The 2018 Audi A4 Premium Plus S Line represents a significant moment in the evolution of the compact luxury sedan, blending refined performance with sophisticated daily usability. This specific trim level sits strategically within the A4 lineup, offering a balance of compelling aesthetics, upgraded features, and the reassuring presence of the turbocharged engine that defines the segment. For buyers in the market during the 2018 model year, this package presented a compelling case for choosing Audi without necessarily stepping into the higher-performance S4 territory.
Design and S Line Styling
The visual identity of the 2018 A4 Premium Plus S Line is its most immediate appeal, setting it apart from the standard Premium trim. The S Line package is not merely a cosmetic add-on; it is a design philosophy that aggressively targets the sportier end of the compact spectrum. The exterior treatment includes distinctive front and rear bumpers with larger air shutters and more pronounced side skirts, creating a stance that looks lower and wider even without altering the suspension height.
Exterior Details and Aesthetics
Specific visual cues include quad exhaust tips that hint at a more dynamic performance character, even if the mechanicals remain tuned for efficiency and comfort. The signature LED headlights, a standard feature on the Premium trim, are enhanced here with dynamic turn signals that flow seamlessly into the aggressively styled grille. Inside, the S Line aesthetic is continued with contrast stitching, black headliner trim, and S Line badging on the front fenders and steering wheel, creating an interior atmosphere that is both sporty and distinctly Audi.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Under the hood, the 2018 A4 Premium Plus S Line is powered by the familiar 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a unit that has become synonymous with efficiency and responsiveness in this class. Producing 220 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, this powertrain provides more than enough thrust for confident highway merging and spirited back-road driving. The power is sent to the front wheels through a smooth seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission, a transmission that is widely regarded as one of the best in the business for its rapid shifts and intuitive gear selection.
Handling and Ride Quality
While not equipped with the optional performance-tuned suspension found in the S4, the Premium Plus S Line benefits from a slightly stiffer calibration that enhances body control during cornering. The steering feels more substantial and communicative, providing a direct connection to the road that satisfies drivers who want more than just a comfortable cruise. The overall ride remains refined and comfortable, adept at absorbing the imperfections of poorly maintained roads without transmitting harshness into the cabin, thus maintaining its luxury credentials.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Step inside the 2018 A4 Premium Plus S Line, and the emphasis on quality materials becomes immediately apparent. This trim level elevates the standard Premium experience with features like heated front and rear seats, a significant convenience for colder climates. The driver-centric cockpit is wrapped in premium leather and brushed aluminum, offering a tactile experience that feels far removed from the digital dashboards of mainstream competitors.
Infotainment and Convenience Features
The centerpiece of the cabin is the MMI infotainment system, a logical and intuitive interface that manages navigation, audio, and vehicle settings with precision. An 8.3-inch display provides clear graphics and responsive touch controls, while the Bang & Olufsen premium audio system, available on this trim, delivers a concert-hall-quality soundscape that enhances every drive. Complementary features like keyless entry, adaptive cruise control, and a panoramic sunroof contribute to a sense of modern luxury that feels both accessible and exclusive.
