Audi A4 vs BMW i3s
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | Audi A4 | BMW i3s | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max power (hp) | 163 | 184 | -11.4% |
| Max torque (Nm) | 380 | 270 | +40.7% |
| NCAP safety | 5★ (Euro NCAP) | 4★ (Euro NCAP) | — |
| Fuel type | Diesel | Electric | — |
| Transmission | DSG | Automatic | — |
| Price (USD est.) | $45,468 | $45,900 | -0.9% |
- BMW i3s makes about 11% more power (184 vs 163 hp).
- Their economy figures use different measures (Diesel vs Electric), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
Verdict: A4 or i3s?
Audi A4 advantages
- Pulling torque (+29%)
- Crash-test safety (+20%)
BMW i3s advantages
- Engine power (+11%)
Which should you choose?
- Choose the Audi A4 if you tow, carry loads or drive hilly roads.
- Choose the BMW i3s if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence.
- Choose the Audi A4 if you prioritize crash protection for your family.
Value for money
BMW i3s delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Audi A4 vs BMW i3s: which should you choose?
Audi A4 (2023 35 TDI) — diesel sedan with 163 hp and 380 Nm, rated at 20.8 km/L, 5-star Euro NCAP safety; priced near $45,468 in the Germany market.
BMW i3s (2021 120 Ah Sport) — electric hatchback with 184 hp and 270 Nm, rated at 16.3 kWh/100km, 4-star Euro NCAP safety; priced near $45,900 in the Germany market.
Audi A4 vs BMW i3s: BMW i3s is more powerful. BMW i3s makes about 11% more power (184 vs 163 hp). Their economy figures use different measures (Diesel vs Electric), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
Performance
The BMW i3s is the more powerful, at 184 hp against 163 hp, with 270 Nm of torque on tap. Its electric drivetrain pairs with a automatic transmission.
Running costs
These cars use different energy types (Diesel vs Electric), so compare cost per kilometre at your local fuel and electricity prices rather than a single economy number.
Safety
Audi A4 is rated 5 stars by Euro NCAP and BMW i3s 4 stars by Euro NCAP. Different NCAP programmes use different protocols, so same-programme comparisons are the most reliable.
Price and value
The Audi A4 lists lower at about $45,468 (USD-converted from the Germany market). Factor in insurance, fuel or charging, taxes and resale — not just the sticker price.
The verdict
Both are credible choices in the car comparison space; the specification table above lays out every metric so you can weigh the trade-offs that matter to you. Pick the one whose strengths line up with how you will actually use it.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Audi A4 better than the BMW i3s?
These two are closely matched — the right pick comes down to which specific strengths you value and the price you actually pay. BMW i3s makes about 11% more power (184 vs 163 hp).
What is the main difference between the Audi A4 and the BMW i3s?
BMW i3s makes about 11% more power (184 vs 163 hp). Their economy figures use different measures (Diesel vs Electric), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
Which is better value?
BMW i3s delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Which should I choose?
Choose the Audi A4 if you tow, carry loads or drive hilly roads. Choose the BMW i3s if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence.
Methodology
Cars are compared on manufacturer-rated maximum power and torque, certified fuel economy (km/L, converted from each market's test cycle: EPA, WLTP, CLTC, JC08/WLTC, ARAI) or EV energy use (kWh/100km), official NCAP crash-test ratings from the model's home-market programme, and list prices converted to USD at recent exchange rates. Each model shows its newest listed year and its highest-priority market trim. Test cycles differ between regions, so cross-market economy figures are directional rather than exact; prices exclude local taxes and incentives.