Audi is working to get its mojo back in the compact executive car segment with a brand new generation of its A4 series, spied here ahead of a debut later this year.
Despite the prevalence of SUVs and crossovers in the market, the A4 continues to be the best seller in Audi’s range.
Known internally as the B9, the next A4 will ride on Audi’s new MLB Evo architecture, a variant of which is found under the latest Q7 SUV. Made from a mixture of materials, including high strength steel and aluminum, the new platform will do its part to help the B9 lose up to 100kg (220 pounds) over the current car.
It will usher in a multitude of new technology, ranging from the availability of LED and Matrix laser lights, and a digital instrument panel to a new touchpad for the infotainment system and an e-quattro plug-in hybrid powertrain.
Speaking of engines, beside the PHEV that will likely combine a 2.0-liter TFSI driving the front wheels and an electric motor for the rear axle to achieve all-wheel drive, the A4 is expected to offer a range of longitudinally mounted 1.4-, 1.8- and 2.0-liter TFSI turbo petrols, and 1.6- and 2.0-liter turbo diesels. North America will probably only get the 2.0-liter versions of those engines along with a 3.0-liter V6 TFSI gasoline, while Europe will receive a 3.0-liter V6 TDI.
Later on, Audi will introduce the S4 and RS4 high-performance models to the range.
There’s no news yet on where and when Audi will debut the A4 sedan, but besides the Geneva show in March, the other major European event this year is the Frankfurt motor show in September.
Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoops
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