The Audi A4 (40 TFSI) and BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine (LWB) are two of India’s most compelling entry-level luxury sedans in 2025. The Audi A4 brings a refined 204 hp 2.0-litre TFSI engine and coupe-like poise; the BMW 3 Series LWB emphasises supreme rear-seat comfort, extra space, and dynamic BMW driving dynamics. This comparison uses verified OEM information to help Indian buyers choose based on performance, space, features, and real-world suitability.
Why this comparison matters
The Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series occupy the sweet spot where premium experiences meet daily usability. Buyers often ask: which is sportier, which is roomier, and which gives better value for city driving and chauffeured comfort? Below we compare both sedans using verified official data so you can make a fact-based decision.
Quick Spec Snapshot
| Item | Audi A4 (40 TFSI) | BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine (LWB) |
| Engine (Petrol) | 2.0-litre TFSI (Turbo Petrol) | 2.0-litre TwinPower Turbo Petrol (330Li) |
| Max Power (Petrol) | 204 hp (150 kW) / 320 Nm torque | 258 hp (190 kW) / 400 Nm torque |
| 0–100 km/h (Claimed) | 7.1 sec | 6.2 sec (330Li Petrol) |
| Transmission | 7-speed S tronic (Dual-Clutch Automatic) | 8-speed Steptronic (Torque Converter Automatic) |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) | Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) |
| Wheelbase | 2819 mm (Standard) | 2961 mm (Extended) |
| Positioning | Style + Tech + Engaging FWD drive | Rear-Seat Comfort + Dynamics + RWD feel |
Notes: The BMW 3 Series LWB is also available with a potent 2.0L Diesel engine (320Ld) offering 190 hp and 400 Nm.
Design & Presence – Audi’s Poise vs BMW’s Executive Stance
The Audi A4 presents a composed, elegant face with a broad Singleframe grille, sculpted sides, and a continuous chrome strip at the rear – a design leaning towards understated sportiness and coupe-like lines. The Audi’s proportions emphasise style and a premium urban presence.
The BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine retains BMW’s sporty silhouette but stretches the wheelbase to prioritise rear-seat space. Visually it keeps BMW’s athletic cues – Hofmeister kink, muscular haunches – while signalling executive intent through its extended proportions and presence.
Verdict: Choose the A4 if you want a sleek, style-forward sedan and a slightly easier-to-manage size in the city. Choose the BMW LWB if rear-seat comfort and executive presence matter most.
Performance & Drive Character – FWD vs RWD Dynamics
Audi A4: The A4 is equipped with a 2.0-litre TFSI that produces a verified 204 hp and 320 Nm of torque. Paired with the quick-shifting 7-speed S tronic (dual-clutch), it delivers a brisk 0–100 km/h in 7.1 seconds. The A4’s Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) powertrain is tuned for smoothness, linear delivery, and excellent stability, making it a refined companion for highways and city drives alike.
BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine (Petrol 330Li): The petrol LWB variant (330Li) features a 258 hp 2.0-litre TwinPower Turbo engine and 400 Nm of torque. It uses an ultra-refined 8-speed Steptronic (Torque Converter) automatic transmission and Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD). This combination delivers a significant performance edge, hitting 0–100 km/h in just 6.2 seconds, while retaining BMW’s trademark chassis feel, steering feedback, and composed handling.
Verdict: If you prioritise outright performance, higher engine numbers, and the traditional RWD driving feel, the BMW 330Li LWB is the clear winner. If you prefer a refined, stable, and quick dual-clutch FWD setup for daily city commutes, the Audi A4 is a compelling choice.
Space & Comfort – Who Seats Better in the Back?
This is where the comparison pivots for many Indian buyers.
Audi A4: Offers a comfortable cabin with premium materials and a well-appointed rear seat. However, it is built on the standard wheelbase (approx. 2819 mm) – rear legroom is competitive for its class but not chauffeur-class leading.
BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine (LWB): Specifically engineered for markets where rear-seat comfort is a priority (India included), the LWB extends the wheelbase to \mathbf2961 mm, delivering noticeably more rear legroom, a more comfortable rear bench, and often additional comfort features. This makes it the indisputable choice for buyers who are chauffeur-driven or frequently carry rear passengers.
Verdict: For rear-seat comfort, greater legroom, and chauffeur preference – BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine (LWB).
