Audi has unveiled the latest-generation version of its A4, which is due to arrive in dealerships towards the end of this year to rival the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes C-Class.<_o3a_p>
Lighter, more powerful and more efficient than the previous model, the new A4 will be available in both Saloon and Avant estate formats, along with various revolutionary new features.<_o3a_p>
Despite being billed as a “completely new” design, the A4 is still instantly recognisable as an A4, with Audi taking the evolutionary rather than revolutionary approach, on the outside at least.<_o3a_p>
The new A4 is sharper than the outgoing model, with crisper lines and a more angular design for the familiar hexagonal grille, while its dimensions are slightly larger with a 2.82-metre wheelbase. Despite being marginally bigger, Audi states that it’s as much as 120kg lighter thanks to special lightweight construction, while standard exterior kit includes 17-inch alloys and xenon headlights.
Inside is where the A4 has received the biggest upgrade, with an all new interior that can be specified with Audi’s ‘virtual cockpit’, which displays the instruments on a 12.3-inch LCD screen. The centre console also features an all-new MMI infotainment system, along with a larger 8.3-inch monitor and rotary controller to easily and intuitively access navigation and entertainment functions.
Other highlights include voice-activated smartphone integration for both iOS and Android devices, a Bang & Olufsen surround-sound system and a high-speed in-car Wi-Fi connection<_o3a_p>
Both the standard A4 and A4 Avant come with a wide range of safety, assistance and convenience systems, like adaptive cruise control, parking assist and low-speed collision avoidance assist.<_o3a_p>
The A4 Avant also comes with a class-leading 505 litres of storage space, which can expand to a maximum of 1,510 litres, with a sensor-activated automatic tailgate as an option.<_o3a_p>
From launch, the A4 range will be available with a choice of seven engines, including three petrol and four diesel models, with outputs ranging from 148bhp to 263bhp.<_o3a_p>
Buyers also have a choice of six-speed manual, seven-speed S tronic and eight-speed tiptronic gearboxes, along with options including quattro four-wheel drive and a sports differential.<_o3a_p>
Audi states that fuel consumption across the engine range has been reduced by as much as 21 per cent, with CO2 emissions dipping below 100g/km, though specifics have yet to be released.
The new Audi A4 will be available to order in the UK later this summer, with first deliveries of the Saloon due to arrive by the end of the year, while the Avant will follow early next year.<_o3a_p>