 2006 A4 | 2008 A4  |
 |  |  |  |  |
 |  |  |  |  |
 |  |  |  |  |
 |  |  |  |
Image credits: © Audi.
2007 Audi A4 news, pictures, and information | ||
| Tweet | ||
THE NEW 2007 AUDI A4 AND S4 CABRIOLET
An enjoyable and sporty driving experience, superior and complex technology, classic and exciting styling, and luxury that even satisfies the demands made in the luxury class: Audi is presenting the new generation of a car that has become a classic – the A4 and S4 Cabriolet.The advent of a new model generation is evident at first glance: the open-top four-seater now has the single-frame grille that typifies the brand. The newly styled rear lights add a further visual touch. The car's taut styling, clear surfaces and tension-packed shoulder line extending along the entire body are characteristic features of the A4/S4 Cabriolet.
The car's technology lives up to the promise made by its new styling: the A4 Cabriolet is being launched wîth two engines which are being offered for the Audi A4 Cabriolet for the very first time. FSI and turbo FSI technology represent the most advanced state of the art for gasoline engines. The sporty yet comfortable dynamic suspension converts the power delivered by these units into sheer driving pleasure – on every bend, on every mile of the journey.
Innovative and highly sophisticated technologies are an integral part of practically all vehicle areas and components: the adaptive Bi-Xenon headlights are proof of this, as indeed is quattro permanent four-wheel drive.
The quality of materials and workmanship in the interior are of a standard that need not fear comparison wîth the luxury class. The architecture of the driver's area, especially the cockpit – a perfect synthesis of ergonomics, function and design – is pioneering.
The design
Self-assured in appearance: the striking single-frame grille and newly styled clear-glass headlights wîth their curving, emotional line give the new Audi A4 Cabriolet a completely new face. The trapezoidal shape of the single-frame grille is continued in the more prominent contours of the engine hood.
The front end shows visible evidence of the new generation of the S4 Cabriolet. Like the S4 sedan, the Cabriolet features the S-specific grid pattern in the singleframe grille. The bumpers wîth large air inlets, the aluminium-look casings for the exterior mirrors, the redesigned rear lights and the four oval tailpipes are the distinguishing visual features of the S4 Cabriolet.
Taut lines and clear surfaces that hold no secrets, coupled wîth a tension-packed shoulder line extending along the entire length of the body, produce a look that is simultaneously powerful and elegant. The rear end is distinguished by newly designed lights of clear-glass appearance which also emphasize the Cabriolet's premium quality from behind. The new rear diffuser underscores the car's sports character.
The modern and innovatively designed interior fits in wîth the progressive look of the car's exterior styling. The new-generation §teering wheels provide an entirely new visual touch inside the A4/S4 Cabriolet. Their characteristic element is the airbag cover wîth its single-frame design. Door sill trims wîth aluminum inserts and numerous aluminum inlays are a standard feature of all new A4 and S4 Cabriolet versions.
Inside, the S4 Cabriolet differs in appearance from its A4 brothers. The instrument cluster has the grey dials that are characteristic of S models and special needles. Power adjustable sports seats wîth leather upholstery further differentiate the S4 Cabriolet.
Inlays in Walnut or Fine grain birch wood grey can be ordered. These are attributes that also emphasize the special exclusiveness and elegance of the interior of current A4 models.
Almost all convertibles look good wîth the top down, but only a few are equally as attractive wîth the top up. The Audi A4 Cabriolet cuts an extremely fine figure both open and closed. The fully automatic, electro-hydraulic roof can be operated when driving at a speed of up to 19 mph – an advantageous feature that is not to be underestimated in the city, for example, where it is not always possible to stop suddenly. Thanks to its good thermal insulation and glass rear window, the Audi A4/S4 Cabriolet can also be used without restriction in the winter.
As an option Audi also offers an acoustic roof, which goes even further in the direction of insulation. By using new fabrics wîth a greater material density, the noise level inside the cabin is reduced further, virtually matching that of the A4 sedan, even at highway speeds.
Engines and transmissions
Audi is now also offering two highly modern engines wîth FSI gasoline direct injection for the new A4 Cabriolet: the 3.2 FSI V6 and the turbocharged two-liter four-cylinder 2.0 TFSI. These combine high performance wîth a spontaneous response to every movement of the accelerator pedal and a peak-torque range at a high level.
