The next Audi A4, codenamed B9, will unveil within 2 years time. Available in both 4-door sedan and a wagon 'Avant' body style, expect the sedan to enter the market in 2014 while the Avant will closely follow in early 2015.
As usual, the next-generation Audi A4 will be instantly recognizable as a baby A8. Other than that, things start to get very interesting.
As with the unveilings of the previous generation A4 sedans, a new model signals a dramatic leap ahead in technology and engineering.
For 2014, Audi has developed an all-new underpinning, codenamed by VW as MLBevo matrix. No question, the new MLBevo matrix will serve as a modular structure for a number of Audi and VW products. According to UK's Car, the new architecture will not only be lighter, but will be more applicable to different layouts as well. Sources from Ingolstadt have claimed that the new platform will be as much as 100 kg lighter than the outgoing architecture. The curb weight of the next A4 will fall very close to 1330 kg.
By dropping its weight, Audi would effectively improve every virtual parameter: improved fuel efficiency and emissions, as well as heightened limits of performance and handling.
As awesome as the MLBevo matrix might be, the centerpiece of the new A4 is, without question, the company's first production electric quattro drivetrain with two hybrid options.
Forgoing the traditional mechanical differentials and props hafts, the innovative Audi e-quattro plug-in hybrid system will feature an electrically driven rear axle via two electric motors to deliver a combined 136 bhp. Capable of pure electric drive, the 2014 Audi A4 can travel 20 miles on the electric motors alone. What's more, electrically controlled rear diffs should allow superior handling characteristics that can neutralize any of Audi's inherent understeer.
The two rear electric motors will be combined with a conventional 2.0 liter TFSI engine providing 226-bhp.
In Audi's second hybrid configuration, a 35-bhp electric motor will be integrated into the transmission housing, sending power exclusively to the front wheels.
Other than hybrid drivetrains, Audi will also provide its new A4 with an extensive range of gasoline and diesel powerplants as well. the 225-bhp 2.0 liter turbo four cylinder gasoline engine will be standard while a 2.0 liter TDI producing 197-bhp and 295 lb.-ft. of torque will be an available option.
Expect the next generation Audi A4-based A5 in coupe, sportback, and cabriolet format to closely follow.
Check out our review of the 2013 Audi A4 here!
[Source: Car Magazine]
