05 Mar 08
Here's the new Audi A4 Avant estate, on sale this summer.
Like the recently-launched A4 saloon, it has a redesigned chassis and suspension, an updated engine range and a new look inside and out.
The Avant gets the new daytime running lights, LED headlights with xenon beams, and a more macho look.
Its bonnet is longer, as is its wheelbase, but the front overhang is shorter. Now 4.7m long - nearly 12cm longer than the outgoing model - it has a load volume of up to 1430 litres with the rear seats folded. The boot is carpeted, and tail-end options include a load-through ski hatch with ski/snowboard bag, a powered tailgate and luggage-securing eyelets.
New features in the cabin include an electromechanical parking brake - no handbrake lever any more - and an all-new, more efficient climate control system, plus seats and headrests offering better protection in the event of a rear-end impact.
Engines for the new range are, initially, the 3.2 FSI (265bhp/243lb ft) and 1.8 TFSI (160bhp/184lb ft) petrols, and the 3.0 TDI (240bhp/369lb ft) and 2.0 TDI (143bhp/236lb ft and 170bhp/258lb ft) diesels.
The 3.2 is an updated version of the VW-Audi V6 with improved fuel consumption and performance. It takes the A4 Avant to 155mph and 0-60mph in 6.4 seconds.
The turbocharged 1.8 TFSI does 135mph and 0-60 in 8.9 seconds and the 3.0 TDI 155mph and 0-60 in 6.3 seconds. The 143bhp version of the 2.0 TDI does 129mph and 0-60 in 9.7 seconds and the 170bhp can do 140mph and 0-60 in 8.6 seconds.
Six-speed manual transmission is standard, with the Tiptronic auto optional in the 3.2 FSI and Audi's multitronic CVT in the 1.8 TFSI and 2.0 TDI.
The 3.2 FSI and 3.0 TDI have the Quattro full-time four-wheel-drive system, with optional Torsen (torque-sensing) differential to divert drive to the axle with the most traction. In normal road conditions the torque is divided in a 40:60 ratio front-rear.
Underbody modifications include a relocated steering box and new, more fuel-efficient steering servo pump, more rigid five-link front suspension with lighter-weight aluminium components, and a redesigned layout for the rear suspension, similar to that used in the A6 and A8. There'll be a choice of 16- and 17-inch alloy wheels.
The ESP stability control can be partially deactivated at speeds under 43.5mph, and the Drive Select Control system is optional. This gives different throttle responses, different gear-shift points in the tiptronic and multitronic gearboxes, varying power steering assistance and different steering wheel angles in selectable comfort, sport and average modes.
In models with the MMI (multi-media interface) control system, a fourth mode, with individually programmed preferences, can be selected. The Drive Select Control option works with adaptive shock absorbers and the sports suspension (lowered by 20mm) and the variable-ratio dynamic steering.
Final specification levels for the UK have not yet been announced, but items on offer will include lane assist and side assist hazard-warning systems, adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, iPod-compatible audio systems, a 14-speaker 505-watt Bang & Olufsen hi-fi, full Bluetooth kit, air-conditioned seats, triple-zone climate control, keyless entry/ignition, adaptive lighting and a panoramic glass sunroof.
Sales start in Germany and mainland Europe this spring, with UK sales of right-hand-drive models shortly after.
Check out the rest of our Geneva Motor Show coverage.
