The Audi A4 has long been a benchmark in the compact executive car segment, renowned for its blend of luxury, performance, and sophisticated engineering. Since its inception, the A4 has undergone several generational changes, each bringing advancements in technology, design, and driving dynamics. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the different Generation Audi A4 models, focusing primarily on the B6, B7, B8, and B9 generations.
The Evolution of the Audi A4: From B5 to B9
The journey of the Audi A4 began in 1994 with the B5 generation, replacing the Audi 80 and marking the start of Audi’s “A” nomenclature. The B5 introduced sleek styling and the option of quattro all-wheel drive, although it was noted for a somewhat compact interior. The second generation Audi A4, the B6 (model years 1999-2005), addressed this with a roomier design while maintaining a more understated aesthetic. The B7 (2006) wasn’t a completely new model but rather a significant facelift of the B6, incorporating numerous upgrades and refinements. A true generational leap arrived with the B8 in 2009, built on the MLB platform, which improved proportions and handling. The latest generation Audi A4, the B9, debuted in 2015, representing the largest A4 to date and featuring ongoing updates, with a replacement on the horizon.
2020-Present Audi A4 Sedan B9 Facelift: The Latest Generation
The most recent iteration of the generation Audi A4, the B9 facelift introduced in 2020, brought with it a refreshed exterior, an expanded suite of standard equipment, and a modernized infotainment system. Powertrain options for this generation Audi A4 center around two 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engines, delivering either 188 horsepower or a more potent 248 horsepower.
| ENGINE | TRANSMISSION | DRIVETRAIN |
|---|---|---|
| 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | Front-Wheel Drive All-Wheel Drive |
This generation Audi A4 continues to offer a range of trims to suit different preferences and budgets.
B9 Facelift Generation A4 Sedan Production Years:
- 2024 Audi A4 Sedan Review
- 2023 Audi A4 Sedan Review
- 2022 Audi A4 Sedan Review
- 2021 Audi A4 Sedan Review
- 2020 Audi A4 Sedan Review
| TRIM | ENGINE | TRANSMISSION | DRIVETRAIN |
|---|---|---|---|
| B9 Premium 40 TFSI | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | FWD |
| B9 Prestige 40 TFSI | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | FWD |
| B9 Premium Plus 40 TFSI | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | FWD |
| B9 Premium 40 TFSI quattro | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | AWD |
| B9 Premium Plus 40 TFSI quattro | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | AWD |
| B9 Prestige 40 TFSI quattro | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | AWD |
| B9 Premium 45 TFSI quattro | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | AWD |
| B9 Premium Plus 45 TFSI quattro | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | AWD |
| B9 Prestige 45 TFSI quattro | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | AWD |
| B9 S line Premium 45 TFSI quattro | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | AWD |
| B9 S line Premium Plus 45 TFSI quattro | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | AWD |
| B9 S line Prestige 45 TFSI quattro | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | AWD |
2017-2019 Audi A4 Sedan B9: The Fifth Generation Debut
The fifth generation Audi A4, known as the B9, was introduced in 2017, marking a significant step forward. This generation Audi A4 boasted improved fuel efficiency and a host of advanced technological features. Engine options included a fuel-conscious 2.0-liter turbo-four producing 190 hp and a more powerful 252 hp variant. As with previous generation Audi A4 models, both front-wheel drive (FWD) and quattro all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations were available, depending on the chosen trim level.
| ENGINE | TRANSMISSION | DRIVETRAIN |
|---|---|---|
| 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic 6-Speed Manual | Front-Wheel Drive All-Wheel Drive |
B9 Generation A4 Sedan Production Years:
- 2019 Audi A4 Sedan Review
- 2018 Audi A4 Sedan Review
- 2017 Audi A4 Sedan Review
| TRIM | ENGINE | TRANSMISSION | DRIVETRAIN |
|---|---|---|---|
| B9 2.0T ultra Premium | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | FWD |
| B9 2.0T ultra Premium Plus | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | FWD |
| B9 2.0T ultra Prestige | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | FWD |
| B9 2.0T Premium | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | FWD |
| B9 2.0T Premium Plus | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | FWD |
| B9 2.0T Prestige | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | FWD |
| B9 2.0T Season of Audi ultra Premium | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | FWD |
| B9 2.0T ultra Tech Premium Plus | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | FWD |
| B9 2.0T ultra Tech Premium | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | FWD |
| B9 2.0T Titanium Premium | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | FWD |
| B9 2.0T Premium quattro | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Manual 7-Speed Automatic | AWD |
| B9 2.0T Premium Plus quattro | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Manual 7-Speed Automatic | AWD |
| B9 2.0T Prestige quattro | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Manual 7-Speed Automatic | AWD |
| B9 2.0T Season of Audi Premium quattro | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | AWD |
| B9 2.0T Tech Premium Plus quattro | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Manual 7-Speed Automatic | AWD |
| B9 2.0T Tech Premium quattro | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Manual 7-Speed Automatic | AWD |
2013-2016 Audi A4 Sedan B8 Facelift: Mid-Cycle Refresh
For the model years 2013 to 2016, the Audi A4 B8 received a significant facelift. This update saw the wagon variant replaced by the ‘allroad’ model and introduced various cosmetic enhancements and equipment upgrades to the A4 sedan. While a high-performance 333-hp V6T S4 was available, the standard generation Audi A4 models were powered exclusively by the 2.0T engine.
