Audi A4: Quick facts for the US model

[audidriver4ever]

Here's a nice quick reference for the US specs of the new Audi A4. Comes handy!

Design
• Sporty proportions and muscular stance due to longer, wider, and lower dimensions
• Reduced front overhang adds to visual sportiness.
• Typical Audi interior design is modern and sophisticated, with clear attention to detail
• Drag coefficient reduced from 0.31 to 0.27

Dynamics
• New modular chassis architecture with longer wheelbase and wider track
• Extensive use of new ultra-high-strength steels increase rigidity of the body while also reducing weight (from B7)
• Repositioned clutch / torque-converter for more forward position of front axle
o Better agility and turn in
o Better axle load distribution
o Shorter front overhang
o Longer wheelbase = more comfortable ride
• New front and rear suspension designs are mostly aluminum to reduce unsprung weight
• Repositioned steering rack, lower and closer to the wheel carriers for lower center of gravity and more direct steering control/feedback

Powertrain
• 3.2L V6 with FSI direct injection and Audi Valvelift System (AVS)
• 265hp – 243 lb-ft (3000-5000 rpm)
• 0-62mph in 6.2 seconds (EU data)
• AVS uses lower cam for efficiency, higher cam for power; increases fuel economy 5%
• Reduced frictional losses compared to previous 3.2, which increases fuel economy by 5%
• Standard 6-speed Tiptronic (new fast-shifting design)
• quattro AWD – latest generation with asymmetric torque split (40/60)
• 3.2 quattro at launch, other powertrain offerings to be announced later that may also be available at launch.

Innovations and available features
• MMI operating logic standard (with central display screen)
• Audi Drive Select – varies the engine, transmission, steering, and suspension damping characteristics to suit the driver’s preferences
• Self-opening trunk lid
• Audi Intelligent Key – stores service information in the key
• Advanced Key keyless entry and starting
• Bluetooth hands-free telephone interface
• Bi-xenon headlamps with LED daytime running lights
• Audi Parking System rear with rearview camera
• Electromechanical parking brake
• DVD-based Navigation system
• Audi Side Assist lane change assistant
• Bang & Olufsen 505W 14-speaker sound system
• Tiptronic 6-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel shift paddles.

Source: Fourtitude

[MojaveA4]

Thanks for the info

[AKaess]

so is the 3.2 the only engine that is going to be offered in the US model at first?

[Tiesto]

so is the 3.2 the only engine that is going to be offered in the US model at first?

"3.2 quattro at launch, other powertrain offerings to be announced later that may also be available at launch"

Does self-opening trunk lid mean it pops up automatically? Also do you guys think there will be significant improvement on the redesigned "fast-shifting" tiptronic?

[toaster]

does audi put the asymmetric quattro on autos now?

considering how good of a job audi did with dsg in the 3/tt i trust their new tip system will have significantly improved manual shift times and smoother auto shifts.

[Noffy]

I think the fast shifting comments mean that is will be their DSG transmission. Just modified for use on the A4.

It is my understanding that indeed the first launch will only include the 3.2 V6 with Automatic transmission wth DSG.

more powertrains and transmissions to follow including a manual and an improved 2.0T.

[DeMOROlized]

does audi put the asymmetric quattro on autos now?

considering how good of a job audi did with dsg in the 3/tt i trust their new tip system will have significantly improved manual shift times and smoother auto shifts.

If by asymmetric quattro you mean a 40F/60R torque split then yes, all B8 cars are set up that way.

[DeMOROlized]

Thanks for the info.

[DeMOROlized]

I think the fast shifting comments mean that is will be their DSG transmission. Just modified for use on the A4.

It is my understanding that indeed the first launch will only include the 3.2 V6 with Automatic transmission wth DSG.

more powertrains and transmissions to follow including a manual and an improved 2.0T.

No, the fast shifting comment isn't referring to the DSG. It's the same old Tiptronic, just faster. DSG is called S-tronic.

