All A4s get a 2.0-liter turbocharged 211-horsepower four-cylinder. Front-wheel drive is standard, but Quattro all-wheel drive is available. Front-wheel drive models get a standard continuously variable transmission with no fixed gears. Quattro models get the choice of a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission. The A4 is capable of up to 32 MPG highway. All models get leather seats, eight-way powered front seats, power sunroof, 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control and a 10-speaker sound system with satellite radio. Option packages add more equipment, such as navigation, sport suspension, keyless entry and start and a Bang & Olufsen audio system.

Get the lowdown on the rest of the best sedans for 2012

The BMW 328i resonates more with sport sedan purists because it's rear-wheel drive and is more overtly sporty than the Audi. It also manages better fuel economy ratings with its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. But the BMW is more expensive, comes with fewer standard features and is not as roomy. The Mercedes-Benz C-class is also rear-wheel drive and is striking to look at, but its standard turbocharged engine on the C250 is less powerful than the A4 and all-wheel drive is only available on the C300 with worse fuel economy. The Lexus IS is better value than the A4 and comes with a history of Lexus reliability, but the rear seat is very cramped and its standard 2.5-liter V6 is slower and less efficient than the A4's turbo. The Acura TSX offers a lot of features for less money than the A4, but its interior is not as nice and there's no all-wheel drive option.

Overall, the A4 is right up with the best compact luxury sedans. It has the styling and quality bases covered, while offering an efficient turbo four-cylinder, front and all-wheel drive and a vast list of luxury options. Any shopper in this segment should put the A4 high on his or her shopping list.