| ENGINE | TRANSMISSION | DRIVETRAIN |
|---|---|---|
| 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) 6-Speed Manual 8-Speed Automatic | Front-Wheel Drive All-Wheel Drive |
B8 Facelift Generation A4 Sedan Production Years:
- 2016 Audi A4 Sedan Review
- 2015 Audi A4 Sedan Review
- 2014 Audi A4 Sedan Review
- 2013 Audi A4 Sedan Review
| TRIM | ENGINE | TRANSMISSION | DRIVETRAIN |
|---|---|---|---|
| B8 2.0T Premium | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD |
| B8 2.0T Premium Plus | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD |
| B8 2.0T Prestige | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD |
| B8 2.0T Premium quattro | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Manual 8-Speed Automatic | AWD |
| B8 2.0T Premium Plus quattro | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Manual 8-Speed Automatic | AWD |
| B8 2.0T Prestige quattro | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Manual 8-Speed Automatic | AWD |
2009-2012 Audi A4 Sedan B8: The Fourth Generation
Following the combined B6 and B7 model cycle, the B8 generation Audi A4 represented a complete redesign, debuting on a new platform and featuring a noticeably larger body. This fourth generation Audi A4 offered a range of engines, including turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and naturally aspirated 3.2-liter V6 options, producing between 200 and 265 horsepower.
| ENGINE | TRANSMISSION | DRIVETRAIN |
|---|---|---|
| 2.0L Inline-4 Gas 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas 3.2L V6 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) 6-Speed Automatic 6-Speed Manual 8-Speed Automatic | Front-Wheel Drive All-Wheel Drive |
B8 Generation A4 Sedan Production Years:
- 2012 Audi A4 Sedan Review
- 2011 Audi A4 Sedan Review
- 2010 Audi A4 Sedan Review
- 2009 Audi A4 Sedan Review
| TRIM | ENGINE | TRANSMISSION | DRIVETRAIN |
|---|---|---|---|
| B8 2.0T Prestige | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD AWD |
| B8 2.0T Premium | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD |
| B8 2.0T Premium Plus | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD |
| B8 2.0T Prestige quattro | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Automatic 6-Speed Manual 8-Speed Automatic | AWD |
| B8 2.0T Premium quattro | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Automatic 6-Speed Manual 8-Speed Automatic | AWD |
| B8 2.0T Premium Plus quattro | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Automatic 6-Speed Manual 8-Speed Automatic | AWD |
| B8 3.2 Premium Plus quattro | 3.2L V6 Gas | 6-Speed Automatic | AWD |
| B8 3.2 Prestige quattro | 3.2L V6 Gas | 6-Speed Automatic | AWD |
2006-2008 Audi A4 Sedan B7: The Third Generation
The B7 generation Audi A4 arrived with a range of engine options, including a 170-hp 1.8L turbo-four and a 220-hp 3.0L naturally aspirated V6 at its initial launch in 2001. This generation Audi A4 marked the introduction of the Multitronic CVT transmission to the A4 lineup. The 2006 facelift brought significant updates to the generation Audi A4, including a refreshed design, the addition of a 200-hp 2.0L turbo-four and a 225-hp 3.2L naturally aspirated V6, wagon and convertible body styles, and wider availability of a six-speed manual transmission across various trims.
| ENGINE | TRANSMISSION | DRIVETRAIN |
|---|---|---|
| 2.0L Inline-4 Gas 3.2L V6 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) 6-Speed Automatic 6-Speed Manual | Front-Wheel Drive All-Wheel Drive |
B7 Generation A4 Sedan Production Years:
- 2008 Audi A4 Sedan Review
| TRIM | ENGINE | TRANSMISSION | DRIVETRAIN |
|---|---|---|---|
| B7 2.0T | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Manual| Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD |
| B7 2.0T SE | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Manual| Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD |
| B7 2.0T quattro | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Automatic| 6-Speed Manual | AWD |
| B7 2.0T SE quattro | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Automatic| 6-Speed Manual | AWD |
| B7 3.2 | 3.2L V6 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD |
| B7 3.2 quattro | 3.2L V6 Gas | 6-Speed Automatic| 6-Speed Manual | AWD |
2002-2005 Audi A4 Sedan B6: The Second Generation
The second generation Audi A4, the B6, represented a significant redesign, offering increased interior space and a range of engine options. This generation Audi A4 solidified the model’s position in the luxury sedan market, continuing to build on Audi’s reputation for quality and performance.
In conclusion, the Audi A4 has consistently evolved through its generations, each iteration bringing improvements and maintaining its competitive edge in the premium sedan category. From the B6 to the current B9 facelift, the generation Audi A4 represents a legacy of innovation and refinement in automotive engineering.
