
A4L 40 and 45 differences introduction: 1. Power: 1. The 2.0L engine used in the 40 model has a maximum horsepower of 190 hp, maximum power of 140 kW, and maximum torque of 320 N·m. 2. The 2.0L engine used in the 45 model has a maximum horsepower of 252 hp, maximum power of 185 kW, and maximum torque of 370 N·m. 2. Drive system: 1. All 40 models feature front-wheel drive; 2. All 45 models feature four-wheel drive. 3. Price: The Audi A4L 40 version is cheaper than the 45 version.

To be honest, what I know best about the A4L 40 and 45 is their performance. The 40 version comes with a 190-horsepower engine, which is more than enough for daily commuting, offering brisk starts and overtaking in the city. The 45 version jumps from 190 horsepower straight to 252 horsepower, reducing the 0-100 km/h acceleration time from 8 seconds to just over 6 seconds—the push-back feeling when you step on the gas is on a completely different level. Both use a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, but the 45 version is tuned more aggressively with faster downshifts. In terms of fuel consumption, the 40 version averages around 9 L/100km in the city, while the 45 version goes up to about 11 L/100km. If your budget allows, the 45 version is more exhilarating for highway overtaking. But if you're mostly driving in the city, the 40 version is much more economical and fuel-efficient.

My friend just picked up an A4L 40 edition, and I've driven it a few times comparing it to the older 45 edition. The 40 edition comes standard with 18-inch wheels, while the 45 edition gets 19-inch big wheels, significantly improving grip. The braking systems are also different; the 40 edition has single-piston calipers, whereas the 45 edition upgrades to dual-piston calipers, offering more confidence during emergency braking. The suspension tuning on the 45 edition is stiffer, providing stronger cornering support, while the 40 edition offers a more comfortable ride by filtering out bumps. The most valuable aspects are that the 45 edition comes standard with matrix headlights and a B&O sound system, which are optional for the 40 edition. Spending those extra tens of thousands mainly depends on whether you care about these hardware upgrades.

Recently test drove both the 40 and 45 versions at the dealership. The 40 version has adequate power but delivers it more linearly, while the 45 version responds much quicker to throttle inputs and feels particularly spirited above 3,000 rpm. The transmission programming differs too - the 45 version downshifts more aggressively in Sport mode. Chassis-wise, the 45 comes with sport suspension which is stiffer over speed bumps but provides better cornering stability. Main configuration differences include the audio system, headlights and wheel sizes, plus the 45 gets more aggressive styling with S-line trim. For frequent highway driving I'd recommend the 45, but the 40 is perfectly sufficient for pure city commuting.

Last year, I thoroughly researched these two versions when helping a relative choose a car. The 40 version uses a low-power 2.0T engine with 190 horsepower and 320 N·m of torque, while the 45 version features a high-power variant with 252 horsepower and 370 N·m. The fuel consumption difference is significant, with the 45 version consuming about 2 liters more in city driving compared to the 40 version. The driving modes differ as well—the 45 version includes an additional Dynamic mode, which noticeably stiffens the steering wheel when activated. Key standard equipment differences lie in the lighting system: the 45 version comes with intelligent matrix headlights that can avoid oncoming vehicles, whereas the 40 version only has standard lights. If the budget allows, the 45 version is more worthwhile, given its clear improvements in power and features.

As a long-time owner, let me explain the core differences between the 40 and 45 versions. The powertrain essentially uses the same EA888 engine with different tuning, where the 45 version has higher turbo pressure. The drive shafts also differ, with the 45 version reinforced for greater torque capacity. The 45 version comes with 245-width tires, 20mm wider than the 40 version, paired with larger brake discs. Most crucially, the electronic differential - the 45 version features a sport differential for more agile cornering. These hardware differences aren't noticeable during daily driving, but the 45 version's handling advantages become apparent during aggressive driving. If you're after driving pleasure, I'd recommend going straight for the 45 version.


