The Audi A4: Major Upgrade for the Bestseller

The A4 represents the core of the brand – after four years in the making, Audi has made the successful midsize model even tauter and sportier. Its exterior is shaped by the brand's new design language, while the large MMI touch display offers the kind of operating experience customers will be familiar with from their smartphone. Many engine variants now come with mild hybrid systems (MHEV) – efficiency and comfort benefit from this broad-based electrification. This also applies to the Audi S4 TDI (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 6.3–6.2* (37.3–37.9 US mpg); Combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 166–163* (267.2–262.3 g/mi)) with a V6 TDI under the hood for the first time, a 48-volt main on-board electrical system and an electric powered compressor that lends its hefty acceleration even more spontaneity. This combination of power, torque and efficiency makes it unique in its segment.

Sporty look: the exterior design

The midsize model looks even more dynamic and sophisticated thanks to the sportier design highlights. The Singleframe grille is now broader and flatter; horizontal lines emphasize the width at the front and rear. The side view is defined by the distinctive muscles above the fenders and the lower set shoulder line in between. They form strong contours above the wheels and make the quattro genes outwardly visible.

LED headlights now come as standard in the Audi A4; the top-of-the-line headlights feature the Matrix LED technology with fully automatic high beam. The equipment line concept is equally new: basic, advanced and S line are now available for the exterior, not to mention the independent look of the A4 allroad quattro and the S models. Customers can choose from 12 exterior colors, including a new terra gray option.

In the cleanly drawn interior of the Audi A4, the horizontal lines also define the overall impression. In the center of the instrument panel, slightly tilted toward the driver, is the large MMI touch display, the control center for the new operating system. The new interior packages – design selection and interior S line – can be combined freely with the exterior lines and come with numerous colors and materials. The contour/ambient lighting package adds highlights to the interior in the dark.

Groundbreaking: connectivity

With its new MMI system, the highly connected Audi A4 offers a user experience similar to a contemporary smartphone. An MMI touch display with acoustic feedback takes over the functions of the previous rotary/pushbutton control on the center tunnel console. The high-resolution TFT display measures 10.1 inches. Its graphics are deliberately clean and cut-down; the menu structure with its tight hierarchies is tailored to user expectations and aims for easy operation. The MMI search is based on free text input and returns hits rapidly.

The natural-language voice control, another function of the new system, understands many of the phrases used in everyday speech.

The navigation in the Audi A4 is now even more versatile and user-friendly. The Audi connect and Audi connect plus portfolio includes a host of online services, such as Car-to-X services, which take advantage of the swarm intelligence of the Audi fleet. Apart from online traffic sign and hazard information, as well as the on-street parking service, traffic light information is a new addition to the lineup. Thanks to the interconnection with the city's infrastructure, the vehicle receives information from the central traffic light computer via a server, which allows the driver to select a speed to match the next green-light phase. The instrument cluster displays a personal speed recommendation as well as the remaining time to the next green light whenever the driver is waiting at a red traffic light. The system thus contributes to a predictive and efficient driving style and facilitates a steady flow of traffic. The function is part of the Audi connect package and is being rolled out in stages in selected European cities.

The Audi connect services emergency call and service come as standard; the free myAudi app connects the customer's smartphone seamlessly to the car. With the Audi connect key option, the customer can lock and unlock the vehicle and start the engine using a compatible Android smartphone. The personalization, another digital feature that starts shortly after market introduction, allows up to 14 myAudi users to store their preferred settings in individual profiles.

The pioneering functions on demand are part of the many innovations set to accompany the market launch of the Audi A4. They allow customers to add on three infotainment functions flexibly as required via the myAudi app, even after purchasing the vehicle. In Germany, these are the MMI navigation plus, the DAB+ digital radio and the Audi smartphone interface. There is a choice of various terms.

If customers would like to get to know a function first before committing themselves, they can book a one-time, one-month test phase. Customers can extend the booking even during this phase, either for a further month, a year, or permanently. If they decide not to extend the term, the booking expires automatically and without requiring active termination at the end of the term.

The new MMI features a new main unit. The third-generation modular infotainment platform MIB 3 delivers phenomenal computing power. It works with an equally new, physically separate communication box that bundles all connectivity tasks – such as telephony or the Audi connect services – and incorporates the Wi-Fi hotspot. The optional hardware modules include the Audi phone box and the Bang & Olufsen 3D Premium Sound System in the front.

