The Audi A4 has been a trendsetter in its class for over 15 years. When an all-new A4 arrived for 2009, it left people staring at its beauty and reveling in its performance. Now it enters 2010 with even more luxury…because that’s what a trendsetter does.

Audi does not sit still. Every time the brand introduces a new A4, the model garners more than its share of attention. That’s because the A4 has always set trends in its segment, whether it was making all-wheel drive prevalent or recalibrating the standard for beautiful interior design. The new-generation model that arrived last year added to the accolades and the changes for 2010 make this model an even more compelling choice.

The elegant design remains intact, which is certainly welcome to luxury buyers who perhaps see a bit too much gimmicky styling creeping into the segment. The same has always been true for the A4. That’s why, when you see a five-, 10- or even 15-year old A4, you don’t think “old.”

After giving us an all-new, re-imagined A4 for 2009, what could have been left to do for 2010? All models are powered by the incomparable 2.0-liter TFSI turbo four, an engine widely praised by the automotive media (and owners!) for performing like a six while using less fuel. The engine was redesigned for 2009, gaining direct fuel injection and more performance. With 211 hp and 258 lb/ft of torque, the engine really does behave like a six. However, with up to 30 mpg depending on the transmission you choose, it doesn’t drink like one.

That’s why the respected automotive trade journal, Ward’s AutoWorld, put the Audi 2.0 TFSI engine on its list of “10 Best Engines” for 2009. The A4 also garnered a “Top Safety Pick” from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). That is a testament to the vehicle’s performance in front offset, side and rear impacts, and its inclusion of a standard stability system (a must to receive the “Top Safety Pick”).

Once again, the A4 is presented in Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige levels, each layering on more luxury, with a wide price range from $31,450 to $42,250. There are some changes to options for 2010. Bluetooth and HomeLink are now packaged together as an option on the Premium model. The available navigation system is now paired with third-generation Multi-Media Interface (MMI) and SIRIUS Traffic.

The amazing Bang & Olufsen 505-watt, 14-speaker premium audio system is now available as an option on the Premium Plus model (previously only on Prestige). The Prestige gets standard navigation with Voice Control. The optional S-Line Package, available with the Prestige trim line, equips the A4 with exclusive exterior and interior design elements including sport seats with leather/Alcantara upholstery and 19-inch alloy wheels (new design for 2010).

Audi designers couldn’t help themselves from adding a little flourish to the 2010 A4: Both the Premium Plus and Prestige models feature new LED taillights.

There is a new V6 reserved for the exciting S4 performance sedan. It’s the 3.0-liter TFSI supercharged V6 with 333 hp. This car will get its own story soon. Suffice it to say, it delivers a V8-like punch to the road, but (you could probably guess this next part) consumes less fuel than a V8. This is going to be a recurring theme in all Audi vehicles – giving you more while taking less. The 2010 S4 also debuts a new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission for lightning-quick manual or fully automatic shifts – racing technology for the road. A true manual transmission remains available for purists.

Another trendsetting part of the A4’s personality is the legendary quattro^® all-wheel drive system that most buyers choose. It’s no wonder. This Audi-specific system not only provides greater traction in slippery weather, thanks to its rear-wheel torque bias, it also gives you more confident handling when the road is dry.

For even more control over performance, the available Audi Drive Select system allows you to tailor responses from the Dynamic Steering and Adaptive Damping systems, as well as throttle and the Tiptronic transmission. There are four operating modes: Comfort, Automatic, Dynamic and Individual – that last one enabling you to create your own custom response profile. Just select your performance choices and substitute your name for “Individual.”

In fact, that really sums up the A4 – “individual.” Come see yourself in one soon.