- The design
- The interior
- The body
- The engines
- The suspension
- Safety
- Electronics
- The equipment
The equipment, data and prices stated here refer to the model range offered for sale in Germany.
We reserve the right to make changes. Errors and omissions excepted.
The new Audi A4
Architecture in motion
Audi is again setting a benchmark in the premium segment of mid-size cars: the veil is about to be lifted on the new generation of the A4. Innovative technology and the advanced architecture of its styling point the way into the future.
Clarity and precision
The design
Clarity and precision are the dominant features of the new Audi A4's styling.
The reduction in the number of chosen lines and creative devices applied is the crucial technique used by the Audi Design team, under the leadership of Peter Schreyer.
So what typifies this language of forms? The size of the large, clearly outlined body surfaces in proportion to the flat, equally clearly defined window area is evident at first glance. The discreetly rising shoulder line accentuates a powerful, dynamic stature, even when the car is stationary. Clear proportions, the gentle curve of the roof, the striking, round wheel arches: even its silhouette immediately identifies the new A4 as a genuine Audi.
The dialogue between the significant elements, between clear lines and pure
surfaces, is also characteristic of the architecture of the A4 body. This specific
tension is most apparent in the side section, where just a few lines in perfect
graphic formation enclose and provide the contours for the entire vehicle body:
an effect that is obvious from any perspective.
The powerful tail end underlines this tension: the lines combine in creating
a sporty overall impression that is simultaneously classically elegant. This
is the epitome of a very mature saloon car, as confirmed by its exterior dimensions.
With an overall length of 4547 millimetres, the new Audi A4 is 69 millimetres
longer than its predecessor. At 1766 millimetres, it is 33 wider than the previous
A4. The A4 is now 1428 millimetres high, 13 millimetres taller than its predecessor.
Comfort and ergonomics
The interior
The perfect tailor-made suit: a metaphor frequently used to describe vehicle
interiors. But this image will come involuntarily to the mind of anyone getting
behind the wheel of the new Audi A4. This car unites two seemingly contradictory
components to produce an amazing synthesis of exceptional ergonomics and subjective
comfort.
The design of the Audi A4 cockpit is characterised by lines extending a long
way into the door trim and centre console areas, which quite literally appear
to embrace the driver. This "wrap around" effect, to use the designers' technical
term, is accentuated additionally by the A4's high waistline.
Instrument panel, round instruments, air vents and centre console: Audi's interior
designers have completely redesigned every single detail.
Take the instruments, for example: the most important information units are
combined beneath a domed cover. The dial graphics of the large round instruments
have dispensed with trendy gimmicks. Together with the standard central colour
display, the white instrument lighting ensures optimum readability.
The most important controls for the occupants' well-being are grouped together
in the centre console: automatic air conditioning, audio system and the swivel
monitor for the optional navigation system Plus. The separate controls for the
standard air conditioning are within easy reach of both driver and front passenger.
Comfort and space on all seats
More room: this demand was right at the top of the list of specifications for
the new Audi A4. A wheelbase increased by 33 millimetres together with a body
which has grown in all directions provides substantially more space.
How the A4 has grown in figures:
- Interior length: plus 32 millimetres
- Rear knee room: plus 41 millimetres
- Front headroom: plus 15 millimetres, rear headroom: plus 14 millimetres
- Shoulder width, front: plus 11 millimetres
- Elbow width, front: plus 17 millimetres, rear: plus 29 millimetres
There is also more room than average for luggage: with a capacity of 445 litres,
the smooth-floored luggage compartment is well-equipped for tackling more challenging
transport tasks. And with a vast 1000 millimetres between the wheel arches,
there is plenty of room even for bulky loads.
Lightweight design as a priority
The body
Audi's design engineers have also made considerable progress regarding the
supporting structure of the new A4. The new body is no less than 45 percent
more rigid than that of its predecessor. The car's acoustic quality is consequently
just as outstanding as its dynamic behaviour. And last but not least, the A4's
crash safety also benefits from the particular rigidity of thestructure.
Lightweight construction index: high rigidity, low weight
Revolutionary vehicle concepts like the aluminium Audi Space Frame have demonstrated
the importance Audi attaches to lightweight design. But weight can also be reduced
effectively using a modern steel construction. The term "lightweight construction
index" indicates just how frugal – and efficient – the new Audi A4 is when it
comes to saving weight.