Three instrument cluster variants are available: two partially analog driver information systems and – in conjunction with the MMI navigation plus – the all-digital Audi virtual cockpit plus. The driver operates the 12.3-inch display with full HD resolution using the multifunction steering wheel and can choose between three views. A head-up display projects important information into the driver's direct field of view.

The A4 models are available with a host of driver assistance systems. The optional systems are bundled into the 'Tour,' 'City' and 'Park' packages. An important system in the 'Tour' package is the adaptive cruise control including stop & go function for automatic distance control. In conjunction with the predictive efficiency assist, it can brake and accelerate the A4 predictively even where there is no vehicle ahead. To do so, it analyzes Car-to-X messages, navigation data and traffic signs.

Broad-based electrification: the drive

Audi will be offering the A4 product line with eight turbocharged engines at sales launch in Europe. Their power outputs range from 100 kW (136 metric hp) to 255 kW (347 metric hp) – from the Audi A4 35 TFSI up to the Audi S4 TDI. All engines – whether four-cylinder diesel unit, V6 TDI or four-cylinder TFSI – are below the limits of the Euro 6d-temp emission standard.

For the market introduction, five engine variants will feature a mild hybrid system (MHEV) based on 12 volts, which reduces fuel consumption while improving comfort. This broad-based electrification makes an important contribution to increasing efficiency and saving fuel for the benefit of the customer, and thereby also helps to achieve the fleet targets for CO2. In everyday operation, the MHEV system reduces fuel consumption by up to 0.3 liters per 100 kilometers according to individual Audi measurements.

Whether manual transmission, seven-speed S tronic or eight-speed tiptronic, whether front-wheel or quattro drive – each of the eight engine variants delivers tailor-made power transmission. At market launch, all A4 models will be manufactured with an automatic transmission. The A4 35 TFSI with 110 kW (150 metric hp) (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 6.5–5.7* (36.2–41.3 US mpg); combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 143–129* (230.1–207.6 g/mi)) of power output is also available with a manual transmission.

Sportily harmonious: the suspension

The sportily balanced suspension harmonizes ideally with the character of the Audi A4. Customers can choose between the standard setup and the sport suspension. There are also two adaptive suspensions. One option is the comfort suspension with damper control, which reduces the ride height by 10 millimeters (0.4 in) and offers superb ride comfort. The other is the sport suspension, either with or without damper control, which is lowered by 23 millimeters (0.9 in). With its even more dynamic basic setup, it underscores the sporty character while maintaining comfort.

Both controlled suspensions are integrated into the Audi drive select dynamic handling system. The same applies to the steering or the optional dynamic steering as well as the automatic transmission and also the engine management system. Audi drive select allows the driver to determine which of up to five profiles these systems use.

Diesel power: the Audi S4 TDI Both S models of the A4 family are now equipped with a V6 diesel engine as a power package. The 3.0 TDI combines hefty torque, smooth running and a long range and delivers a power output of up to 255 kW (347 metric hp) and maximum torque of 700 Nm (516.3 lb-ft) to the Audi S4 Sedan TDI (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 6.3–6.2* (37.3–37.9 US mpg); combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 164–163* (263.9–262.3 g/mi)) and the S4 Avant TDI (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 6.3* (37.3 US mpg); combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 166–165* (267.2–265.5 g/mi)). It propels the S4 Sedan TDI from 0 to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 4.8 seconds and up to an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h (155.3 mph). This combination of power, torque and efficiency makes the Audi S4 TDI unique in the segment.

The electric powered compressor (EPC) delivers powerful drive-off performance and virtually seamless power buildup when accelerating. As a result, it eliminates any turbo lag, enabling instant responsiveness in all driving situations. The EPC is integrated into a new 48-volt main on-board electrical system that also incorporates the mild hybrid system. This provides even more efficiency potential than the MHEV system in the 12-volt on-board electrical system of the A4 models. In the S4 TDI, this is the next expansion stage in which the mild hybrid technology will be rolled out based on 48 volts. Within that, the 12-volt subsidiary on-board electrical system is connected to the 48-volt main on-board electrical system via a powerful DC/DC converter. For the first time in the S4 TDI, a powerful 48-volt belt alternator starter is the heart of the mild hybrid system with maximum recuperation power during braking of up to 8 kW.

A compact air-cooled lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 0.5 kWh under the luggage compartment floor serves as the energy center. The mild hybrid system in the S models has the potential to reduce customer fuel consumption by as much as 0.4 liters per 100 kilometers.

