In-depth reviews

Audi A4 review - MPG, CO2 and running costs

Efficient but powerful engines help the A4 deliver strong performance without sky-high running costs

Overall Auto Express Rating

4.0 out of 5

MPG, CO2 and Running Costs Rating

4.5 out of 5

Price
£36,940 to £51,250
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​With the introduction of mild-hybrid tech from 2019 onwards, the A4’s petrol and diesel units received a gentle boost in fuel economy. In addition to reducing combustion engine load through regenerative braking, the 12-volt setup enables the stop/start system to engage almost instantly, and from a higher speed than before. When coasting on a motorway, the engine can cut out for up to 40 seconds at a time to reduce fuel usage further.

The Audi A4 is a pricey compact executive saloon. Prices start from around £36,000 – a figure which can soon escalate by adding extras. Just moving up from the entry-level Sport trim to the S-Line will cost you an extra £2,500.

At least everyday running costs should be reasonable, with the diesel models being the low-consumption champs. The 35 TDI is the best performer of the A4 saloon range, with claimed economy of up to 60.1mpg. CO2 emissions for the diesels start from 124g/km for the 35 TDI, rising to 136g/km for the 40 TDI. These rise incrementally when you move up a trim level and also in wheel size.

The petrol engines have closed the gap to the diesels for CO2 emissions, with both the 35 and 40 TFSI emitting 140/km. Again, this figure rises with trim upgrades and bigger wheels. In official tests, the 35 TFSI manages 39.8-45.6mpg.

Insurance groups

The Audi A4 is a desirable compact executive saloon, but it also comes with a raft of safety tech, which helps to balance out insurance costs. The standard lineup ranges between groups 22 and 26, but opting for the high-performance S4 sees this rise to group 41.

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Depreciation

The Audi A4 saloon and Avant are both predicted to hold onto between 41 and 48 per cent of their initial value after three years and 36,000 miles of driving, depending on your chosen trim and engine. In comparison, the BMW 3 Series is expected to retain between 46 and 54 per cent of its list price.

To get an accurate valuation on a specific model check out our valuation tool...

Which Is Best

Cheapest

  • Name
    35 TFSI Technik 4dr
  • Gearbox type
    Manual
  • Price
    £31,470

Most Economical

  • Name
    30 TDI Technik 4dr S Tronic
  • Gearbox type
    Semi-auto
  • Price
    £35,220

Fastest

  • Name
    40 TDI 204 Quattro Sport 4dr S Tronic [17" Alloy]
  • Gearbox type
    Semi-auto
  • Price
    £40,920

Shane is responsible for looking after the day-to-day running of the Auto Express website and social media channels. Prior to joining Auto Express in 2021, he worked as a radio producer and presenter for outlets such as the BBC.

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