Photo: Carpix
Audi engineers are working overtime these days to complete the development of its next-generation A4 family. Earlier this week, we showed you the first spyshots of the A5 Coupe test vehicle and now it’s time to turn our attention back to the A4.
Just like in the case of the previous A4 spottings and that of the A5, this is a test mule, so while the new chassis and powertrains are doing their job well hidden, there’s not much too see here.
However, our spy shooters managed to catch the A4’s dashboard. No, they haven’t fitted the new dashboard yet, but we can see the upgraded MMI display. Gone is the infotainment screen of the outgoing A4, being replaced with the more generous 8-inch screen found on Audi’s larger models. Once the development advances, we should also see a Head-Up Display.
Pay attention to the images and you’ll notice a 3D model of a little Audi being shown on the driver’s display, between the dashboard instruments. While this is supposed to be the new A4, its body type indicates that we are dealing with the A4 Avant, if not a Q5.
As for the aforementioned tech goodies, the 2016 A4 will be underpinned by a platform called MLB Evo. While we got a taste of this with the carmaker’s Sport quattro concept, the modular architecture will eventually find its way under most Audi models slotted above the A4. This mixed ultra high strength steel with aluminum and composites materials, with one of the benefits being a weight cut of around 200 lbs (90 kg). Moreover, the engine will be placed closer to the center of the car, a treat that will bring gains in terms of handling.
The front wheels will still be the usual suspects, but as for the optional quattro all-wheel drive, Audi is expected to discard the current central diff. Thus, the internal combustion engines will power the front axle, while the rear one will be motivated by a 95 hp electric motor.
At the other end of the range, there are many questions Audi needs to answer about the RS model(s). With the new BMW M3 Sedan and the not-out-yet Mercedes C 63 AMG, Audi is expected to bring back the RS4 sedan - the current generation only sees the RS4 being offered as an Avant. Moreover, the RS4 could use the electric “turbocharger” technology showcased in the RS5 TDI concept. And speaking of burning oil, we may even see a hot diesel version of the A4. Nonetheless, the S badge seems more appropriate than the RS one.
Wearing the B9 code, the new A4 is set to land in early 2015.
However, our spy shooters managed to catch the A4’s dashboard. No, they haven’t fitted the new dashboard yet, but we can see the upgraded MMI display. Gone is the infotainment screen of the outgoing A4, being replaced with the more generous 8-inch screen found on Audi’s larger models. Once the development advances, we should also see a Head-Up Display.
Pay attention to the images and you’ll notice a 3D model of a little Audi being shown on the driver’s display, between the dashboard instruments. While this is supposed to be the new A4, its body type indicates that we are dealing with the A4 Avant, if not a Q5.
As for the aforementioned tech goodies, the 2016 A4 will be underpinned by a platform called MLB Evo. While we got a taste of this with the carmaker’s Sport quattro concept, the modular architecture will eventually find its way under most Audi models slotted above the A4. This mixed ultra high strength steel with aluminum and composites materials, with one of the benefits being a weight cut of around 200 lbs (90 kg). Moreover, the engine will be placed closer to the center of the car, a treat that will bring gains in terms of handling.
The front wheels will still be the usual suspects, but as for the optional quattro all-wheel drive, Audi is expected to discard the current central diff. Thus, the internal combustion engines will power the front axle, while the rear one will be motivated by a 95 hp electric motor.
At the other end of the range, there are many questions Audi needs to answer about the RS model(s). With the new BMW M3 Sedan and the not-out-yet Mercedes C 63 AMG, Audi is expected to bring back the RS4 sedan - the current generation only sees the RS4 being offered as an Avant. Moreover, the RS4 could use the electric “turbocharger” technology showcased in the RS5 TDI concept. And speaking of burning oil, we may even see a hot diesel version of the A4. Nonetheless, the S badge seems more appropriate than the RS one.
Wearing the B9 code, the new A4 is set to land in early 2015.
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