DRIVEN: B9 Audi A4 – handsome suit, inner beauty

Audi A4 B9 Venice Review 76

Priorities change as we enter different phases in life. The good ol’ hot hatch is the weapon of choice for the young and dangerous, before a premium-badged sport sedan becomes the dream reward for that big career break. Those who are less enthusiast and more practical have their own automotive ladder to climb – think Myvi-Vios-Camry or the Mazda equivalent illustrated by this nice timeline video. More or less.

Now, this writer may be a little more stagnant than Joe Corporate, but even I had the impure thought of a fast but plush luxury express; one to chariot you from A to B, back to A again before heading across town to C for dinner, with minimum sweat.

You know what I’m talking about, those days when the clock is a cheat and other motorists are conspiring with traffic lights to impede your progress. And of course, that motorcycle.

After four manuals (three are still around), surely I have paid my dues to the Stick Shift Club and earned the right to point and shoot, no? This recent mood has also led to my revaluation of the sport sedan. Key question: What makes the ideal premium compact exec?

Like a psychic, Audi reserved a slot for us at the international media drive of the all-new Audi A4. Driving the B9 around Venice last week has helped me see clearer, and here are our findings.


Before you even ask, the Audi A4 you see here is not another facelift of the long-serving B8 but an all-new model – every body panel is fresh and there’s a revised Modularer Längsbaukasten platform beneath. The MLB Evo, which is for longitudinally arranged front-engined models, also underpins the latest Audi Q7 that surfaced earlier this year.

The B8 was one of the longer cars in its class, and this fifth-generation A4 is slightly bigger. At 4,726 mm, the B9 is 25 mm longer than before, and 12 mm of the added length goes into the wheelbase, which now measures 2,820 mm. Height has been maintained, but the Audi is 16 mm wider (1,842 mm) than before.

For perspective, the F30 BMW 3 Series, which isn’t that compact anymore, is 102 mm shorter and 31 mm less wide than the new A4. The Audi’s wheelbase is 10 mm longer, too. Ingolstadt’s latest is also superior in size compared to its rival from Stuttgart – 41 mm longer and 32 mm wider than the W205 Mercedes-Benz C-Class to be exact.

Audi A4 B9 Venice Review 70

It may be rather large, but the A4’s appearance is far from pudgy. The proportions of the B8 have been carried over in evolutionary fashion, but the suit that Wolfgang Egger tailored (the former Alfa Romeo design boss has since moved to Giugiaro and left the studio late last year) is slim fit and sharp, with crisp lines and clean surfaces.

The Audi’s impressive sartorial sense is embellished by eye catching jewellery in the form of a sharp-edged single frame grille flanked by eyes (LED and Matrix LED available) that are distinctive in both shape and daytime running light design. Just like how the B8’s string of DRLs started a craze for LEDs back in 2008, the B9’s double-brow is an instantly recognisable signature.

Like the face, the A4’s rear end gets an effective nip/tuck. The characteristic boot arch has been retained but the lights are slimmer and sharper, creating an effect that is larger than the change itself.

Audi A4 B9 Venice Review 79

The net result is a very handsome and masculine saloon with a more formal image than the BMW and Mercedes, a stark contrast with the swoopy shape and liberal lines of the latter, which can appear fussy. I’m far from stylish, but can imagine the classy Audi as an extension of the sharp-suited modern man, or that male in the dark perfume ad. Looks are subjective of course, and each is desirable in its own way.

Boring? Perhaps Audi could have done a bit more to avoid facelift accusations, and no one will be calling this design avantgarde for sure, but the B9 should be enduring. The B8 looks pretty youthful for a seven-year old design, and there’s no reason why this evolution won’t age similarly well.

It has to be noted that our test unit’s brooding good looks is helped by an S line exterior package, 19-inch Audi Sport cast aluminium wheels in five V-spoke design and the brilliant crystal effect Macaw Blue paint. You will see in the gallery below that not all A4s look so fetching.

The new A4 may have grown in size, but it’s significantly lighter than the B8. Depending on variant, weight reduction can go up to 110 kg thanks to the use of hot-formed high-strength steel in the body structure, and aluminium for exterior panels including the roof.

