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2016 Audi A4 Sedan Revealed with 120 Kg Weight Loss and New Engines

The wait is over, as Audi has finally revealed its brand new compact executive sedan in the shape of the 2016 A4 (B9 generation).
2016 Audi A4 Sedan 35 photos
Photo: Audi
We say compact only in the loose sense of the word, because the A4 has grown substantially. This competitor for the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes C-Class or Jaguar XE now measures 4.73 meters in length and 1.84 meters in width, making it 25 mm longer and 16 mm wider.

As we've been accustomed, both the A4 sedan and wagon are lighter than their predecessors. Audi says that the weight loss can be up to 120 kg (264 lbs), depending on the model. The entry-level A4 with a 1.4-liter turbo engine now tips the scales at 1,320 kg (2,910 lbs), not including the driver.

The wheelbase of both models has been ever-so-slightly increased, and increasing interior space has been one of the main goals of the engineers working on this project. Most of the features on this car are designed to make you feel like you're in the class above, borrowing from the A6. For example, the headrests are not only height-adjustable, but also reach out to fit your preferred position.

The design… oh Audi, why do you do this to us

We struggle to think of anybody who might consider the new A4 the most beautiful car ever. However, the conservative approach has always worked well for the Germans, which have plenty of other avant-garde models for those looking to make a statement.

The 2016 A4 takes the form of a sharper, edgier version of the old car. All the proportions are the same, but LED headlights and a hexagonal grille ensure everybody knows this is the all-new model.

The headlights look similar to those of the Q7, while the rear of the car reminds us of the A6, wide and balanced by exhaust pipes on either side.

The interior shows the most changes: a 12.3-inch digital dash, infotainment on top of the dash and simplified controls.

Seven engines available at launch:

  • 1.4 TFSI with 150 PS (110 kW) and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft)
  • 2.0 TFSI with 190 PS (140 kW) and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft)
  • 2.0 TFSI with 252 PS (185 kW) and 370 Nm (273 lb-ft)
  • 2.0 TDI with 150 PS (110 kW) and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft)
  • 2.0 TDI with 190 PS (140 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft)
  • 3.0 TDI with 218 PS (160 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft)
  • 3.0 TDI with 272 PS (200 kW) and 600 Nm (443 lb-ft)

Production will commence in the Fall of 2015. There are pretty much no surprises in the engine range, which closely mirrors that of the old A4. However, ultra version of the A4 are quite frugal. The 190 PS 2-liter turbo runs on the so-called B-cycle and can consume as little as 4.8 liters per 100 kilometers. This is partly thanks to a low drag coefficient (0.26) and an assist system that adjusts the engine functions, according to road conditions.

Automatic alternatives for the standard 6-speed manual will include a new 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch replacing the old Multitronic. The flagship diesel will come with the familiar 8-speed auto made by ZF. For an extra dynamic edge, you can now fit your A4 with a sports differential on quattro all-wheel drive models.

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About the author: Mihnea Radu
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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.
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