In a nutshell
Audi is counting down to the launch of its most important volume car, the new A4. Codenamed AU481, it rides on an all-new platform, which insiders vow transforms the car’s dynamic abilities. Revised engines serve up more power and torque, too. The A4 family is set to grow, too, with a sleek Sportback hatch added to the staple saloon and Avant. First out of the blocks is the four-door, in autumn 2007.
Under the skin
Underpinning the A4 is an all-new platform, undergoing hot weather tests beneath this prototype. Dubbed MLP for ‘modulare längsplattform’ (modular platform for longitudinally mounted engines), this matrix is highly flexible. Modules for electronics, axles, drivetrains and suspensions are all interchangeable, allowing Audi to customise the architecture for each model. Its dimensions and content are so flexible, the MLP can support the 2007 A5 coupe and cabriolet, next A6 and new A8. And by pooling its cars, Audi will get huge economies of scale.
Dynamic transformation
The MLP offers dynamic advantages, too. To improve handling (and safeguard pedestrians), the engine/gearbox are moved back towards the firewall, creating a front/mid-engine layout and cutting the front overhang. The transmission and differential swap places, too. Other changes include an all-new four-link front suspension and revised rear axle, a new steering rack, stronger brakes with a more pronounced rear wheel bias and a 40:60 torque split for quattro AWD models. The engineers claim this overhaul works wonders for ride and handling. The engines have the latest fuel injection systems – direct injection for the petrols, common rail for the diesels. And there are three gearboxes: a six-speed manual, the Multitronic CVT, and the twin-clutch DSG gearbox (or S-tronic in Audi parlance). This gets an additional, seventh gear and can now handle 368lb ft of torque.
How it looks
In a word, the new A4 looks stunning, as our computer generated images show. It’s more dynamic and elegant than today’s neat and handsome car. Reducing the front overhang by 150mm has dramatically improved the proportions. And the flanks and bonnet are more sculptured, the chunky rear end looks faster and the greenhouse has clear coupe overtones.
At least one new family member…
Audi plans to apply the A3 Sportback formula to the A4 platform. Due in autumn 2009, the A4 Sportback will be a sleek, five-door hatch, with heaps of interior flexibility to offer a good balance of people- and/or cargo-carrying. The Sportback will be a little shorter and less capacious than the Avant, and it gets a bespoke rear end. Another possible bodystyle would be the Roadjet (pictured), Audi’s concept at the 2006 Detroit Auto Show. It would be Audi’s answer to the Vauxhall Signum, a tall-roof hatch that mounts its seats higher, boosting rear legroom and providing a more commanding driving position. However, the Roadjet is currently on ice, a decision influenced bythe disappointing initial sales of Mercedes’ R-class MPV.
…and a familiar one
Despite the advent of the Sportback, the bigger Avant wagon continues to carry cargo. Due to go on sale in mid-2008, sources say the Avant looks even more sensational than the saloon. Audi is pondering an A4 Allroad, too, as air suspension is being plumbed into the MLP for A6 and A8 applications. Avant engines are the same as the saloon’s, except the lowest power petrol and diesel are discounted.
The engine room
Petrol engines will range from a 115bhp turbocharged 1.8-litre four, to the RS4’s 4.2-litre V8, while oil burners will constitute a 120bhp 2.0-litre up to a 240bhp 3.0-litre V6.
The inside story
The interior of the Roadjet was even more significant than its exterior, because its dashboard gave a sneak preview of the A4’s. Expect its top-notch fit and finish and advanced surfacing to appear on the production car, along with a more intuitive MMI control system and redesigned, fully adjustable seats. Also on the cards are new convenience features like an MP3 player integrated in the ignition key, a personalized memory chip which works on all Audis (including rental cars) and a state-of-the-art sound system codeveloped with Bang & Olufsen. Naturally there’s more space inside and a bigger boot, as the new A4 is bigger than the current model.
The engine room
Petrol engines will range from a 115bhp turbocharged 1.8-litre four, to the RS4’s 4.2-litre V8, while oil burners will constitute a 120bhp 2.0-litre up to a 240bhp 3.0-litre V6.
The inside story
The interior of the Roadjet was even more significant than its exterior, because its dashboard gave a sneak preview of the A4’s. Expect its top-notch fit and finish and advanced surfacing to appear on the production car, along with a more intuitive MMI control system and redesigned, fully adjustable seats. Also on the cards are new convenience features like an MP3 player integrated in the ignition key, a personalized memory chip which works on all Audis (including rental cars) and a state-of-the-art sound system codeveloped with Bang & Olufsen. Naturally there’s more space inside and a bigger boot, as the new A4 is bigger than the current model.