Also rich in Al are components for the front suspension, which shave up to eight kg. The new five-link rear suspension (in place of the old trapezoidal link, saves five kg) and a new electro-mechanical steering (3.5 kg less) also contribute to the cause. Inside, the seats are up to nine kg lighter; while new carpets, an aluminium brake pedal and foamed defrost ducts in the air con shave another four kilos.

Audi is also very proud of the new A4’s aerodynamics. The B9’s drag coefficient value of 0.23 is class leading, and is derived from a range of subtle measures, including the outer lines of the air inlets that integrate additional openings (they guide some of the airstream over the wheel well), wing mirrors positioned on the door sills (narrow stripes enhance aeroacoustics, amber light below it is a unique blind spot assist method), narrow trim on the rear windows and a largely smooth underbody.

For the latter, the underside of the engine compartment is sealed, the wishbones on the rear axle are enclosed, and small spoilers guide airflow at various zones, including under the wheels and at the tank. The flat underbody also keeps rear axle lift low.

Both the weight reduction and slippery shape contribute to the A4’s fuel economy, which is lower by up to 21%, Audi says. Not interested in proving that, we take their word for it and enjoy the other benefits on offer.

It doesn’t take long for one to notice the B9’s impressive rolling refinement and cabin insulation compared to its peers; just a few turns and a short stretch of the motorway sufficed for us. Coupled with a drivetrain that does its work in an efficient and silent manner, the A4 proved to be a great cruiser for our drive north towards the hills from Aeroporto Marco Polo.

Audi A4 On Location Venice-07

We had the 2.0 TFSI quattro for most of the day as it is likely to reach our shores early next year. The most powerful petrol variant available at launch, it packs a strong 252 hp and 370 Nm of torque from 1,600 to 4,500 rpm. Paired to a seven-speed S tronic automatic gearbox and AWD, the 2.0 TFSI completes the benchmark 0-100 km/h sprint in just 5.8 seconds before hitting the electronic limiter at 250 km/h.

That’s good enough to eclipse top four-cylinder turbo classmates 328i (245 hp, 350 Nm, 5.9 sec) and C 250 (211 hp, 350 Nm, 6.6 sec) in the Malaysian context, as well as match the 330i LCI and C 300 in the wider arena. But what stood out most for us was the free-spinning nature of the mill. The impression of friction or resistance, in feel and sound, is kept to a minimum – F30 owners in an idling A4 would be impressed even before take off.

The fast response and shifts of the dual-clutch ‘box complements the engine well. Note that the Multitronic CVT gearbox has been phased out and except for the 3.0 TDI, which gets an eight-speed Tiptronic, automatic means S tronic for the B9. While the stepless auto in the B8 1.8 TFSI wasn’t as dreadful as the idea of it, this is a welcome development nevertheless.

A new combustion method is employed, one with shorter compression (ratio increased from 9.6 to 11.7) and longer expansion phases as well as increased compression designed for partial load, the most common mode of operation. The intake valves close much earlier than usual – in connection with increased pressure in the intake manifold, this reduces throttling losses when the engine breathes.

Updates to the engine include the integration of the exhaust manifold into the cylinder head, the rotary-valve model for thermal management, Audi valve-lift system (AVS) for the outlet valves, the electric wastegate of the turbo and dual fuel injection. At partial load, indirect injection in the inlet manifold supplements FSI direct injection. Injection pressure has been increased to 250 bar.

We also had a go in the base petrol model, a 1.4 TFSI with 150 hp and 250 Nm. There’s no 1.8L in the B9 family, so this small turbo engine could potentially make an appearance here as an entry-level variant. It’s either this or an “Ultra” version of the 2.0 TFSI with FWD, 190 hp/320 Nm and claimed FC of 4.8 litres per 100 km. Should the 1.4L arrive, expect an S tronic auto in place of our test car’s six-speed manual gearbox.

A manual new car will always be a novelty for road testers from our region, where the stick shift is seen as a poor sibling. I certainly did not expect to DIY in an Audi, at a global media drive where often only the top variant with all bells and whistles is shown, but there are firsts for everything.