This category describes the relationship between body structure weight and the product of tyre contact area and torsional rigidity.
In other words, the lower the absolute value, the more efficiently a body structure
translates weight into rigidity. And this is one area in which the new A4 clearly
outshines the competition. It has a lightweight classification of 2.91 – the
previous best value was 3.02.
Rigid structures for maximum safety
The use of special material grades also makes a vital difference. The body of the new Audi A4 is based on a unitary steel structure with integrated aluminium components. The percentage by weight of the lightweight materials aluminium and magnesium and of plastics has risen significantly; the proportion of steel and iron on the new A4 has been cut by as much as 7.5 percent compared with its predecessor.
A further decisive measure for weight reduction is the expansive use of high-strength and very high-strength sheet-metal panels, which make up a total of 45 percent of the bodyshell weight – an outstanding achievement, not just in this vehicle category. These special sheet panels are used primarily in the front end of the new A4 where the main priority is to absorb impact energy as effectively as possible in a frontal crash.
As a protective cage, the occupant cell must also make sure that deformation and intrusion are minimised in a crash. Three large tailored blanks in the floor area perform part of this task.
The advantage of this special technology is that the generally large-format
tailored blanks can be structured in such a way that high wall thicknesses are
only used in areas subjected to particularly high loads; a reduction in weight
and a rigid structure can thus be effectively combined. In all, ten large tailored-blank
components are used on the new Audi A4.
Aerodynamics and aeroacoustics
Shaped by the wind
In the field of aerodynamics, absolute drag coefficient records are no longer the sole measure of all things. But Audi vehicles still abide by the motto that optimum aerodynamics improves economy like virtually no other factor.
With a drag coefficient of 0.28, the new Audi A4 also fulfils this requirement, bettering its predecessor by a factor of 0.02.
The aerodynamic underbody
Faired underbodies have already proven just how effective they are, particularly in motor sport. However, considerable detailed development has to be carried out before they can be used on production vehicles, especially as conventional wind tunnel technology does not offer the appropriate testing capabilities.
Hardly any wind tunnel was previously able to include the rotation of the wheels and moving belts under the vehicle to simulate the road in its analysis. Things are different at the new Audi wind tunnel centre in Ingolstadt, where innovative test rigs, some of which are equipped with a glass floor, enable detailed analyses of the flow of air under the vehicle.
The aerodynamics engineers were thus actually able to develop a predominantly smooth, low-drag underbody.
The aerodynamic underbody also helps to reduce wind noise: the overall level in the interior has been cut by no less than 3 dB (A).
Petrol engines
The new 3.0-litre V6
Audi is introducing a new top-of-the-range engine along with the launch of the new A4 generation: the V6 with five-valve cylinder head produces 162 kW (220 bhp) from 2976 cc at 6300 rpm. Its peak torque of 300 Nm is available at 3200 rpm. It consequently accelerates the A4 saloon with front-wheel drive and 5-speed manual gearbox from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds, and on to a top speed of 245 km/h. The average fuel consumption of this version is just 9.5 l/100 km (1999/100 EC).
Apart from its basic concept, the arrangement of the cylinder banks at an angle of 90 degrees and the identical bore, the new engine shares only very few components with its 2.8-litre predecessor.
The most important innovations:
- Aluminium engine block
- New, lighter pistons
- Balancer shaft
- Continuous intake camshaft adjustment
- Exhaust camshaft adjustment
- New two-position variable intake manifold
- Bosch Motronic ME 7.1.1 with electronic throttle control
- Compliance with EU IV emission standard
The new Audi 3.0 V6 engine is consequently not only tremendously powerful,
but also one of the most modern engines of its kind.
The new 2.0-litre engine
The other newcomer in the range of petrol engines for the new Audi A4 is the inline four-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1984 cc. This engine, with five valves per cylinder, reaches its peak torque of 195 Nm at 3300 rpm.
This unit achieves its maximum power output of 96 kW (130 bhp) at 5700 rpm. It propels the A4 saloon with front-wheel drive and 5-speed manual gearbox to
100 km/h in 9.9 seconds, and on to a top speed of 212 km/h. And in view of the fact that this model only consumes 7.9 litres of fuel per 100 km (1999/100 EC), these figures certainly are impressive.
