2019 Audi A4 Avant 2.0L 35 TDI S tronic 7AT FWD (163 HP)

Vehicle Overview

In 2019, Audi introduced a second facelift for the fifth generation of its premium medium-segment contender, the A4. It was an unusual move for the German automaker, which previously used to refresh its models only once during their models’ lifetimes.

For the 2020 model year, Audi offered the A4 as a sedan, a crossover (A4 Allroad), and a station wagon that the carmaker traditionally named Avant. Along with the updated version, the automaker also improved the infotainment system, drivetrain, and the overall vehicle’s design.

From the outside, the 2020 A4 Avant featured a front fascia fitted with standard LED headlights that incorporated six distinct blocks with LEDs for the daytime running lights system. Another signature design element for the entire brand was the singleframe design of the grille, which, for this refreshed version of the A4, was wider and flatter and sported a honeycomb mesh design. In addition, Audi used the same pattern applied to the side scoops for the S-Line versions of the A4 Avant. As a result, the entire vehicle looked wider from the front, even though it kept the non-facelifted model’s dimensions. In addition, the lower bumper featured a much sportier design, with enlarged side scoops that cooled the front brakes. From its profile, the station wagon’s shape remained unchanged, but the automaker added more options for the alloy wheels. Finally, at the back, the raked-forward tailgate was available with a power-lifting feature. Lower, under the bumper, the automaker installed a diffuser flanked by wide, rectangular, fake exhausts.

Inside, the most significant upgrade was the touchscreen for the new MMI (Audi’s infotainment system), which sat on top of the dashboard and tilted toward the driver. Its high-resolution TFT display provided acoustic feedback and had an increased resolution compared to the screen offered on the previous versions of the A4 (factory code-name 8W). Moreover, thanks to the new system, the automaker could delete the controls from the center console. Customers could order the car with a choice of three instrument clusters: a part-analog/part digital panel, the Audi virtual cockpit, and a head-up display. In the back, the split-folding bench seat offered enough room for three adults and could expand the trunk from 495 liters (17.5 cu-ft) to 1495 liters (52.8 cu-ft).

But the most significant change happened under the car’s skin, where Audi implemented the mild-hybrid technology on selected engine versions. As a result, those versions boasted lower emission levels. Depending on the engine and options, customers could get a seven-speed S-Tronic (dual-clutch) gearbox, an eight-speed automatic, or a six-speed manual with either front or all-wheel drive (quattro). Outside Europe, for selected markets, Audi also offered the A4 with the S-flavored version named S4, powered by a turbocharged gasoline V6 engine that produced 354 PS (349 HP).