2008 Audi A4 Deville Base

Audi redesigned its compact, entry-level A4 midway through the 2005 model year by giving it a larger engine with direct fuel injection. A4 competitors include the Acura TSX and BMW 3 Series, and for 2008 the sedan and Avant wagon versions of the A4 now come standard with the S-line package. An iPod connection kit is now optional., , A convertible (Cabriolet) is also offered, and each body style comes in 2.0T form with a turbocharged four-cylinder, or in 3.2 guise with a V-6. Sedans and Cabriolets are available with FrontTrak front-wheel drive or Quattro all-wheel drive. The Avant wagon comes only with Quattro., , Exterior, , The newly standard S-line package includes a trunklid lip spoiler, sporty side sills and S-line badges. Standard tires on 2.0T models measure 16 inches in diameter, but 18-inch tires are installed on sedan and wagon models with the V-6 engine. Xenon high-intensity-discharge headlights that can pivot during a turn are available, as is a Parktronic rear park assist system that beeps to warn drivers if they are approaching objects to the rear., , , Interior, , Sedans and wagons seat five people, and the seat cushions have prominent bolsters. S-line accents include brushed-aluminum pieces, special stitching and a three-spoke sport steering wheel. Standard equipment includes automatic dual-zone air conditioning. Leather seating surfaces are included in 3.2 models. The optional Audi Navigation Plus system has a 6-inch screen., , , Under the Hood, , A 200-horsepower, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder powers 2.0T models. An aluminum 255-hp, 3.1-liter V-6 is installed in 3.2 editions. Depending on the model, both engines can team with a six-speed manual, six-speed automatic or continuously variable automatic transmission., , , Safety, , Side curtain airbags deploy from above the side windows. Side-impact airbags for front occupants are standard, and rear-seat side-impact airbags are optional. Audi's electronic stability system incorporates Brake Assist., , , Driving Impressions, , The A4 is solid and appealing, joyfully tackling twisting roads and taking every turn in stride. Plenty of power hails from the V-6, in a civilized manner. Strong performance with the turbocharged four-cylinder is devoid of turbo lag, and it's a tad more spirited. The manual gearbox shifts easily, and Audi's automatic transmission works without any harshness., , Audi's ultra-smooth multitronic CVT works masterfully and subtly. After slight hesitation during takeoff, the car moves ahead with some haste. Passing attempts at low speeds, however, sometimes yield a shortfall of response. You hear a little engine noise while accelerating with the CVT, but not much.