2010 Audi A4 2.0T Quattro S-Tronic Avant
Vehicle: 2010 Audi A4 2.0T Quattro S-Tronic Avant
Price as tested: CDN$43200 (Estimated)
This is the classic example of what we North American are always getting the shorter end of the stick, when it comes to gearbox choice. Although we got DSG in both A3 and S4, our A4 has to opt for the 6-speed Tiptronic instead of the 7-speed S-Tronic currently available worldwide.
Its still the same lovable 2.0 liter DOHC turbocharged 4-cylinder with 211hp and 265 lb/ft of torque. What makes the whole power delivery different is the use of the Direct Shift Gearbox or DSG, in 7-speed. This gearbox has always been judged as the world’s quickest shifting gearbox in the world. It shifts quicker than any manual gearbox with a clutch pedal. Instead, its an automated manual gearbox with two clutches. One clutch for odd gears and another one for even gears. It makes for such a smooth and coordinated shifts that only race car driver can only dream about. Not only it shifts like a dream, it doesn’t sacifice anything in terms of fuel economy. As you are already in 7th gear even when driven 60 km/h on Drive. Push into Sport, it becomes more eagerly shift at higher rev. The icing on the cake is the steering paddle shifters can override at any driving mode for up and downshifting. It all does it in one silky and responsive fashion.
Even with the base suspension, the A4 handles like a sports car wrapped up in a wagon fashion. The rear-bias 40/60 Torsen Quattro mated with a wondefully stiff chassis, it makes for an excellent driver’s car. The steering feels sharp and precise, with the right feedback. The body rolls are well-controlled while understeer is minimal.
Slip inside, its all the class-leading interior materials and fit-and-finish that are very much typical Audi. The plastic and leather materials are first-class, same goes for MMI’s features are easily to figure out. Our tester came with the tasty orange leather interior which is a break from Audi’s general somber black on black mood, what a refreshing change.
Its only until North American consumers realize the benefit of double clutch gearbox, instead of flavoring the traditional automatic with torque converter. Then we might have chance to see DSG in the upcoming mainstream A4 and A6. Otherwise, we only have chance to experience it in more expensive S4 or premium hatch A3 Sportback.
Likes:
World’s finest double clutch gearbox
Nice handling and ride compromise
Class-leading interior materials and design
Avant versatility
Dislikes:
Base wheel design
Sedan version’s trunk layout