The History Of AUDI A4


The Audi A4 is a compact executive car produced by the German automaker Audi since 1994. The first generation A4 succeeded the Audi 80.

It is available as a saloon/ sedan or a estate/ wagon (Audi calls it the "Avant"). The 2nd (B6) and 3rd generations (B7) of the A4 also had a Cabriolet version, which was not retained for the 4th generation (B8), due to the introduction of the related A5 coupé/ cabriolet.

The first-generation Audi A4 (known internally as the Typ 8D) was debuted by Audi in 1994 on the Volkswagen B5 platform, which it shared with the fourth generation Volkswagen Passat. It had a longitudinal engine and standard front-wheel drive, although many of the A4 owners selected the optional quattro four-wheel drive system. The A4 was initially introduced as a four-door saloon/ sedan; the Avant (estate/ wagon) arrived a year later.

A wide range of engines were available to European customers, between 1.6 and 2.8litres, and a 1.9L Diesel available with VW's new "Pumpe Düse" (PD, or unit injector) technology, capable of achieving a then high power value of 110PS (81kW), although Audi's 2.8L V6, carried over from the old 80/ 90 was the only engine option in North America until 1997.

The Audi A4 was the first model in the Volkswagen Group to feature the new 1.8L 20V motor with five valves per cylinder, based on the unit Audi Sport had developed for their Supertouring race car. A turbocharged version produced 150PS (110kW) and 210Nm (155ft·lbf.) of torque. This technology was added to the V6 family in 1996, starting with the 2.8L V6 30V, which now produced 193PS (142kW).

Audi also debuted their new Tiptronic transmission on the B5 platform, based on the unit Porsche developed for their 964-generation 911. The transmission is a conventional automatic gearbox with a torque converter, but it offers the driver a choice of driving the car as either a fully automatic operation or with a manual override of the gear ratios.

B5 facelift (1998–2001)

A refreshed B5 A4 range appeared at the 1997 Frankfurt Motor Show, with sales beginning in Europe in early 1998. Besides the introduction of a 2.8L 30-valve V6 (replacing the 2.8L 12-valve), the most important additions to the range were the 2.5L V6 TDI diesel engine with 150PS (110kW) and standard quattro, and a six-speed gearbox, as well the new high-performance S4, now part of the A4 lineup (the previous S4 had been an Audi 100). New taillights, headlights, door handles, and other minor exterior/ interior changes rounded out the cosmetic updates.

In mid 1998, the 1.8T engine available outside Europe had its power output raised to 170PS (125kW). The previous KKK KO3 turbocharger although fundamentally unchanged did receive some revisions on the turbine side to prevent cracking due to heat. The 12-valve V6 was replaced by the 30-valve unit that had been available in Europe for two years. In 1999, Audi debuted an even higher performance RennSport model, the RS4 Avant, like its predecessor RS2 available only in the Avant bodystyle.

Safety

The Audi A4 (B5) received 3 stars for front- and side-impact protection, but the last star is flagged to indicate that the driver may be subjected to a high risk of chest injury in the side impact.

  • Adult occupant =
  • Pedestrian = (pre 2002 rating)

A4-derived hybrid version

In 1997 Audi was the first European car manufacturer to put a hybrid vehicle into series production, the third generation Audi duo, then based on the A4 Avant.

Engine choices

The following engines are available:

An all-new A4, internally designated Typ 8E, debuted in late 2000, now riding on the all new Volkswagen B6 (PL46) platform. The car's new styling was inspired on the C5 (second-generation) Audi A6. The 1.6L base model remained unchanged, but most other petrol/ gasoline engines received either displacement increases, or power upgrades. The 1.8L 20-valve Turbo was now available in two additional versions, with 150 or 180PS (110 or 132kW), this one with a standard six-speed gearbox, while the naturally aspirated 1.8L straight-4 and 2.8L V6 were replaced by 2.0L and all-aluminium 3.0L units, still with five valves per cylinder, the most powerful of which was capable of 220PS (162kW) and 300Nm (221ft·lbf) of torque. The 1.9 TDI engine was upgraded to 130PS and was now available with quattro permanent four-wheel drive, while the 2.5 V6 TDI high-end model was introduced with 180PS (132kW) and standard quattro. The Avant arrived in mid 2001. This generation of quattro consists of default of 50:50 front to rear torque distribution, infinitely variable up to 25:75 or 75:25.

