Powerful and versatile: the new Audi A4 allroad quattro

The new Audi A4 allroad quattro* is the most expressive form of driving an A4. It combines extroverted, individual design with maximum functionality. Its standard quattro drive in combination with the powerful and efficient engines makes it the perfect companion in any situation.

Exterior design

The new Audi A4 allroad quattro* rolls off the assembly line with more ground clearance and a charismatic look. It shows a distinctly V-shaped front end with a unique bumper and model-specific air inlets. Vertical chrome slats adorn its sculpted Singleframe grille; the robust underbody guard and the rear diffuser are finished in selenite silver. The powerfully flared wheel arches and the rear bumper are finished in matt structure gray or optionally in the body colors Argus brown, floret silver, glacier white, Manhattan gray or mythos black. A total of 14 exterior colors are available for the new A4 allroad quattro.

The headlights with their distinctively jagged lower edge create unmistakable lighting graphics. A light guide forming two acute angles provides for the daytime running lights and – at the upper edge of the housing – the turn signals. Xenon plus units are standard. Audi also offers LED headlights with dynamic rear turn signals and Matrix LED headlights with dynamic turn signals all around. The top version features traffic sign glare reduction, giving the driver an optimal view of road signs at all times.

The roofline begins to descend early, flowing into flat D-pillars. The standard roof rails are black. With the optional aluminum exterior package, they together with the window trim strips and the sills add a further touch when viewed from the side. The exterior mirrors are mounted on the shoulders of the doors; 'allroad' badges decorate the front fenders, the tailgate and the front door sill trims.

Thanks to a sophisticated insulation concept and a wide variety of aerodynamic solutions, the A4 allroad quattro features luxury-class acoustic comfort. At its aerodynamic rear end it sports a low-drawn roof edge spoiler with side fins. Depending on the engine, the exhaust system is either a single- or dual-branch system and terminates either in a twin exhaust tailpipe (TDI) or two separate tailpipes (TFSI).

4,750 millimeters (15.6 ft) long and 1,842 millimeters (6.0 ft) wide, the new

Audi A4 allroad quattro resembles its technical foundation, the A4 Avant*. It measures 1,493 millimeters (4.9 ft) in height. The wheelbase measures 2,818 millimeters (9.2 ft).

Body and luggage compartment

Despite the larger dimensions, the new Audi A4 allroad quattro* has a curb weight that is up to 90 kilograms (198.4 lb) less than that of the previous model. With the 2.0 TFSI engine, it tips the scales (without driver) at just 1,580 kilograms (3,483.3 lb). Geometric lightweight construction and an intelligent mix of materials have trimmed 15 kilograms (33.1 lb) from the body.

The luggage compartment of the new A4 allroad quattro offers 505 liters (17.8 cu ft) of storage space in the standard configuration. Total capacity with the rear seats folded down and loaded to the roof is 1,510 liters (53.3 cu ft). An optional rail and load-securing kit makes it easier to transport individual objects. The power luggage compartment cover and the electric drive for the tailgate are standard. With the optional sensor control, the driver can open and close the lid via a foot gesture.

The optional trailer hitch unlocks electronically at the push of a button. The new

Audi A4 allroad quattro is certified for towed loads of up to 2,100 kilograms (4,629.7 lb) (with an eight percent grade).

Engines

The strong-pulling TFSI and TDI engines in the new Audi A4 allroad quattro* offer improved performance with better efficiency. The TFSI and five TDI units produce between 110 kW (150 hp) and 200 kW (272 hp), which is up to 20 kW (27 hp) more than in the previous model. At the same time, the engineers have reduced CO2 emissions by up to 21 grams per kilometer (33.8 g/mi) (2.0 TDI 140 kW). All engines satisfy the limits of the Euro 6 emissions standard.

The standard, updated start-stop system 2.0 offers changes that further reduce fuel consumption. When the driver approaches a red light, it can already deactivate the engine at speeds below 7 km/h (4.3 mph) (3.0 TDI with tiptronic: 3 km/h (1.9 mph)).

The newly developed 2.0 TFSI produces 185 kW (252 hp) and delivers 370 Nm (272.9 lb-ft) of torque between 1,600 and 4,500 rpm. In combination with the seven-speed S tronic, the new Audi A4 allroad quattro sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in just 6.1 seconds on its way to a top speed of 246 km/h (152.9 mph). NEDC fuel consumption is 6.4 liters per 100 km (36.8 US mpg), corresponding to 147 grams CO2 per km (236.6 g/mi).

