2006 Audi A4
Audi will turn loose a flood of new and redesigned vehicles over the next year, but none will be more important the 2006 A4.
The original A4 helped restore confidence in Audi's products in North America and brought the company back from the brink in the early 1990s. Moreover, the A4 is Audi's biggest seller in the United States, and the company's fortunes are pegged to this car. The redesigned '06 A4 is not a radical departure from its predecessor; rather, it will be an incrementally improvement on one of the best small sedans currently available.
The most obvious change in the A4 is its exterior styling. Where the current car is smooth, slick and polished, the next A4 will be more blatantly aggressive, starting with the face it shows the world. The '06 shares Audi's latest familial design theme, introduced on the A8L 6.0 and all-new A6 mid-size sedan: a classic, vertical grille that stretches over the front bumper, flanked by upswept twin-beam trapezoidal headlights.
Since its introduction, the A4 has been Audi's least expensive model in the United States. Next spring, that entry-level role will be assumed by the A3 Sportback, a five-door hatchback similar in size to the Volkswagen Golf, and the A4 will move up a step in the model line-up. While the least expensive 2006 A4 will likely start at a hair under $30,000, the price will rise quickly from there. Dealerships will likely focus more than ever on heavily equipped, high-trim A4s, and the less-expensive variants will get harder to find.
The 2006 Audi A4 will offer two engine choices, like the current version, but those engines will be new. Both will feature a new high-pressure fuel injection system originally developed for diesel engines, delivering more power without a significant loss in fuel economy. A 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, shared with the A3, produces 200 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque. A 3.2-liter V6, also used the A6, generates 255 horsepower and 243 pound-feet.
The new A4 will be available with front-drive or Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive system. Transmissions will include a six-speed manual and Audi's high-tech continuously variable automatic (CVT). The company may drop the conventional torque-converter automatic transmission from the A4 line.
Audi's new product blitz looks impressive. The new A6 is beginning to arrive. The A8L 6.0, with its 450-horsepower, W-configured 12-cylinder engine, arrives in January, followed by the A3 Sportback in May. Audi's first SUV, called the Q7, is scheduled for sale in early 2006.
The 2006 A4 comes in the middle of this rollout. Dealer launch is expected in March 2005, with a new S4 a month later. The high-performance S4 will be powered by a V8 generating 350-plus horsepower, with the usual enhancements in braking and handling capability.
In total, the next A4 should refine and improve an already fine sedan, with a balance of luxury, performance, good design and operating costs that's tough to beat.
Sometimes it gets to you. In a moment of hair pulling, stop-the-insanity madness, you can no longer take the term "new." And let's not forget its neighbors: completely new, all new and totally new. One of the biggest offenders? Carmakers.
We can't completely blame the manufacturers from calling each year's model new-they want to call attention and bring you into the showrooms. In the ultra-competitive auto market, today's hotness becomes yesterday's lukewarm in the blink of an eye. But we have seen some flimsy excuses for "all-new" models being indicative of as little as a new audio system or available faux wood interior trim. So, what about the 2006 Audi A4-is it "all-new" from the ground up? Nah. Audi says around 60 percent. On the other hand, though, it does have some significant changes-a new exterior look that really captures the eye and a few interior tweaks that probably won't. Most importantly, there are some substantial improvements in the performance department and, with the A4's already impressive fun-to-drive quotient, that's big news indeed.
Style
The A4 lineup is pretty diverse. You have a choice of a handsome 4-door sedan, sleek wagon (Avant in Audi-speak) and sublime 2-door convertible. You also get a choice of 4-cylinder and V6 engines, front and Quattro all-wheel drive, 6-speed manual or automatic transmissions-some with the ultra-smooth CVT continuously variable transmission. And if that isn't enough, there are the V8-powered S4 and RS4 super performance models. Basically, you tell Audi your space, speed and budget requirements, and they'll find an A4 perfect just for you. Our tester was an A4 Sedan 2.0T with Quattro all-wheel-drive and a 6-speed manual transmission.
We were a little concerned with the news that Audi had recently freshened the exterior of the A4, as it was already one of the most handsome small sedans on the road. The most noticeable change is the front end with the new large grille opening that has now become Audi's corporate face for all its vehicles. While it appeared too big on the A3 we recently tested, on the A4, the prominent proboscis fits in quite handsomely. Flanked on both sides are clear headlamps at a suggestive angle that makes the front end of the car look aggressive.