For 2002, Audi upgraded power in the 1.8 Turbo engines to 163 and 190PS (120 and 140kW respectively) - 190 designated by a red T, with both available with quattro, and in the 2.5 TDI intermediate version to 163PS. A 2.0 engine with Fuel Stratified Injection was also available. A year later, Audi reintroduced the S4, now powered by a 344PS (253kW) 4.2L V8 engine, as well as an A4 Cabriolet convertible variant (Typ 8H), finally replacing the 80-based Audi Cabriolet that had been discontinued in 1998. It included an electro-hydraulic operated hood, which lowered in under 30 seconds and incorporated some styling changes which eventually found their way to the saloon version (such as body-colored lower bumper and sill panels).

Audi also introduced a continuously variable transmission developed by LuK, named multitronic, which replaced the Tiptronic on front-wheel drive models. The transmission won considerable praise from the automotive press, and is generally regarded as being the best of its type in the world, due to its light weight and promptness in response, but its use was limited to models with a maximum of 310Nm (229ft·lbf).

Borrowing from the Audi A6, the boot was redesigned to remove the extension of the top edge with a smoother fold line, and the taillight assembly now forms part of the top line.

An "Ultra sport package" named Ultra Sport was introduced in the North American market shortly before the B6 was replaced by the B7. It included aluminium interior trim and door sills, "S line" steering wheel, front and rear spoilers, side valence and 18-inch (460mm) RS4 wheels.

Engines

Safety

The Audi A4 (B6) passed the Euro NCAP crash tests, and was awarded the following car safety ratings:

  • Adult occupant =
  • Pedestrian = (pre 2002 rating)

Audi introduced a heavily revised A4 in late 2004, with the internal designation of B7. However, this new range A4 still utilised the existing Volkswagen B6 (PL46) platform, a chassis derived from the outgoing B6, but enjoyed heavily revised steering settings, suspension geometry, new engine ranges, navigation systems and chassis electronics (a new advanced Bosch 8.0 ESP system). Audi's internal platform nomenclature uses PL46 (longitudinal passenger car platform, size 4, generation 6) for both B6 and B7 chassis. The Typ 8E and 8H internal designations are also unchanged from the B6 A4.

The engine lineup received many additions. The 2005 introduction of Fuel Stratified Injection (FSI) on the 2.0 TFSI and 3.2 V6 FSI petrol/ gasoline engines, as well as other refinements, increased power output to 200 and 255PS (147 and 188kW), respectively. These engines both implement a four-valve per cylinder design. The prior 5-valve design was incompatible with the FSI direct injection system. The 2.0 TDI diesel engine now combines Pumpe Düse (PD) technology with 16 valves for the first time, while the larger 2.5 TDI was increased to 3.0L, offering 204PS (150kW). quattro permanent four-wheel drive remained available on most A4 models. Audi retired its 5-speed manual transmissions in favour of a 6-speed. As before, multitronic transmission is available on front-wheel drive models, while a 6-speed Tiptronic transmission is available on quattro four-wheel drive models.

In addition to the higher-performance S4, which carried over the powertrain of the B6 S4, Audi has reintroduced the ultra-high performance RS4 (RS for RennSport) to the lineup, for the first time on the saloon/ sedan and Cabriolet body and with a normally aspirated 4.2 V8 FSI engine. Another notable inclusion is the 3rd-generation Torsen T-3 quattro system, which uses a 'default' asymmetric 40:60 front-rear torque distribution (this new asymmetric centre differential was only available initially on the RS4, and later, on the S4. The remainder of the A4 range still utilised the 50:50 split diff). A limited edition variant first introduced in late 2005, named "DTM Edition", was reintroduced in 2006 as a regular option, the 2.0T FSI engine now engineered to 220PS (162kW) with standard quattro. The front grill assembly has changed to be a tall trapezoidal shape in the same manner as the C6 (third-generation) Audi A6.

The B7 Cabriolet model arrived later than the other two body variants, with sales beginning in February 2006. Brand new on the Cabriolet was an entry-level 2.0 TDI version, but to date this is not being offered with the Multitronic gearbox.

The Audi A4 offers many safety features, including side airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), Electronic Stabilization Programme, and its optional quattro four-wheel drive. It also received the IIHS "Top Safety Pick For 2007".

According to 2007 Swedish vehicle inspection data, the A4 Avant with diesel engine is the most reliable vehicle available on the market, with vehicle inspection rejection rate of 0.0% in 3 year old category.

The B7 series A4 was facelifted and rebadged as the SEAT Exeo in 2008, with styling changes to the front and rear, also incorporating interior trim from the A4 Cabriolet.

Engines

Audi released the first official pictures of the B8 series A4 in August 2007, and unveiled the car to the public at the September 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show. Saloon/ sedan and Avant (estate/ wagon) models are offered. The Avant was unveiled to the public at the March 2008 Geneva Auto Show.

