Indeed, when you opt for the $450 optional, but unremarkable, metallic paint, the $2300 premium package that includes a sunroof, auto dimming mirrors, xenon headlights, and multi-functional steering wheel to the $1000 upgraded stereo you are looking at a $40,000 car.

You might wait a bit and see what the Infiniti G35 is going to cost when they bring their all wheel drive car online soon. It certainly is going to have more power and I believe it will be less costly. Of course, I like the room, fit and finish, and overall grown-up look of the Audi over the Infiniti. And I certainly like the smaller turning radius of the A4 over the Volvo and Infiniti.

Family conference: First, drive the Audi 1.8t. It is a bargain with front wheel drive and a fine ride. Stepping up to the 3.0 with an automatic and all wheel drive is going to cost you considerably more money. So the question you need to ask yourself is if you truly need the Quattro, the smooth power of the six-cylinder engine, and exactly what options you need versus what you need. We liked the Audi, but at $40,000 it was getting too close to our very favorite Audi, the S4 that has 340 horsepower, lots of options, and is only a few thousand more than the loaded A4.