sugarcl

First of all, hi everyone, I'm a long time lurker, first time poster.

I've owned 3 Acura's in the past but am not satisfied with the styling of all the newer ones and therefore have been looking around. Audi is by far (IMHO) one of the most stylish cars out there.

I only seem to like the A4's with the S-line package.

Here's a few questions that I think many of you can answer:

1. With the ~200hp Audi + turbo, are you guys satisfied with the horsepower and pull of the car. I previously had an Acura CL-S with 265hp that I bumped to 300 and it was extremely nice to drive, H/W or city. I then switched to a 2006 TSX with ~200hp, not very satisfying at all. This is why I ask, I gather that a A4 with turbo is quicker than a TSX with v-tec?

2. I'm looking to buy a used either 2010 or 2011 A4 with S-line package. Is there specific problems with these year models?

3. WHat is by far the biggest grievance that Audi owners have about their cars?

This should help me into getting started in making a decision, I want to do alot of research since I've heard the usual rumors that Audi/VW always have electrical issues etc...but I am not convinced since I see so many of them on the road.

Thanks,

SkylineR34X

Can't help you with all the questions... but here is my take...

I've driven numerous TSXs and TLs.
The power delivery in the A4 is very different as it is turbo charged. In terms of acceleration, from idle to about 2300 RPM, it is similar to a TSX. Once you pass that marks and the turbo kicks in, it feels as fast as a stock TL. In other words, alot more satisfying than TSX.

My last car was a E39 540i with ~280HP and 320Lb/Ft. The A4 is not that fast, but it is closer to the 540i than the E46 325xi (that car is similar to TSX in acceleration)

I have a brand new 12, so I don't have any issue yet. But most will agree to avoid the 09, as many small updates was placed in the 10. Common problems with the earlier cars are oil consumption etc.

So far no regrets as it pulls like a V6 (but not as linear) but sips fuel like a I4. (i get around mid 8L/100km and my engine hasn't broken in yet.

audimontreal

Hi there I may help with some general input...
My brother still drives that nice orange colour on his CL Type S coulour along with his new X6
The acura is stock and remains by today's standards quite fun to drive especially having that power when needed especially when the Vtec kicks in.
You should know better as even Acura had their share of problems, my brother experienced his transmission slipping, moisture getting into the headlights housing due for knows bad seals and water creeping inside his trunk.
I do hate the new look of the acura lineup which lost its edge long with the current honda offerings which are becoming the new appliance toyota/corolla, unfortunately.

I have a 2005 1.8 with 32,000km. I do all of my maintenance at CB Garage (Chris Lisntead) on Decarie blvd once the warranty expired. My car is bone stock with only APR stage 1 tune 91 from CB Garage.
You should have good deals especially when the 2013 are coming in. Make sure you do get CPO from the Audi dealer along with a complete history of the car. I would also take the car to a Fix Auto or a trusted mechanic making sure it was not repainted,...etc that even the dealer missed or tried to hide. You see if the previous owner never declared a problem or collision, meaning never claimed it it will never appear on your typical Carfax/ Carprrof report.

S line adds a nice touch to the car, however I did read that the 2009 had a 6 speeds transmission and if i am not mistaken 2010 to 2011 came with 8 speeds which did have some issues so make sure the dealer took care of all recalls bulletins.

Audi drives like a tank, solid, secure, heavy and the quattro with good winter tires will make you the king of the road. The engine when not pushed will give you great mileage, however you might consider a basic ECU reflash like APR stage 1 for just that extra ommph (hp/torque) which will be great!

A german car will never be as cheap to maintain as a japanese car and will never be as reliable however a japanese car will never offer you the feel of any german car.
The key is preventive maintenance which will be a bit more expensive but worth it

Electrical issues were more common several years ago and since Audi made huge improvements...however I just went to CB Garage yesterday to finally replace my corroded alarm module inside the trunk as the chirp or beep when locking the car was not working for months now, only the module had to be purchased from the stealership for $319 ...and took literally 5 min to install.
Always always put synthetic oil and regularly change it every 4 months regardless...just a small investement and piece of mind
I support and encourage you 100%, do not hesitate you will not regret it especially on newer ones just make sure you know how to proceed and that is why we are here to help in anyway we can
Good luck/Bonne chance!

sugarcl

Hey Audi Montreal,

great tips! And I'm pretty sure I've seen your bro in his orange CL-S, there's only a few here in Montreal. Funny enough, when I did have the CL-S, I had all the exact same issues, but Acura corrected them all, I even got a new tranny(rebuilt) when the recall occurred.

I will definitely look into all the things you mentioned. It does suck that maintenance is more expensive on these cars, but I do love the look and haven't found anything that looks quite as nice.

Thanks for also pointing out your mechanic, this is good to know since not everyone can work on Audi/Germans.

Hopefully I'll be posting pics sometime this summer.