2020 Audi A4 Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

If you’re planning to buy your first luxury car, take a good look at the 2020 Audi A4. It’s a great value for the money. Not only is the new A4 surprisingly big on the inside, but it also comes standard with many of Audi’s most popular technologies. A smooth, powerful performance makes the new A4 an even more appealing entry-level luxury sedan. While the front-wheel-drive models are fine for most people, Audi’s famous Quattro all-wheel-drive system is a must for traveling during inclement weather.

What’s New for 2020?

Audi heavily updated the new A4. Longtime fans of this sedan will take notice of its sleeker German styling. Every trim also receives an all-new infotainment system with updated software. 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2020 Audi A4 – The Pros

1. Lively Turbocharged Engine

The 2020 Audi A4 returns with the same powertrain options. A turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 188 horsepower comes standard. Although this might not seem like much muscle, very few drivers will complain about the A4’s responsiveness. While all-wheel-drive versions of the A4 feature a similar engine, it’s tweaked to crank out 248 horsepower. This translates to even quicker acceleration. When launched from a standstill, the AWD-equipped A4 can sprint to 60 mph in an impressive 5.3 seconds.

2. Quattro All-Wheel Drive

Front-wheel drive is standard on the 2020 Audi A4. However, it’s a good idea to opt for Audi’s praiseworthy Quattro AWD system. When encountering bad weather, you’ll always appreciate power being sent to all four wheels. The extra confidence is well worth it. However, this AWD system doesn’t just improve traction during slippery conditions. It also gives the A4 a sportier character on the road. When traveling around curves, Quattro helps the sedan to remain flat and balanced.

3. Nice Ride with Standard Suspension

The 2020 Audi A4 is one smooth driving machine. You’ll love how well it manages to soak up the interstate. Although you can opt for an adaptive suspension, most experts recommended sticking with the standard suspension. It manages to fully absorb rough impacts without negating the A4’s sporty handling. When you decide to do some long-distance traveling, your family with especially appreciate the A4’s superior ride quality. Even models outfitted summer performance tires feel comfy.

4. Refreshed Exterior Styling

For 2020, Audi has effectively improved the A4’s styling. When sitting beside last year’s model, the new A4 looks noticeably sleeker. A cooler front fascia with new LED headlights enhances the A4’s attractiveness. Drivers who desire an even sharper look can opt for Audi’s matrix-style LED lights. Models equipped with all-wheel drive receive a standard S Line appearance package, which brings a blacked-out mesh grille and sportier wheels. A total of 12 paint options are offered, including newly available Terra Gray.

5. High-Performance S4 Model

The S4 is a high-performance variant of the 2020 Audi A4. It’s designed to offer sheer driving excitement. Motivating the S4 model is a turbo V6 engine, which cranks out 349 horsepower. Stepping up to the S4 allows you to experience a quicker 0-60 mph time of 4.3 seconds. Aggressive suspension tuning also makes the S4 ready for the track. To visually set apart the S4 model, Audi equips it with quad chrome exhaust outlets and a trunk-lid spoiler.

6. Big and Comfortable Enough for Families

The 2020 Audi A4 is classified as a small car. However, don’t allow this fact to turn you away. Most people find the A4 to be a more than suitable family hauler. A spacious backseat with ample legroom makes the A4 feel more like a midsize sedan. Unlike some of its competitors, the A4 also provides plenty of headroom in the rear. While the standard front seats feel good, aggressive drivers will want optional sport seats.

7. Delivers a Great Braking Performance

While shopping for a new vehicle, some people forget to evaluate the performance of its brakes. A well-designed braking system will help you to stay secure. The A4’s braking system is among the best in the segment. In the event another driver suddenly cuts you off, you’ll be thankful for the A4’s amazing brakes. Optional performance tires further enhance this car’s braking prowess. When braking at 60 mph, expect the A4 to stop just as quickly as some sports cars.

