BMW 3 Series vs Audi A4 Comparison of Features and Specs

When comparing the BMW 3 Series vs Audi A4, you’ll notice how these two luxury sedans cater to different priorities. The BMW 3 Series emphasizes dynamic performance, with its 255-horsepower engine outpacing the Audi A4’s 201-horsepower counterpart. Meanwhile, the Audi A4 offers a refined balance of comfort and technology, appealing to those seeking a comfortable luxury sedan. Both models excel in safety and practicality, but the BMW 3 Series edges ahead in reliability, with 85 fewer problems per 100 vehicles reported by J.D. Power. Understanding these key differentiating features in the BMW 3 Series vs Audi A4 comparison will help you decide which car aligns with your lifestyle.

Key Takeaways

• The BMW 3 Series has a strong 255-horsepower engine. It’s great for people who love speed and exciting drives.

• The Audi A4 focuses on comfort and technology. It has a fancy interior and cool infotainment features for a smooth ride.

• The BMW 3 Series is safer with a 5-star safety rating. This makes it a good choice for keeping everyone safe.

• The BMW 3 Series keeps its value longer and costs less to fix. It’s a smart pick for saving money over time.

• Try driving both cars to see which one fits your needs and style best.

Performance and Engine Options in BMW 3 Series vs Audi A4

Engine Specifications and Power Output

When comparing engine options, the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4 offer distinct levels of power and performance. The BMW 3 Series comes equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine that delivers 255 horsepower and 294 lb-ft of torque. In contrast, the Audi A4 features a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine producing 201 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. This difference in power translates to a noticeable advantage for the BMW in acceleration and responsiveness.

To illustrate, the BMW 3 Series achieves 0-60 mph in just 3.7 seconds, while the Audi A4 takes 4.8 seconds. Additionally, the BMW reaches a top speed of 150 mph compared to the Audi’s 126 mph. These figures highlight the BMW’s superior engine performance, making it a better choice for those who prioritize speed and power in a luxury sedan.

Driving Dynamics and Handling

The dynamic driving experience is where the BMW 3 Series truly shines. With a near-perfect weight distribution of 52.1% front and 47.9% rear, the BMW offers exceptional balance and stability. The Audi A4, with a weight distribution of 56% front and 44% rear, leans more toward understeer during aggressive cornering. The BMW also generates a higher cornering force of 0.95 G compared to the Audi’s 0.85 G, ensuring sharper handling and better control on winding roads.

These features contribute to the BMW’s reputation for delivering a more engaging and dynamic driving experience. However, the Audi A4 provides a smoother ride, which may appeal to those who prioritize driving comfort over sporty handling.

Fuel Efficiency Comparison

Fuel efficiency is another important factor when evaluating these two sedans. The BMW 3 Series achieves an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. The Audi A4, on the other hand, offers slightly lower city mileage at 26 mpg but edges ahead on the highway with 36 mpg. While the difference is minimal, the Audi may appeal to drivers who frequently travel long distances on highways.

Ultimately, your choice between the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4 will depend on your priorities. If you value power and a dynamic driving experience, the BMW stands out. However, if fuel efficiency and driving comfort are more important, the Audi A4 offers a compelling alternative.

Interior Design and Comfort in BMW 3 Series vs Audi A4

Cabin Materials and Build Quality

When you step inside the BMW 3 Series or Audi A4, the quality of materials and craftsmanship immediately stands out. The BMW 3 Series ranks third in initial quality among compact premium cars, showcasing its commitment to durability and refinement. However, some areas in the BMW’s cabin feature less luxurious plastic components, which may feel out of place in a premium sedan. In contrast, the Audi A4 impresses with its streamlined interior design and high-quality trimmings, offering a more cohesive luxury experience.

Audi’s Virtual Cockpit further elevates its interior appeal, providing a superior digital display compared to BMW’s digital cluster. This feature enhances usability and adds a modern touch to the A4’s cabin. While both cars deliver premium interiors, the Audi A4 edges ahead in terms of material consistency and technological sophistication.

Seating Comfort and Passenger Space

Seating comfort plays a crucial role in your driving experience, and both sedans aim to deliver. The BMW 3 Series offers slightly more spacious seating, with 1.4 inches of additional front headroom and 0.7 inches more front legroom compared to the Audi A4. These differences may seem minor, but they contribute to a more relaxed and accommodating environment, especially on long drives.

The BMW also provides slightly more rear headroom and shoulder room, ensuring passengers in the back seat enjoy a comfortable ride. While the Audi A4 prioritizes ergonomic seating and a sleek design, the 3 Series offers a marginally roomier cabin, making it a better choice for taller drivers and passengers.