The B8 A4 is built on a variant of the Audi Modular Longitudinal Platform, a platform which is also used in the Audi A5 coupé. Whilst prior A4 chassis were limited in wheelbase due to the relationship between the engine, transmission and front axle, the MLP allows for a reduced front overhang, resulting in a greater wheelbase length without the same increase in overall length. This effectively redistributes the center of gravity slightly rearwards, improving handling by better balancing vehicle mass between the front and rear axles. The estimated static front:rear weight ratio of the B8 A4 is approximately 55:45, depending on body style and engine. The relocation of the steering rack in front of the axle also improves handling over previous A4 platforms.

The B8 A4 has increased in length by 117mm (4.6in) over the prior B7, which has allowed for increased rear seating legroom. Although the overall dimensions have increased, the curb weight has dropped some 10%. The boot (trunk) has also increased to 480litres (17 cu ft) for the saloon (sedan) version. The A4 Avant will have a maximum capacity of 1,430 litres with the rear seats folded down.

A long wheelbase version called the A4L was launched for the China market in November 2008 with a 60mm (2.4in) longer wheelbase and 50mm (2.0in) longer length.

Significant new features have been developed for the B8. As standard the A4 includes:

  • LED daytime running lights (on some models);
  • MMI system (Multi Media Interface) (multi-mode interface of driver information and entertainment systems);
  • Electronic park brake
  • Speed sensitive steering (servotronic - on some models)

Options:

  • Audi Lane Assist (Lane departure warning system);
  • Audi Side Assist (blind spot warning system);
  • Adaptive cruise control;
  • Advanced Key (keyless entry and start);
  • Bang & Olufsen sound system (505W);
  • Advanced parking system front and rear plus reversing camera;
  • Navigation system with full MMI with 7 inch screen;
  • Adaptive headlights (Cornering technology);
  • Audi Drive Select;

Powertrain

  • 1.8 litre (1798 cc) 16-valve I4 (petrol/ gasoline); 120PS (88kW); top speed: 208km/ h (129mph); 0-100 km/ h; 10.4 s; 7.1L/ 100km (40mpg-imp; 33mpg-US)[clarification needed]
  • 1.8 litre (1798 cc) 16-valve I4 (petrol/ gasoline); 160PS (118kW); top speed: 225km/ h (140mph); 0-100 km/ h; 8.6 s; 7.1L/ 100km (40mpg-imp; 33mpg-US)
  • 2.0 litre (1984 cc) 16-valve I4 (petrol/ gasoline); 180PS (132kW); top speed: 236km/ h (147mph); 0-100 km/ h; 7.9 s; 6.6L/ 100km (43mpg-imp; 36mpg-US)
  • 2.0 litre (1984 cc) 16-valve I4 (petrol/ gasoline); 211PS (155kW); top speed: 250km/ h (155mph); 0-100 km/ h; 6.9 s; 6.6L/ 100km (43mpg-imp; 36mpg-US)
  • 3.2 litre (3197 cc) 24-valve V6 (petrol/ gasoline); 265PS (195kW); top speed: 250km/ h (155mph); 0-100 km/ h; 6.2 s; 8.9L/ 100km (32mpg-imp; 26mpg-US)
  • 2.0 litre (1968 cc) 16-valve TDI I4 (diesel); 120PS (88kW); top speed: 205km/ h (127mph); 0-100 km/ h; 10.7 s; 5.1L/ 100km (55mpg-imp; 46mpg-US)
  • 2.0 litre (1968 cc) 16-valve TDI I4 (diesel); 143PS (105kW); top speed: 215km/ h (134mph); 0-100 km/ h; 9.4 s; 5.3L/ 100km (53mpg-imp; 44mpg-US)
  • 2.0 litre (1968 cc) 16-valve TDI I4 (diesel); 170PS (125kW); top speed: 230km/ h (143mph); 0-100 km/ h; 8.3 s; 5.3L/ 100km (53mpg-imp; 44mpg-US)
  • 2.7 litre (2698 cc) 24-valve TDI V6 (diesel); 190PS (140kW); top speed: 239km/ h (149mph); 0-100 km/ h; 7.9 s; 6.0L/ 100km (47mpg-imp; 39mpg-US)
  • 3.0 litre (2967 cc) 24-valve TDI V6 (diesel); 239PS (176kW); top speed: 250km/ h (155mph); 0-100 km/ h; 6.1 s; 6.6L/ 100km (43mpg-imp; 36mpg-US)

3.2L V6 petrol (gasoline) and 3.0L V6 diesel engines come with the quattro permanent four-wheel drive system, now with a default 40:60 front to rear asymmetric torque distribution ratio (used on the B7 RS4) as standard. Previous A4 quattro models split torque with a default front:rear 50:50. The additional torque applied to the rear wheels helps mimic the driving dynamics of rear wheel drive cars.

