Audi has started work on the next generation Audi A4, which is due to hit showrooms in 2015. A report from Car magazine UK gives us a brief idea of what to expect from the sedan.
The new A4 will not use the MQB platform, but will instead ride on the MLB Evo platform. The publication reports weight savings of over 100 kg (compared to the current A4) thanks to the use of this architecture. Another advantage of using MLB Evo is that the new A4 will be more stiffer than the outgoing model, which will contribute to better driving dynamics.
While the overall size of the sedan will be identical to the current model, the new A4 will be a bit wider and will get wider front and rear tracks as well.
Coming to the powertrains, Audi will not offer the A4 with a three-cylinder engine, no matter how good the power and efficiency is. Most of the engine options will be carried over from the current model, though a plug-in hybrid using Audi's E-Quattro system is believed to be in the offering. The system uses electric motors to turn the rear wheels of the car, while the front wheels are driven by the engine.
The A4 is an important model for Audi in India as well as abroad. Not only will it have to compete with its German rivals from Mercedes and BMW, but also Jaguar's new XE sedan.
[Source - Car UK]
