All A4s will get autonomous emergency braking (which works up to 60km/h), when they land locally in early 2016. Aside from those models equipped with a manual gearbox, all A4s across the range get the seven-speed s tronic dual clutch ‘box, which is smoother and more enjoyable at low speed than it’s ever been. The recently tweaked dual-clutch gearbox is in large part responsible for the across the board efficiency of the A4 range.
“The new A4 has what we call evolutionary design,†said Dr. Victor Oliveira, Technical Project Manager for A4. “It’s angular, it’s sharper than the outgoing model, but it’s still familiar as an A4.†In fact, 90 percent of the new A4 is different to the outgoing model.
Some of the subtle styling changes aren’t even noticeable until you take a closer look. For example, the wing mirrors have been moved to the body rather than the A-pillar, which reduces road noise and improves aerodynamic efficiency. The exterior styling is very much traditional A4, but with a generally sharper theme front and rear. That sharper, more angular appearance is most noticeable around the headlights and taillights.
First up, we spent some time behind the wheel of the 3.0 TDI A4. The V6 diesel engine generates 160Kw between 4000-5000rpm and 400Nm between 1250-3750rpm. It uses as little as 4.4L/100km with 17-inch wheels and tyres despite scooting from 0-100km/h in 6.6-seconds. As you’d expect of a V6 with peak torque available so low in the rev range, this engine and gearbox combo is an enjoyable one. Roll on acceleration is rapid and smooth and on Italy’s motorways at 130km/h, the 3.0 TDI isn’t even flexing its muscles. At lower speeds, the diesel engine is quiet and refined, with plenty of urge off the mark. Despite it’s ability around town, this engine is the one you’d want if you spend plenty of time on motorways or cover large distances commuting over the course of the year.
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