The most important technical innovations:
- Continual intake camshaft adjustment for optimum engine charging
- Mapped cooling improves efficiency
- New two-position variable intake manifold for full torque and high performance
- Balancer shaft for excellent refinement
The 1.8 T engine
An engine version that has been tried and tested several thousand times over will also be part of the range when the new Audi A4 is launched: the 1.8 T four-cylinder turbo with 110 kW (150 bhp).
Its peak torque of 210 Nm is reached at a speed of just 1750 rpm. This hefty torque remains constant up to 4600 rpm, with the result that peak torque is always available in the most frequently used driving/speed range.
The A4 1.8 T with front-wheel drive and manual gearbox consumes just 8.2 litres of unleaded Super (95 RON) per 100 km (1999/100 EC). The A4 1.8 T's power output of 110 kW (150 bhp) helps it to a top speed of 222 km/h, and accelerates it from 0-100 km/h in a mere 8.9 seconds.
TDI engines
The 2.5 TDI V6
The potent 132 kW (180 bhp) engine, with four valves per cylinder, centrally
located nozzles, turbocharger with electronically controlled variable turbine
geometry (VTG) and ultramodern radial-piston distributor-type injection pump,
represents the state of the art in TDI technology.
The 132 kW (180 bhp) TDI also has special connecting rods and pistons. These
not only increase its specific output, but also enable extremely high torque.
A huge 370 Nm is available in the range between 1500 and 2500 rpm – an ideal
basis for excellent pulling power across a broad range and powerful acceleration
even from low engine speeds.
The V6 TDI's response to pressure on the throttle, even at very low engine
speeds, is also quite amazing. A substantial, perfectly respectable amount of
torque is available at around just 1000 rpm.
The 2.5 TDI quattro with 6-speed manual gearbox completes the sprint from 0
to 100 km/h in 8.6 seconds and then continues to accelerate rapidly up
to a top speed of 225 km/h. These performance figures qualify the A4 2.5 TDI
quattro for the sports car league, yet are combined with a distinct modesty
when it comes to fuel consumption: the Audi A4 2.5 TDI requires just 7.8 litres
of diesel (overall fuel consumption according to 1999/100/EC) per 100 kilometres.
The new 1.9 TDI with pump-injector technology
The new top version of the four-cylinder TDI with a capacity of 1.9 litres
represents a further highlight in the A4 model range. Even experienced TDI experts
are still surprised by the power output of this leading-edge engine: 96 kW (130
bhp) at 4000 rpm.
However, the torque of this high-tech TDI is without doubt even more impressive: Audi's most powerful version of the 1.9-litre series mobilises 285 Nm at just 1750 rpm – a record for a four-cylinder engine.
The key technical feature of this new engine version is its high-pressure pump-injector fuel injection, which currently enables the highest pressure potential of all systems. An injection pressure of up to 2050 bar is thus possible – the perfect basis for high performance and low emissions.
Top speed and acceleration speak for themselves: with a 5-speed manual gearbox
and front-wheel drive, the Audi A4 TDI 1.9 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in
9.9 seconds and reaches 207 km/h.
multitronic: for front-wheel-drive versions
Smoothness perfected
Audi is offering the multitronic, a continuously variable automatic transmission, for the first time in this vehicle category on the new A4. This transmission is the only one of its kind in the world. The revolutionary multitronic is available for all versions of the front-wheel-drive models. This has been made possible by the fact that it is designed for an extended performance spectrum.
The multitronic can now transmit torque ratings of as much as 310 Nm. This means that even the most powerful petrol engine in the A4 series, the 3.0-litre V6 with 220 bhp and 300 Nm of torque, can be combined with multitronic.
In the multitronic, Audi has developed a continuously variable transmission
which avoids the previous drawbacks of this principle and exploits all the advantages
of this system in achieving optimum gearshift strategies. The big difference
with the multitronic is that, for the first time, the gain in convenience is
not at the expense of dynamism and operating economy. In fact, quite the opposite:
most of the data for an A4 with multitronic are actually superior to an otherwise
identical vehicle with 5-speed manual gearbox.
Pure driving dynamics
The new alloy suspension
Dynamics and comfort, easy handling and active safety at the very highest level: on the basis of these strengths, Audi is also demonstrating its proverbial "Vorsprung durch Technik" with the new A4's aluminium suspension. And as far as the consistent implementation of the lightweight construction principle is concerned, this suspension is unique in its class.