8. Cool-Looking, High-Quality Cabin

Many drivers are immediately drawn to the A4’s cool-looking cabin. It has a strong sense of style. In the eyes of many automotive critics, the new A4’s interior also offers class-leading quality. Excellent cabin materials and solid construction make the A4 feel like a more expensive luxury car. Dual-pane acoustic front windows are standard on the range-topping Prestige trim, which help further quiet the interior.

9. A Lot of Innovative Technology

If you demand the latest and greatest technologies, the 2020 Audi A4 is sure to impress. This year, Audi has introduced a new version of its MMI interface. A larger 10.1-inch screen replaces last year’s 8.3-inch infotainment display. Because this system understands natural language, you can operate many of this system’s functions by simply making verbal commands. Audi's Virtual Cockpit digital gauge cluster remains an option. Drivers love its available customizations and high-resolution driving maps.

10. Well-Engineered Safety Technologies

Audi’s safety technologies are top-notch. If you regularly encounter congestion on the freeway, the adaptive cruise control system will lower your stress levels. It’s designed with an innovative Traffic Jam Assist feature, which helps with acceleration and braking at speeds less than 40 mph. You’ll also enjoy Audi's Pre Sense system. It monitors the street for unseen pedestrians and other vehicles.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2020 Audi A4 – The Cons

1. Quattro All-Wheel Drive Lowers Fuel Economy

Audi’s Quattro AWD system can be a great asset. This is especially true for folks who often commute in adverse weather. Unfortunately, opting for the Quattro AWD system does lower fuel economy. You can expect to get roughly 23 mpg in the city. Meanwhile, models equipped with front-wheel drive return 27 mpg in town. Highway fuel economy is better as well.

2. Manual Transmission Option Discontinued

Last year, Audi decided to no longer offer the A4 with manual transmission. This fact may disappoint some people who are considering buying a 2020 Audi A4. Although the sedan’s automatic gearbox performs well in most situations, some test drivers have experienced a bit of hesitation when accelerating. An alternative to the A4 is the new Genesis G70, which does offer a manual.

3. Some Trims Can Get a Bit Costly

With an estimated starting MSRP of less than $39,000, the 2020 Audi A4 is a good pick for budget-mind luxury car buyers. However, some trims are a bit pricey. A fully loaded A4 Prestige, which sits atop the lineup, will cost you a lot of money. Expect the high-performance S4 model to be an even bigger expense.

4. Number Steering

While the Audi A4 handles well, numb steering takes away from its overall driving experience. Because of the A4’s artificial steering wheel, it seems a bit disconnected from the road. Some people will ultimately desire a stronger sense of control.

5. Conservative Styling

The new A4’s exterior design is far more exciting. However, some drivers may still find its styling to be just a bit on the conservative side. If you desire more flair than standard A4 has to offer, consider upgrading to the S Line appearance package.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

2020 Genesis G70

The Genesis G70 is arguably Genesis’ most fun car to date. It also provides an excellent warranty. In terms of overall luxuriousness, you’ll find the Audi A4 to be a notch above the Genesis G70. Audi also equips the A4 with a more high-tech infotainment system. Furthermore, there’s more legroom in the back of the A4.

2020 BMW 3 Series

For years, the BMW 3 Series has been hailed as the segment’s best model. However, this may no longer be the case. When looking at the 3 Series’ list of standard safety equipment, you’ll notice that the Audi A4 gives you more for the money. Audi also equips the A4 with a better standard infotainment system.

2020 Honda Accord

Although the 2020 Honda Accord is a mainstream sedan, it still offers a great deal of luxury. Nevertheless, it still can’t match the Audi A4’s fine degree of luxuriousness. There are certain technologies you simply can’t get on the Honda Accord, including a customizable digital gauge cluster. You also can’t get the Accord with all-wheel drive.

Conclusion

If you’re an Audi fan who wants to experience luxury for a lower price, the 2020 Audi A4 remains a superb option. Elevated styling and a new infotainment system make it even more appealing than before. While the standard powertrain is adequate, opting for Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system rewards you with more performance and better traction.