Technology & Features – Digital Cockpits and Convenience
Audi A4: Audi positions the A4 with its sophisticated 10.1-inch MMI touch display, Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus (fully digital driver display), three-zone climate control, and connectivity via myAudi (Audi Connect). The A4’s tech package focuses on a clean, driver-centric user experience and refinement.
BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine: Features a wide digital interface with a Curved Display housing a 12.3-inch driver display and a 14.9-inch Control Display, running on the latest BMW Operating System 8.5 (or iDrive 8). It includes the ConnectedDrive suite and luxury rear-seat amenities (like comfort headrests and a large panoramic sunroof). The BMW often includes more advanced driver aids like Parking Assistant Plus with 360 degree camera and ADAS features on top-end trims.
Verdict: Both cars offer modern digital experiences; the decision rests on visual preference (Audi’s clean integration vs BMW’s large curved screen) and feature prioritisation (driver-centric vs rear-seat amenities).
Practicality, Running Costs & Ownership – Local Context
Fuel & Efficiency: Audi’s TFSI petrol with mild-hybrid tech is refined and efficient for its class (ARAI mileage is around 17.4 kmpl). The BMW 330Li petrol returns around 15.4 kmpl, while the 320Ld diesel offers a better mileage of around 19.6 kmpl. The availability of a highly fuel-efficient Diesel option in the BMW LWB is a significant consideration for high-mileage users.
Service & Ownership: Both Audi India and BMW India offer comprehensive service packages, warranty policies, and finance plans suited for the premium buyer. The service networks are mature. Factor in dealer proximity and the specific service packages (e.g., BMW Service Inclusive) when choosing.
Verdict: Running costs will depend on engine choice and usage. For chauffeur-heavy/high-mileage use, the BMW 320Ld Diesel LWB is the most fuel-efficient and suitable. For owner-drivers, the A4’s balance and slightly lower price point may be preferred.
Price & Value – OEM Positioning (Check Local Dealers for Exact Pricing)
| Model | Approximate Ex-Showroom Price Range (2025 India) |
| Audi A4 (40 TFSI) | ₹46.25 Lakh – ₹55.11 Lakh |
| BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine | ₹60.50 Lakh – ₹61.80 Lakh |
Prices are approximate and subject to change. Always confirm final ex-showroom and on-road prices with the dealer.
The Audi A4 is positioned as a great value proposition in the compact executive class with strong tech. The BMW 3 Series LWB is priced higher, reflecting its larger size, higher power output, and executive, space-focused choice.
Who Should Buy Which – Quick Guide
Buy the Audi A4 (40 TFSI) if you want:
- A sleek, style-forward sedan with a refined 204 hp 2.0T engine and a crisp dual-clutch gearbox.
- A car for enthusiastic owner-drivers who value design, technology, FWD stability, and a lower starting price.
Buy the BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine (LWB) if you want:
- Maximum rear-seat comfort, extra legroom 2961 mm wheelbase, and an executive presence for chauffeured use.
- The superior performance 6.2 sec 0-100 km/h and RWD driving feel, adapted for India with an emphasis on rear-seat convenience.
- The option of a highly efficient Diesel engine (320Ld).
FAQs (Most Asked by Indian Buyers)
Q: Which model is better for city traffic?
A: Both are well-suited, but the Audi A4’s more compact dimensions (shorter wheelbase) and light steering make it slightly more nimble for owner-drivers in tight city traffic.
Q: Which is better for chauffeur-driven customers?
A: The BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine (LWB) – it is explicitly engineered to give more rear-seat space and comfort 2961 mm wheelbase for passengers.
Q: Are both locally supported with service & warranty?
A: Yes – Audi India and BMW India provide robust dealer networks, warranty policies, and ownership services. Check local dealer offerings for service packages.
Q: Which has better resale value?
A: Resale depends heavily on demand, maintenance, and variant. The BMW LWB’s unique positioning for rear-seat comfort ensures high demand, often translating to strong resale. Confirm with local used-car data sources.
Conclusion – Choose Based on Who Rides in the Back
The Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine are excellent entry-level luxury sedans but serve slightly different buyer profiles. If you’re an owner-driver who values design, FWD stability, and a lively gearbox, the A4 is a strong choice. If rear-seat comfort, executive presence, and a powerful RWD/Diesel option matter most, the BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine is the smarter pick. Both are premium, capable, and supported by robust OEM networks – pick the one that best matches your daily life and passenger needs.