The aluminium suspension offers a tried-and-tested concept at the front end that has been fundamentally modified for this new model: four-link front suspension, now of a light-alloy construction and 8.5 kilograms lighter.
Both front-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive versions of the Audi A4 have self-tracking
trapezoidal-link rear suspension based on the advanced design used on quattro
models. Like the front suspension, the rear suspension consists of alloy components.
It alone is responsible for a drastically reduced unsprung mass, producing a
new dimension of driving pleasure in this class.
ESP: safely on course
All Audi A4 models are fitted with latest-generation Electronic Stability Program
ESP as standard. This system helps the driver to remain in control of the vehicle
in potentially critical situations at the handling limits.
Now with brake assist
The new Audi A4 carries a particularly safety-conscious, permanently alert passenger with it on board at all times: the hydraulic brake assist system. As an integral part of the latest ESP generation, it is part of the standard specification. Its task is to help the driver in emergency braking situations by automatically increasing braking pressure.
The electronically controlled brake assist system detects an emergency braking
situation on the basis of pedal speed and pressure. The system then increases
pressure on the pedal beyond the level applied by the driver in just a fraction
of a second. This means that even inexperienced drivers can make use of maximum
deceleration at the wheel-lock limit.
Occupant protection
Consistent safety
A rigid passenger cell with clearly defined deformation properties provides the basis for effective occupant protection in the Audi A4. The most important components in the composite cell are the new front-end and floor concept and the large bumper cross-member. The latter ensures an even distribution of load, even in an offset crash.
The designs of the sill, with an integral aluminium extruded section, and the
A-post result in a sturdy side-panel frame. Particular attention was devoted
to the behaviour of the footwell in a frontal crash, especially as regards possible
intrusion. The driver's legs are also well-protected in the new A4 because the
pedals are decoupled in a frontal crash and do not intrude further into the
footwell. In addition, energy-absorbing padding protects the feet against severe
impact.
Upfront sensors: rapid protection
Intelligent sensors control the activation of the restraint systems at the right time. In the Audi A4, an airbag control unit with extended functions is responsible for triggering airbags and belt pre-tensioners. With the aid of two decentralised sensors, the system is able to determine the pattern and the severity of a frontal impact at an early stage. The central crash sensor supplies information for the plausibility check.
The decentralised sensors are two acceleration sensors integrated into the
front crumple zone: these are referred to as the "upfront sensors". They transmit
signals from which the control unit calculates vehicle deformation in a crash.
This means that the severity of the accident can be detected early on.
SIDEGUARD as standard
In the event of a side impact, remote sensors transmit signals which are compared with those from a sensor in the central airbag control unit. This concept enables all side airbags to be triggered in accordance with the accident sequence.
The risk of injury to the torso and pelvic region in a side crash is reduced above all by the thorax/pelvis side airbag integrated into the front seat back. Rear thorax/pelvis side airbags are available as an option.
The head and neck regions benefit from SIDEGUARD, a safety extra that is exemplary, not just in this vehicle category. This lateral head-level airbag system covers virtually the entire area of the side windows, from the A-post to the C/D-post.
As well as improving the head injury criterion, SIDEGUARD also reduces the
load on the neck as the movements of the head are much less severe. And in an
offset crash the head airbag reduces the risk presented by impact with the A-post.
Electronics in the new Audi A4
Communication and comfort
The new A4 is a communication centre on four wheels. And its occupants can enjoy every convenience imaginable – from the standard air conditioning to hi-fi audio systems to automatic adjustment of the driver's seat and the mirrors when getting in.
This complex package is made possible by the consistent networking of the vehicle electronics in what are known as CAN bus systems. In this case, pulses are no longer transmitted via individual wiring harnesses, but along a single "data highway".
The Multi Communication Bar aerial system, which is integrated out of sight
in the upper edge of the rear window, is a unique example of how electronic
systems have been compressed: the receivers for radio diversity, TV, telephone
and navigation system, and the standard radio remote control for the locking
system are grouped here.
Electronic scouts
Two navigation systems are available as an optional extra for the new Audi
A4: the basic version supplies its data by means of a spoken announcement and
arrow diagrams in the instrument cluster's high-resolution colour display. The
navigation system Plus additionally offers a swivel five-inch monitor in the
centre console, which also projects the route in map mode.
