2006 Audi A4

Wagon

3.2L

Manual

WAUKH78E06A204582

Clear

Gasoline

The 2006 Audi A4 is luxurious, sporty, winterproof and a few grand cheaper than BMW's 3 Series. As such, it's one of our favorite entry-luxury cars. what's newThe Audi A4 has a few new powertrain options this year for the V6. Specifically, the V6 can now be equipped with a six-speed manual on all-wheel-drive sedans and wagons. The V6 can also be ordered this year for a front-drive A4 sedan with the continuously variable transmission (CVT). The only other significant change this year is the "S-line" name for the sports package.vehicle overviewWhen the Audi A4 debuted in the United States in 1996, it set forth the revitalization of the Audi brand. We've been impressed by the A4 since that time and have always considered it one of the most well-appointed and fun-to-drive cars in its price class. But seven years is a long time for a car in the entry-level luxury car market, so Audi completely redesigned the A4 for the 2002 model year. The new sedan, followed later by the wagon (or Avant in Audi terminology) and convertible (or Cabriolet), was more sharply styled than before, with clear glass headlights, dual exhaust, and a high waistline. Although the convertible's clean expression speaks proudly of its fellow A4s, the Cab's sleeker profile and prominent aluminum accents give it an even sharper bite.A substantially refreshed A4 debuted in midyear 2005. It wasn't a total redo, as Audi calls it 60-percent new. Its platform, interior, and overall dimensions are basically the same as before. Bold new sheet metal marked the exterior revisions. The updated A4 also boasts a reworked front suspension that picked up numerous components from the high-performance Audi S4. The rear came in for even more revision with links and wheel carriers from the S4 and shock absorbers from the A6. And two new direct-injection gasoline engines reside under the sleek hood. The turbocharged 1.8T was bumped up to 2.0 liters and equipped with direct injection, yielding 200 horsepower. The 3.0-liter V6 was likewise upgraded to 3.2 liters, direct injection and 255 hp. The engines are hooked up to six-speeds, whether you choose the manual or automatic.Overall, the 2006 Audi A4 is a blast to drive and treats its passengers to the most luxurious interior in this class. What's more, price-wise it's a steal relative to the competition. If you're in the market for entry-luxury transportation, the A4 should be on your short list. trim levels & featuresThe Audi A4 is available as a sedan, wagon (called the Avant) or two-door convertible (Cabriolet). The four trim levels -- 1.8T, 3.0, 2.0T and 3.2 -- correspond to what type of engine under the hood. 1.8T (convertible only) and 2.0T models come standard with items like dual-zone automatic climate control, a power driver seat, an in-dash six-CD changer and, for convertibles, an automatic top. The 3.0 and 3.2 are similarly equipped but also have bigger wheels, leather seating with a power front-passenger seat and real wood interior trim. Audi offers a number of optional packages, including an S-line sports suspension package and a Cold Weather package. Whether through another package or as a standalone option, one can also get an A4 with a Bose sound system, satellite radio, HID headlights, auto-dimming mirrors, and a navigation system.performance & mpgOn the Audi A4 convertible, you can choose either the 1.8T, which has a 170-hp turbocharged inline four, or the 3.0, which has a 220-hp V6. On the sedan and Avant, you have your choice of the 2.0T, a turbo four with 200 hp, or the 3.2, a 255-hp V6. Quattro all-wheel drive is standard on the wagon and available for the sedan and convertible. Sedans and wagons with Quattro can be equipped with either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic. The 3.0 convertible Quattro comes only with a five-speed automatic, and front-wheel-drive A4s are only available with the CVT.