This is our latest look at the fifth-generation Audi A4, which is continuing its development ahead of a planned launch in the second half of this year.
This engineering mule wears bodywork from the current car. Previous prototypes have worn heavy disguises, but the latest interpretation of Audi's front grille, seen on the new TT, should feature alongside that car's angular LED headlights.
Based on the second-generation MLB platform, the new A4 will be part of a push for improved economy from Audi. A range of longitudinally mounted 1.4, 1.8 and 2.0-litre TFSI engines are expected to power the new A4, some featuring cylinder shut-down technology, alongside 1.6 and 2.0-litre diesel units. At least one model should offer CO2 emissions of less than 100g/km.
Audi is also planning to introduce 3.0-litre TFSI and TDI engines, such as the one shown in Vienna last year, but those will likely be mainly for the US market.
A plug-in hybrid model, using the same petrol-electric powertrain as the A3 e-tron and with an electric-only range of around 30 miles, is also planned. A diesel-electric system is also under development and could be introduced later on to feed a growing demand for hybrids in Europe.
Both six-speed manual and nine-speed automatic gearboxes should be offered, but today's multitronic CVT will be dropped from the line-up. All A4 models will be front-wheel drive, with four-wheel drive available as an option. Stop-start technology, brake energy recuperation and thermal management should also feature.
The saloon variant of the A4 will launch first, with an Avant model appearing soon after. Reports suggest an Allroad version will follow later in the year, while successors to the A5 coupé, cabriolet and Sportback are also planned for 2016.
The A4's length and height will remain close to the current car, but its width will increase in order to house a new chassis with wider tracks. The wheelbase of the new car should also be longer than the 2810mm of the current A4. The new A4's boot capacity should remain the same as the current A4, at 480 litres.
Inside, the new A4 should offer a minimalistic design with extras such as a head-up display available as options. The latest version of Audi's MMI infotainment system should also be available, controlled via a touchpad as seen on the new Audi TT.
Currently one of the top-ranking compact executive models, the new A4 will face stiff competition from the BMW 3-series and new Mercedes-Benz C-class.
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