The 3.2 FSI V6 produces 255 hp at 6500 rpm, and 243 ft.-lbs. of torque at 3250 rpm. About 90 percent of the engines peak torque is available from 1900-5900 rpm, allowing for strong acceleration in any gear, at any speed.
The 2.0 TFSI four-cylinder was the first engine to combine turbocharging and direct gasoline injection when it was initially launched. Producing 200 hp from 5100-6000 rpm, and 207 ft.-lbs. of torque between 1800-5000 rpm, the 2.0 TFSI is a marvel of power and efficiency.
The Audi S4 Cabriolet is propelled by a 340 hp eight-cylinder engine. Its maximum power output is reached at 7,000 rpm. The 4.2-litre engine delivers a hefty 302 ft. lbs. of torque at 3,500 rpm. Thanks to such a superior power flow from the substantial displacement, this naturally aspirated engine acquires an air of supreme confidence.
All three engines have been named to the Ward's 10 Best Engines list in the last two years, a further testament to their advanced design and abilities.
These three engines deliver their power to the road either via the front wheels or by means of quattro permanent four-wheel drive. Customers can choose from a continuously variable Multitronic transmission (2.0 TFSI FrontTrak), a six-speed manual wîth a 40:60 front to rear torque split (S4), and a six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission (standard 2.0TFSI quattro and 3.2, option on S4).
The chassis
The set-up of the dynamic suspension system, wîth four-link front and self-tracking trapezoidal-link rear suspension, has been completely modified and numerous new components added. Audi's chassis engineers have made extensive changes in the area of elastokinematics, and to the spring and shock absorber settings.
The §teering has been completely modified to give the driver greater precision, but also better feedback from the road when cruising. In connection wîth this, the engineers adopted several mountings and the dimensions of the front and rear shock absorbers from the Audi A6; the rear trapezoidal links and the front track rods originate from the S4 sedan. (concept carz)
These modifications add up to a significantly higher level of agility and precise handling, combined wîth first-class ride comfort – all qualities which benefit drivers of the Audi A4 Cabriolet. This also applies to the brakes, the dimension and consequently performance of which have been adapted to suit the potential of the new engines.
Equipment and trim
The Audi A4/S4 Cabriolets offers a standard equipment list that sets a benchmark in the midsize class. Every new A4 Cabriolet, for example, comes wîth an electric roof and dual-zone automatic climate control, nine-speaker audio system, power one-touch windows, driver information display, cruise control, large ski sack, and numerous other features you'd expect to find in a luxury convertible.
Safety is standard, not optional
 | Vital Stats |
| Engine : 2.0 L., 4-cylinder Power: 200 hp Torque: 207 ft-lbs Engine : 3.2 L., 6-cylinder Power: 255 hp Torque: 243 ft-lbs Engine : 4.2 L., 8-cylinder Power: 350 hp Torque: 325 ft-lbs | |
6-speed Manual, 6-speed Automatic | |
Sills wîth an optimised thickness and cross-section boost the occupant cell's strength and optimise occupant protection. High-strength tubes are also used in the seat structure, as a means of protecting the occupants in the event of a lateral collision.
The doors in particular have to be designed wîth safety in mind. In conjunction wîth structural reinforcements in the sills and a strengthening cross-member below the rear seat, special impact absorbing beams in the doors help ensure a high standard of safety. At the car's rear end, the double rear panel improves the rigidity of the body.
The comprehensive safety package contains seat belts wîth belt-force limiter and belt tensioner for all passengers, together wîth full-size front and side airbags. The side airbags integrated into the front seats are designed to protect the head and thorax.
If the car should roll over, a roll-over protection system in the double rear bulkhead adds to the occupants' safety. In this case, two protective bars, controlled by sensors, are triggered behind the rear passengers within milliseconds. Together wîth the extremely rigid windscreen frame, they help to preserve survival space for all occupants if the car turns over.
The standard electronic stabilization program ESP 8.0 wîth hydraulic brake assist provides for maximum active safety.
All seats are equipped wîth three-point inertia-reel belts (the front belts have belt-force limiters and belt tensioners, plus a seat belt reminder for the driver) and head restraints. The safety equipment specification also includes a driver's airbag activated in two stages and side airbags.
