It’s beginning to look as though Audi weren’t at all satisfied with the facelift applied to the 2019 A4, which is why a more heavily restyled version will make its debut later next year.

While we have seen 2020 Audi A4 prototypes before, those were Avant models, whereas this one is the four-door sedan, a much more popular body style in most markets. So then can we spot more significant changes on this version than on the Avant? Thankfully, yes.

A facelift might not be enough

It almost seems as though Audi weren’t expecting the executive sports sedan segment to grow at the rate at which it has during these past few years. The current Mercedes C-Class has proven immensely successful, Jaguar and Alfa Romeo joined in with shockingly sporty alternatives such as the XE and Giulia, and then Volvo and BMW came out with all-new models in the S60 and 3-Series.

Audi unveiled the fifth-generation A4 B9 back in late 2015 and despite its excellent technical prowess, it goes without saying that it doesn’t attract nearly as much attention to itself as its main rivals do. And yes, looking rather understated has been the “Audi way” for a long time, but judging by what Ingolstadt did for the latest A6, A7 and Q8 models, a design revolution might be coming.

Unfortunately, this isn’t it – not yet at least. The 2020 Audi A4 will feature a more heavily revised front end with new headlights, a wider grille and a restyled bumper. At the back, we spot different-looking taillights, with what could be either a metal insert running between the clusters, or perhaps a light bar.

Dual screens in the center console?

Highly unlikely, seen as how this prototype clearly has the current model’s top-of-dashboard infotainment display. It’s visible in multiple images. Odds are, Audi is saving all the good stuff for the all-new sixth-generation A4, which is probably 3 years or so away.

Still, this next facelift will probably feature updated software for all the tech goodies, new materials and perhaps even more capable safety and connectivity systems.

As for its engine range, since the 2019 model year update didn’t bring any novelties in that department, it’s now up to the 2020 version to do so, although it’s definitely not a given that it will happen.

Audi will likely launch the significantly-facelifted A4 sometime next year, in time for it to enter dealerships in either late 2019 or early 2020.

Photo Credits: S. Baldauf/SB-Medien for CarScoops