The A4’s interior has a high-tech vibe that is virtually unmatched at this price point thanks to Audi’s Virtual Cockpit display. Although Volkswagen is already releasing a similar technology on two crossovers, this only somewhat lessens the appeal of the option on our long-term Audi. With only a few minor deviations, our 2017 A4 2.0T all-wheel-drive receives a high grade overall in terms of technology.
The 12.3-inch, completely digital Virtual Cockpit instrument cluster display is well-done. Other manufacturers have cool digital instrument clusters, but if you want your new car to impress you, the Audi system is a good option because of the way it blends a functional design with a sleek interface. On the A4, the technology is available on the top-tier Prestige trim, and I value the variety of display choices. I may minimize the speedometer and tachometer when I’m gazing at a map on the 8.3-inch infotainment screen by stretching audio information (and the record cover thumbnail image) across the instrument cluster’s screen.
Alternately, I may make the most of Audi’s usage of Google Earth photos by reducing the tach and speedo. On a crowded journey home, I’ll occasionally use the steering wheel control to zoom out nearly to the system’s maximum, filling the display with an image of our planet and stars around it, while watching the imagery of city streets and buildings transform into mountains and ocean. Of course, this isn’t a useful application of the technology, but if I had wanted a useful automobile, I would have “bought” a more affordable and roomier Volkswagen Passat. The more than 20 inches of combined screen space in the Virtual Cockpit can be used to display navigation instructions and audio information, but what really makes it a cool luxury in my opinion is that “look-at-how-insignificant-you-are” planet view with Google Earth satellite data. Audi currently offers a six-month trial period after which a Connect Prime package, which also includes traffic data from Inrix XD and many other features like a curfew alert and remote locking and unlocking, becomes available. Currently, the plan costs $199 for six months and $499 for 18 months; if I didn’t use Apple CarPlay so frequently, I might think about paying those costs.
The A4 comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard features, which I still find to be very useful. With Apple CarPlay, I can connect my phone to the vehicle via one of the two USB ports, confirm that I’m okay with the connection, and then access a few fun features displayed on the 8.3-inch infotainment screen. The voice-command text messaging system functions effectively, and Spotify, Audible, and other audio services have clear displays. Even though Audi’s internal navigation system is manageable, for me, there’s nothing better than instantly receiving directions to a location even when I’m unfamiliar with the address. I’m good as long as I know the name of the cafe, shop, or hotel, as well as the location’s city. My phone and the car’s voice-recognition technology typically grasp what I want with just one vocal command delivered via a lengthy press of a button on the steering wheel, and we’re off.
I’ll talk more about the driving experience and the sophisticated array of active safety features available in the A4 in upcoming posts.
In This Article...
Is CarPlay available on every 2017 Audi A4?
Apple CarPlay is either standard equipment on almost all of the new Audi cars in our showroom in the Los Angeles area or is an optional feature. The whole list is provided below, standard unless otherwise noted: 2017 – 2020 Audi A3. 2017 – 2021 Audi A4.
Exists Apple CarPlay in the Audi A4?
With the 2021 Audi A4 and A5, leave the cords at home. According to a company announcement on Wednesday, both cars now accept wireless Apple CarPlay, making the system unquestionably much simpler to operate.
The main technological advancement of the changes is the elimination of wires, but consumers checking out a 2021 A4 or A5 will also discover Audi’s integrated toll module installed, which effortlessly pays tolls while driving on toll roads. Additionally, the Premium Plus trim now comes with extra standard features like adaptive cruise control and a top-down camera system, while the Convenience package also comes standard with front and rear parking sensors.
Both vehicles now feature a 12-volt mild-hybrid system as well as the updated technology to maintain slightly higher efficiency. It also generates an additional 13 horsepower as a result. Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system is now standard on A4 40 TFSI versions, and the A5 debuts its own 40 TFSI model.
A new black-painted roof option is now available, and purchasers will be able to add a Black Optic package to any car. This package comes with 18- or 19-inch wheels and a lot of black external trim. Prices for the A4 begin at $39,100 before destination charges, while those for the A5 begin at $44,000.
The 2018 Audi A4 is Apple CarPlay compatible.