In truth, Audi’s new magnesium-cased, 16 kg lighter manual ‘box isn’t the most satisfying stick in town – the action is smooth and easy, but the very light clutch is vague in biting point. A slightly shorter throw would have been good, too. But it’s a manual, and we’re happy just to be able to sample it.

The 1.4 TFSI’s performance is a little lacklustre at low revs, and less flexible than I’d have expected, even after taking into account that we came from a car with 100 horses more. It’s a willing partner though, and working it is no torture. Once you’ve build up some speed, the 1.4 feels swift enough. While not effortlessly rapid (working the engine harder means you’ll hear more of it), the above-mentioned refinement plus points generally apply. An acoustic windscreen is standard across the board.

The A4 is still not a “driver’s car” in the traditional sense, but it’s dynamically better than the outgoing model and a pleasant enough steer. It’s not brimming with feedback but the steering feels more natural than before. Dynamic mode on the Audi Drive Select system adds a dose of synthetic resistance to the helm, but Comfort is usable this time around (not always so) and is actually good enough to be my personal default.

Stringing the grippy Audi along curvy B roads is now a more fluid experience thanks to suspension that’s more yielding (Comfort spec with active dampers, a 23 mm lower Sport is available). Italian roads are child’s play compared to our tarmac, but my butt suspects that it will ride better here as well.

The same scientific rear instrument also reckons that the 3 Series is a better drive. BMW has been making sport sedans for 40 years now, and they’ve never failed to include that sense of “rightness” in the 3er’s response and controls. Not Audi’s specialty, so it’s good that they didn’t try to “do a 3 Series” with the B9.

Audi A4 B9 Venice Review 29

Thankfully, otherwise we would not have this fantastic interior that shades all in design and quality. Gone is the previous-gen fascination with buttons and red illumination, and in comes this minimalist dashboard.

The B9’s cockpit is a slim fit version of the Q7’s, both sporting air vents that span the width of the dashboard. Some elements are shared, which adds value to the cheaper car. There’s no traditional vertical centre stack, just a large 8.3-inch central screen, air con controls and a strip of buttons facing the driver.

All else have been compressed into the MMI cluster ahead of the gear lever. Also available is Audi’s Virtual Cockpit, a 12.3-inch screen sitting in the instrument cluster. As seen in the third-gen TT, VC shows you all that you need to know and more, and its layout is selectable. The digital meter panel, head-up display and hi-res central screen (navi with satellite image is nice) adds tech appeal to the sophisticated ambience.


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You don’t need to be a techie to appreciate the cool frameless rear view mirror, special cubby for the key fob, temperature readouts in the knob itself, touch-sensitive buttons for the AC, Bang & Olufsen “3D” sound system (755-watt, 16-channel amp, 19 speakers) and the natural oak inlays in our 2.0 TFSI. The unpolished trim is lovely, and that’s before you feel the grain of the wood and tap it. The materials and tactility of the controls ooze quality, and no touch point is left out.

Atlas beige with grey wood is a combo with warmth, but the 1.4 TFSI’s black cabin will be more representative of the typical Malaysian spec A4 (we are a conservative lot, the carmakers say), minus the fabric seats and stick shift of course. It’s more business-like in here, and the aluminium trim is cold to the touch. Much better than fingerprint-baiting piano black or smooth “satin” plastic, for me.

There’s more space for all onboard, too. Shoulder width and head clearance for the driver and front passenger have increased by 11 and 24 mm. Interior length is up by 17 mm, while there’s 23 mm more rear legroom. All the quoted figures are class leading. My hair no longer brushes the rear headlining as it did in the B8 and rear passengers benefit from the three-zone air con. If you’re one of those who like the idea of a German compact exec but hanker for more space, the A4’s cabin might just cut it.

Back to the question of what makes the ideal premium compact exec. Many are drawn to the 3 Series, the segment’s traditional flag-bearer and default choice, while Merc’s design revival is winning the brand younger customers. I’m a fan of the BMW for its intrinsic driver appeal, latching on to the promise of a great drive when the opportunity presents itself.

