Earlier today a new Audi A4 was revealed. Audi took the opportunity to unveil three different body styles, sedan, estate and allroad, at the same time. The new sedan will go on sale in South African early in 2020.

Evolutionary

In what seems to be a brand ethos, the new Audi A4 is not really a departure from the current model it terms of external appearance. The company’s Singleframe grille is now broader and flatter flanked by standard LED headlights.

Audi describes the interior as calmly styled. In the centre of the instrument panel, slightly tilted toward the driver, is the large MMI touch display, the control center for the new operating system. This new MMI system offers drivers of the new Audi A4 a user experience similar to smartphone. An MMI touch display with acoustic feedback replaces the functions of the previous rotary/pushbutton control on the console.

Click here to read our BMW 3 Series launch report.

The high-resolution TFT display measures 10,1 inches across. The MMI search is based on free text input and returns hits rapidly. The natural-language voice control, another function of the new system, understands many of the phrases used in everyday speech.

Powertrain options

The new Audi will be launched with a host of engines. Six turbocharged engines comprise the line-up. Power outputs range from 110 kW in the A4 35 TFSI to 255 kW/700 N.m in the Audi S4 TDI. Yes, you read that correctly, the S4 is now available as a diesel. A petrol S4 is retained with an output of 260 kW and peak torque of 500 N.m. The V6 accelerates the S4 Sedan from zero to 100 km/h in 4,7 seconds on the way to an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h.

Click here to read our Mercedes-AMG C43 driving review.

All A4 models come off the production line with an automatic transmission as standard. Variations include a manual transmission, 7-speed dual-clutch or 8-speed automatic as well as front-wheel or all-wheel drive. Three engine variants will feature a mild-hybrid system (MHEV) based on 12 volts, which reduces fuel consumption while improving comfort. According to Audi the MHEV system reduces fuel consumption by up to 0,3 litres/100 km.