Audi A4 Avant

Avant Garde Audi

By Rod Cleaver

January 27, 2003

For 2003, the attractive Audi A4 Avant (Station Wagon) joins the A4 model line up. The Avant continues with the same soft curvaceous styling that was seen on the revamped 2002 A4 sedan. The model reviewed here was a 2003 A4 Avant with the all aluminum 3.0 litre V6 motor mated to a 5-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission with Audi s’ legendary Quattro all-wheel-drive system.

Outwardly, the exterior dimensions of the Avant, are identical to the sedan. On the inside the Avant has slightly more rear seat volume and a whole lot more cargo space, as much as double that of the sedan. The rear cargo area has tie down netting to secure small loads and a nicely finished retractable cargo cover to hide your valuable belongings.

Inside the passenger cabin, occupants are treated to a refined environment that is nicely finished with first-rate materials. The well-lit dashboard gauges are easy to interpret and most switches/controls are logically laid out, easy to reach and they have a solid feel. However, the same cannot be said for the dual-zone automatic climate control system, it is overly complex for first time users. I would suggest that the any new owner/operator read the owner’s manual to familiarize themselves how to operate the system effectively. The windshield wipers, front and rear, are controlled by a single stalk on the steering column, at times the effort required to synchronize the wiper functions was a bit distracting. Otherwise the operation was inspired with little touches such as the wiper completing a full sweep on the windshield a couple seconds after a washer cycle, all in an effort to prevent those annoying streaks left on your window. The 12-way power adjustable drivers seat, with leather-covered surfaces, is firm and provides good support during spirited driving. Front seat legroom was ample for my 6 ft. 1" frame and with the telescoping/tilting steering wheel, just about any one should be able to find a comfortable driving position.

The Avant, like the sedan, is available in a few trim levels based on an engine choice. The base model is equipped with the now venerable 1.8 turbocharged engine shared with corporate parent, Volkswagen. The 1.8T produces 170 HP compared to the 220 HP generated by the 3.0 litre, 5 valves per cylinder, V6, which should not be confused with the smaller displacement VW VR6 power plant. The A4 provides state of the art drive by wire technology--meaning no mechanical link between the gas pedal and the throttle. This technology is being introduced in a number of high-end luxury vehicles. The combination of a powerful engine and a smooth shifting automatic transmission provided a great driving experience, even during spirited driving. This is made possible due to the fact that the engine provides 90 percent of its torque (221lb/ft) as early as 2,200 rpm. For an exhilarating experience, it’s hard to match the combination of the V6 engine and the manual 6-speed transmission. The close ratio gearbox experienced in a sedan driven earlier, provides far more excitement and it elevates the A4 to the upper regions of the entry-level luxury sports sedan market.

From a safety standpoint, there isn’t much that Audi has overlooked. Second generation "smart" airbags are standard as well as side and head curtain airbags for front and rear passengers. In addition to standard anti-lock brakes, the A4 Avant comes with Brake Assist, which anticipates emergency braking situations and applies full braking power even if the brake pedal isn’t full depressed. Traction control and stability control are also standard.

On the road, acceleration was brisk and the ride felt firm. The vehicles’ suspension is a wonderful compromise between performance handling and overall ride comfort. The package is slanted more towards performance and is quite firm without being harsh.

We were fortunate enough to have this vehicle during the Holiday season and the added cargo area came in handy for transporting presents; my in-laws really do spoil our children! Also the weather provided ample opportunity to experience the full effect of the Quattro all-wheel-drive system. Audi has continually refined their system and it stands out as one of the finest all-wheel-drive systems on the market, providing a sense of confidence to push the limits on dry pavement or traverse slick Ontario roads when the weather turns foul.

With the A4 Avant, Audi continues it's assault in what is a fiercely competitive category. This for the most part means going up against other all-stars from other European manufacturers. The A4 3.0 sedan was a new benchmark in this category and the Avant does not disappoint. With pricing for the 1.8T Avant starting at $39,315 and $46,810 for the 3.0, Audi has priced these vehicles competitively and at they are exceptional value for the level technology, safety and refinement offered.