A new contour line on the A4's sides sharpens the profile, while new taillamps are wider, extending over the trunklid. All in all, Audi did a masterful job-our bright red test car looked more muscular and purposeful than the previous model, which compared to the more overt designs of the new BMW 3 Series and Lexus IS 350, enjoyed a classic, refined look that we think will please any owner's eye for years to come.
Interior
Adding to the fun, our tester featured a smooth and quick-shifting 6-speed manual transmission and the Velcro-like grip of Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive. Handling is noticeably crisper for 2006 - Audi took many of the suspension and steering components from its S4 super sedan and bestowed them on the A4.
Our tester included the optional Sport Package, which gets you handsome 17-inch alloy wheels with performance tires and a sport suspension. Audis tend to provide a soft ride, so with the firmed-up suspension you get an ideal blend of performance and comfort. If you get overly enthusiastic, standard ESP stability control is there to help you out of a jam.
The interior is a perfect place to enjoy the A4's athletic moves. It starts with superb quality of materials and an understated, handsome design. Audi fans will feel right at home with the large gauges and familiar red LED readouts and lighting. Little details shine through; on the steering wheel, the remote controls for the audio system (on our tester, a sweet-sounding optional Bose system teamed with Sirius satellite radio) are small tumblers you roll underneath your fingers-much easier and more intuitive than the pushbutton/rocker switches you find on just about every other manufacturer's offering.
Nice improvements for '06 include a swath of aluminum trim that runs across the dash and surrounds the shifter, and brightens up the interior and a center console. And after too many tipsy-cup adventures to remember, we now have two honest-to-goodness cupholders in the center console that finally acknowledge that we Americans like our beverages large and securely located.
Power
We especially liked the supportive front bucket seats and comfortable rear seat accommodations. Audi says the 2006 model even picks up a little extra rear legroom. Even more comforting is the knowledge that every A4 features standard front and side airbags, along with head protection airbags for front and rear outboard seating positions. Those up front get the added benefit of active head restraints that reduce likelihood of whiplash.
You'll also feel good with the A4's generous list of standard equipment, including automatic dual-zone climate control with dust and pollen filter, power driver's seat, power windows, heated outside mirrors, central locking with selective unlocking and premium audio system with in-dash 6-disc CD changer. Equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive (you can save some cash if you choose the front-wheel-drive model), you're looking at $29,450 which is a good value, especially when you add in the fact that Audi will pick up the tab for scheduled maintenance for 4 years/50,000 miles.
Our tester had more added goodies, including a Premium Package with leather seats, moonroof and power passenger seat; a Lighting Package, which adds Bi-Xenon headlights, adaptive front lighting, light-sensor and rain sensor and, our favorite, auto-dimming exterior mirrors. Along with the Audio and Sport packages mentioned previously and a couple of nice touches like power rear and manual side sunshades (very Limo!) and headlight washers, our admittedly loaded tester carried a still reasonable and quite competitive MSRP of $35,995.
The 2006 Audi A4 is a perfect blend of old and "new." The tasteful style, wonderful build quality and simple feeling of being surrounded by something very good is unchanged. A handsome updating of the classic lines, and an impressive upgrade in performance makes an already fine sport sedan even more enjoyable to drive. What's new with you?
The original A4 has been the most successful Audi of all time, so this is not a formula that needed a radical change of direction. At a glance the new car, which is the seventh-generation A4, looks barely evolved from the previous model. In fact, every body panel apart from the roof is brand new, although the most noticeable changes are at the tail lights and the nose, which gains the companywide single-frame grille. Inside, the A4's interior architecture remains virtually unchanged, apart from a new seat design and a steering boss that wears an aluminium graphic that echoes the new grille.
Audi is still chasing BMW and Mercedes, and much work has been done to improve the A4's dynamics to put it on a more level footing with BMW in particular.
Available in four-door saloon and Avant estate bodystyles, plus as a two-door convertible - tested separately. See individual story on the storming RS4 - also available in all three bodystlyes.
