Audi reveal sportier-looking A4 – first pics

Pay attention BMW and Mercedes - Audi has released details of its all-new A4 saloon ahead of its Frankfurt Motor Show unveiling next month.

The German motor gets a sportier chassis and all-new steering with the top-end models boosted by the latest generation Quattro four-wheel-drive system.

Initially, the A4 will be available with a choice of two petrol engines – a 1.8-litre 158bhp lump and range-topping 262bhp 3.2-litre block.

But Audi will expect to shift the bulk of A4s through the diesel range which offers 2-litre (141bhp), 2.7-litre (188bhp) and 3-litre (237bhp) engines.

Depending on engine choice, power will be channelled through either a six-speed manual or a revised six-speed tiptronic automatic gearbox.

And the A4 – which shares many components with the sleek A5 coupe – will have the longest wheelbase in the executive saloon class, optimising weight distribution and interior space.

Buyers will have the option of the Audi Drive Select fitted to the A4. This enables the car’s accelerator pedal response, gearbox shift points, power steering assistance and shock absorber stiffness to be adjusted by the driver at the touch of a button.

Audi has also been raiding the A6’s parts cupboard offering the A4 with optional extras including DVD sat-nav with seven-inch monitor and a space-saving electromagnetic hand brake, replacing the more usual mechanical handle.

There’s no official word yet, but be prepared at a later stage for the BMW M3-rivalling RS4 Quattro – fitted with Audi’s brilliant 4.2-litre V8.

The all-new Audi A4 will make its world debut on September 13, but orders can be made from September 11.

We’d expect prices to start at around £20,000 for the entry level 1.8 TFSI rising to £30,000 for the 3.2 FSI Quattro.

Click here for more pictures of the Audi A4

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