Longitudinal DSG is rumored to launch with the Q5, at the NY auto show.

[EuroB6]

yes, DSG is called S-tronice

[TooLow2.0T]

265 hp in the 3.2L is good news. That leaves plenty of room to bump the 2.0T to 220-230 hp.

[Blake P]

Anybody know the wheel offset?

[EUROTEK//S4]

when will the B8 A4 be on the AUDI USA website ?

[Toast]

2.0t will get 211 hp

[TooLow2.0T]

2.0t will get 211 hp

That's it!? Where'd you hear that?

[*B8]

That's it!? Where'd you hear that?
not sure about the horepower, some say it is 210, other say it would be arounf 220 or even 230.

the new B8 is lighter than previous model, so even a 210hp would provide improved hp/kg.

[Toast]

everything is purely 'rumor' since until the engine lands on US soil anything can happen but this is what ive been reading

new 2.0 block on EA888 power plant
direct injections
variable valve timing/lift systems
4 valves
timing chain :)
211 hp / 221 tq

weight / hp ratio
b6 A4 3400 / 180 = 18.8
b8 A4 3200 / 210 = 15.2
bmw 335 3500/300 = 11.6

[Flighttester]

Yesterday (Presidents Day) I ordered a new ('08) A4 with the 3.2 engine and the six speed manual box.

As I was driving home from the dealer, the salesman called on my cell phone to advise me that the car (which was predicted to be delivered (ordered from Europe) in 60 to 90 days), would be an '08 if built before April (not likely) or an '09 if built in April or after (more likely).

I had heard that the '09 model would not be (initially) available in the USA with the 3.2 engine and the manual gearbox. I don't know what that would mean regarding my order. I don't want a slushbox car, regardless of what engine it has.

Does anyone know if they might now intend to offer the car with a six-speed manual after all?

I would assume it would not be a DSG transmission, which I just might consider. But, never a slushbox.

No manual gearbox, no Audi for me.

[Blake P]

Yesterday (Presidents Day) I ordered a new ('08) A4 with the 3.2 engine and the six speed manual box.

As I was driving home from the dealer, the salesman called on my cell phone to advise me that the car (which was predicted to be delivered (ordered from Europe) in 60 to 90 days), would be an '08 if built before April (not likely) or an '09 if built in April or after (more likely).

I had heard that the '09 model would not be (initially) available in the USA with the 3.2 engine and the manual gearbox. I don't know what that would mean regarding my order. I don't want a slushbox car, regardless of what engine it has.

Does anyone know if they might now intend to offer the car with a six-speed manual after all?

I would assume it would not be a DSG transmission, which I just might consider. But, never a slushbox.

No manual gearbox, no Audi for me.

I'm surprised to hear that they'd be starting production on the B8 so early. I have a feeling your dealer is just being cautious, though I'd be very happy if Audi does decide to push up the release dates for the B8 to summer instead of fall.

[DeMOROlized]

Yesterday (Presidents Day) I ordered a new ('08) A4 with the 3.2 engine and the six speed manual box.

As I was driving home from the dealer, the salesman called on my cell phone to advise me that the car (which was predicted to be delivered (ordered from Europe) in 60 to 90 days), would be an '08 if built before April (not likely) or an '09 if built in April or after (more likely).

I had heard that the '09 model would not be (initially) available in the USA with the 3.2 engine and the manual gearbox. I don't know what that would mean regarding my order. I don't want a slushbox car, regardless of what engine it has.

Does anyone know if they might now intend to offer the car with a six-speed manual after all?

I would assume it would not be a DSG transmission, which I just might consider. But, never a slushbox.

No manual gearbox, no Audi for me.

B8 A4 in US definitely won't be 08 model. With scheduled released date to be early fall, I'd be surprised if any US spec car is built before June. My guess is that the salesman just want to lock you in on a deal now.

As for DSG, you are right. No DSG yet.

[Flighttester]

B8 A4 in US definitely won't be 08 model. With scheduled released date to be early fall, I'd be surprised if any US spec car is built before June. My guess is that the salesman just want to lock you in on a deal now.