To go with the new look, there are some eye-opening performance improvements. At the heart of the matter is the new 2.0T FSI motor. Featuring direct fuel injection, the turbocharged 2.0-liter not only puts out an impressive 200 horsepower, but also puts out its maximum torque of 207 lb.-ft. at just 1,800 rpm. That means an instantaneous surge just about any time you tap the gas. When we tested this powerplant in the new A3, it felt almost rocket-quick. With the slightly heavier A4, it is still impressively quick, feeling more than capable of doing battle with many competitor's 6-cylinder engines, but offering the fuel-sipping abilities of a smaller 4-cylinder.
The only significant blot on the A4's recent reliability record was the failure of a batch of ignition coils, which affected the 1.8 20v turbo engines built from about the summer of 2001 to the autumn of 2002. Otherwise, Audi continues to enjoy a reputation for reliability and quality. And the engines that are new to the A4 are already in use in other Volkswagen group cars, so these are well proven units.
The A4 has gained a revised suspension, as well as damper settings designed to deliver the best compromise between ride and handling. And all six-cylinder models, as well as the 2.0T FSI, gain the speed-sensitive variable power steering that was once the preserve of the storming S4 model.
On the road, the result of the steering upgrade, which is optional on other models of 130bhp or more, is noticeably better steering feel over fast, twisting roads. Otherwise, the A4 remains astonishingly well composed and uninclined to react unpredictably over undulating, challenging roads. Pushed harder still, the A4's default setting is understeer at the limit. For most drivers, this is the safe option, and with four-wheel drive quattro models in particular, you won't find a more stable platform in the class. For those who want a little more involvement in the driving experience, though, we suspect that the BMW remains the favourite.
It is the diesel engines that really impress here. The 204bhp 3.0TDI V6, which is offered only in four-wheel drive quattro guise, develops a massive 331lb ft of torque from an almost comically low 1400rpm. The result is great waves of acceleration, instantly available with a flex of the right foot - the official figures are 0-62mph in 7.2 seconds and a top speed of 146mph. That really is damn quick, and in the 0-62mph run, only a shade slower than the storming 256bhp 3.2 FSI petrol A4.
We were equally impressed with the 2.0 TDI four cylinder turbo-diesel engine, which develops 140bhp and 236lb ft of torque from a low 1750rpm. We tried the A4 2.0TDI with a manual six-speed gearbox and found that the combination of sensible gear ratios and excellent torque characteristics delivered truly robust performance. Climbing out of the 3.0TDI, we worried we might feel shortchanged on the performance front, but that just isn't the case. And the 2.0TDI delivers a claimed overall fuel economy of 47.9mpg, which is a nice bonus.
The 2.0T FSI turbo-charged, direct-injection petrol A4 delivered strong performance - 0-60mph in 7.6 seconds and a top end of 146mph - and we were most impressed by its low-rev torque response. That meant strong acceleration was on tap without our having to shift down a gear, which is a near-diesel-like characteristic. For the record, the 2.0T FSI develops its maximum torque of 207lb ft from 1800rpm.
By comparison, we'd recommend you give the non-FSI 2.0-litre petrol engine a miss. Its maximum torque is developed at nearly twice the revs of the FSI engine, and swift progress is a thrashy and unrefined experience, especially when this engine is mated to the CVT constantly variable transmission.
In redesigning the body, Audi has claimed to have improved side impact protection by strengthening the body shell forward of the B-pillar. The company also claims that the efficacy of the changes have been put to the test in simulated side-on collisions with SUVs. Even the seats make a contribution here, with very rigid cross bracing which helps them maintain their shape during a side impact. Further passive measures include large, dual stage front airbags, side airbags and curtain airbags. On the active front, the latest generation electronic stability programme helps to haul the car back onto its intended cornering line in the event of a slide at the front or rear.
A Thatcham Category One approved anti-theft system is standard on all models.
With the knowledge that executive compacts have become hugely more popular in the fleet sector, Audi has been keen for a high score in this category. To that end, the company is claiming that the pence-per-mile running costs of its 2.0 FSI SE (45.86p) and 1.9TDI (44.5p) are marginally superior to that of the equivalent BMW and Mercedes models. And Audi points to the respected CAP Monitor, which projects residual values and which also reckons that the A4 1.9TDI SE and 3.0TDI SE will outperform the equivalent BMW and Merc on 3-years residual values. Counting against the A4 is the limited mileage 3yr/60,000 mile warranty - rivals offer unlimited-mileage 3yr warranties.
Even though every single body panel apart from the roof is new and there is slightly more front and rear overhang, the A4's cabin is dimensionally identical to the outgoing car. In fact, little is changed in terms of the cabin architecture, with the most noticeable items being the steering wheel with its grille-shaped graphic and the seats, which offer more support and new trim options.
