Admittedly it does look like more baby A8 now, which is no bad thing, with its suitably executive makeover, and we’ll forgive you for battling to identify the exterior revamp.
Compared with the previous model, the new A4’s dimensions have grown but crucially its weight has been reduced significantly – by up to 120 kilograms – depending on the engine. The new A4 is now 4.73 meters long, riding on a 2.82 meter wheelbase. The body of the new Audi models is one of the lightest in its class thanks to an intelligent use of lightweight materials.
The Avant, which in our opinion, has always held the highest visual appeal in the range (see featured image) is said to have best in class boot space at 505-litres – expanding to 1500-litres – with an electric luggage compartment cover and electric tailgate. Sensor controlled opening will be an optional extra for the first time.
Of course as we’ve come to expect you can be assured of the highest levels of craftsmanship in the interior with a plush mix soft-touch materials and ambient lighting sure to max and in some cases exceed the other German competition.
The 2016 Audi A4 comes with the second-generation modular infotainment platform, which in combination with the MMI Navigation Plus gives customers the Audi connect hardware module, which connects to the Internet via a high-speed LTE network (if you spec this option of course). Passengers can surf the Internet and send and receive e-mail with their mobile devices via a Wi-Fi hotspot while the driver can use the tailored services of Audi connect.
Audi’s smartphone interface is a new feature, and with specifically developed apps will integrate with the MMI system, allowing you to intuitive connect your iOS or Android device.
In Audi’s home markets the new A4 will be launched with three TFSi (petrol) and four TDi (diesel) engines with power outputs ranging from 110kW to 200kW. Fuel consumption is said to be down by 21 percent across the range with as low as a claimed 3.7l/100km for the 2.0-litre TDi variant.
The six-gear manual transmission, the seven-gear S tronic and the eight-stage tiptronic have been redesigned for the 2016 model with all automatic (S tronic) version now offering the eco-friendly ‘freewheeling’ function you might have seen elsewhere in the VW AG stable. When selected the transmission is effectively decoupled under coasting conditions, thereby reducing fuel further.
As with all new models, ride and handling has also been revamped for the new model with a complete redesign of the five-link axles and the electromechanical power steering. Furthermore dynamic steering and adaptive shock absorbers allowing drivers to toggle between sport and comfort, and will be offered as part of the standard drive select program.