As for DSG, you are right. No DSG yet.

No, I don't think he wanted to 'lock me in' since he is more likely to lose me than to keep me if I can't get an car with a manual gearbox and I was already 'locked in' (I put $1000 down to get the order going) when he found out about the April change-over date.

But, in late breaking news, tbe AUDI salesman called this afternoon and said the sales group thought the car would be given a line number before April so it is likely to be able to fulfil the order as requested.

Since A4 quattro's with manual gearboxes are impossible to find around here, I drove a manual-equipped '07 A4 2.0T FWD to 'feel' the gearbox and an Audi TT (totally different car) 3.2 V-6 (totally different engine) with the SMG gearbox (totally different gearbox) to feel the engine.

DSG was interesting but it seems like it is a rather expensive option that I could easily do without.

You really got to want an AUDI with that kind of dealer support.

But, in fairness, the BMW store was just as poorly equipped with manual gearbox cars to show or sell and even less equipped with AWD versions of same. Add in the lack of a spare tire on the BMW and it was a no-go item for me.

[Flighttester]

Here's a nice quick reference for the US specs of the new Audi A4. Comes handy!

Design
• Sporty proportions and muscular stance due to longer, wider, and lower dimensions
• Reduced front overhang adds to visual sportiness.
• Typical Audi interior design is modern and sophisticated, with clear attention to detail
• Drag coefficient reduced from 0.31 to 0.27

Dynamics
• New modular chassis architecture with longer wheelbase and wider track
• Extensive use of new ultra-high-strength steels increase rigidity of the body while also reducing weight (from B7)
• Repositioned clutch / torque-converter for more forward position of front axle
o Better agility and turn in
o Better axle load distribution
o Shorter front overhang
o Longer wheelbase = more comfortable ride
• New front and rear suspension designs are mostly aluminum to reduce unsprung weight
• Repositioned steering rack, lower and closer to the wheel carriers for lower center of gravity and more direct steering control/feedback

Powertrain
• 3.2L V6 with FSI direct injection and Audi Valvelift System (AVS)
• 265hp – 243 lb-ft (3000-5000 rpm)
• 0-62mph in 6.2 seconds (EU data)
• AVS uses lower cam for efficiency, higher cam for power; increases fuel economy 5%
• Reduced frictional losses compared to previous 3.2, which increases fuel economy by 5%
• Standard 6-speed Tiptronic (new fast-shifting design)
• quattro AWD – latest generation with asymmetric torque split (40/60)
• 3.2 quattro at launch, other powertrain offerings to be announced later that may also be available at launch.

Innovations and available features
• MMI operating logic standard (with central display screen)
• Audi Drive Select – varies the engine, transmission, steering, and suspension damping characteristics to suit the driver’s preferences
• Self-opening trunk lid
• Audi Intelligent Key – stores service information in the key
• Advanced Key keyless entry and starting
• Bluetooth hands-free telephone interface
• Bi-xenon headlamps with LED daytime running lights
• Audi Parking System rear with rearview camera
• Electromechanical parking brake
• DVD-based Navigation system
• Audi Side Assist lane change assistant
• Bang & Olufsen 505W 14-speaker sound system
• Tiptronic 6-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel shift paddles.

Source: Fourtitude

I'm not so sure I'd really want a 'self opening trunk lid'. I'd rather I choose when it opens myself.
[:D]

[a2gtinut]

Flighttester- I am sure you ordered B7 which is 08 for US.
also the info about B8 is missing - RUN FLAT TIRES.

[Tiesto]

^
Amazing how someone could put down a $1000 on an order and not even know what year model it's for!

[Curt941]

Is it going to be available with DSG?

[DeMOROlized]

Is it going to be available with DSG?

Not initially.

[norcatalyst126]

I came across this article today..... http://elkgroveaudi.sensibledriver.com/newcar/index.php

It looks like there is going to be an N/A 2.0 and an inline 2.0T....along with the 3.2.....