Warranty
The 2007 Audi A4 and S4 Cabriolets come wîth an outstanding combination of warranties and protection. This top-rated package includes:
• Four-year/50,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty
• 12-year limited warranty against corrosion perforation
• 24-hour Roadside Assistance for four years provided by Road AmericaSource - Audi
The interior featured a truly European ambience with its firm, comfortable seating, it also featured tight panel gaps, high-quality materials and gave a very supple ride and willing performance.
Internally, the first generation of the Audi A4 was known as the Typ 8D and was introduced in 1994 on the Volkswagen B5 platform which was shared with the fourth generation Volkswagen Passat. The platform featured a longitudinal engine and standard front-wheel drive though many enthusiasts preferred the optional Quattro four-wheel drive system. Originally the A4 was introduced as a four-door saloon/sedan, but the following year the Avant; Estate/wagon showed up the following year.
European customers could opt for a variety of engines that included between 1.6 and 2.8 liters, and a 1.9 L Diesel that was available with VW's new 'Pumpe Düse' technology that was capable of achieving a high power value of 110 PS. At the time, the Audi's 2.8 L V6 that was carried over from the original 80/90 was the only engine option that was available in North America until 1997.
The first model in the Volkswagen Group, the Audi A4 featured the new 1.8 L 20V motor with five valves per cylinder and was based on the unit Audi Sport had developed for their Supertouring race vehicle. Producing 150 PS, a turbocharged version had 155 ft/lb of torque. In 1996, this technology was added to the V6 family, beginning with the 2.8 L V6 30V which now produced 193 PS.
Based on the unit that Porsche had developed for their 964-generation 911, Audi introduced their new Tiptronic transmission on the B5 platform. Offering a choice of driving the vehicle as either a fully automatic operation or with a manual override of the gear ratios, the transmission was a conventional automatic gearbox with a torque converter.
In 1997 a revised B5 Audi A4 range was introduced at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Sales began in Europe in early 1998. Replacing the 2.8 L 12-valve was a newly introduced 2.8 L 30-valve engine. The range received an important addition, the 2.5 L V6 TDI diesel engine with 150 PS and standard Quattro and a six-speed gearbox, along with the new high-performance S4. New updates included new taillights, door handles, headlights, and other minor exterior and interior changes.
Halfway through the 1998 model year, the 1.8T engine was available outside of Europe and had its power output raised to 170 PS. The original KKK KO3 turbocharger was upgraded with a KO3s (sport) unit. The 30-valve unit that had been available in Europe for two years replaced the 12-valve V6 engine. An even higher performance RennSport model was introduced in 1999; the RS4 Avant which was available only in Avant body-style just like the RS2.
The Audi A4 introduced a hybrid version in 1997. Audi was the first European car manufacturer to put a hybrid vehicle into series production, the third generation Audi duo then based on the A4 Avant. Internally, the all new A4 model was dubbed the Typ 8E and was introduced in late 2000 and was now riding on the all new Volkswagen B6 platform.
The all-new styling of the Audi A4 was inspired on the C5; second generation Audi A6. The original 1.6 L base model didn't change, but most other petrol/gas engines received power upgrades or displacement increases. Now available in two additional versions, the 1.8 L 20-valve Turbo came with either 150 or 180 PS, this one came with a standard six-speed gearbox. The naturally aspirated 1.8 L straight-4 and 2.8 L V6 were replaced by 2.9 L and all-aluminum 3.0 L units. The most powerful of these was capable of 220 PS and 221 lb/ft of torque. Upgraded to 130 PS, the 1.9 TDI engine was now available with Quattro permanent four-wheel drive. The 2.5 V6 TDI high-end model was unveiled with 180 PS and standard Quattro. Halfway through 2001 the Avant was unveiled.
Audi upgraded power to the 1.8 Turbo engine for 2002 to163 and 190 PS. The 190 was designated by a red T with both available with Quattro and in the 2.5 TDI intermediate version to 163 PS. Fuel Stratified Injection was also available with a 2.0 engine. The S4 was reintroduced the following year and was now powered by a 344 PS 4.2 LV8 engine. An A4 Cabriolet convertible variant was also introduced and finally replaced the 80-based Audi Cabriolet that had been discontinued in 1998. The variant included an electro-hydraulic operated hood which could be lowered in less than 30 seconds and also incorporated some styling changes which found their way to the saloon version.
Generally regarded as being the best of its type in the entire world, a continuously variable transmission was developed by LuK, named multitronic which was the replacement of the Tiptronic on front-wheel drive models. This transmission was well praised due to its light weight and promptness in response. The use of this transmission was limited to models with a maximum of 229 lb/ft of torque.
