The Audi A4 is a versatile, stylish sports sedan. With available Quattro AWD, the A4 has traction to spare, while its advanced turbo powertrains are powerful and efficient.

However, regarding consumer ratings, the current A4 is consistently average. That probably isn’t what Audi is aiming for. Let’s take a closer look at the data and the sports sedan’s trims, specs, and pricing.

What do consumers say about the 2023 Audi A4?

The Audi A4 is an impressive piece of design and engineering. Taut proportions and LED headlights give it a modern, high-tech appearance. And with Quattro AWD and a tuned chassis, driving dynamics are first-rate. So, it would seem the A4 would be a hit with owners. But according to consumer reviews, that isn’t the case.

J.D. Power is a respected market research company. The outlet is well-known for releasing vehicle ratings and rankings to better guide consumers. Using survey data from real owners, the company’s reports carry weight, so readers know they’re getting the truth. The result is a J.D. Power Consumer Verified Rating.

The research firm uses a 100-point scale for categories like quality and reliability, driving experience, resale, and dealership experience. Then, it averages out those scores for an overall rating. Categories for specific scores include Fair (0-69), Average (70-80), Great (81-90), and Best (91-100).

In the J.D. Power report for the Audi A4, it received consistently average reviews across the board. Here are the scores:

• Overall rating: 77

• Quality and Reliability: 77

• Driving Experience: 77

• Resale: 79

• Dealership Experience: 77

That puts the Audi A4 seventh among compact luxury cars. Top overall scorers include the Lexus IS (88), Cadillac CT4 (83), and BMW 4 Series (82). Why does the Audi lag behind?

Problems plaguing this Audi A4 generation

The current-gen A4 debuted for the 2016 model year. Simply put, it’s getting a little long in the tooth. In contrast, the 2021 Lexus IS received a major refresh, and the present BMW 4 Series appeared in 2020. In the automotive world, four or five years is a long time. New tech appears, and trends come and go. Audi’s reputable sports sedan is due for a refresh.

While Car and Driver praised the A4’s balance of good looks, composed handling, and modern luxury, the outlet also noted its lack of pizzazz and driving fun. Those qualities were more apparent in rivals like the Genesis G70, Alfa Romeo Giulia, and Mercedes Benz C-Class.

Additionally, since J.D. Power ratings directly relay consumer opinions, the A4’s average scores denote just what drivers experience. While I don’t have access to exactly what A4 owners said, I can make an informed guess.

Regarding quality and reliability, maybe A4 drivers encountered unexpected mechanical issues more often than they’d like. Or, fit and finish wasn’t up to their expectations. As for the driving experience, as Car and Driver said, the 2023 A4 is good but not exciting.

The German sports sedan nearly edges into the “Great” category in terms of resale value, owing to Audi’s excellent reputation and the model’s solid features. However, as an older design, the current A4 doesn’t seem to command a high price on the pre-owned market.

Lastly, Audi A4 owners could experience a range of issues that make their dealership experience average. Though I can only speculate, maybe they had trouble scheduling service or encountered long wait times. Or, perhaps the sales process wasn’t all that smooth.

The A4’s overall score of 77 summarizes what the detailed ratings say: the current model is good, not great. The next generation of the sports sedan should hopefully put it back at the front of the pack.

A look at the latest 2024 model year A4

The 2024 Audi A4 starts at $41,200 (plus destination). With a range of trims, buyers can go with a basic build or upgrade for maximum luxury. With two available powertrains, each trim lets drivers pick between power and efficiency.

The new A4 comes in three trims: Premium (from $41,200), Premium Plus (from $45,400), and Prestige (from $50,400). Additionally, each model comes in a 40 TFSI or 45 TFSI designation, with the latter adding horsepower and tailored upgrades.

The 40 TFSI A4 models use a turbo 2.0-liter four with 201 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque. The 45 TFSI A4s also have a turbo 2.0-liter four but with 261 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. All models use a seven-speed S Tronic dual-clutch transmission and feature the legendary Quattro AWD system.

The A4 Premium’s standard features include 17-inch 10-spoke forged alloy wheels, LED headlights with DRL signature, and an MMI touch display with a 10.1-inch center screen.

A4 Premium Plus buyers get a Bang and Olufsen sound system with 3D sound, a wireless phone charging pad, and Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus.

The top-of-the-line A4 Prestige has high-end luxury and tech, including an LED Interior Lighting Plus Package, MMI Navigation Plus, and Matrix-design LED headlights with headlight washers.

The Audi A4 is an excellent all-around sports sedan. However, consumers give it average reviews in multiple categories, which probably isn’t what the automaker is hoping for. That could result from the A4’s aging design or less-than-ideal experiences with reliability or the dealership. Even then, with its advanced turbo engines and Quattro AWD, the A4 can still hold its own, especially in inclement weather.