Audi: A4, S4, RS4 News
05-29-2006, 02:41 PM
#602
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Nothing new, but still thought I'd post it.
http://www.wired.com/news/technology...l?tw=rss.index
http://www.wired.com/news/technology...l?tw=rss.index
Audi's 340-hp S4 sedan is one of the most desirable luxury sports cars -- an impeccable design teamed with V-8 firepower. But Audi's new RS 4 sedan is about to make the S4 look rinky-dink in comparison.
Until now, the S4 has been the hot-rod version of Audi's A4 sedan line -- one of the most popular and attractive entry-level luxury-sedan ranges on the market. All the A4 models -- A4, S4 and RS 4 -- have tasteful, straightforward exterior styling marked by big grilles and graceful proportions. But when it goes on sale in June with a base price of $66,000, the super-exclusive RS 4 will set new standards for souped-up midsize sedans.
The RS 4 won't necessarily turn any more heads than the S4 does; its styling cues are designed to be subtle, not extravagant. But the RS has a sharp exterior that hides a ferocious, 420-hp, 4.2-liter V-8 engine under its hood. While the S4 is for people seeking a hotter version of the A4, the RS 4 will be more of a limited-edition model designed for Audi enthusiasts, collectors of fine automobiles and people for whom exclusivity is a top priority. (See Forbes' RS 4 slide show).
Until now, the S4 has been the hot-rod version of Audi's A4 sedan line -- one of the most popular and attractive entry-level luxury-sedan ranges on the market. All the A4 models -- A4, S4 and RS 4 -- have tasteful, straightforward exterior styling marked by big grilles and graceful proportions. But when it goes on sale in June with a base price of $66,000, the super-exclusive RS 4 will set new standards for souped-up midsize sedans.
The RS 4 won't necessarily turn any more heads than the S4 does; its styling cues are designed to be subtle, not extravagant. But the RS has a sharp exterior that hides a ferocious, 420-hp, 4.2-liter V-8 engine under its hood. While the S4 is for people seeking a hotter version of the A4, the RS 4 will be more of a limited-edition model designed for Audi enthusiasts, collectors of fine automobiles and people for whom exclusivity is a top priority. (See Forbes' RS 4 slide show).
05-29-2006, 04:12 PM
#604
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Originally Posted by SeCsTaC
What seats do the U.S. get?
the steering wheel was changed due to air bag regulations.
06-29-2006, 06:33 PM
#606
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R&T Comparo of the RS4 with the Carerra 4S. The RS4 did:
Tested price = $68,820
0-60 = 4.3
1/4 mile = 12.8 @ 109.7mph
60-0 = 121 feet
Lateral Acc = 0.88g
R&T driving fuel consumption = 18mpg
Curb Weight = 3920 lbs
08-12-2006, 02:58 PM
#608
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Audi A4 - All New for 2008
Audi is counting down to the launch of its most important volume car, the new A4. Codenamed AU481, it rides on an all-new platform, which insiders vow transforms the car's dynamic abilities. Revised engines serve up more power and torque, too. The A4 family is set to grow, too, with a sleek Sportback hatch added to the staple saloon and Avant. First out of the blocks is the four-door, in autumn 2007.
Underpinning the A4 is an all-new platform, undergoing hot weather tests beneath this prototype. Dubbed MLP for ‘modulare längsplattform’ (modular platform for longitudinally mounted engines), this matrix is highly flexible. Modules for electronics, axles, drivetrains and suspensions are all interchangeable, allowing Audi to customise the architecture for each model. Its dimensions and content are so flexible, the MLP can support the 2007 A5 coupe and cabriolet, next A6 and new A8. And by pooling its cars, Audi will get huge economies of scale.
The MLP offers dynamic advantages, too. To improve handling (and safeguard pedestrians), the engine/gearbox are moved back towards the firewall, creating a front/mid-engine layout and cutting the front overhang. The transmission and differential swap places, too. Other changes include an all-new four-link front suspension and revised rear axle, a new steering rack, stronger brakes with a more pronounced rear wheel bias and a 40:60 torque split for quattro AWD models. The engineers claim this overhaul works wonders for ride and handling.
The engines have the latest fuel injection systems – direct injection for the petrols, common rail for the diesels. And there are three gearboxes: a six-speed manual, the Multitronic CVT, and the twin-clutch DSG gearbox (or S-tronic in Audi parlance). This gets an additional, seventh gear and can now handle 368lb ft of torque.
