The 2016 Audi A4 Premium Plus represents a pivotal moment for compact executive sedans. Arriving right as the industry shifted toward digital cockpits and cleaner styling lines, this model balanced traditional mechanical composure with emerging cabin tech. If you're looking at one on the used market or trying to understand its legacy, you need to look past the marketing hype. This car delivered a specific mix of engineering choices that still influence how modern German sedans drive.
Underneath the understated sheet metal, the 2016 model year bridges distinct eras depending on the global market. In North America, it carried forward the refined B8.5 generation architecture with a punchy powertrain, while European markets welcomed the brand-new B9 generation featuring sharper body creases and weight-saving construction. Whichever version you encounter, the Premium Plus trim level sits squarely in the sweet spot for buyers who want upgraded audio, lighting, and convenience features without stepping up to a fully loaded flagship price.
Powertrain and Performance Dynamics
Performance in the 2016 Audi A4 centers on a tried-and-true 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. In North American specifications, this powerplant pumps out 220 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Power delivery peaks early, with maximum torque kicking in at just 1,500 rpm, giving the car an eager, responsive pull off the line.
- Front-Wheel Drive: Paired with a smooth-shifting automatic or CVT depending on the exact sub-trim, prioritizing highway fuel economy up to 31 mpg.
- Quattro All-Wheel Drive: Adds legendary traction and grip, transforming wet or snowy commutes into predictable, stable drives.
- Transmission Options: Ranged from responsive manuals in select regions to swift automatics designed to keep the turbo spooling quietly in the background.
On the road, the chassis tuning leans toward composed cruising rather than hard-edged track work. Steering is light at low speeds for easy parking, weighting up reliably as highway velocities climb. You'll notice firm body control that absorbs sharp potholes without jarring the cabin, though models equipped with large 19-inch wheels can transmit minor tire roar over rough asphalt.
Cabin Craftsmanship and Premium Plus Features
Choosing the Premium Plus trim unlocks a substantial step up in cabin ambiance over base models. Audi built its reputation on interior material quality, and the surfaces hold up well against daily wear. Soft-touch dash plastics, genuine metallic accents, and tight panel gaps give the interior a bank-vault solidity.
The front seats offer 12-way power adjustments with four-way lumbar support, keeping driver fatigue low on cross-country road trips. Rear legroom is adequate for adults, though the central transmission tunnel in all-wheel-drive configurations limits foot space for a middle passenger.
Key upgrades bundled into the Premium Plus package include:
- Audi Advanced Key: Keyless entry and push-button ignition that let you keep the fob in your pocket.
- Driver Memory Settings: Saves preferred seat and side-mirror positions for multiple drivers.
- Heated Front Seats: Three-stage climate warming standard for cold mornings.
- Upgraded Audio: Premium sound systems, with many models featuring crisp Bang & Olufsen configurations.
Real-World Usability and Practicality
Daily driving a compact luxury sedan requires compromises, but the A4 manages package dimensions cleverly. The trunk provides roughly 12 to 14 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable via 60/40 split-folding rear seatbacks that accommodate skis, lumber, or oversized luggage.
Visibility is generally good, though thick C-pillars can create blind spots during tight lane changes—making the optional blind-spot monitoring system a valuable find on used examples. Fuel economy averages around 24 mpg city and 31 mpg highway for standard setups, making it an efficient commuter that doesn't demand frequent stops at the pump.
For a deeper dive into official brand specifications and historical maintenance guidelines, you can review details on Audi USA or check broader vehicle evaluations on Car and Driver.
Common Maintenance Realities
Buying or maintaining a German luxury car from this era requires proactive care. While the 2.0-liter engine is durable when serviced on schedule, owners should watch for a few specific items:
- Timing Chain Tensioners: Early iterations of this engine family suffered from tensioner wear, though 2016 models benefit from revised factory components. Always check service records for routine oil change intervals.
- Oil Consumption: High-mileage turbo engines can consume minor amounts of oil between changes; checking levels monthly prevents premature wear.
- Control Arm Bushings: Front suspension bushings soften over time, leading to minor clunks over speed bumps that require straightforward component replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the 2016 Audi A4 have Apple CarPlay?
Factory Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration typically arrived with later infotainment refreshes. Most 2016 models rely on Audi's MMI system with Bluetooth audio streaming and optional navigation, though aftermarket head unit upgrades are common.
Is quattro all-wheel drive standard on Premium Plus?
Quattro was available as an option or standard depending on regional packages, so you'll want to verify whether a specific used listing sends power to front wheels only or all four.
How reliable is the 2016 Audi A4?
When maintained with timely fluid changes and quality premium fuel, these cars routinely cross 150,000 miles without major structural or mechanical failure. Routine electrical quirks can happen, but major drivetrain components prove robust.
How does it compare to competitors like the BMW 3 Series?
The Audi leans toward a more secure, neutral handling feel in bad weather thanks to its front-biased weight distribution and quattro traction, whereas rear-wheel-drive rivals like the BMW 3 Series or Mercedes-Benz C-Class offer a sharper, more playful rear-driven cornering dynamic.