Audi telematics
Audi is also offering a unique telecommunications service for the Audi A4: by supplying carefully selected traffic information directly to the cockpit, Audi telematics helps drivers on Germany's roads to reach their destination quickly and without getting caught up in traffic congestion.
Audi telematics users benefit from a wide-ranging network of information sources.
Around 4000 sensors monitor the traffic flow on German autobahns virtually nationwide.
The traffic situation is then calculated electronically based on the sensor
data; tailbacks and hold-ups are reported to the vehicle's terminal.
The advantage this information technique enjoys, especially over radio traffic services, can be expressed in plain figures. At the moment up to 83 percent of all traffic interruptions on autobahns can be detected quickly and reliably; this figure is around just 45 percent if conventional methods are used – air surveillance and people whose job it is to report traffic congestion, for example.
On average this service reports new tailbacks 25 minutes more quickly than the radio. The end of a tailback is also indicated more promptly – up to 30 minutes sooner – than by other suppliers. This means a decisive gain in time which can help drivers to avoid joining the back of a queue of traffic unnecessarily or making a long detour in vain.
In emergency situations Audi telematics makes sure that help is sent out to where it is needed as quickly as possible. In the event of a breakdown, a press of the button is all it takes to connect the driver by telematics telephone to the Audi service centre
And in an accident the system even places the emergency call fully automatically:
the rescue services are alarmed when the airbag or belt pre-tensioners are activated.
The emergency call can also be placed manually.
Telephone with voice activation (in conjunction with Audi telematics)
Making a telephone call – and entering the numbers when dialling – is known to be one of the most hazardous things to do while driving. Tests have shown that the driver often takes his eyes off the road for several seconds.
But not with the new Audi A4. The optional car telephone system comes with
voice activation, which is extremely easy to operate. The driver just has to
speak the number he wishes to dial in order to be connected. His hands can remain
on the steering wheel and he can continue to concentrate fully on the road.
The equipment
There is a choice of 16 body colours for the new Audi A4. The colour spectrum ranges from particularly sporty shades such as Silver metallic to Amulet Red, and also includes the elegant colours in the range such as Burgundy Red pearl effect and Crystal Blue metallic.
The interior also satisfies virtually every design requirement. The materials used are without exception of the highest quality – a characteristic that is conveyed not only visually, but also by their feel.
Audi A4 drivers can choose between a number of material and colour combinations. The equipment concept offers considerable flexibility and individuality.
The perfect climate can be obtained on both the driver's and the front passenger's side of the vehicle – thanks to the deluxe automatic air conditioning in the new Audi A4. The standard version of this system, which is regulated depending on the position of the sun, can be adjusted separately for the driver and front-passenger areas. This system, which is equally important to comfort and safety, will be part of the standard equipment specification of all new A4 models at market launch.
All Audi A4 models are fitted with sporty alloy wheels as standard: four-cylinder versions have 15-inch 7-arm wheels and 195/65 R15 tyres. The standard equipment package for six-cylinder models includes 16-inch 7-hole cast aluminium wheels with either 205/55 R16 (2.5 TDI) or 215/55 R16 (3.0) tyres.
Four further alloy wheels of sizes 7x16 to 7.5x17 that are available from launch will give drivers a further option to enhance the characteristic appearance of their new Audi A4. Tyre sizes of up to 235/45 R17 ensure an uncompromisingly sporty character.
A made-to-measure car
The standard seats in the new Audi A4 provide maximum comfort on long journeys. But they too can be adapted to satisfy individual needs even more accurately – with the 4-way electrically adjustable lumbar support for the front seats, for example.
The front sports seats in the range of accessories for the Audi A4 offer an ideal synthesis of excellent lateral support and maximum seating comfort. They can also be combined with electric adjustment and a memory function as an option.
And while on the subject of sport, even a car as dynamic as the new Audi A4 may arouse the desire for an even more uncompromising concept. The range of optional equipment for the new saloon can satisfy this requirement. Specially developed sports suspension, with the body lowered by 20 millimetres, firmer shock absorber/spring rates and 7Jx17 wheels, shows the new Audi A4 in a whole new light: here the focus is clearly on the saloon's sporting potential. A potential that makes no secret of the sports tradition the brand enjoys on racetracks and rally courses.