In a word, the new A4 looks stunning, as our computer generated images show. It's more dynamic and elegant than today's neat and handsome car. Reducing the front overhang by 150mm has dramatically improved the proportions. And the flanks and bonnet are more sculptured, the chunky rear end looks faster and the greenhouse has clear coupe overtones.
Audi plans to apply the A3 Sportback formula to the A4 platform. Due in autumn 2009, the A4 Sportback will be a sleek, five-door hatch, with heaps of interior flexibility to offer a good balance of people- and/or cargo-carrying. The Sportback will be a little shorter and less capacious than the Avant, and it gets a bespoke rear end.
Another possible bodystyle would be the Roadjet (pictured), Audi's concept at the 2006 Detroit Auto Show. It would be Audi's answer to the Vauxhall Signum, a tall-roof hatch that mounts its seats higher, boosting rear legroom and providing a more commanding driving position. However, the Roadjet is currently on ice, a decision influenced bythe disappointing initial sales of Mercedes' R-class MPV.
Despite the advent of the Sportback, the bigger Avant wagon continues to carry cargo. Due to go on sale in mid-2008, sources say the Avant looks even more sensational than the saloon. Audi is pondering an A4 Allroad, too, as air suspension is being plumbed into the MLP for A6 and A8 applications. Avant engines are the same as the saloon's, except the lowest power petrol and diesel are discounted.
145bhp 2.0-litre common-rail four diesel
170bhp 2.0-litre common-rail four diesel
190bhp 2.7-litre common-rail V6 diesel
240bhp 3.0-litre common-rail V6 diesel
115bhp 1.8-litre turbo four
120bhp 2.0-litre four
150bhp 1.8-litre turbo four
175bhp 2.0-litre turbo four
210bhp 2.0-litre turbo four
265bhp 3.2-litre V6 FSI
350bhp 4.2-litre V8 FSI (S4)
420bhp 4.2-litre V8 FSI (RS4)
The interior of the Roadjet was even more significant than its exterior, because its dashboard gave a sneak preview of the A4's. Expect its top-notch fit and finish and advanced surfacing to appear on the production car, along with a more intuitive MMI control system and redesigned, fully adjustable seats. Also on the cards are new convenience features like an MP3 player integrated in the ignition key, a personalized memory chip which works on all Audis (including rental cars) and a state-of-the-art sound system codeveloped with Bang & Olufsen. Naturally there's more space inside and a bigger boot, as the new A4 is bigger than the current model.
source - http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/secret_...?sid=74&page=1
08-12-2006, 05:30 PM
#610
Race Director
The A4 has been a good car for a long time - if Audi could just improve the reliability.
I assume one of those diesels will make it to the US also. I'm thinking the 170HP diesel would be the choice - offer that as a hybrid alternative.
I assume one of those diesels will make it to the US also. I'm thinking the 170HP diesel would be the choice - offer that as a hybrid alternative.
08-12-2006, 10:24 PM
#611
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Originally Posted by SeCsTaC
115bhp 1.8-litre turbo four
120bhp 2.0-litre four
120bhp 2.0-litre four
Originally Posted by SeCsTaC
150bhp 1.8-litre turbo four
175bhp 2.0-litre turbo four
I dont understand why the 2.0T would be so underrated in the A4. I'd expect 210HP minimum.
If the above two engines are true, then they would have to be destined for the Euro market only.
Originally Posted by SeCsTaC
210bhp 2.0-litre turbo four
Originally Posted by SeCsTaC
265bhp 3.2-litre V6 FSI
350bhp 4.2-litre V8 FSI (S4)
420bhp 4.2-litre V8 FSI (RS4)
08-13-2006, 01:53 PM
#615
Drifting
STUNNING looking car!
The CGI looks GREAT!
Now, if the A4 hatchback is coming to the US, perhaps I will give up the idea of trading in my TSX for the RDX next year, and get the A4 hatchback instead!?
Now, if the A4 hatchback is coming to the US, perhaps I will give up the idea of trading in my TSX for the RDX next year, and get the A4 hatchback instead!?
08-14-2006, 12:28 PM
#620
Originally Posted by biker
The A4 has been a good car for a long time - if Audi could just improve the reliability.
08-14-2006, 01:02 PM
#621
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^ I find that hard to believe. Since the A4 is what Audi sells mostly, that should be the main model that brings the marque down on all of the latest dependability reports.
08-14-2006, 01:50 PM
#622
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I agree with JB, i been on the audi forums for awhile now and i dont hear much about issues.
