What's the news?
It's midlife model facelift time for the current-gen Audi A4, which launched in late 2015. New looks and technology mark the updated A4 out, but the big news is that some of the selected drivetrains will feature mild hybrid (MHEV) technology.
Exterior
The facelifted A4 is denoted by a broader and shallowed Singleframe grille, which is flanked by LED headlights as standard on all models that have a new design of daytime running lamp. Two sharp creases on the Audi's shoulders replace the single swage line of the pre-facelift models, while both the front and rear feature strong horizontal lines to emphasise the width of the A4. There are 12 paint colours to choose from, including new Terra Grey, and these changes affect almost all of the A4 family: namely, the saloon, the Avant, the allroad and the S4.
Interior
A fresh interior design sees an 8.8-inch MMI touchscreen taking centre stage in the dashboard, with the instrument panel slightly angled towards the driver. It is said to have improved connectivity and functionality to the previous A4's infotainment, with features like Audi Connect Key allowing owners to lock/unlock the vehicles and even start the engine using their smartphone. Additions to the tech roster include a Tour Package, which employs Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop&Go functionality.
Mechanicals
The 2.0-litre TFSI four-cylinder petrol engine in the facelifted A4s will features 12-volt MHEV tech, which reduces fuel consumption by up to 0.3 litres/100km in operation. All updated A4s employ turbocharged petrol and diesel units, which are in the main four-pot motors; only the S4 has a V6. However, like its bigger S5, S6 and S7 siblings, and as with the SQ5 Mk2, the S4 is now a turbodiesel with 354hp and 700Nm. All other engines make at least 136hp, leading to 30 TDI and 35 TFSI badging at the base levels, and all of them meet Euro 6d-temp emissions standards. Almost all models will be automatics (either seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch or eight-speed Tiptronic torque-converter transmissions), but a six-speed manual will be available on the base TFSI. Drive goes to the front wheels or, on quattro variants, to all four corners.
Anything else?
The new Audi A4 will be available to order here from autumn 2019. For more details check out the Audi Ireland website.