Safety

The Audi A4 (B8) passed the Euro NCAP crash tests, and was awarded the following car safety ratings:

  • Adult occupant =
  • Child occupant =
  • Pedestrian =

Audi Sport re-entered the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters (DTM) series in 2004 (after having privateer teams run the Abt Sportsline TT-R) with a V8 engined silhouette racing car resembling the A4, known as the A4 DTM.

In the past, Audi had used a V8 engine in the series with the original Audi V8 quattro, but had opted for a highly tuned V8 which Audi had no resources for. So Honda was contacted; at the time they had been using V8s in Indy Racing League (IRL). Audi wanted a similar package in performance and reliability, so Honda and Mugen (M-Tec) got together and decided to let Audi use the Mugen/ Honda MF308 V8 engine. The only improvements made to the racing engine by Audi was shaving weight off the crankshaft since the engine had already been designed from the ground up. Audi Sport prepped tested/ implemented/ approved and raced the engine in 2004, which produced 460bhp (343kW; 466PS) and over 500N·m (370ft·lbf) of torque in 4.0 litre trim, and has been a mainstay in Audi's DTM programme.

A4 DTM cars are identified by Audi Sport R-series designations. The following variants have been produced:

R11 (2004)

The Audi R11 DTM car resembled the B6 bodystyle of the Audi A4.

R12 (2005-2006)

The Audi R12 DTM car resembled the B7 bodystyle of the Audi A4. The R12 was revised for the 2006 season as the R12+.

R13 (2007)

The Audi R13 DTM car also resembled the B7 bodystyle of the Audi A4.

  • Engine: 4.0 Litre 90° V8 engine
  • Power: 460bhp (343kW; 466PS)
  • Torque: over 500N·m (370ft·lbf)
  • Gearbox: Xtrac or Hewland 6-speed
  • Chassis: Space frame developed by Dallara
  • Tyres: Dunlop Race Tyres
  • Front: 265/ 660-R18
  • Rear: 280/ 660-R18

R14 (2008)

The Audi R14 DTM car resembles the latest B8 bodystyle of the Audi A4, and includes the LED daytime running lights.

  • Chassis: Space frame, carbon-fibre composite driver's safety cell, carbon fibre composite front and rear crash structures must be FIA/ DMSB approval safety cage.
  • Engine: Custom-built Audi V8 engine, 4.0 l, 90 degrees, 2xDOHC, 9.000 RPM rev, 4-valves per cylinder.
  • Pistons: Mahle.
  • Filter: Dow.
  • Power: 460bhp (343kW; 466PS).
  • Torque: over 500N·m (370ft·lbf).
  • ECU: Bosch MS 2.9.
  • Fuel: Aral Ultimate 100 RON unleaded.
  • Fuel delivery: Fuel injection.
  • Lubrication: Castrol, Shell Helix (#13 Alexandre Premat).
  • Gearbox: Hewland sequential 6-speed sports gear (DTM Standard).
  • Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive.
  • Bearings: SKF.
  • Grease/ Radiator fluid: Wurth.
  • Steering: Servo assisted rack and pinion steering.
  • Springs: Eibach.
  • Brakes: AP Racing hydraulic dual circuit brake system, light alloy brake calipers, front and rear ventilated carbon brake discs (DTM standard), driver adjustable infinitely variable brake-balance.
  • Wheels: OZ forged alumminium.
  • Front: 10 x 18 in.
  • Rear: 11 x 18 in.
  • Tyres: Dunlop SP Sport Maxx radial slick and treaded rain tires.
  • Front: 265/ 660-R18.
  • Rear: 280/ 660-R18.
  • Length: 4800 mm.
  • Width: 1850 mm.
  • Height: 1200 mm.
  • Wheelbase: 2795 mm.
  • Minimum weight: 1050 kg (including driver).
  • Fuel Capacity: 15.3 imperial gallons.
  • Safety equipment: Sabelt 6-point seatbelt, HANS Device.
  • Ignition: Audi/ Abt Sportsline CDI plug switchable on/ off engine.
  • Team: Audi Sport Team Abt Sportsline, Phoenix Racing, Team Rosberg, Futurecom TME.

In 2008, Audi announced a fuel-efficient A4 concept car, called the Audi A4 TDI concept e. This features a 2.0L diesel engine, a stop-start system and regenerative braking. It can achieve a fuel consumption of 3.99 L/ 100 km and CO2 output of 105 g/ km.




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