Unfortunately, reality is is nothing like a Zoom-Zoom ad, and many hours are spent in the urban crawl and cruising on the highway. It’s about getting there fast and unflustered, and this is where Audi’s smooth operator slips in. The B9 persuades with A8-grade aeroacoustics, good ride comfort and a drivetrain that’s refined and efficient in power delivery. The improved steering and suspension means that the A4 is now a decent drive, and it’s a handsome chariot to arrive in.

The A4’s case is strong even before we take into account the pièce de résistance, that gem of an interior. The dashboard is a mix of high-tech and high-style, and its quality and finishing is flawless. That, and the comfort on offer, are things that one can appreciate all day, everyday, as opposed to the full-blooded drive whenever a blue moon appears.


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Danny Tan

Danny Tan loves driving as much as he loves a certain herbal meat soup, and sweet engine music as much as drum beats. He has been in the auto industry since 2006, previously filling the pages of two motoring magazines before joining this website. Enjoys detailing the experience more than the technical details.

 

Comments

  • The updated exterior does look sharper (literally) but the new interior & high tech cockpit is what grabbed my attention.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 29 Thumb down 6
    • seancorr (Member) on Oct 04, 2015 at 8:55 am

      It’s a pity there isn’t any night shots of the interior light up. I’ve always been a fan of the Audi interior and it always looks good especially at night.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 8 Thumb down 6
  • bob_b78 on Oct 03, 2015 at 8:09 pm

    7 spd is wet or dry? If dry i would stay away from this car.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 9 Thumb down 14
    • kington on Oct 05, 2015 at 10:33 am

      The 7 Speed DSG for Audis are wet clutch, i was told by Audi Glenmarie.

      Unless they lied to me…

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 13 Thumb down 0
  • Nobody Trust VW Group on Oct 03, 2015 at 8:14 pm

    Cannot trust VW Group. DSG they lied for years. Denied for many many years. Even this Dieselgate, they lied for 1 whole year. How to trust? Audi and VW are the same. All share same parts. Company also are ONE.

    Worse still Malaysia, where there is no governance and accountability. Here, Audi Malaysia, don’t know what lies they are hiding from VW and Audi owners.

    Nobody dare buy Audi now. If Mat Salleh buy lemon, no big deal because its US$30k down the drain. But to Malaysians, if you buy lemon, its Rm250k down the drain. that is big money even to a big towkay Tan Sri or Datuk.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 40 Thumb down 43
    • karam singh on Oct 04, 2015 at 11:10 am

      ‘Cheetah’ or not, I will not spend 250k for a facelift Passat.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 29 Thumb down 17
      • i purchased a unit of vw car. so far it still brings me problem free
        they might have lemon units but not all of them
        if u’re nt 1 of the vw owner, just leave it la then
        what else u guys still dissatisfied for?
        i’m satisfied with my car

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 20 Thumb down 4
  • Fake VW- Not worth it on Oct 03, 2015 at 8:17 pm

    Add a bit more, just buy a C200. A more trustworthy company. No lies. No doubts.

    This, you pay RM250k, you will always have doubts and worry. You will always suspect.

    C200 is RM260k after discount. I would pay RM10k for a real German car, not a fake VW, just tampal 4 bangles

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 29 Thumb down 44
    • Said the MBM salesman

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 42 Thumb down 8
    • The Archbishop of Banterbury on Oct 03, 2015 at 11:34 pm

      I dunno if there is a VW uses MLB evo platform. the B9 A4 didn’t share anything similiar with any VW.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 9 Thumb down 3
    • Before we all get carried away with Dieselgate, keep in mind that a lot of it has to do with US blowing this issue up to screw the Europeans simply because VW has been trouncing GM.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 19 Thumb down 10
    • screw you dude! you think Mercedez wont have problem is it. just use whatever you like and dont comment as if you know everything//screw you man

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 5 Thumb down 0
  • Semi-Value (Member) on Oct 03, 2015 at 8:31 pm

    the new audi a4 facelift.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 26 Thumb down 12
  • VGM Please Close Shop on Oct 03, 2015 at 8:41 pm

    My advice to cheat and liars like VGM and Audi Malaysia, please close shop.

