2009 Audi A4 3.2 quattro Review
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2009 Audi A4 3.2 quattro Review by Bertrand Godin / Auto123.com |
Very few automobiles can generate as much hype and excitement when a next-generation model is launched as exotic sports cars and icons like the Mustang and Corvette. There's also a group of high-quality machines that keep surprising everyone with their continuous advancements. The Audi A4 somewhat fits all these labels.
The previous generation soldiered on for seven years and, despite receiving only minor visual upgrades, the car never looked old or outdated. Sure, the competition was fierce, but the A4 managed to retain all its core value and stand as one of the finest sedans on the market. The 2009 edition is all new and, believe it or not, totally improved. It may not look that different at first glance (in fact, we should be talking about a slow evolution), but when you put it next to a 2008 model, the contrast is striking. Instinctively, the first thing that one notices is the new headlight design. Mind you, they have to be turned on before you can appreciate the magical, R8-like LEDs piercing the night below the main lamps. What a sight to behold. As for the bodywork, it's as classy and understated as always, almost in predictable fashion. Clearly, Audi designers preferred to bank on the same winning formula while emphasizing the brand's popular design cues. They're also obsessed with details, as evidenced by the flawless fit and finish. A similar evolutionary approach was used inside, where Audi fans will feel in familiar territory. The company has a knack for creating some of the best and most stunning interiors in the entire industry. Material quality is exceptional, the various pieces being fitted with surgical precision and care. Overall, the layout is intuitively designed and quite ergonomic, although certain controls require some getting used to. Once you're settled in, driving the A4 is all about ease. By making the car 117 millimeters longer, engineers wanted to address the issue of rear passenger room -- the A4's most glaring need. While there's still room for improvement, people sitting in the back will no longer feel like in a penalty box. As for front occupants, they're still treated like kings. The buckets are snug and supportive, wrapping your entire body in a way that allows you to find a fantastic driving position. The fun starts here... and never ends.
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