AUDI’S Quattro is an all-wheel drive system that offers dynamism and safety, while providing unique driving pleasure.
If the wheel of one axle loses grip and is about to cause the car to spin, the drive torque is automatically and continuously redirected to the other axle, through the self-locking centre differential with wheel-selective torque control, to counteract the wheel slip. That is the function of the cutting-edge Quattro technology.
We had the opportunity to sample the Audi A4 2.0 TSFI Quattro recently.
The Audi A4 2.0 TSFI Quattro is powered by a 2.0-litre inline-four cylinder engine with direct injection, exhaust turbocharger and Audi valvelift system, mated to a seven-speed S tronic automatic transmission. It produces 252hp from 5,000 to 6,000 rpm and 370Nm of torque from 1,600 to 4,500 rpm.
Audi claims that the A4 2.0 TSFI Quattro can complete the century sprint in 5.8 seconds, and that it has a top speed of 250kph. Its combined fuel consumption recorded at 6.2 litres per 100km (l/100km).
It measures at 4,726mm in length, 1,842mm in width and 1,427mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 2,820mm. It weighs 1,572kg and has a 480 litres of boot space, as well as 58 litres of fuel tank capacity.
The all-wheel drive A4 is equipped with 18-inch five twin-spoke wheels, illuminated door sill trim, leather seats, powered sports seats for the front, S line sport steering wheel, LED headlamps with daytime running lights, adaptive comfort suspension, MMI navigation plus MMI touch interface, 8.3-inch TFT colour display, digital instrument cluster, tri-zone climate control, manual rear window blinds, 10-speaker sound system, 6-channel amplifier, cruise control, automatic light, automatic wiper and keyless entry with push-to-start button.
As for its safety equipment, the A4 2.0 TSFI Quattro comes with six airbags, electronic stabilisation control, tyre pressure warning light, hold assist, electrically assisted child lock, ISOFIX childseat mounting points, multi-collision brake assist, pop-up bonnet for pedestrian protection and anti-glare frameless rearview mirror.
The Audi A4 2.0 TSFI Quattro is priced at RM314,900 without insurance, including six per cent GST. It comes with a five-year unlimited mileage warranty.
The Drive
The Audi A4 is like a fine piece of art. Take a minute to view the exterior details of the premium sedan, then imagine how much time and effort the designers and engineers of Audi took to create this brilliant ride.
There is a simple yet sophisticated fine line that runs from the outer corner of the front headlights to the rear light cluster. As the line runs through gaps from the front quarter panel, through both its front and rear doors, then to the rear quarter panel, it remains perfectly aligned. It is built with precision.
The A4 has angular side mirrors and a razor-sharp rear spoiler that enhances aerodynamics.
Another aesthetic of the car that we have to comment on is the progressive indicators. It uses the LEDs to give an impression of the light sweeping from the inside out, in the direction the driver intends to turn. Kudos to the design and engineering team.
The Audi A4 2.0 TSFI Quattro is a powerful, comfortable car with an agile ride. With the Quattro technology, it provides more grip when accelerating and extra safety with the exceptional grip available.
On the highway, the A4 overtakes traffic effortlessly, and its seven-speed S tronic automatic transmission changes gear smoothly and quickly. Its steering is responsive and accurate, providing exact road feedback to the driver.
It has a modern and classy dashboard design, accompanied by comfortable and spacious seats. The A4 2.0 TFSI Quattro also has a deep 480 litre boot that can fit a few pieces of large luggage.
We managed to clock about 5.8 to 6.8 litres per 100km while cruising on the highway at 110kph. On a mixture of city and highway driving, it recorded 7.6 to 9.8 litres per 100km. After some aggressive pedal-to-the-metal driving, it consumed 12.0 to 14.2 litres per 100km. It is certainly quite fuel economical, given the fact that it is powered by a 2.0 litre inline four-cylinder turbocharged engine.
There are a few things that would bring this luxury sedan even closer to perfection. The Audi A4 2.0 TFSI should come with blind spot warning and lane keeping assist to enhance the safety aspect of the car.
The door locking system should be improved, as passengers just need to pull the door lever twice to open the door from the inside, even though the driver has centrally locked the doors.