    Every Malaysian now confirm will never buy any Audi or VW ever. We don’t like defeat cheats. We don’t like lies.

    Yes Malaysia got no diesel but for every lie, thousand lies are buried under the carpet.

    Penipu.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 21 Thumb down 32
  • heybadigol (Member) on Oct 03, 2015 at 10:01 pm

    Before the B9 came out, I thought the new C Class & Lexus IS interior were best in class, and could not be bettered. Boy, was I wrong. I can’t stop salivating at the details. The overall interior is minimalist & pleasant, but it’s those small touches & details (like the aircon readout on the knob itself, the super cool aluminium toggles for the AC controls which are also touch sensitive just like the Blackberry Passport), that grab your attention. Without those details, it would’ve been as dull as the F30.

    Which is why I find it weird, that the same details-on-a-minimalist-design could not be replicated outside. The exterior is not ugly, but neither is it exciting. It’s minimalist, but is missing the details. I guess when the B8’s design was very successful, they didn’t want to mess with the design much.

    Glad that Audi didn’t try to out-do (or even equal) the F30 in the dynamics department. And instead went for a cool interior, amazing levels of refinement, and NVH which might not be out of place in an Audi A8 limo. I am really looking forward to seeing this here. And please bring in that beautiful blue exterior & cream interior too. Black interiors are so boring.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 43 Thumb down 7
    • Rammstein fan on Oct 04, 2015 at 5:01 am

      Yes. Different people, different preferences. Call me boring but I for one prefer how it looks above all else.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 15 Thumb down 0
      • cheapojepunis on Oct 05, 2015 at 3:18 am

        Cream interior looks like boring cheapo Jepunis cars.

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 6
  • gavyin on Oct 03, 2015 at 11:46 pm

    looks wise the BMW and Merc are on form much better than Audi, they are just tronning everything eversince the audi e-tron came out.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 6
  • seancorr (Member) on Oct 04, 2015 at 1:03 am

    The interior is really one nice place to be in as Audi always makes the better interior – period. I say that because the upcoming 3er will focus on making a much better cabin after drawing flak from its existing customers.

    That being said if I were in the market looking for a sports exec I think this will be my choice. I chose the F30 2 years ago because it was the better car when compared to the W204 and B8 but this B9 might be the class leader for us commuting in jams n traffic lights until something new comes along which is in 3 years time.

    The 1.4 model would be a business case here if they brought it in to compete in the entry level segment but I dunno if they will take out much of the spec from the car and spoil the experience – much like how MBM ruined the C180 with halogen lights! The 316i on the other hand had minimal stuff taken out and became the volume seller instead.

    And oh, will they bring in any TDI models to compete with the 320d? I’m for one am pretty sure I will be wanting a diesel for my next ride since Euro 5M diesel is here to stay and these new age Diesel engines are much quieter to drive then yesteryears engines.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 15 Thumb down 7
  • nabill (Member) on Oct 04, 2015 at 1:19 am

    This really makes the current 3 series look kinda dated, they need a comprehensive new model….
    This A4 and the new ” class haved upped their game significantly…. Lexus, infinity, and other pretenders are so far behind…
    Looks great, i know it looks restrained abit but this is audi’s bread and butter model, they can’t change too much n alienate new buyers… Locally, if they price it right n improve their pretty aweful SC(the impression i get) then they can have a winner… N thnx to honda city, im starting to hate this s blue color!!

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 10 Thumb down 3
    • sorry bro but i dont agree with your statement ‘lexus, infinity and others are pretenders..’
      lexus is good and refine but overprice and infinity not that bad and starting price quite ok..only prob with us msians we like to think lexus is a toyota and infinity is a nissan which is not accurate..

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 4 Thumb down 7
  • Rammstein fan on Oct 04, 2015 at 4:52 am

    Wow. What A Beauty. Absolute stunner! Audi really knows how to build best interior. Sorry BMW. (Must kumpul duit for this).

