The internet is positively packed with information about the upcoming Audi A4 model, codenamed B9, so much so that it's extremely hard to paint a clear picture.
Even though a number of sources suggested it would debut at the end of 2014, this looks extremely unlikely to happen, as Audi has only now started the chassis and engine testing sessions on the Nurburgring track. This next video sent to us by TouriClips shows a chassis testing mule that was filmed on the 20th and the 21st of August, 2014. Behind the bodywork of an old car, engineers are working on a new 2.0 TFSI turbo engine producing in the region of 250 horsepower, probably linked to a manual, which is why the A4 sounds a bit like an S3.
Rumors from Germany suggest the A4 is about 16 to 18 months away from entering production and should come as a huge leap in terms of build quality. The platform will be Audi's own evolved MLB, evolved to be a little lighter and stronger than before. Just like all-new VW Passat, a 1.4 TSI/TFSI turbo with 150 PS will be offered on base models, joined by plug-in hybrids and the new twin-turbo 2.0 TDI.
However, unlike the Passat, the B9 Audi A4 could have a hybridized quattro all-wheel drive, with the back wheels not connected mechanically to the engine, but driven by electricity. But the bulk of sales will continue to come from conventional four-cylinder engines.
A4 sales have always been driven by the affordability of the model compared to its rivals. However, a number of upscale technologies will find their way into the B9, including the Matrix LED headlights from the A8 and the Virtual Cockpit screen from the new TT. A next-generation MMI system is also planned and can be seen in our latest spyshots of the A4.
Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida. Full profile
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