Retaining its A4 Identity, Now with a Sharper Face

Audi's Core ModelNew A4has finally landed in Japan. The latest model, codenamed "B9," is the ninth generation since the Audi "80" (B1), which shares the same model number, and the fourth generation since the introduction of the "A4" nameplate.

The new A4's body dimensions for the standard model are 4,735mm in length, 1,840mm in width, and 1,430mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,825mm. Compared to its predecessor, the length, width, and wheelbase have each increased by 15mm, while the height has decreased by 10mm, resulting in a wider and lower stance. The weight is 1,540kg for the FF model and 1,660kg for the 4WD Quattro.

The front single-frame grille, an Audi icon, now features sharper angles for a more refined look. The rear retains the A4's characteristic trunk lid that slopes upwards at the end, acting as a spoiler. The bonnet employs a clamshell design, where the edges wrap around to the sides, concealing the boundary. Furthermore, the seam, now moved to the side, seamlessly integrates into a concave line that connects the front and rear of the body side, blending into the overall design.

Bi-xenon headlights are standard, but optional LED headlights are available, as well as the Matrix LED system, first introduced on the flagship model "A8",

which automatically controls high beams. When LED headlights are selected, the rear combination lamps also automatically switch to LEDs.

Beyond aesthetics, the vehicle also boasts significant aerodynamic improvements achieved through the latest analysis techniques. Refinements to details such as the mirrors and underbody have resulted in a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.23, contributing greatly to fuel efficiency.

(From left) Toru Saito, President and Representative Director of Audi Japan Inc.; Kentaro Minagawa, former Olympian and professional skier; and Osamu Mochizuki, Professor at the Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, Toyo University.

The Latest Transverse Engine Platform, MLB evo

The powertrain features a 1,984cc direct-injection turbo engine, the 2.0TFSI. Output varies by drivetrain: the FF model produces a maximum output of 140kW (190ps) and 320Nm of torque, while the 4WD (Quattro) model delivers 185kW (252ps) and 370Nm, respectively. Both are paired with a 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission. Notably, this is the first time a 7-speed S tronic is offered in the A4's FF model.

The 2.0TFSI Quattro accelerates from 0-100km/h in 5.8 seconds and reaches a top speed of 250km/h before the electronic limiter engages. The FF 2.0TFSI achieves 0-100km/h in 7.3 seconds and a top speed of 210km/h.

Audi A4 2.0TFSI quattro

Fuel efficiency has also improved, with the JC08 mode measurement showing 15.5km/ℓ for the 4WD, a 14% improvement over the previous generation, and 18.8km/ℓ for the FF.

The new A4 adopts the latest modular platform for transverse engines, "MLB evo," which was also announced last month for thenew "Q7."This modular approach offers benefits such as greater flexibility in body size and powertrains, as well as improved precision and efficiency due to standardized production techniques.

Furthermore, the revised MLB evo platform allows for flexible material selection depending on the model. While steel is predominantly used for the A4 due to its price point and positioning, Audi indicates that aluminum and CFRP will be utilized in future models such as the A6 and above.

Redesigned Interior and Infotainment

The new A4 features an expanded interior space along with its increased body size. Compared to the previous model, front headroom has increased by 24mm, interior length by 17mm, and rear legroom by 23mm. Additionally, the design has shifted from the driver-centric cockpit of the previous generation to a more expansive layout centered around the console, visually enhancing the sense of space.

Selecting the Matrix LED headlights option equips the instrument panel with the Audi Virtual Cockpit, a 1,440 x 550-pixel display.New "TT"This display, first seen in the new "TT," allows for flexible visualization of the meters, vehicle information, navigation, and multimedia content through steering wheel button controls.

Fine details have also been refreshed, including a new steering wheel design using lightweight magnesium alloy for the frame, a lower-profile shift lever designed with a palm rest for the MMI controller, air conditioning dials that display the temperature on the buttons, and newly designed power seats.

