Hey car enthusiasts! Today, we're diving deep into the world of the 2018 Audi A4 Premium Plus S line. This car is a popular choice and for good reason! This model year offered a fantastic blend of luxury, performance, and technology, making it a compelling option in the competitive compact executive car segment. Let's break down what makes the 2018 Audi A4 Premium Plus S line so special, looking at everything from its design and features to its driving experience and potential issues. So, grab your coffee (or your beverage of choice), and let's get started!

Design and Exterior Features

First impressions matter, right? And the 2018 Audi A4 Premium Plus S line certainly makes a good one. The S line trim adds a sporty touch to the already elegant A4 design. You'll immediately notice the more aggressive front and rear bumpers, side sills, and a unique rear diffuser. These subtle yet impactful changes give the car a more dynamic and athletic stance. The S line badge subtly placed on the exterior further emphasizes its performance-oriented nature. The overall design language is clean, modern, and sophisticated, embodying Audi's signature understated elegance. You'll find sharp lines, a bold Singleframe grille, and sleek LED headlights (which were standard on the Premium Plus trim). The Premium Plus trim also typically includes features like LED taillights, heated side mirrors, and a power sunroof, further enhancing the car's aesthetic appeal and practicality. The available wheel options, which can range from 18-inch to 19-inch, also contribute to the car's overall look, allowing owners to customize their A4 to their taste. The design isn't just about looks, though. Audi has always focused on aerodynamics, and the A4's shape helps it cut through the air efficiently, contributing to both performance and fuel economy. The car is available in a range of colors, from classic shades like black, white, and silver to more vibrant options, giving buyers plenty of choices to express their personality. When the sun hits just right, it looks fantastic.

Detailed Exterior Components

Let's go into more detail about some of the exterior components. The headlights, for example, are more than just a design element; they're packed with technology. The LED headlights not only provide excellent illumination for night driving but also have a long lifespan and are energy-efficient. The Singleframe grille, a hallmark of Audi design, gives the A4 a strong and recognizable presence on the road. The S line specific bumpers and side skirts give the car a lower, more athletic profile, enhancing its sporty appeal. The rear diffuser, often integrated into the rear bumper, not only looks good but can also help to manage airflow under the car, improving stability at higher speeds. The power sunroof lets you enjoy the sun and fresh air, adding to the overall driving experience. The side mirrors are heated, which comes in handy during the colder months when ice and fog can obstruct visibility. The wheels, as mentioned, are an important part of the overall look, and the available sizes and designs allow for a personalized touch. The tires that are mounted on these wheels also play a vital role in the car's handling and grip. The quality of the paint finish is usually top-notch, with Audi paying close attention to the details. Overall, the exterior of the 2018 Audi A4 Premium Plus S line is a well-executed blend of form and function. This is a car that turns heads, but in a refined and subtle way. The exterior design isn't just eye candy; every element is carefully considered to enhance both the car's aesthetics and its performance.

Interior, Technology and Comfort

Alright, let's hop inside, shall we? The 2018 Audi A4 Premium Plus S line boasts a well-crafted interior that's as impressive as its exterior. The cabin is known for its high-quality materials, meticulous attention to detail, and a focus on driver and passenger comfort. The S line trim enhances the interior with sport seats, often featuring the S line logo, providing excellent support during spirited driving. The seats are typically upholstered in leather or a leather/Alcantara combination, adding a touch of luxury and a sporty feel. The dashboard design is clean and modern, with a focus on horizontal lines that create a sense of spaciousness. The Premium Plus trim comes with a host of advanced technology features. Key highlights often include Audi's virtual cockpit, a fully digital instrument cluster that replaces the traditional gauges with a customizable display. This system allows the driver to view navigation, media information, and vehicle data directly in front of them, enhancing convenience and reducing distractions. The MMI (Multi Media Interface) infotainment system, controlled via a central display screen, offers easy access to various functions, including audio, navigation, and smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto). The Premium Plus trim also usually includes features like a Bang & Olufsen sound system, which provides an exceptional audio experience. Other notable features include three-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, and advanced driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. Overall, the interior of the 2018 Audi A4 Premium Plus S line is designed to provide a premium and comfortable driving experience, combining luxury, technology, and practicality in a seamless package. Audi really nails the balance between a sporty and luxury feel.

A Closer Look Inside

Let's zoom in on some of the key interior components. The sport seats, often with the S line logo, are a standout feature. They offer excellent bolstering, providing good support during cornering, and the leather or Alcantara upholstery adds a touch of luxury. The dashboard features high-quality materials, such as soft-touch plastics and aluminum or wood trim, creating a premium feel. The virtual cockpit is a game-changer. This digital instrument cluster is fully customizable, allowing the driver to display navigation, media, and vehicle information in various configurations. The MMI infotainment system is user-friendly, with a clear display and intuitive controls. It integrates seamlessly with smartphones via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, providing access to your favorite apps and music. The Bang & Olufsen sound system is another highlight. It delivers crisp, clear audio quality, enhancing the overall in-cabin experience. The three-zone automatic climate control allows the driver and front passenger to set their preferred temperatures, while the rear passengers can adjust the temperature to their liking. Heated front seats provide comfort during cold weather. Advanced driver-assistance systems, like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning, help to improve safety and ease of driving. The attention to detail extends to the stitching, the placement of the controls, and the overall fit and finish. Audi's commitment to quality is evident throughout the interior. All these components work together to create an environment that's both luxurious and functional.