Audi is initially offering the 1,968 cc 2.0 TDI in two versions with different outputs. The first produces 120 kW (163 hp) and 400 Nm (295.0 lb-ft) between 1,750 and 2,750 rpm; the second version produces 140 kW (190 hp) and 400 Nm between 1,750 and 3,000 rpm. With either version and with the seven-speed S tronic, the

new A4 allroad quattro consumes on average 4.9 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (48.0 US mpg), corresponding to 128 grams CO2 per kilometer (206.0 g/mi). The

140 kW (190 hp) version of the 2.0 TDI reaches the 100 km/h (62.1 mph) mark from a standing start in just 7.8 seconds. Top speed is 220 km/h (136.7 mph).

The A4 allroad family will grow further following the market launch. One addition will be the 2.0 TDI with an output of 110 kW (150 hp) and maximum torque of 320 Nm (236.0 lb-ft).

Audi also offers the 3.0 TDI in two variants with different outputs, either 160 kW (218 hp) or 200 kW (272 hp). The two six-cylinder TDI units with a displacement of 2,967 cc are special engines combining supreme power with refined smoothness and efficiency. The first variant of the 3.0 TDI produces 160 kW (218 hp). Its torque of 400 Nm (295.0 lb-ft) is available between 1,250 and 3,750 rpm.

The top version of the 3.0 TDI delivers 200 kW (272 hp) und 600 Nm (442.5 lb-ft), the latter between 1,500 and 3,000 rpm. It accelerates the new A4 allroad quattro like a sports car. The standard sprint takes just 5.5 seconds; the governed top speed of 250 km/h (155.3 mph) is just a formality. NEDC fuel consumption is just 5.3 liters per 100 km (44.4 US mpg), corresponding to 139 grams CO2 per km (223.7 g/mi).

Drivetrain

quattro all-wheel drive is standard with the new A4 allroad quattro*. Depending on the engine, there is a choice of the manual six-speed transmission, the seven-speed S tronic and the eight-speed tiptronic.

Audi offers the manual transmission and the new S tronic for the 2.0 TDI. The dual-clutch transmission is standard with the 2.0 TFSI and the 3.0 TDI with 160 kW (218 hp). The most important improvements are further reductions in friction, the low weight, a highly efficient oil supply and dual-mass flywheel with a centrifugal force pendulum, which allows for very low idle speeds. Gear changes are performed within a few hundredths of a second and with virtually no interruption in the power flow by changing the clutches. Power flows from the drive shaft to the front-axle differential via a spur gear stage.

This also marks the first time that the eight-speed tiptronic is available in the A4 allroad quattro. It is reserved for the 3.0 TDI with 200 kW (272 hp). The soft, quick and spontaneously shifting torque-converter transmission has been completely redeveloped. Its high number of gears enables the engine to operate close to the ideal load point very often.

Both automatic transmissions are state-of-the-art and feature a wide gear spread. Their lower gears feature short, sporty ratios, while the upper gears are long to reduce revs and fuel consumption. Drivers can choose between the modes D, S and E, and change gears manually at any time using either the selector lever or the standard shift paddles on the steering wheel.

quattro all-wheel drive from Audi represents the ultimate plus in dynamics, traction, driving safety and straight-line stability. It is purely mechanical and thus operates with zero delay. quattro drive is partnered with the updated wheel-selective torque control system, which is active on any surface.

Chassis

Ride height, which has been increased by 23 millimeters (0.9 in), and larger wheels compared with the Audi A4 Avant* provide an additional 34 millimeters (1.3 in) of ground clearance. The new Audi A4 allroad quattro* is thus equally at home on the road or in light terrain.

As an alternative to the standard suspension, the A4 allroad quattro is available for the first time with optional suspension with damper control. Sensors measure the movements of all four wheels plus lateral and longitudinal acceleration. The damper characteristic adapts accordingly to the surface conditions and the driving situation. The results are enhanced handling with even greater comfort and good off-road properties. Furthermore, the driver can push a button to choose the default setting

of the suspension in Audi drive select and thus call up the desired handling characteristics at any time.

The new Audi A4 allroad quattro features a new version of Audi drive select with an expanded range of functions. In addition to the familiar comfort, auto, dynamic, efficiency and individual (only in combination with the navigation system) modes, offroad mode is available for when the driver leaves paved roads behind. It optimally adjusts the engine and transmission control, the steering, the optional adaptive suspension and all relevant driver and assistance systems to operation in light terrain.