The MMI system for controlling navigation and multimedia has also been updated, enhancing internet connectivity with LTE and improving smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The vehicle is equipped with the latest Audi pre sense safety features to assist the driver. Standard features include Pre Sense Front, an automatic emergency braking system with pedestrian detection that operates below 85km/h, Turn Assist to help avoid collisions when turning right if oncoming traffic is detected, and Active Lane Assist to warn or automatically correct lane departures.

Optional features include Side Assist, which warns of vehicles in blind spots when changing lanes; Audi Pre Sense Rear, which warns the driver with LEDs of an impending rear collision, prepares safety equipment like seatbelts, and flashes LEDs on the rear to alert following vehicles; and Traffic Jam Assist, which maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead.

A new feature also includes an exit warning system: when opening a door to exit, LEDs in the door trim flash to alert occupants if a vehicle is approaching from behind.

The domestic prices for the latest A4 are as follows: the FF "A4 2.0TFSI" is ¥5,180,000, and the "A4 2.0TFSI sport," equipped with sports suspension and sports seats, is ¥5,560,000. For the 4WD models, the "A4 2.0TFSI quattro" is ¥5,970,000, and the "A4 2.0TFSI quattro sport" is ¥6,240,000. All Japanese specifications are right-hand drive only.

Audi A4 2.0TFSI | Audi A4 2.0TFSI
Body Dimensions | Length 4,735 x Width 1,840 x Height 1,430 (sport: 1,410) mm
Wheelbase | 2,825 mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,570 / 1,555 (sport: 1,565 / 1,550) mm
Weight | 1,540 kg
Ground Clearance | 140 mm (sport: 120 mm)
Engine | 1,984 cc Inline 4-cylinder Direct Injection DOHC Intercooled Turbo
Bore x Stroke | 82.5 x 92.8 mm
Compression Ratio | 11.8
Maximum Output | 140 kW (190 ps) / 4,200-6,000 rpm
Maximum Torque | 320 Nm (32.6 kgm) / 1,450-4,200 rpm
Transmission | 7-speed S tronic (DSG)
Drivetrain | FF
Brakes Front/Rear | Ventilated Discs / Discs
Suspension Front/Rear | Wishbone / Wishbone
Tires Front/Rear | 205/60R16 (sport: 225/50R17)
Minimum Turning Radius | 5.5 m
Trunk Capacity | 480-962 ℓ
Fuel Economy (JC08 Mode) | 18.4 km/ℓ
CO2 Emissions | 126 g/km
Steering Position | Right
Price | ¥5,180,000 (sport: ¥5,560,000)


Audi A4 2.0TFSI quattro | Audi A4 2.0TFSI quattro
Body Dimensions | Length 4,735 x Width 1,840 x Height 1,430 (sport: 1,410) mm
Wheelbase | 2,825 mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,565 / 1,550 mm
Weight | 1,660 kg
Ground Clearance | 140 mm (sport: 120 mm)
Engine | 1,984 cc Inline 4-cylinder Direct Injection DOHC Intercooled Turbo
Bore x Stroke | 82.5 x 92.8 mm
Compression Ratio | 9.6
Maximum Output | 185 kW (252 ps) / 5,000-6,000 rpm
Maximum Torque | 370 Nm (37.7 kgm) / 1,600-4,500 rpm
Transmission | 7-speed S tronic (DSG)
Drivetrain | 4WD
Brakes Front/Rear | Ventilated Discs / Discs
Suspension Front/Rear | Wishbone / Wishbone
Tires Front/Rear | 225/50R17
Minimum Turning Radius | 5.5 m
Trunk Capacity | 480-962 ℓ
Fuel Economy (JC08 Mode) | 15.5 km/ℓ
CO2 Emissions | 150 g/km
Steering Position | Right
Price | ¥5,970,000 (sport: ¥6,240,000)