The trunk was redesigned to remove the extension of the top edge with a smoother fold line, and the taillight assembly now forms part of the top line. Introduced in the North American market, an 'Ultra Sport package' named Ultra Sport came along shortly before the B6 was replaced by the B7. This package included aluminum interior trim and doors sills, front and rear spoilers, 'S line' steering wheel, side valence and 18-inch RS4 wheels.
In 2004 Audi introduced a very largely revised A4 with the internal designation of B7. The new range A4 continued to utilize the already existing Volkswagen B6 platform, a chassis derived from the outgoing B6, but featuring heavily revised steering settings, new engine ranges, suspension geometry, navigation systems and chassis electronics. The internal platform nomenclature used PL46 for both B6 and B7 chassis. Also unchanged from the B6 A4 were the Typ 8E and 8H internal designations.
Many additions were added to the engine lineup. FSI, or Fuel Stratified Injection was introduced in 2005 on the 2.0 TFSI and 3.2 V6 FSI petrol/gasoline engines along with other refinements, and increased power output to 200 and 255 PS. Both engines utilize a four-valve cylinder design. The earlier 5-valve design was not compatible with the FSI direct injection system. Combining Pumpe Düse, or PD, technology, the 2.0 TDI diesel engine with 16 valves for the first time, and the larger 2.5 TDI was increased to 3.0 L offering 204 PS Quattro permanent four-wheel drive remained available on most A4 models. The 5-speed manual transmission was finally deleted in favor of a 6-speed. Once again, multitronic transmission is available on front-wheel drive models. A 6-speed Tiptronic transmission is available on Quattro four-wheel drive models.
Audi reintroduced the ultra-high performance RS4 to the lineup, in addition to the higher-performance S4 which carried over the powertrain of the B6 S4. This was the first time on the saloon/sedan and Cabriolet body with a normally aspirated 4.2 V8 FSI engine. The 3rd generation Torsen T-3 quattro system used a ‘default' asymmetric 40:60 front-rear torque distribution.
Introduced in late 2005, a limited edition variant was dubbed 'DTM Edition' and was reintroduced in 2006 as a regular option. The 2.0T FSI engine was now engineered to 220 PS wit standard Quattro. In the same manner of the C6 Audi A6, the front grill assembly has changed to be a tall trapezoidal shape. Arriving later than the other two body variants, the B7 Cabriolet model was introduced. Sales began in February of 2006. The Cabriolet featured an entry-level 2.0 TDI version.
Offering many safety features, the Audi A4 featured side airbags, anti-lock brakes, Electronic Stabilization Programme and its available Quattro four-wheel drive. The Audi A4 also received the IIHS 'Top Safety Pick For 2007'. The A4 Avant with the diesel engine is considered to be the most reliable vehicle available on the market according to 2007 Swedish vehicle inspection data, with vehicle inspection rejection rate of 0.0% in 3 year old category. Face-lifted and rebadged, the B7 series became the SEAT Exeo in 2008 with styling changes to both the front and rear, and also incorporated interior trim from the A4 Cabriolet.
In August of 2007, Audi introduced photos, the first official photos of the B8 series A4. The vehicle was unveiled to the public at the September 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show. Available models were the Saloon/Sedan and the Avant (estate/wagon). The Avant debuted at the March 2008 Geneva Auto Show.
Built on a variant of the Audi Modular Longitudinal Platform, the B8 A4 was constructed on a platform which was also utilized in the Audi A5 coupe. Earlier A4 chassis were limited in wheelbase because of the relationship between the engine, front axle and transmission, and the MLP allows for a reduced front overhang. This resulted in a greater wheelbase length without he same increase in overall length. The center of gravity is now effectively redistributed rearwards, which now improved handling by effectively balancing vehicle mass in between the front and rear axles. The front:rear weight ratio of B8 A4 is approximately 55:45 depending on the body style and engine. Handling was also improved over earlier A4 platforms due to the relocation of the steering rack in front of the axle.
The length of the B8 A4 was also increased in length by 117 mm (4.6 in) over the earlier Audi B7 and gave room for additional seating legroom. The curb weight dropped around 10%, the trunk was increased to 17 cu ft. for the saloon version. With the rear seats folded down, the A4 Avant has a maximum capacity of 1,430 liters. Introduced in the China market in November 2008 was a long wheelbase version called the A4L. This model came with a 2.4 inch longer wheelbase and 2.0 inch longer length.