[Blake P]

I came across this article today..... http://elkgroveaudi.sensibledriver.com/newcar/index.php

It looks like there is going to be an N/A 2.0 and an inline 2.0T....along with the 3.2.....

That article refers to the 2008 B7, not the 2009 B8.

[norcatalyst126]

That article refers to the 2008 B7, not the 2009 B8.

You're right my bad....I swear in the email I got with this info it said something about B8.....Apparently my eyes were deceiving me.....[headbang][headbang][headbang]

[Flighttester]

^
Amazing how someone could put down a $1000 on an order and not even know what year model it's for!

What I put money down for was for a B7 ('08) model. I hope to get that and if I can't, I expect my money back.

At the moment, they are still waiting to determine if the car I ordered can actually still be built, or not.

If not, I'll be keeping the X-Type for a while yet or look elsewhere. No '08 A4 cars equipped like I want are available anywhere in the USA.

Of that, I am certain.

Nothing much other than 2.0T's on the lot here and every one of those is a slushbox.

[Mark]

still waiting on the B8 TDI . . . that's my ticket.

[Tiesto]

Amazing how the Euros complain about how they want the petrol engines and now more Americans SEEM to want the TDI. What's wrong with the 2.0T?

[Monizzle]

^^absolutely nothing! it out shines the 1.8t in every regard. i would go far as saying it is one of their best engines.

[blur510]

found out

[Flighttester]

It's been a long time since I last posted.

Since then, I have taken delivery of my B7 A4.

After more than a month after I initially placed the order to have one built in Germany, the dealer recieved word that the B7 like I ordered would not be available anymore.

I was told I could order the B8 but it would be a while till it would actually be delivered.

I then asked if the B8 would be available with essentially the same hardware (3.2 V-6, six-speed manual, Titanium Package, Convenience Group, S-Line interior, cold weather package, and various other options.

Yes to all (probably) except that the 3.2 was not available with the manual gearbox (in the USA) anymore.

I told him thanks, but no thanks.

I was working away from home in Lawrence, Kansas at the time and, the next day I got another call from the dealer telling me they 'found' an A4 with most of the features I had ordered. It was located in Riverside, California (Walters AUDI). I said, "Great. I have to go to Van Nuys in a couple weeks to deliver an aircraft. If you can arainge it, I could pick it up there and drive it all the way back to Tulsa... Make a little road trip out of it."

The salesman, who is a pretty nice guy said that there were laws in Oklahoma that prohibit Oklahoma dealers from making off-lot deals, said it was an old outdated law from the '40's. But, I could get the car and they would ship it to Tulsa (at no added cost to me.). I said I'd be home in a day or two and I'd stop by the dealer and we'd talk about it.

Next day, the salesman called my cell phone again and said Mr. Noe, the owner of the dealership said it would be possible for me to take delivery of the car in California at the location of the shipper, if I wanted to do that. Hmmm..., that did sound interesting, so I checked if I could take my wife along on the trip to deliver the new King Air 90 GTi (a twin turboprop personal aircraft) we had been using for flighttesting to get design data for a flight simulator. Yes, he said, that would be alright, as long as the plane isn't carrying passengers while it is still 'experimental'.

To cut to the chase, I made the trip to California, picked up the new AUDI A4 and drove it back to Tulsa, via Edwards AFB, Mojave, Cal., an overnight in Las Vegas, the next three days in Westminster, California (Denver suburb where my youngest daughter lives) and then on to Tulsa.

The car is excellent. I hoped it would be as good as the BMW 328Xi I had originally planned to get but decided against because I didn't like the fact it had no spare tire on board and no place to put one.

I didn't expect it to handle so well, feel better than the BMW and look lots better too.

I put over 2000 miles on the car in less about four days and I loved every mile.

I'm sold on the A4. It shifts like a dream and has more than power to spare.

And, unlike the 200T model, you don't need to add a 'chip' to find it.