The 2006 Audi A4 stands out as a vehicle prioritizing safety, especially when it comes to side impact protection. As a content creator for keyfobprog.com and an automotive repair expert, I’ve analyzed the data to bring you a comprehensive look at the 2006 Audi A4’s performance in side impact crash tests. This review is based on rigorous testing and aims to provide potential buyers and automotive enthusiasts with a clear understanding of this vehicle’s safety capabilities. This article delves into the specifics of the side impact crash test for the 2006 Audi A4, highlighting why it received such positive safety ratings.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) conducted thorough testing on the Audi A4, and the results speak volumes about Audi’s commitment to occupant safety. It’s important to note that while the tested vehicle was a 2005 Audi A4, the rating applies to 2005-08 Audi A4 models built after October 2004, which crucially includes the 2006 Audi A4. The specific model tested was a 2005 Audi A4 2.0T quattro 4-door 4wd equipped with standard front and rear head curtain airbags and standard front seat-mounted torso airbags – key safety features that play a vital role in side impact scenarios.
Image alt text: Side impact crash test of a 2006 Audi A4, showing vehicle and barrier contact point.
Audi made significant re-engineering and restyling changes to the A4 during the 2005 model year. Crucially for safety, 2005 and 2006 Audi A4 models manufactured after October 2004 incorporated structural enhancements specifically designed to improve occupant protection in side impact crashes. These weren’t mere cosmetic updates; they were fundamental changes to the vehicle’s architecture aimed at bolstering safety performance where it matters most. These improvements did not affect frontal crash protection, which was already robust in A4 models manufactured after February 2002. Identifying these later, safer models is straightforward: look for the production date on the certification label located on or near the driver’s side door. Visually, the re-engineered A4 also features a noticeably larger grille compared to earlier versions.
The side impact crash test ratings are also applicable to the station wagon variant, the Audi A4 Avant, starting with 2005 models manufactured after October 2004, and therefore encompassing the 2006 Audi A4 Avant as well. This means whether you’re considering the sedan or the wagon, the enhanced side impact safety features are consistent for the 2006 Audi A4 range produced after the specified date.
Image alt text: Post-crash view of a 2006 Audi A4 with doors removed, highlighting deployed side airbags and structural integrity of the passenger cabin.
The results of the side impact crash test are summarized in a clear and concise rating system, where “G” stands for Good, “A” for Acceptable, “M” for Marginal, and “P” for Poor. The 2006 Audi A4 achieved an Overall Evaluation of “Good”, the highest possible rating, indicating excellent performance in protecting occupants during a side impact collision. Let’s break down the evaluation criteria:
| Evaluation criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall evaluation | G |
| Structure and safety cage | A |
| Driver injury measures | |
| Head/neck | G |
| Torso | G |
| Pelvis/leg | G |
| Driver head protection | G |
| Rear passenger injury measures | |
| Head/neck | G |
| Torso | G |
| Pelvis/leg | G |
| Rear passenger head protection | G |
While the overall rating was “Good”, the Structure and Safety Cage received a rating of “Acceptable”. This suggests that while the structural design provided a good level of protection, there was still room for improvement in terms of structural integrity during a severe side impact. However, despite this “Acceptable” rating for structure, the critical Driver and Rear Passenger Injury Measures all received the top mark of “Good”. This is crucial because it directly reflects the level of protection provided to the occupants’ bodies.
Image alt text: Driver-side curtain airbag deployment in a 2006 Audi A4 side impact test, demonstrating head protection.
Specifically, for both the driver and rear passenger, the ratings for Head/Neck, Torso, and Pelvis/Leg injuries were all “Good”. Furthermore, Driver Head Protection and Rear Passenger Head Protection were also rated “Good”. These “Good” ratings across the board for injury measures demonstrate the effectiveness of the 2006 Audi A4’s safety systems, including the side airbags and curtain airbags, in mitigating potential injuries in a side impact crash. The images from the crash test clearly illustrate how these airbags deploy and function to protect the heads of both the driver and rear passenger, preventing contact with hard structures of the vehicle.
Image alt text: Grease paint on rear passenger dummy head in 2006 Audi A4 crash test, showing head protection by side airbag.
In conclusion, the 2006 Audi A4 performs admirably in side impact crash tests, achieving an overall “Good” rating from IIHS. While the structure itself was rated “Acceptable”, the critical injury measures for both driver and rear passengers were all “Good”, highlighting the effectiveness of the safety features and design enhancements implemented in 2006 Audi A4 models built after October 2004. For anyone considering a 2006 Audi A4, these results offer strong reassurance regarding its side impact safety performance, making it a solid choice for safety-conscious drivers and families.