Standard on the A4 was the MMI system; Multi Media Interface, electronic park brake, LED daytime running lights and speed sensitive steering. Optional on the Audi A4 was Audi Side Assist, Audi Lane Assist, Advanced Key; keyless entry and start, adaptive cruise control, Bang & Olufsen sound system, navigation system with full MMI with 7 inch screen, adaptive headlights with cornering technology, Audi drive select and advanced parking system front and rear plus reversing camera.
In 2004, the Audi Sport A4 DTM was introduced and was entered into the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters series. The DTM was a V8 engined silhouette racing car that resembled the A4. These vehicles are identified by Audi Sport R-series designations.
Today buyers can purchase an Audi A4 in convertible, sedan and wagon configurations. The wagon and A4 sedan are in their fourth generation which began in the 2009 model year. The newest A4 sedans and wagons feature more interior room, more high-tech gadgetry and improved driving dynamics. Since convertible A4's have not yet been produced on the four-generation current platform, the Audi continues to be sold in 3rd generation models.By Jessica Donaldson
| Audi at Le Mans: Advantage through efficiency | |
 | • 90 years of Le Mans, 15 years of Audi at the '24 Heures'
• Eleven victories at 14 runs and absolute distance record • Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich: 'Le Mans points the way to the future' Six more weeks until the Le Mans 24 Hours celebrates its 90th anniversary. Since 1999, Audi has shaped the world's most important endurance race like no other automobile manufacturer. Eleven victories in 14 events – the technological milestones set by Ingolstadt and...[Read more...] |
| Land Rover Celebrates 65 Years Of Technology And Innovation | |
 | SIXTY-FIVE YEARS OF LAND ROVER From our earliest days, the desire to create a vehicle that will tackle any terrain has made Land Rover famous around the world. Over the past 65 years, the Land Rover family has grown into the highly respected range of vehicles that are sold in record numbers today. As Land Rover continues to go from strength to strength, we thought it was time to look back at the milestones in our history that have got us here. The last 65 years have been an adventure. ...[Read more...] |
| VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE TURBO AND JETTA GLI RECEIVE POWER BOOST | |
| - New EA888 Gen 3 engine, produced in Silao, Mexico, makes its U.S. debut - Engine offers 10 hp increase over previous Gen 2 powerplant - Beetle models have a manufacturer estimated fuel economy improvement of up to eight percent on the combined cycle - Beetle R-Line® coupe will be priced from $30,135 with the six-speed manual transmission Herndon, VA - The Volkswagen Beetle Turbo, Beetle Turbo Convertible, and the Jetta GLI receive a number of running changes to 2013 model year car...[Read more...] | |
| Magnificent Series of Coachbuilt Classics To Grace RM's Amelia Island Concours D'Elegance Sale | |
 | • RM Auctions returns as the official auction house of the Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance, March 9, 2013 • Single-day sale features breathtaking roster of more than 80 investment-quality collector cars • Notable highlights include an outstanding series of coachbuilt classics headlined by a multi-million-dollar 1935 Duesenberg Model SJ Walker-LaGrande Convertible Coupe and a trio of Cords from the personal collection of Jim Fasnacht • Frequently updated list of entries available online at r...[Read more...] |
| The beginning of a new era at Audi | |
 | Ingolstadt, May 4, 2012 – The race debut of the Audi R18 e-tron quattro at Spa-Francorchamps this weekend signifies the beginning of a new era at Audi. For the first time ever, a Le Mans sports car with diesel hybrid drive and two driven axles will compete in a race. For Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich, this is arguably the most challenging project in the more than 30-year history of Audi Sport. Audi previously marked milestones at Le Mans with TFSI gasoline direct injecti...[Read more...] |
2007| Similar Automakers | |
| BMW | Infiniti |
| Jaguar | Land Rover |
| Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Audi: 2001-2010 |
| Similar Automakers |
| Audi History |
| Other models by Audi |
| Manufacturer Website |
| Related Articles and Event Coverage |
| 2007 New York Auto Show |
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 80 A1 A3 A4 | A5 A6 A7 A8 | Front 225 Q3 Q5 Q7 | Quattro R15 R8 RS 7 | RS4 RS5 Sport Quattro TT | UW 220 |
| 2006 A4 | 2008 A4 |