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 19 Thumb down 10
  • Why buy a rebadge VW when you can have a real luxury German like 3 series and C class or a real Japanese like IS.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 22 Thumb down 15
  • applegreen on Oct 04, 2015 at 1:11 pm

    Audi sales in malaysia is so slow and the problem we heard about dieselgate and current malaysia economy can make sales even worse. So Audi must willing to give more freebies and attractive free service to attract potential buyers

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 7
  • Just don’t want to spend so much money and your friend say to you ‘you drive a cheat car’. Sorry I will go for c class or Lexus is.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 26 Thumb down 15
    • Fair driver on Oct 04, 2015 at 5:55 pm

      Poor Ben , from your comment, we know you are not rich but try to drive a luxury car.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 21 Thumb down 22
  • wiwiwiwiw on Oct 04, 2015 at 5:09 pm

    Late 1990s.
    I grew up during the E36 BMW era, in fact it is my favorite generation of the 3-Series. It was different or dare would say compared to the first generation of A4 and C-Class. I own a convertible one till this day.

    Early 2000s.
    The Mercedes peanut shaped C-Class definitely wowed the competition with its baby S-class look and quite modern look at that time but the quality sucks. Audi A4 was a gem too but I lust over those E46 3-Series, especially the 330i. I would say it is the best six cylinder BMW before they turbocharged it. I still want one.

    Late 2000s.
    The E90 came out, and the new C-Class and the new A4 with the R8 LED headlamps. I really like the Audi A4, It was definitely the most wanted gadget at that time. The BMW 325i M Sport was the perfect all-around car and the Mercedes C200 Kompressor is a car that I really enjoy driving. But I lust for that Lexus IS250 – if only it is not that expensive.

    Early 2010
    The BMW F30 rules. The game changer I would say – that is because Mercedes and Audi have an ageing car and although the Lexus IS250 is a good car, still overpriced. The Infiniti I have not driven it, put off by the price. I love the idea of a large naturally aspirated six cylinders but it doesn’t make any sense now at this economic climate. If I have to pick one, I would pick… neither. They’re all so boring. Actually I rather pick the Volkswagen Passat 1.8T – quite a sweet car.

    2015.
    Turbocharged four cylinders. Ah so boring. They sound like any other four cylinders on the road. No more the smooth idle “orang kaya” six cylinder sound of the old straight six or V6 as we know but those clutter clutter clutter sound. The C-Class is nice, but the quality sucks-the door is too light. Proton Preve felt more solid. The BMW F30 3-Series is everywhere and too boring, very plasticky inside. New Lexus IS200t is overpriced. Jaguar XE will be expensive, so is the Infiniti. If I have to pick one, it would be the latest Audi A4. I think it is something what new generation of buyers look for. I am trading off the rear wheel drive thrill for efficiency and high tech creature comforts. Audi A4 1.4TFSI with Bang&Olufsen please!

    Well this is my personal view. How about yours? =)

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 49 Thumb down 10
    • Semi-Value (Member) on Oct 04, 2015 at 11:41 pm

      why i wont buy an audi a4. its lousy to drive, unreliable and service quality is bad.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 20 Thumb down 22
    • Wiwi. You are pretty articulate. Its a sad thing that 6 cyl has gone in the way of the dodo.

      While i was still driving my E90 several years back with the legendary N52, I got a bit itchy and tested the F30 and W204/5. Clatter clatter is all i hear. They don’t rev very much, and my wife asked the SA, is this a Diesel and the SA said no, its a petrol. It is powerful no doubt, and will satisfy a large portion of their customers who came from a 4 cyl car, but a luxury car that sounds just like a Civic? No thanks. I’d rather have the civic and have the 100k in the bank.

      Tested the V40 with the 5 cyl engine, awesome sound, great power, but the ride is quite firm. As a result, it kept driving my E90 for few more years. Did not consider the IS250 for the same reason as you.