An eight-speed tiptronic and the quattro permanent all-wheel drive make up the powertrain. If desired, an optional sport differential is available to actively distribute power between the rear wheels. In this way, more power can be directed specifically to the wheel on the outside of the bend when cornering at speed, which combats the tendency to understeer early on. The S sport suspension comes as standard. With its S-specific setup, it provides a sporty driving sensation. This can be enhanced even further with the optional S sport suspension with damper control. Inside and out, a host of design details point to the unique position of the S models – from the exhaust tailpipes to the S mode in the display of the optional Audi virtual cockpit.

The consummate on-road and off-road experience: the Audi A4 allroad quattro Thanks to its quattro all-wheel drive and ground clearance raised by 35 millimeters (1.4 in), the Audi A4 allroad quattro combines superb ride comfort and good off-road qualities. With the optional allroad-specific suspension with damper control, comfort and dynamism can be enhanced further. It differs from the A4 Avant through details such as the underbody protection or the wheel arch trims and also by its 12-millimeter (0.5 in) larger wheels and its wider track – six millimeters (0.2 in) wider at the front and eleven millimeters wider (0.4 in) at the rear.

The A4 allroad quattro is available with a gasoline engine and as a diesel variant. Automatic transmissions come as standard, while a suspension with damper control provides an alternative to the standard suspension. As in the A4 Avant, the luggage compartment has a capacity of at least 495 liters (17.5 cu ft) – this increases to 1,495 liters (52.8 cu ft) with the rear seats folded down and cargo loaded to the roof. The luggage compartment lid and the luggage compartment cover are electrically operated as standard. With the additional off-road mode of the Audi drive select dynamic handling system, the driver can choose from a total of six profiles in the A4 allroad quattro.

For more spontaneous buyers: the Audi A4 edition one model To coincide with the market launch, the brand with the four rings is presenting an A4 edition model designated 'edition one.' The exterior design is based on the S line exterior, supplemented with striking elements such as the black styling package. In the interior, the customer can choose between the design selection and the S line interior package. The 'edition one' is available as a Sedan or Avant with a choice of three engine variants – the 2.0-liter TFSI with a power output of 180 kW (245 metric hp) (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 6.9–6.5* (34.1–36.2 US mpg); combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 157–146* (252.7–235.0 g/mi)), the 2.0-liter TDI with 140 kW (190 metric hp) (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 5.3–4.9* (44.4–48.0 US mpg); combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 140–131* (225.3–210.8 g/mi)) and a 3.0-liter TDI with 170 kW (231 metric hp) (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 5.6–5.3* (42.0–44.4 US mpg); combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 145–139* (233.4–223.7)).

Price and market launch in Europe

The Audi A4 models and the S4 models with a TDI engine and sporty new look have been available to order in Europe since May 2019. The A4 allroad quattro followed in June. The models will then be available at the dealerships from fall 2019. In Germany, the price for the A4 Sedan 35 TFSI (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 6.0–5.5* (39.2–42.8 US mpg); combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 136–125* (218.9–201.2 g/mi)) with a power output of 110 kW (150 metric hp) and S tronic is 35,900 euros. This model is also available for 33,600 euros with a manual transmission. Customers can order the S4 Sedan TDI (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 6.3–6.2* (37.3–37.9 US mpg); Combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 164–163* (263.9–262.3 g/mi)) starting at 62,600 euros. This includes popular equipment options from the Audi A4 Sedan – when compared with the A4 Sedan 45 TDI quattro tiptronic (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 5.5–5.3* (42.8–44.4 US mpg); combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 144–139* (231.7–223.7 g/mi)) with a power output of 170 kW (231 metric hp), for example – valued at around 6,400 euros as standard.

These include LED headlights with dynamic rear indicators, S sport suspension with tautly tuned suspension and damping, 18-inch wheels, power-adjustable front sport seats with Alcantara leather and S embossing, and sportily contoured bumpers.

Prices for the A4 allroad quattro 45 TFSI with 180 kW (245 metric hp) start at 50,100 euros. Customers can also order the Audi A4 edition one, a special edition starting at 53,300 euros.

Audi offers the S4 and the S4 Avant with the 3.0-liter TFSI in markets outside Europe. The turbocharged gasoline direct injection engine has an output of 260 kW (354 metric hp) and produces a hefty torque of 500 Nm (368.8 lb-ft) from 1,370 to 4,500 rpm. The V6 engine propels the S4 Sedan TFSI from 0 to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 4.7 seconds and up to an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h (155.3 mph). The standard sprint takes two tenths of a second longer in the S4 Avant TFSI.

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