Up north European Sedan
Pros:
Beautiful styling, quality fit and finish, comfortable seats. Quattro rocks!
Cons:
6 cyl engine is too expensive, a little pricey to insure, back seat smallish.
The Bottom Line:
This is actually a review on a 2003 Audi A4 1.8 turbo.
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Overall Rating:
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Author's Review
Those of us in the northern tier of states don't typically get to enjoy the driving characteristics of a Mercedes-Benz or BMW due to the rear wheel drive setup. With the all wheel drive Quattro system, this awesome car can go anywhere! Combined with the spectacular fit and finish (rivaling even Lexus and Jaguar!) and comfortable driving position, you have the consummate Up North German Driving Machine!
Don't plan putting anyone in the back, as it seems it was only designed for child seats. Trunk room is more than adequate and head room is more than ample, even with a sun roof! (I am 6ft tall) Bose stereo is nice, although not fantastic, and the Xenon headlights are a worthwhile option.
I had a 2000 Volkswagen Passat, which was also more expensive to insure than most, so I have come to the conclusion that ALL German sport sedans are more than regular cars as far as insurance goes. Not a lot, but more non the less. I think that the extra expense is off set by the fact that Audi gives you a 4 year and 50,000 no expense warranty, which also includes free maintenance and road side assistance.
If you need more room, and you can afford the extra $$$ upfront, go with the A6, preferably a turbo model. But that is over $10,000 more than this car, priced at $32,800, a significant value considering you are getting a turbo and all wheel drive well built German sport sedan!
The similar 2003 Volkswagen Passat 4Motion (all wheel drive - same as the Quattro system) is similar priced, and does address the size issues, but with no prepaid maintenance or the joy of owning an Audi!