Ambient Features and Climate Control

Both the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4 excel in ambient features and climate control, ensuring a pleasant atmosphere inside the cabin. The BMW 3 Series includes multi-zone climate control with advanced features, allowing you to customize the temperature for different areas of the car. Meanwhile, the Audi A4 offers three-zone automatic climate control, which provides similar functionality with a focus on user-friendly operation.

Ambient lighting in both sedans enhances the interior’s aesthetic appeal. The BMW 3 Series leans toward a sportier ambiance, while the Audi A4 emphasizes a more luxurious and serene environment. Your preference for sporty or elegant interiors will likely influence your choice between these two models.

Technology and Infotainment in BMW 3 Series vs Audi A4

Infotainment Systems and Usability

Both the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4 offer advanced infotainment systems designed to enhance your driving experience. The BMW 3 Series features the iDrive system, which is known for its intuitive interface and straightforward operation. Its 14.9-inch touchscreen provides a large, easy-to-read display, making navigation and media controls seamless. In contrast, the Audi A4 comes equipped with the MMI® system, which includes a 10-plus-inch touchscreen. While slightly smaller, the Audi’s Virtual Cockpit stands out with its customizable and visually impressive digital gauge cluster.

The BMW’s gesture control adds a layer of convenience, allowing you to adjust settings with simple hand movements. However, the Audi A4 compensates with its sleek Virtual Cockpit, which excels in displaying driving information. If you value usability and innovation, the BMW 3 Series may have the edge.

Connectivity Features and Smartphone Integration

Connectivity plays a vital role in modern sedans, and both models deliver robust options. The BMW 3 Series and Audi A4 support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless smartphone integration. The BMW also includes a 10-speaker stereo system as standard, providing excellent audio quality for your favorite playlists or podcasts.

The Audi A4 emphasizes a tech-centric approach with its 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit display, which integrates navigation and media controls. While both cars excel in connectivity, the BMW’s user-friendly interface and gesture control make it slightly more versatile for tech-savvy drivers.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)

Safety technology is a critical consideration when choosing a luxury sedan. The BMW 3 Series outperforms the Audi A4 in several key areas of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). It earned a 5-star overall safety rating compared to the Audi A4’s 4-star rating. The BMW also demonstrated lower injury risks and forces in crash tests, showcasing its superior safety engineering.

The BMW 3 Series includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring as standard or optional, ensuring a safer driving experience. While the Audi A4 offers similar features, the BMW’s superior crash test performance and innovative safety technologies make it a standout choice.

Safety Features in BMW 3 Series vs Audi A4

Standard and Optional Safety Equipment

Both the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4 come equipped with a robust suite of safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. The BMW 3 Series includes standard features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Optional upgrades like a surround-view camera system and parking assistant enhance its safety profile further.

The Audi A4 offers a similar array of standard features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. However, its optional features, such as traffic sign recognition and a head-up display, cater to tech-savvy drivers seeking advanced safety tools. While both sedans provide comprehensive safety equipment, the BMW edges ahead with its more intuitive systems and additional standard features.

Crash Test Ratings and Safety Scores

Crash test ratings provide valuable insights into the safety performance of these sedans. The BMW 3 Series has earned a 5-star overall safety rating, showcasing its superior crashworthiness. It also achieved lower neck injury risks and reduced chest compression compared to the Audi A4. These results highlight BMW’s commitment to passenger protection.

The BMW 3 Series has been recognized by IIHS as a Top Safety Pick, achieving good scores in all crash tests and earning a Plus designation for the first time. In comparison, the 2017 Audi A4 also received a superior rating for front crash prevention and matched the 3 Series in all other areas.

While the Audi A4 performs well in crash tests, its 4-star overall safety rating indicates room for improvement. The BMW 3 Series stands out as the safer choice for those prioritizing crash protection.

Innovative Safety Technologies

Both the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4 incorporate cutting-edge safety technologies to enhance your driving experience. The BMW features an advanced Driving Assistance Professional Package, which includes adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, traffic jam assist, and active lane-keeping. These systems work seamlessly to reduce driver fatigue and improve safety during long commutes.

The Audi A4, on the other hand, offers its Pre Sense City system, which detects pedestrians and vehicles to prevent collisions. Its available adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist provides similar functionality to BMW’s system but lacks the same level of refinement. While both sedans excel in innovation, the BMW’s more comprehensive suite of safety technologies gives it a competitive edge.

