2007 Frankfurt Auto Show: 2009 Audi A4
- Competes with: BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Infiniti G35
- Looks like: A slightly squarer version of the last A4
- Drivetrain: 265-hp, 3.2-liter V-6 with six-speed manual or automatic; 160-hp, 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with six-speed manual or CVT; front- or all-wheel drive
- Hits dealerships: Fall 2008
The new Audi A4 may not look much different from the one you see parked outside Crate & Barrel, but it has gone through a significant redesign. Most noticeable are the slight exterior design tweaks, especially the squared-off headlights. They may look more boring than the old ones, but they house a cool LED and conventional headlamp combo.
The structure of the body has been radically changed, though, so the new A4 is both lighter and more rigid to make it safer than before. Usually when a car company beefs up safety, performance-draining weight is also beefed up. Interior room has been increased, so passengers will have more space to take in the redesigned instrument panel and dashboard.
9We’re a bit bummed that Audi has replaced the smooth 2.0-liter turbo engine from the old A4 with a more fuel-efficient 1.8-liter. The loss in power is significant at about 40 hp, and we’re still waiting on mileage numbers to see if the tradeoff is worth it. The 3.2-liter V-6 in the more expensive model remains and puts out an impressive 265 hp.
As with most luxury cars, there are a number of options and we won’t bore you with all of them here. But we will point out that the new A4 is one of the few entry-level luxury cars to offer heated and cooled leather seats. A 505-watt Bang & Olufsen sound system like the one we tested in the Audi S8 will also be available.
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Look's a lot more like the A5
Matt,
They're basically the same now yes.
Yea, last night they said it looks like an S5. And they said the dash is identical to the A5 also. I like the tweaks because I love the new A5.
Love the LEDs in the headlights!!
Sad about the 40HP loss in the "new" base engine. But really, how much MPG would be worth it?
2007 A4 w/ 2.0Turbo:
Fuel economy city 23 mpg
Fuel economy highway 34 mpg
I agree, for 40hp, they better of gained at least 5mpg.
MSS,
Plus that 2.0 is a GREAT engine. It would make me "not mind" getting a base model, now you're forced to move up or go buy a G35 etc.
Tom L.,
We're waiting on the U.S. mileage and will post about it as soon as we know.
160 horse power is definitely not enough in a vehicle such as this.
What's the curb weight? I agree that 160hp is on the low side for a premium sedan (even if it is their entry-level sedan), but if they were able to keep weight down, it might be surprisingly fun to drive on twisty roads.
The 1.8 liter engine is going to be sold only in Europe. The US will continue to get the 2.0 Turbo Four and 3.2. So dont worry the turbo engine will still be available.
What about the DSG or S tronic tranny? I thought it was supposed to be getting it? Anybody know?