One of the areas where the A4 is significantly improved concerns the ride comfort, a common complaint about the previous model. On the standard-fit 16-inch wheels, the ride is quiet and compliant, with little of the jittery nervousness of the previous car over patchily finished road surfaces.
Effectively, this means the front seat occupants benefit from very comfortable seats, first rate dashboard ergonomics and for the driver, an ideal position relative to pedals and gearshift. The news is less good for those in the rear, with six-footers being a little tight on headroom and legroom if seated behind another tall adult.
Equipment levels are relatively generous, though. All models gain electronic climate control, electric windows, 16-inch alloys wheels, electronic stability control, traction control and front foglights.
The Audi A4 family is being extended in the new model year 2007: in addition to the bestselling diesel model, the 2.0 TDI (103 kW / 140 bhp), the A4 and A4 Avant will also be available in future with a 125 kW (170 bhp) version of this ultramodern two-litre four-cylinder engine.
Audi has combined piezo technology and pump-injector fuel injection for the first time on this engine. This four-cylinder power unit puts up an impressive performance: it propels the A4 saloon 2.0 TDI (125 kW) with front-wheel drive and 6-speed manual gearbox from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.6 seconds and on up to a top speed of 228 km/h. This car's average fuel consumption is just 5.8 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres. The maximum torque of 350 Nm is available at between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm.
This sporty, dynamic engine is also available in conjunction with quattro permanent four-wheel drive.
A diesel particulate filter is standard. Prices for the A4 2.0 TDI with 125 kW start at Euro 30,300. The combination of the 180 bhp six-cylinder 2.7 TDI engine with front-wheel drive and continuously variable multitronic transmission is another new addition to the range and costs Euro 34,500. The benefits of this engine can be enjoyed not only by A4 saloon and A4 Avant drivers, but also by A4 Cabriolet customers.
To mark the new model year, the interior of the A4 series has been refined still further: aluminium-look elements now adorn the switches and cup holder in the centre console. The rotary controls of the radios now also feature this high-grade trim.
New optional equipment items have also been added to the A4 range. As in the A3, a new generation of the Audi radio navigation system with large monochrome display, MP3-compatible single CD player and MMI operating logic is making its debut. Another new feature is the optional interface for an iPod audio player.
The range of exterior colours for the A4 has also been updated: Ibis White, Lava Grey, pearl effect and Deep Sea Blue, pearl effect have been added to the programme for the Audi A4, enabling customers to give their car a new touch.
It goes without saying that the Audi S4 also benefits from these measures for the new model year. In addition, 18" cast aluminium wheels of a new S design and black painted brake callipers with S4 logo are now available for this sporty showpiece. The S4 logo now also adorns the brake callipers for the front wheels.
New enginges for bestseller
Diesel offensive for the A4
New additions are being made to the engine range of Audi's most successful model line. The six-cylinder 2.7-litre TDI with 132 kW (180 bhp) can now be ordered for the A4 saloon and A4 Avant. In conjunction with front-wheel drive and 6-speed manual gearbox, the A4 2.7 TDI accelerates to 100 km/h in just 8.4 seconds and rapidly on up to its top speed of 230 km/h. This ultramodern V6 with common rail direct injection and piezo injectors consumes an average of just 6.7 litres of diesel per 100 km. The 2.7 TDI in the A4 has a diesel particulate filter as standard. The basic price of this model is Euro32,400 (Avant: Euro34,000). The first vehicles will be supplied in January 2006.
A significantly more powerful 3.0 TDI is now being offered for the
A4 saloon and Avant: as in the A8 and A4 Cabriolet, this six-cylinder unit, also equipped with common rail technology and piezo injectors, delivers
171 kW (233 bhp), making it the most powerful diesel in its class. The
A4 3.0 TDI quattro reaches the 100 km/h mark in just 6.8 seconds and accelerates on up to a top speed of 245 km/h. Its fuel consumption, on the other hand, remains at the low level of its 29 bhp weaker predecessor, at just 7.6 litres per 100 km. The A4 3.0 TDI, which can also be ordered with a diesel particulate filter as an option, costs Euro37,600 for the saloon or Euro39,200 for the Avant (in Germany).
quattro permanent four-wheel drive is now also available in conjunction with a powerful four-cylinder TDI. With its 103 kW (140 bhp), the 2.0 TDI quattro ensures driving pleasure and dynamism in all situations and is equipped as standard with a 6-speed manual gearbox and diesel particulate filter. Prices start at Euro31,370 (A4 2.0 TDI quattro) and Euro32,970 (A4 Avant 2.0 TDI quattro).