Performance and Driving Experience

Now, let's talk about the fun part – the driving experience! The 2018 Audi A4 Premium Plus S line is known for its balanced performance, offering a blend of power, handling, and comfort. Under the hood, you'll typically find a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This engine delivers a punchy performance, providing quick acceleration and ample power for everyday driving and highway cruising. The engine is mated to a smooth-shifting seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission, which contributes to both performance and fuel efficiency. The S line trim enhances the car's handling with a sport suspension, which provides a firmer ride and improved control. The car's quattro all-wheel-drive system (available or standard, depending on the configuration) provides excellent grip and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. The steering is precise and responsive, giving the driver a good feel for the road. The car's suspension is well-tuned, providing a comfortable ride while also minimizing body roll during cornering. Overall, the 2018 Audi A4 Premium Plus S line offers a confident and engaging driving experience, making it a joy to drive on both city streets and winding roads. Audi has always been at the forefront of providing great handling.

Engine, Transmission and Handling

Let's get into the specifics of performance and handling. The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is the heart of the A4's performance. This engine produces a healthy amount of horsepower and torque, providing quick acceleration and making the car feel responsive. The seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission is known for its smooth and rapid shifts, enhancing both performance and fuel efficiency. The transmission reacts quickly to driver inputs, making the car feel lively and engaging. The S line sport suspension lowers the car and stiffens the ride, improving handling and reducing body roll. The suspension provides a more connected feel with the road, making the car feel more agile in corners. The quattro all-wheel-drive system is a key feature of the A4. It provides excellent grip and stability, especially in slippery conditions. The system distributes power between the front and rear wheels, helping the car to maintain control in challenging driving situations. The steering is precise and provides good feedback, allowing the driver to feel confident behind the wheel. The brakes are powerful and responsive, providing ample stopping power. The car's overall balance and handling characteristics make it a pleasure to drive, offering a blend of performance and comfort that's hard to beat. The combination of the engine, transmission, suspension, and all-wheel-drive system creates a driving experience that's both fun and practical.

Potential Problems and Reliability

No car is perfect, and the 2018 Audi A4 Premium Plus S line is no exception. While generally reliable, there are a few potential issues that owners should be aware of. Common problems reported by owners include issues with the infotainment system, such as software glitches or screen freezes. Some owners have also reported issues with the mechatronic unit in the S tronic transmission, which can lead to shifting problems. Other potential issues include oil consumption problems, electrical gremlins, and issues with the water pump. It's important to keep up with regular maintenance, including oil changes and servicing of the transmission, to help prevent these issues from arising or to catch them early. Check the service history of any used A4 you are considering. Also, always research these issues and seek advice from other owners. By taking these precautions and being aware of the potential problems, you can help ensure that your 2018 Audi A4 Premium Plus S line remains a reliable and enjoyable vehicle for years to come.

Reliability Concerns

Let's delve deeper into some of the potential reliability concerns. Infotainment system issues are among the most frequently reported problems. These can range from software glitches that cause the system to freeze or become unresponsive to more serious hardware failures. Transmission problems, particularly with the mechatronic unit, are also worth noting. The mechatronic unit controls the shifting of the transmission, and any malfunctions can lead to rough shifting, gear slipping, or complete transmission failure. High oil consumption is another issue that has been reported by some owners. The engine may burn more oil than expected, which can lead to low oil levels and potential engine damage if not addressed promptly. Electrical problems can sometimes occur, with issues ranging from minor inconveniences to more serious electrical failures. Water pump failures are another potential concern. The water pump is responsible for circulating coolant throughout the engine, and its failure can lead to overheating and engine damage. Regular maintenance is crucial to mitigate these potential problems. This includes regular oil changes with the correct type of oil, proper servicing of the transmission, and checking for any warning signs of potential issues. Researching the car's service history can provide valuable insights into any previous problems. Being aware of these potential issues and taking preventative measures can help you keep your 2018 Audi A4 Premium Plus S line running smoothly for a long time. These problems aren't super common, but it's always good to be informed!

Conclusion: Is the 2018 Audi A4 Premium Plus S Line Right for You?

So, is the 2018 Audi A4 Premium Plus S line the right car for you? It's a fantastic option if you're looking for a compact executive car that offers a blend of luxury, performance, and technology. The car's sleek design, well-appointed interior, and engaging driving experience make it a pleasure to own and drive. The Premium Plus trim offers a comprehensive set of features, including advanced technology and driver-assistance systems. While it's important to be aware of potential reliability issues, regular maintenance and diligent care can help ensure that the car remains a reliable and enjoyable vehicle. If you value a premium driving experience and appreciate the finer things in life, the 2018 Audi A4 Premium Plus S line is definitely worth considering. It's a car that offers a satisfying blend of practicality and performance, making it a great choice for daily driving and longer journeys. Before making a decision, it's always a good idea to test drive the car and evaluate it based on your own needs and preferences. Ultimately, the 2018 Audi A4 Premium Plus S line stands out as a top contender in its class, offering a compelling package that's hard to resist. Go check one out and see what you think!