SPY PICS: Audi's next A4
No visual surprises expected for Audi’s next-generation A4, due here in 2016One mustn’t expect Audi’s next generation A4 to overly challenge the visual senses. As these recently-snapped Automedia images suggest, the new car, which is expected to appear late next year before going on sale in Australia in 2016, looks like it will be a careful advance over the current A4 that doesn’t confront the sensibilities of Audi customers.
All of the work, it seems, has been focussed under the skin.
The new A4 will ride not on the universal MQB architecture applied across the Audi-VW range, but on the new MLB platform that is earmarked not just for A4 (and bigger) Audis, but also for larger models from Volkswagen and Porsche.
The new platform, which is expected to make its first appearance in the next Audi Q7 soon, is said to weigh as much as 100kg less than existing A4 platform through a mix of aluminium, ultra high-strength steel and even some composites in its construction.
As well as allowing for a bigger, more spacious cabin, it will also provide the basics to support multi-link front and rear suspension, while accommodating both front and all-wheel drivetrains.
The drivetrain line-up should be interesting.
Audi is known to be ditching its multitronic CVT transmission, while the inevitable RS4 wagon version is said to be in line for a supercharged 3.0-litre V6 engine to replace the atmo 4.2-litre V8,
Otherwise it would be reasonable to expect a replication of the current four-cylinder and V6 engine range (including diesels), along with six-speed manual and seven-speed dual-clutch transmissions.
The Audi disguise team has done a good job of concealing the all-important details of the new A4 body but it would be reasonable to expect it to face the world with recognisable design signatures such as the corporate single frame grille and sharp, super-neat, sculpting of the overall profile.
The spy photos suggest that although the frontal design language will be essentially the same, the 2016 Audi A4 could present a lower-set visage to the road.
The A4 is expected to make its first appearance at the 2015 Frankfurt motor in September as a prelude to its introduction for the 2016 model year.
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