      About a year ago, my family has grown and the E90 tight interior would not cut it anymore. Got myself an 2010 RX350 with the V6 engine. What a revelation. Supreme comfort, no rattle even for a 7 year car. And that 3.5l engine, yummy. Only down side is the roadtax ( 2.3k/yr ) and 13.5l/100km fuel consumption. My e90 was giving me about 11-12l/100km. Don’t understand why Lexus get so much hate in this forum. So what if it is a Toyota. They make decent cars and their reliability record is 2nd to none. The leather in the lexus is nicer than my E90. Drives pretty well for a tall SUV. As for roadtax, i think the reliability of an NA engine more than makes up for it. Remember, if the turbo breaks in a highly stressed turbocharged car/SUV, its easy 5 figure repair bill. Something that can cover my roadtax for >5 years.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • kesahbenar on Oct 05, 2015 at 9:52 am

    bmw & merc owners’ brand loyalty hard to change
    aim for yuppies, sushi upgraders & VW diehards

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 0
  • A4 has nothing to do with Passat. A4 is based on MLB platform, Passat is based on MQB platform.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 5 Thumb down 0
  • At least nobody in Malaysia was killed in an Audi because of a faulty airbag…

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 4 Thumb down 0
    • The Archbishop of Banterbury on Oct 05, 2015 at 11:48 pm

      according to Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), B8 A4 is one of the 9 cars that scores ZERO death rates.
      but I don’t really gave much f@$*s about it.
      http://www.iihs.org/iihs/topics/driver-death-rates

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 0
  • Are you a lorry driver? Or why do you like to drive lorries (Mercedes, Lexus/Hino)?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 0
  • I have to admit this is the car that hits all the sweet spots of what we generally expect off from arguably the best interior maker of its class. I’ll have the 2.0 tfsi Quattro in area blue, please. TQ. :)

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 0
  • Jenny Chai on Oct 07, 2015 at 11:07 am

    Looks like nobody has done a maintenance cost review of segment D cars in Malaysia?

    Can Paultan do a review of maintenance cost comparison among cars, such as “Mazda 6, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Teana, Audi A4, Merc C, BMW 3 series, etc…”

    Another interesting article would be the cost of owning the car for life vs changing it every few years, what’s the cost difference between the options after 10 or 15 years?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 0
    • Paul Tan on Oct 07, 2015 at 11:11 am

      Maintenance cost is available on CarBase.my

      Example: http://www.carbase.my/honda/accord/mk9/2.4-vti-l-2015

      Look under Estimated Cost of Ownership

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 4 Thumb down 0
  • Blaster88 on Oct 11, 2015 at 6:28 pm

    I am living with a B8…been 6 years. Build quality is as usual top notch. No rattle or any awkward noise so far…doors still close with a strong “thud”…the CV gear box was decent but not the most reliable (I believe they got rid of it in the B9 series)…Overall, it was a gem to drive, good balance between performance vs comfort…I suspect it has to do with it being CBU vs buatan Kulim or Pekan. If they price it right – RM240 -250 for the 190 hp version or less than RM300K for the 250hp plus Quattro, it would give the F30 and W205 a serious run for their money! Bare in mind its CBU Germany (it does makes a difference), comes with adaptive suspension, superb built and interior quality/design and a space age instrument display. You can check out the new TT at Euromobil to get an on what I am talking about…

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 11 Thumb down 0
    • I am also a B8 owner (2years). 2L Quattro Sedan. This car is so comfy that it makes driving and sitting in other cars feels irritating (to annoying).
      The high speed stability of the car is one of the best thing about the car. The effortless acceleration is another.
      My favourite bit about the car is that the car seriously defied physics when it comes to low grip situation. The winter where I live gets very serious and everyday it is a shocker to drive to commute. I’ve had colleagues who owns AWD BMW which end up spinning 3×360 on the road. I had AWD Ford and Toyota owners who end up crashing their cars despite being an AWD. As for me, I never spun, never got stuck, and always overtaking other cars despite the slippery snow weather (with temperatures below -10C).

      In terms of problems, the power window switch does wear out quicker than I expected and the 2L does suffer from oil consumption. However, it is a manageable 1 Litre per 5000 miles.

      This car raises my standard of expectation that it will be hard for me to switch to other luxury cars.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 10 Thumb down 1
  • Bernard on Aug 05, 2016 at 10:09 pm

    What’s the price like on the road for both, 1.4 and 2.0 in Malaysia?

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