I am currently looking at an 2012 A4 18,000 miles on it. I own a 2008 A4 that the engine sounds like an old diesel, I was told this is common for that model year car.

Do the later models have the same issue?

Thanks to all that reply

 

I just changed plugs on my 2012 A4, and with engine cover removed and hood open I started the car. I was just looking around under the hood as the car warmed and kept thinking this thing sounds just like a euro diesel. All buttoned up with the hood closed it's quiet, but it's loud with the hood open. Hope this helps

 

2011 is not dead silent but does not sound like an old diesel engine. I can hear the normal mechanical noises.

 

My A4 with 102k miles is what I would consider noisy, been that way for the two years i've owned.