A luxury four-door sport sedan,the Audi A4 had been through several incarnations since its 1994 debut. The 2010 model is available in sedan and Avant (wagon) configurations. Audi says that the A4?s smooth handling is one of its standout characteristics.

The Premium (base) trim level on this compact sedan features front-wheel drive and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The 2.0T Quattro trim level includes all-wheel drive,and can be configured as a sedan or wagon. The Premium trim level includes 17-inch wheels,cruise control,split-folding rear seat,and a 10-speaker CD audio system. The Premium Plus trim adds upgraded lighting,Bluetooth connectivity,automated three-zone climate control,and heated seats. The Prestige options package,available only with Premium Plus trim,adds 18-inch wheels,keyless ignition and entry,navigation,and a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system. The Sport package includes firmer suspension and upgraded performance tires.

The A4?s turbocharged 2.0-liter engine produces 211 hp and 258 lb.-ft. of torque. EPA estimates for the A4 with front-wheel drive are 23 mpg in city driving,30 mpg highway,and 26 mpg combined. The Quattro sedan has a six-speed manual transmission (an automatic is optional),while other A4s have six-speed automatic transmissions with manual controls.

Standard safety features include antilock brakes,traction control,stability control,front-seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags. Rear-seat-mounted side airbags are available as an option in both the sedan and wagon. With the optional navigation system,a blind-spot warning system is also available.

All A4 variants received five-star ratings on government-administered (NHTSA) front and side impact tests,and ?Good? ratings on front and side impact tests from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

When first introduced,the 2010 Audi A4?s base MSRP was $31,450.