Although its infotainment options are unchanged for 2018, the A4 is still one of the better-equipped cars in its class. The Technology package from the previous year, which came with a larger 8.3-inch infotainment screen, navigation, and the Virtual Cockpit gauge display, is now known as the Navigation and Telematics package. The infotainment system in the A4 is easy to understand and use thanks to its clear graphics and well-organized menus. In order to reduce distractions, an optional Virtual Cockpit instrument-panel display puts a wealth of useful data right in the driver’s line of sight. A rotary knob in the center console operates the 7.0-inch center screen, which is part of the A4’s standard configuration. There are many standard features, including Bluetooth, two USB outlets, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. A more potent Bang & Olufsen audio system with 19 speakers and 755 watts of output is also featured in various option packages, along with navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio, and in-car Wi-Fi.
The 2017 Audi A4 is touchscreen equipped.
The styling of the car is fairly traditional. The only noticeable difference between the A4 and its predecessor is that the hood appears somewhat longer. To make a brand-new car resemble the previous model so closely, inventiveness must be actively suppressed.
The A4 has a fuel rating of 24 mpg in the city, 31 mpg on the highway, and 27 mpg overall according to the Environmental Protection Agency. In terms of best in class, it is comparable to the C300.
With the exception of the 3-series and Q50, the inside is spacious and comfortable, offering more passenger room than any rival. Only the 3-series provides more capacity for passengers and luggage. The only vehicle with less luggage space is the Infiniti. There is a sizable storage bin in the center console.
Although my car’s inside is finished in high-quality leather and wood, the color palette is ominous. Even the center console’s oak trim has a black finish that makes it appear to be made of inferior materials.
For smartphone connection, the A4 boasts both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, although neither system performs well. Unacceptable is Audi’s insistence on managing touch-screen-optimized smart phone systems with its MMI rotary controller. Additionally, throughout my test, CarPlay frequently malfunctioned, switching the music player from my library to the hated Apple Radio. It’s my least favorite CarPlay application.
In comparison to the best competitors, the voice-recognition system requires additional steps for actions like address entry.
Customers will buy the A4 because of Audi’s solid reputation and the car’s comfort and fuel efficiency, but to stay competitive, Audi would be well to plan technical and performance enhancements.
If my Audi has Apple CarPlay, how do I know?
Most vehicles made in 2014 or after feature Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. You can check the user manual or conduct a Google search using the year, make, and model of your car to find out if it has Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. If your car doesn’t have a wireless dock, you can alternatively use the primary USB connector to connect your phone and view the menu. If your vehicle is equipped with it, an app will appear on the screen and request your permission from your phone. Although these apps are incredibly user-friendly, if you need help, Google (and YouTube!) are always available.
When you connect in your phone, some automobile systems (like Hyundai’s) instantly open Apple CarPlay or Android Auto; however, other systems require you to activate them through the infotainment system (BMW, for example). The technologies are there in your car if CarPlay or Android Auto are listed on the Monroney window sticker, although you might need to look for them.
The Pioneer AVH-3300NEX ($529.97 on Amazon) is a nice system to look into if you’re upgrading your current car but only have one installation slot.
When was Apple CarPlay added to the Audi A4?
Apple CarPlay on Audi models
- Audi A3: 2017 to the present.
- 2017 and up for the Audi A4.
- 2017 and up for the Audi A5.
- 2017 and up for the Audi A6.
- 2017 and up for the Audi A7.
- Audi A8: as of 2018.
- 2020 and up for the Audi Q3.
- A4 e-tron Audi: 2022Present.
Has the 2016 Audi A4 CarPlay?
According to Peter Strudwicke, product planner at Audi, the new range is “the most technologically-advanced Audi ever to go on sale in Australia,” with prices starting at $55,500 plus on-road expenses.
It is a “quantum leap forward” in terms of technology, material quality, and driving dynamics, he continued.
Adaptive LED headlights, which are standard across the whole 2016 Audi A4 lineup, are at the forefront of the high-tech equipment charge.
The MMI Navigation plus infotainment system, which includes an 8.3-inch center screen, MMI touchpad, 10GB of music storage, real-time traffic updates, and a new smartphone interface with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, is now standard in all A4 variations.
