a somewhat innocuous looking, well built German transport to a full fledged luxury machine. In every generation, the A4 always maintained serious sporting potential.
I would say that if the A4 had a mission statement for consumers it would be something to the effect of, “compete with the BMW 3 series and Mercedes Benz C Series on every level.” I say that because they do – effectively. That is a rather lofty goal as many in the automotive media feel that Mercedes and the BMW line of 3 series vehicles are some of the best built. So are the A4s.
The A4 line has been credited with bringing Audi out of obscurity, on the cusp of oblivion, to one of the most respected automakers world wide. That is no small feat and the A4 deserves its recognition as a game changer. I still see many versions of the original A4 series on the road, at the track and in the driveways of proud owners nation wide.
The timing of my taking delivery of a 2009 Audi A4 3.2 FSI was perfect. It was our first heavy snow in the Rockies and it had just begun to melt. These are conditions the Audi thrives in. Indeed, the “Quattro” AWD system is one of the best in the world and our back, alpine mountain roads are some of the best in the world.
I had the opportunity to spend many days flogging the A4 3.2 FSI all the way from Aspen to Manitou Springs, Colorado. During this time, the A4 powered through snow, rain, hail, extremely high winds, fog and twilight – in total security. I drove hard and the A4 responded with stalwart performance that consistently impressed me.