An updated five-link suspension is used on the front axle. It offers optimal comfort combined with a high degree of agility. The developers reduced its weight by five kilograms (11.0 lb) compared with the previous version.

Audi has also turned to a new, compact design for the electromechanical power steering that shaves 3.5 kilograms (7.7 lb) from the weight of the previous model. It provides the driver with more direct feedback about the road conditions and offers improved steering precision. Dynamic steering with a variable steering ratio is available as an option.

In the back, a five-link construction replaces the trapezoidal-link suspension used previously. Audi used an intelligent mix of materials to reduce the weight of the axle components by an additional seven kilograms (15.4 lb).

The new Audi A4 allroad quattro comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels in a multi-spoke design. Audi and quattro GmbH offer optional variants in sizes from 17 to 19 inches. A repair kit and a tire pressure indicator are standard.

The internally ventilated brake discs on the front axle measure up to 338 millimeters (13.3 in) in diameter. The electromechanical parking brake is integrated into the rear axle. The Electronic Stabilization Control (ESC) follows specific characteristics in the Audi drive select modes dynamic and offroad.

Interior and equipment

The new Audi A4 allroad quattro* is generously spacious. The interior design features a clear architecture with a consistent focus on horizontal lines. This principle is best illustrated by the low instrument panel and continuous air vent strip. The optional deluxe automatic air conditioning with capacitive controls and high-resolution displays underscores the interior's overall premium impression. Audi offers an optional interior lighting package with ambient lighting in 30 different shades. The comprehensive range of colors and high-grade materials for the seats and inlays corresponds to that of the A4 model series.

The focal points of the innovative cockpit are the new MMI operating concept with rotary pushbutton including MMI touch, the large MMI display of up to 8.3 inches and the optional all-digital, 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit. The new voice control system can recognize input made using everyday language, such as: 'I want to call Peter Miller.' A head-up display adds to the list of options.

Audi connect brings tailored online services to the car via the fast LTE standard. Services include online roadside assistance, smartphone calendar integration, remote control functions and status reports via smartphone, plus apps for streaming media. The Audi phone box connects cell phones to the on-board antenna and charges them inductively according to the Qi standard. The new Audi smartphone interface integrates iOS and Android devices. For discerning hi-fi fans, the Bang & Olufsen 3D Sound System is available, tapping into the spatial dimension of height. The Audi tablet also functions as flexible Rear Seat Entertainment.

All driver assistance and safety systems for the A4 model series are available for the new A4 allroad quattro. One of the highlights is adaptive cruise control Stop&Go including traffic jam assist. At speeds of up to 65 km/h (40.4 mph), it takes over acceleration and braking and helps with steering. The driver receives additional support from the trailer maneuver assist, which is available on the A4 allroad for the first time. This makes it easier to maneuver a trailer. The driver steers via the MMI controller. Other new features include the predictive efficiency assistant, park assist, cross-traffic assist rear, exit warning, collision avoidance assist, turn assist and the Audi pre sense systems.

The Audi A4 allroad quattro is coming to dealerships in Germany and other European countries in summer 2016. Compared with the previous model, the list of standard equipment is even more generous. Among other things, it includes xenon headlights, convenience key, a Bluetooth interface, Audi drive select (from 140 kW) and a 7-inch MMI color display.

*Fuel consumption of the models named above:

Audi A4 allroad quattro:

This car is not yet on sale. It has not yet been homologated and is therefore not subject to the 1999/94/EG guideline.

Audi A4 Avant:

Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 6.4 – 3.8** (36.8 – 61.9 US mpg);

Combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 147 – 99** (236.6 – 159.3 g/mi)

* Fuel consumption and CO2 emissions data as well as the efficiency classes are dependent on the choice of wheels and tyres.

by Audi

Introduced in 1994, the Audi A4 was a compact executive vehicle built by the German automaker Audi that was the successor to the Audi 80. This vehicle holds the distinction of single-handedly reviving the Audi brand following its large sales slump two years prior. The A4 was available as a saloon/sedan or an estate/wagon. During the 2nd version the model was called the B6 and the 3rd generation was dubbed the B7. A Cabriolet version was also introduced, though it was not retained for the 4th generation which was called the B8. The A4 quickly became a favorite among luxury-car buyers thanks to its sleek look, well-appointed cabin, sharp handling and available Quattro all-wheel drive.

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 Jessican Donaldson