The new Audi A4: architecture in motion
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Audi A4

Photos: Audi

Ingolstadt - Audi is again setting a benchmark in the premium segment of mid-size cars: the veil is about to be lifted on the new generation of the A4. Innovative technology and the advanced architecture of its styling point the way into the future. And the new A4 represents the quintessence of Audi's "Vorsprung durch Technik": a car that combines driving pleasure and common sense, the highest quality standards and sports character. 

The new Audi A4: powerful yet economical petrol and TDI engines provide the basis for excellent performance figures. All petrol engines comply with the limits of the EU IV standard, all TDI engines stay within the EU III limits. 

Audi has used two completely new petrol engines with aluminium engine block for the first time in the new A4: a 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder unit with 96 kW (130 bhp) and a 3.0-litre V6 with 162 kW (220 bhp). The tried-and-tested 1.8 T four-cylinder unit with 110 kW (150 bhp) completes the choice of petrol engines. 

The TDI range at launch includes the 1.9-litre four-cylinder engine with pump-injector fuel injection and a power output of 96 kW (130 bhp) and the 132 kW (180 bhp) 2.5 V6. The tank now holds up to 70 litres of fuel, which means that TDI drivers can now profit from operating ranges of around 1300 kilometres (1.9 TDI).  

These engines put their power to the road via the front wheels or quattro permanent four-wheel drive. 5 or 6-speed manual gearboxes are available for the various A4 models, as is the continuously variable automatic transmission known as multitronic. This revolutionary Audi transmission technology – which is making its debut in this vehicle class – will be combinable with the front-wheel-drive versions of the new A4. 

The aluminium suspension is pioneering. Its low unsprung mass provides the basis for exemplary dynamic handling. Good steering precision and exact handling complement the first-class ride comfort of the A4 saloon. 

With its clear contours, the new A4 body translates discreet sportiness into consistently modern architecture: a styling principle which provides a fitting context for aerodynamic perfection and Audi-typical dynamics to take shape. Clear-glass headlights, the Audi radiator grille and a high waistline emphasise its affiliation to the current Audi design line. A drag coefficient of just 0.28 and torsional rigidity that is outstanding not just in this class, distinguish the A4 body, as does the use of advanced lightweight technology for even the smallest of details.  

This concentrated use of state-of-the-art technology also adds up to a sensual experience for the driver. The predecessor's excellent ergonomics are now even more refined on the new model because the cockpit and cabin surround the driver like a tailor-made suit. 
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Safety – one of the most important aspects to the development of the new A4.

The generally acknowledged high safety standard of Audi vehicles has been systematically refined for the A4. The Electronic Stability Program ESP is part of the standard specification, as is the electronic brake assist system – a new feature at Audi. This helps the driver during panic braking by increasing braking pressure and thus substantially reducing the stopping distance. 

SIDEGUARD, Audi's head airbag system, is standard on all Audi A4 models. This system covers almost the entire side window area, from the A-post to the rear compartment. The new, intelligent crash sensors for the front airbags detect the severity of an accident and thus ensure controlled activation of the airbags. And passengers benefit from the further improved crash resistance of the A4 body and minimal deformation of the passenger compartment. 

The new Audi A4 represents a further highlight in the history of the brand. It combines the decades of experience contributed by Audi, the pioneer of quattro and TDI, with technology designed for the future, but available now. A genuine Audi. 

At a glance: 

• Powerfully dynamic design

• New petrol engines: 3.0 V6 with 162 kW (220 bhp) and 2.0-litre engine with 96 kW (130 bhp). Also available: 1.8 T with 110 kW (150 bhp)

•  High-torque TDI engines: 2.5 TDI V6 with 132 kW (180 bhp) and 1.9 TDI with pump-injector fuel injection and 96 kW (130 bhp)

• Continuously variable automatic transmission (multitronic) for versions with front-wheel drive

• quattro permanent four-wheel drive

• New aluminium suspension

• ESP with brake assist as standard

• Optimised safety technology, SIDEGUARD as standard

• Upfront sensors for optimised airbag activation

• High-strength body structure

• New interior and more space for occupants

• Luggage compartment capacity = 445 litres; minimum luggage compartment width = 1000 mm

• Fuel tank capacity up to 70 litres

• Standard alloy wheels

• Standard automatic air conditioning

• Audi telematics (option)

• Car phone with voice activation (option, in conjunction with Audi telematics)

(October14, 2000)