Theres known stuff like fuel pump failure and coilpack failure but thats about it. I can see why someone would get pissed off by one fuel pump failure though. As a owner of an A4, i dont agree with those dependablity reports.
With that said, my car has almost 40k miles on it and has been in the shop once due to a coilpack failure (didnt have a spare on me). But i guess a failure is a failure even if its a $20 part and takes 3min to replace. Most owners wouldnt know how simple that fix is so that would is a strike against audi too on those reports.
By all means im not saying Audi is reliable, just not as bad as others make it out to seem. I have yet to hear any electrical issues on the B6 A4....
Theres known stuff like fuel pump failure and coilpack failure but thats about it. I can see why someone would get pissed off by one fuel pump failure though. As a owner of an A4, i dont agree with those dependablity reports.
With that said, my car has almost 40k miles on it and has been in the shop once due to a coilpack failure (didnt have a spare on me). But i guess a failure is a failure even if its a $20 part and takes 3min to replace. Most owners wouldnt know how simple that fix is so that would is a strike against audi too on those reports.
By all means im not saying Audi is reliable, just not as bad as others make it out to seem. I have yet to hear any electrical issues on the B6 A4....
Last edited by Crazy Bimmer; 08-14-2006 at 01:54 PM.
08-14-2006, 03:52 PM
#623
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My dad's old 01 A8L was reliable, except for a few minor glitches along the way. My brother had looked into a A4 recently and wasn't too happy with the posts he saw pertaining to reliability. Audi didn't fair too well in the latest JD Power ratings, so hopefully this car will help Audi's image.
08-14-2006, 04:03 PM
#624
Originally Posted by gavriil
^ I find that hard to believe. Since the A4 is what Audi sells mostly, that should be the main model that brings the marque down on all of the latest dependability reports.
I can only speak to the A4. We have had ours a little over a year now. While it only has 11k miles, it has been a pleasurable ownership thus far.
08-14-2006, 04:52 PM
#625
The sizzle in the Steak
I likes.
08-14-2006, 07:42 PM
#626
Race Director
Originally Posted by juniorbean
The A4 has been very good on the reliability side for several model years now and has also been recommended by several mags (including Consumer Reports) for those same years. So the A4 reliability has come a long way... and the A6 is also doing well. The A8 is still lagging behind, but has improved (but still has a long way to go).
08-21-2006, 11:18 AM
#628
Originally Posted by biker
It's all relative - compared to a Lexus, it's not all that reliable. Compared to an 80s Yugo it's prefect.
.
Last edited by juniorbean; 08-21-2006 at 11:21 AM.
08-21-2006, 12:10 PM
#629
It looks good. Can't wait for the interior shots, I hope Audi will move away from the Mercedes/BMW formula of having virtually the same interior for all models.
08-26-2006, 06:16 PM
#630
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Originally Posted by juniorbean
Just going by what's written in the mags. Pickup a Consumer Reports, they recommend the A4 and it gets good reliability ratings. Next comes the A6 and then the A8... which hasn't fared to well.
I can only speak to the A4. We have had ours a little over a year now. While it only has 11k miles, it has been a pleasurable ownership thus far.
I can only speak to the A4. We have had ours a little over a year now. While it only has 11k miles, it has been a pleasurable ownership thus far.
02-07-2007, 10:24 AM
#633
02-07-2007, 11:10 AM
#634
Senior Moderator
Nope, I know audi isnt the most reliable car on the market.
I also dont recomend Audi to those who arent willing to work on their own cars and do regular preventive maintenance. That would include my own parents.
There is no such thing as a perfect car. Is lexus made a car that drove like a BMW/Audi then life would be wonderful.
I also dont recomend Audi to those who arent willing to work on their own cars and do regular preventive maintenance. That would include my own parents.
There is no such thing as a perfect car. Is lexus made a car that drove like a BMW/Audi then life would be wonderful.
Last edited by Crazy Bimmer; 02-07-2007 at 11:13 AM.
02-07-2007, 11:56 AM
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Originally Posted by Crazy Sellout
Nope, I know audi isnt the most reliable car on the market.
I also dont recomend Audi to those who arent willing to work on their own cars and do regular preventive maintenance. That would include my own parents.
There is no such thing as a perfect car. Is lexus made a car that drove like a BMW/Audi then life would be wonderful.
I also dont recomend Audi to those who arent willing to work on their own cars and do regular preventive maintenance. That would include my own parents.
There is no such thing as a perfect car. Is lexus made a car that drove like a BMW/Audi then life would be wonderful.
