@ Audi AG
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
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Audi A4 Avant vs VW Golf Variant – Performance, range & efficiency compared

Everyday use, family trips or long-distance drives – here’s where the differences show.
Discover whether Audi A4 Avant or VW Golf Variant fits your lifestyle better.

A4 Avant @ Audi AG

Introduction to the Showdown: Audi A4 Avant vs VW Golf Variant

The automotive world has always been fascinated by comparisons, especially when two strong contenders go head-to-head in the same category. In this article, we’ll dive into a detailed comparison between the Audi A4 Avant and the VW Golf Variant, two wagon-shaped vehicles that promise style, performance, and practicality. Whether you're interested in daily commuting, weekend adventures, or family outings, both of these cars offer versatility to meet your needs.

Golf Variant @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Powertrains and Performance

The Audi A4 Avant boasts a diversified lineup of engines, including diesel and petrol options, along with mild hybrid variants. Engine choices range from a modest yet efficient 136 HP diesel engine to the high-performance 265 HP petrol option. With all-wheel drive (AWD) and front-wheel drive (FWD) configurations available, the A4 offers acceleration values ranging from 5.7 seconds to 9.8 seconds for 0-100 km/h, which showcases its dynamic capabilities on the road.

On the other side, the VW Golf Variant presents a slightly less potent performance bag, featuring a maximum of 333 HP from its either FWD or AWD setups. The Golf’s acceleration can go as low as 4.8 seconds, which is quite impressive and puts it in a competitive position. However, its power options start at a more modest 116 HP, making it versatile but less sporty in comparison to the A4. Both cars utilize advanced automatic transmissions, with the A4 offering a dual-clutch automatic for smoother gear shifts.

A4 Avant @ Audi AG

Fuel Efficiency and Environment

Fuel efficiency continues to be a crucial factor for many buyers, especially for those who cover long distances regularly. The Audi A4 Avant shines with its diesel options, arriving at a promising consumption of around 4.8 to 7.5 L/100km, depending on the engine and configuration. While its performance engines may sip slightly more, the blend of efficiency and power renders it a rational yet thrilling choice.

The VW Golf Variant also puts up a commendable performance in this area, with fuel consumption figures hovering between 4.4 to 5.7 L/100km. However, as seen with its powertrain options, it offers slightly lower consumption at the entry-level. This makes the Golf a very economical choice for daily use, especially for urban dwellers.

Golf Variant @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Dimensions and Practicality

Taking a look at dimensions, the Audi A4 Avant touts a length of approximately 4750mm and a trunk capacity of 495 liters, making it suitable for families or those needing extra cargo space. With its elegant design and spacious interior, the A4 Avant doesn’t compromise on comfort.

Conversely, the VW Golf Variant stretches to 4631mm in length and offers a more generous trunk capacity of 611 liters. This capacity advantage makes the Golf a clear winner in the practicality category, particularly for those who require more space for luggage or everyday items.

A4 Avant @ Audi AG

Interior Comfort and Technology

When it comes to interior quality and technology, Audi has long been lauded for its refinement. The A4 Avant features high-quality materials, advanced infotainment systems, and a suite of connectivity features. Its MMI system allows seamless integration with smartphones, navigation, and various driving modes tailored to different preferences.

Meanwhile, the VW Golf Variant does not lag in this domain either. Volkswagen’s infotainment is user-friendly, featuring touchscreen controls and a modern layout. The interior quality is robust, suitable for both drivers and passengers. Although it may not match Audi's luxury feel, it does pack plenty of features that cater to family needs, ensuring comfort during long journeys.

Golf Variant @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Safety Features and Ratings

Safety is a paramount concern for modern buyers, and both vehicles come equipped with a comprehensive list of safety systems. The Audi A4 Avant touts advanced driver assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and parking aids. It's a perfect choice for buyers looking for extra reassurance on the road.

The Golf Variant also features an impressive array of safety technologies, including emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and more. Both vehicles are designed to perform exceptionally in crash tests, giving potential buyers peace of mind regardless of their choice.

A4 Avant @ Audi AG

Conclusion: Which One Should You Choose?

Ultimately, choosing between the Audi A4 Avant and VW Golf Variant boils down to personal preferences and needs. If you seek a high-performance vehicle that offers luxury, advanced technology, and a powerful driving experience, the A4 Avant should be at the top of your list. Conversely, if practicality, efficiency, and value for money are more aligned with your requirements, the VW Golf Variant emerges as a strong contender.

