Audi A4 gets geeky gear for a small premium

If you’re looking for a D-segment sedan, the Audi A4 is a handsome choice. But why settle for a standard A4 when you can drive one home with additional gizmos and toys? Read on to find out more.

Audi recently launched three new variants of the current B9 Audi A4 named the Tech Pack. What this gets you is a lot of additional goodies which isn’t in most rivals. The new trim line is available on the base level A4 1.4L TFSI, the A4 2.0L TFSI quattro and the A4 2.0L TFSI S-Line + Tech Pack. In a nutshell, this is the most well equipped versions of the current A4 range.

Audi A4 1.4L TFSI + Tech Pack

Now, the entry-level A4 with the Tech Pack comes with the new Audi Virtual Cockpit, MMI Navigation Plus, Audi Smartphone interface as well as a reversing camera. The engine and gearbox combo remains unchanged.

The 1.4L TFSI engine mated to a 7-speed S-tronic transmission (DCT) that drives the front wheels, produce 150bhp and 250Nm of torque respectively. It achieves the 0-100km/h sprint in 8.5 seconds, with a top speed of 210km/h. The 4-pot delivers a combined fuel consumption of 5.2L/100km.

Audi A4 2.0L TFSI + S-Line

The current A4 2.0L TFSI with the S-Line upgrade gets you more aggressive styling on both the interior and exterior. What you can also opt for is the Tech Pack. So, in addition of the larger wheels, S-Line front and rear bumpers and the S-Line specified leather upholstery, you also get the Matrix LED headlights on top of the Audi Virtual Cockpit, MMI Navigation Plus and the Audi Smartphone interface.

The in-line four power plant with exhaust turbocharger outputs 190bhp and 320Nm of torque, mated to a 7-speed S-tronic transmission. It does the century sprint in 7.3 seconds, with a top speed of 240km/h. Combined fuel consumption is a frugal 5L/100km.

Audi A4 2.0L TFSI quattro + Tech Pack

The quattro equipped with the Tech Pack is for those who want the best. On top of the regular Audi Virtual Cockpit with the MMI Navigation Plus and reversing camera, Audi Smartphone interface, Matrix LED headlights, buyers also get an advanced B&O 3D Sound System as well.

The top rung variant outputs 252bhp and 370Nm of torque @ 1,600-4,500rpm. This is enough to power it through the century sprint in 5.8 seconds, topping 250km/h (limited). It remains relatively frugal, returning 5.9L/100km in fuel efficiency.

The power plant is mated to 7-speed S-tronic but has the benefit of Audi’s famed quattro all-wheel drive system for a sportier drive.

Now comes the bit where we talk about the added features that come with Audi’s new Tech Pack.

Audi Virtual Cockpit

The Virtual Cockpit is basically a 12.3-inch instrument cluster in full colour and high resolution, replacing the regular tachometer+speedometer combo. The cockpit is focused around the driver and displays a variety of information. It works in tandem with the Audi MMI (Multi Media Interface) and Navigation Plus controller knob located on the centre console. Also added in this package is the new Audi Smartphone interface and Audi Connect which allows owners to use their smartphone applications including Spotify all through the Audi MMI interface.

Audi Matrix LED headlights

Unique only on the 2.0L models are the high tech Matrix LED intelligent lighting system. Why is it intelligent? It works with a combination of cameras, multiple LED lighting sources and precise optics which help in better light distribution and management. Basically, it has multiple LED diodes in each headlight and will cancel out particular diodes when the camera senses pedestrians, road users and oncoming cars. This is to avoid dazzling other road users.

Bang & Olufsen 3D Sound System (B&O)

For those of you who love your music and want to hear your favourite songs with high quality stereo, the B&O 3D sound system can help heighten your audio experience. It has a 16 channel amplifier that puts 755W through 19 speakers located all around the A4’s cabin. This creates a 3D surround sound experience for users to enjoy their favourite music.