My buddy has had his 2007 3.2 A4 6spd for over 7 months now and hasn't had a problem yet. When it comes to car knowledge and maintenance he's not that knowledgable about it, but that's not the car or manufacturers fault. Many people these days EXPECT their cars to be perfect and if something goes wrong EXPECT the dealership to return it to PERFECT order. Well the reality of it is, many people don't pay attention to their cars and look out for problems before they escalate to more serious problems (my brother is the perfect example of that) and they attribute those to problems with the car/brand.
02-07-2007, 02:16 PM
#636
Senior Moderator
Well i was referring to after 50k miles when warranty is over and parts start to fail.
The newer Audis are far more reliable now, yes. But they still arent up there with Lexus, BMW, or Acura.
My 2004 A4 has common known issues. The B6 has been out long enough that the forums are able to document most of the problems. Of course there are many who already have over 100k miles without replacing anything major.
Fuel Pump failure - most people dont change the filters and it will leave you stranded. I also think Audi has just released a recall on the pumps anyways.
Coilpacks - they blow after getting too hot and will leave you stranded. Even though the part is $30 and takes no tools to replace. Can be done within 2min on the side of the road. I carry two spares in my trunk.
Timing Belt/water pump NEED to be changed around 65-70k miles. The average Audi owner will not know that. Then engine gets fucked if that belt snaps.
So in the end its really NOT that bad but its still not as reliable as the japanese. Those cars can go over 100k easy with just oil changes. Lets face it, most people dont read the manuals and expect a car to be perfect just by oil changes. So i can understand how Audi got such a bad rep. I blame the uneducated owners and not the car itself.
/rant I hate you for making me do that yet again.
The newer Audis are far more reliable now, yes. But they still arent up there with Lexus, BMW, or Acura.
My 2004 A4 has common known issues. The B6 has been out long enough that the forums are able to document most of the problems. Of course there are many who already have over 100k miles without replacing anything major.
Fuel Pump failure - most people dont change the filters and it will leave you stranded. I also think Audi has just released a recall on the pumps anyways.
Coilpacks - they blow after getting too hot and will leave you stranded. Even though the part is $30 and takes no tools to replace. Can be done within 2min on the side of the road. I carry two spares in my trunk.
Timing Belt/water pump NEED to be changed around 65-70k miles. The average Audi owner will not know that. Then engine gets fucked if that belt snaps.
So in the end its really NOT that bad but its still not as reliable as the japanese. Those cars can go over 100k easy with just oil changes. Lets face it, most people dont read the manuals and expect a car to be perfect just by oil changes. So i can understand how Audi got such a bad rep. I blame the uneducated owners and not the car itself.
/rant I hate you for making me do that yet again.
08-28-2007, 12:28 PM
#638
The sizzle in the Steak
Very Nice!!!!
Althought the previous gen 3-spoke steering wheel is much better than the 4-spoke.
Althought the previous gen 3-spoke steering wheel is much better than the 4-spoke.
08-28-2007, 12:57 PM
#639
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Hell yeah. Audi did a great job. The LEDs in the headlamps are beautiful, and the interior is on point. If it's grown just a mere few inches in all directions, I'll be 100% satisfied. I can't wait for the debut to get the specs.
08-28-2007, 12:58 PM
#640
Senior Moderator
"Though the new Audi A4 is supposed to debut next month in Frankfurt, a single shot of Ingolstadt's most important four-door has appeared on the web over at the AutoWeek.nl forums. It appears to be the very real deal, and is accompanied by some specific info, which we've done our best to translate and provide in easy to digest morsels below.
* Details on the new Audi A4
* 4.7 meters long, 1.83 meters wide
* .27 coeffcient of drag
* Base engine is 1.8L TFSI producing 160 hp
* 3.2L V6 FSI available producing 260 hp
* 2.0, 2.7 and 3.0L diesels available
* Six standard airbags
* Interior similar to A5, A6, and Q7
That's all the info we could glean from the Dutch text accompanying the pic, though we're sure Audi will have much more to reveal in a weeks at the Frankfurt Motor Show."
* Details on the new Audi A4
* 4.7 meters long, 1.83 meters wide
* .27 coeffcient of drag
* Base engine is 1.8L TFSI producing 160 hp
* 3.2L V6 FSI available producing 260 hp
* 2.0, 2.7 and 3.0L diesels available
* Six standard airbags
* Interior similar to A5, A6, and Q7
That's all the info we could glean from the Dutch text accompanying the pic, though we're sure Audi will have much more to reveal in a weeks at the Frankfurt Motor Show."