Pricing and Value of BMW 3 Series vs Audi A4

Base Price and Trim Levels

When comparing the base price and trim levels, the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4 offer distinct options to suit different budgets and preferences. The BMW 3 Series starts at approximately $43,800 for its base trim, the 330i, which includes a robust set of standard features like a turbocharged engine and advanced safety systems. On the other hand, the Audi A4 begins at a slightly lower price of $41,200 for its Premium trim. This entry-level model provides a well-rounded package with a focus on comfort and technology.

Both sedans offer multiple trim levels to cater to diverse needs. The BMW 3 Series includes sportier options like the M340i, which emphasizes performance, while the Audi A4 offers the Prestige trim, which prioritizes luxury and advanced technology. Your choice will depend on whether you value performance or premium features more.

Cost of Ownership and Maintenance

Ownership costs play a significant role in determining the long-term value of a car. The BMW 3 Series comes with a 4-year/50,000-mile warranty, which matches the Audi A4’s warranty coverage. However, BMW includes complimentary maintenance for the first three years or 36,000 miles, giving it an edge in reducing initial service expenses. Audi does not offer a similar maintenance package, which could lead to higher out-of-pocket costs during the early years of ownership.

In terms of reliability, the BMW 3 Series has a slight advantage, with fewer reported issues compared to the Audi A4. This reliability translates to lower repair costs over time, making the BMW a more cost-effective choice for long-term ownership.

Resale Value and Long-Term Investment

Resale value is another critical factor when evaluating the overall value of a sedan. The BMW 3 Series typically retains its value better than the Audi A4, thanks to its strong brand reputation and consistent demand in the used car market. After five years, the BMW 3 Series retains approximately 55% of its original value, while the Audi A4 retains around 50%.

If you plan to sell or trade in your car after a few years, the BMW 3 Series offers a better return on investment. Its combination of performance, reliability, and brand prestige ensures it remains a desirable option for second-hand buyers.

Practicality of BMW 3 Series vs Audi A4

Cargo Space and Storage Solutions

When it comes to cargo space, both the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4 offer practical solutions for everyday needs. The BMW 3 Series sedan provides a trunk capacity of 17 cubic feet, slightly larger than the Audi A4’s 13 cubic feet. This extra space makes the 3 Series more accommodating for larger items like suitcases or sports equipment. Additionally, the BMW includes automatic folding rear seats, which enhance versatility by allowing you to expand the cargo area effortlessly. In contrast, the Audi A4 lacks this feature, requiring manual adjustments for similar functionality.

For those seeking even greater practicality, both models are available in estate versions. The BMW 3 Series Touring boasts a 500-liter boot with a wider and taller opening, making it easier to load bulky items. The Audi A4 Avant offers a comparable boot size, ensuring ample space for activities like grocery shopping or road trips. However, the BMW’s optional power trunk adds convenience, especially when your hands are full.

Exterior Dimensions and Parking Ease

The exterior dimensions of these sedans play a significant role in their practicality. The BMW 3 Series features a slightly longer wheelbase at 112.5 inches compared to the Audi A4’s 111 inches. This contributes to a smoother ride and better handling. However, the Audi A4’s shorter length of 185.9 inches makes it marginally easier to maneuver in tight parking spaces.

The BMW’s balanced weight distribution enhances stability during driving, while its optional power trunk and automatic rear seat folding improve loading ease. These features make the 3 Series a more practical choice for those who value convenience and versatility.

Everyday Usability and Versatility

Both the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4 excel in everyday usability, but they cater to slightly different priorities. The BMW’s larger trunk and automatic folding seats make it ideal for families or individuals who frequently carry larger loads. Its estate version further enhances practicality with a spacious boot and user-friendly design.

The Audi A4, on the other hand, focuses on a compact design that suits urban environments. Its shorter length and lighter curb weight make it easier to park and navigate through crowded streets. However, the lack of automatic trunk operation and folding seats may limit its versatility compared to the BMW.

Choosing between the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4 depends on your priorities. The BMW 3 Series excels in performance, offering sharper driving dynamics and a more powerful engine lineup, including a plug-in hybrid option. In contrast, the Audi A4 emphasizes comfort and luxury, with a minimalist interior design and a smoother ride. Both sedans feature advanced technology and safety systems, but the BMW edges ahead with better crash test ratings and reliability.

For performance enthusiasts, the BMW M340i delivers thrilling power and agility. Luxury seekers may prefer the Audi A4’s refined cabin and supple ride. Budget-conscious buyers will appreciate the BMW’s complimentary maintenance and higher resale value. Ultimately, test-driving both models will help you decide which should you buy to suit your lifestyle and preferences.