DAB+ digital radio is also included in premium model grades, and a specially built 755-Watt Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system with 19 speakers and a 16-channel amplifier is an additional $1500 option.
A fully digital instrument cluster with a 12.3-inch screen (1440 x 540 pixels) and head-up display, as well as a new rear-seat entertainment system with detachable tablets, are also included in the $2100 Tecknik package, which is available for the A4.
The tablets are specifically integrated with the MMI Connect system and connect to the internet through the on-board Wi-Fi hotspot.
Even the voice control system in the automobile has advanced and can now comprehend everyday expressions like “Where is the closest Chinese restaurant?” and “Where can I refuel?”
An active charcoal filter in the three-zone climate control system removes microparticles like bacteria and odors. Even the cabin’s recirculating air is filtered. The system, according to Audi, is twice as effective as similar systems in competing cars.
The pre-sense system does the same thing by alerting the crew and passengers of an impending collision and preparing them for a crash.
Customers can also order the optional $1900 Assistance package, which adds a comprehensive set of active safety features like active lane assist, active cruise with stop-and-go and traffic jam assistant, distance indicator and pre-sense front, turn assist (with full auto braking), collision avoidance assist, and high-beam assist. It also follows vehicles with auto throttle, brake, and steering inputs.
Additionally, according to Audi, it is the only vehicle on the market with two distinct adaptive damper systems: Sport adaptive dampers and Comfort adaptive dampers. These systems are tuned differently and lower the ride height by 23mm and 10mm, respectively, when compared to the standard suspension.
Despite having larger dimensions than the model it replacesthe all-new B9 Audi A4 is 25 millimeters longer and 16 millimeters widerweight-saving construction methods have allowed for weight savings of up to 65 kilos.
Starting at $55,500 for the 1.4 TSFI, the range’s entry-level models include one four-cylinder turbo diesel and three four-cylinder petrol engines.
The 2.0 TSFI starts at $60,900, the 2.0 TDI quattro is $66,900, and the 2.0 TSFI quattro is the most expensive model, starting at $69,900.
Can Audi MMI be upgraded to Apple CarPlay?
It is an onboard variation of Apple’s iOS software created specifically to improve connectivity between your iPhone and the in-car entertainment system.
Does Audi have Apple CarPlay?
Yes, it is the answer. You can control the primary applications on your iPhone or iPad via the control knob, your multifunction steering wheel, or voice command thanks to Audi MMI technology. As your new driving partner, Siri helps you complete tasks while keeping your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road.
By doing the following, you can link Apple CarPlay to the Audi MMI system:
- After making sure that Bluetooth is turned on for your iPhone, select “Phone” from the MMI’s main menu.
- Select “Connect mobile device” from the menu.
- Once it displayed on the screen, select your device and permit pairing with your Audi.
When did Apple CarPlay arrive for Audi?
In its brand-new vehicles, which will go on sale in Europe next year and in the United States in early 2016, Audi will start providing the Apple CarPlay technology.
Does the 2017 Audi a5 support Apple CarPlay?
Over the past two years, Audi has quietly updated its lineup, with all new models including cutting-edge technology like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and the virtual cockpit. While vehicles like the Audi Q5, A3, and A4 are practical and enjoyable to drive, they are not intended to be quick or beautiful. Despite this, a classy interior isn’t everything. And the Audi A5 fills that role, sort of.
With the same luxurious interior we’ve come to expect from Audi in 2017, the new A5 appears to be a vehicle that can devour backroads and clock up the kilometers. Is it the complete set? To learn more, read our review of the new Audi A5.
Audi A5 Sportback review: Design
The Mercedes C Class, E Class, and even the BMW 5 Series are overshadowed by the new Audi A5 as the best-looking saloon available today. It stands out from the front with a sizable chrome grille and incisive lighting that set it apart from the competition.
The 2017 Audi A3 is Apple CarPlay compatible.
All Audi A3s from model years 2017 to 2020 include Apple Carplay connectivity, allowing you to connect to your iPhone. When it is officially delivered, we predict that the new 2022 A3 will also include Carplay as standard equipment.
The first thing you should do if your A3 lacks Carplay is an MMI software update. If not, you might need to connect your iPhone by performing the above procedures in order to use the Apple Carplay system’s convenience and security.
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