Both cars cater to different buyer priorities while providing the essential features expected from reputable automotive brands. Whichever you choose, both the Audi A4 Avant and the VW Golf Variant stand out in today’s competitive wagon market.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Golf Variant @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

VW Golf Variant has a decisively advantage in terms of price – it starts at 26100 £, while the Audi A4 Avant costs 37200 £. That’s a price difference of around 11104 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: VW Golf Variant manages with 4.30 L and is therefore slightly more efficient than the Audi A4 Avant with 4.80 L. The difference is about 0.50 L per 100 km.

A4 Avant @ Audi AG

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the Audi A4 Avant has a evident edge – offering 470 HP compared to 333 HP. That’s roughly 137 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Audi A4 Avant is clearly perceptible quicker – completing the sprint in 3.70 s, while the VW Golf Variant takes 4.80 s. That’s about 1.10 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Audi A4 Avant performs somewhat better – reaching 300 km/h, while the VW Golf Variant tops out at 250 km/h. The difference is around 50 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Audi A4 Avant pulls distinct stronger with 600 Nm compared to 420 Nm. That’s about 180 Nm difference.

Golf Variant @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, VW Golf Variant is to a small extent lighter – 1366 kg compared to 1595 kg. The difference is around 229 kg.

In terms of boot space, the VW Golf Variant offers a bit more room – 611 L compared to 495 L. That’s a difference of about 116 L.

In maximum load capacity, the VW Golf Variant performs barely noticeable better – up to 1642 L, which is about 147 L more than the Audi A4 Avant.

When it comes to payload, Audi A4 Avant barely noticeable takes the win – 565 kg compared to 547 kg. That’s a difference of about 18 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the Audi A4 Avant shows itself to be is largely superior and secures the title of DriveDuel Champion.
It convinces with the more balanced overall package and proves to be the more versatile choice for everyday use.

from about £37,200
A4 Avant @ Audi AG

Audi A4 Avant

  • Engine Type : Diesel MHEV, Petrol MHEV, Petrol
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : All-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 136 - 470 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 4.8 - 9.7 L

Audi A4 Avant

The Audi A4 Avant seamlessly blends practicality with a touch of luxury, making it an ideal choice for both family outings and business trips. Its sleek design and spacious interior ensure a comfortable ride, while the advanced technology enhances the driving experience. With a reputation for quality and performance, the A4 Avant stands out in the competitive estate car market.

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VW Golf Variant

The VW Golf Variant represents a seamless blend of practicality and style, catering to drivers who require extra space without compromising on aesthetics. Its refined design and spacious interior make it an ideal choice for families and individuals with an active lifestyle. With advanced technology and a smooth driving experience, this estate car continues to impress within its class.

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Audi A4 Avant
VW Golf Variant
A4 Avant @ Audi AG
Golf Variant @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Costs and Consumption

Price
37200 - 122500 £
Price
26100 - 48700 £
Consumption L/100km
4.8 - 9.7 L
Consumption L/100km
4.3 - 8.2 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
126 - 220 g/km
co2
114 - 185 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
40 - 58 L
Fuel tank capacity
45 - 55 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
Estate
Body Type
Estate
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1595 - 1820 kg
Curb weight
1366 - 1621 kg
Trunk capacity
495 L
Trunk capacity
611 L
Length
4750 - 4782 mm
Length
4631 - 4651 mm
Width
1842 - 1866 mm
Width
1789 mm
Height
1428 - 1493 mm
Height
1462 - 1487 mm
Max trunk capacity
1495 L
Max trunk capacity
1624 - 1642 L
Payload
510 - 565 kg
Payload
489 - 547 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Diesel MHEV, Petrol MHEV, Petrol
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Diesel
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic, Manuel
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic, Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic, Manual Gearbox
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
136 - 470 HP
Power HP
116 - 333 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.7 - 9.8 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.8 - 10.5 s
Max Speed
210 - 300 km/h
Max Speed
202 - 250 km/h
Torque
270 - 600 Nm
Torque
220 - 420 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4 - 6
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
100 - 346 kW
Power kW
85 - 245 kW
Engine capacity
1968 - 2894 cm3
Engine capacity
1498 - 1984 cm3

General

Model Year
2023 - 2024
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, F, D, G
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, G, F, C
Brand
Audi
Brand
VW
What drivetrain options does the Audi A4 Avant have?

The Audi A4 Avant is offered with All-Wheel Drive or Front-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.