The 1.9 TDI with 85 kW (115 bhp) for the A4 and A4 Avant can now also be fitted with a diesel particulate filter. Prices in Germany start at Euro26,970 (A4 1.9 TDI) and Euro28,570 (A4 Avant 1.9 TDI).
This means that Audi now offers a diesel particulate filter as an option or as standard in Germany for its four-cylinder 1.9 and 2.0 TDI and six-cylinder 2.7 and 3.0 TDI models, in other words for the most popular diesel engine versions of the A4 model line.
A4 DTM Edtition set to be launched
The Audi A4 DTM Edition is about to be launched: Audi partners will be taking orders for this special model developed by quattro GmbH from 20 May onwards. The Audi A4 DTM Edition is a throwback to Audi's successes in the DTM championship: in the 2004 season Audi picked up all three titles on offer. The Audi A4 DTM Edition with 6-speed manual gearbox and front-wheel drive will cost Euro38,550. The 6-speed manual gearbox version of the DTM Edition in combination with quattro four-wheel drive is to costEuro40,650.
The A4 DTM Edition is aimed at customers who want to further accentuate the already sporty orientation of the series-production models. quattro GmbH presented a study of the DTM Edition of the new A4 at the Essen Motor Show in November last year. The overwhelming reaction reinforced the developers in their decision to introduce the study vehicle into series production.
The Audi A4 DTM Edition is powered by the new 2.0 TFSI engine. The power of this direct injection engine with turbocharger was especially boosted for the new model from 200 bhp to 220 bhp, and torque was increased from 280 Nm to 300 Nm. This power unit sees quattro GmbH continuing the tradition of 4-cylinder turbo engines with increased power output. The 20 bhp increase in power output was achieved on the A4 DTM Edition by selective modifications such as new pistons, modified turbochargers and an appropriately adapted engine management system.
And in conjunction with the newly graduated transmission, this results in impressive performance figures: the DTM Edition accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h within the space of 7.1 seconds, and top speed is achieved at 247 km/h. Overall fuel consumption amounts to 8.1 litres per 100 kilometres.
The quattro GmbH S line sports suspension system, which lowers the body by 20 millimetres and includes firmer shock absorber/spring rates, reflects the engine's gain in output. The A4 DTM Edition is fitted with 18-inch wheels of 15-spoke design which are based stylistically on the wheels of the DTM racing car. In contrast to standard specification, the front brake discs are perforated.
The special model is based on the new Audi A4 saloon, but boasts a more dynamic appearance. The exterior of the Audi A4 DTM Edition is distinguished by the new side sills and the DTM logo on the rubbing strips of the rear doors. The striking single-frame radiator grille is in Phantom Black, and as an option, the exterior mirrors are also available in Phantom Black at no extra charge. The newly developed front bumper is distinguished by a striking black carbon-fibre lip at the bottom, derived from the field of motor sport. Additional air vents at the front and rear provide another sporty touch to the car.
The Audi A4 DTM Edition is recognisable from the rear by its newly-designed bumper and an additional carbon-fibre spoiler lip on the luggage compartment lid. The exhaust system tailpipes with an increased diameter of 100 mm and the rear diffuser, derived from motorsport, are striking elements of the rear view.
The interior of the car is sportily elegant in trim. Door sill trims with the DTM logo distinguish the Audi A4 DTM Edition, as do the floor mats with silver piping and DTM logo. The seat surfaces of the Recaro sports seats are trimmed with Nardia microfibre, the side sections with leather. Silver stitching provides a distinctive visual feature. Leather and Nardia microfibre are also to be found on the trim of the 3-spoke steering wheel, with Nardia additionally being a trim element of the handbrake handle and the gear lever knob. The dashboard and door trims sport carbon inlays, a familiar feature on the Audi S4.
Standard equipment of the Audi A4 DTM Edition includes deluxe automatic air conditioning, full-size front airbags, side airbags at the front and the sideguard head airbag system, along with the latest-generation ESP and active head restraints.
