2020 Audi A4 Announced with Fresh Styling and Tech
Audi has just introduced a redesigned A4 lineup to replace the current 2019 models in North America. While the exterior changes are rather subtle, designers and engineers made some significant updates inside and under the hood.
The A4 has been integrated into the brand’s new design language, seen on the latest A6 and A7 midsize cars and even the all-new Q3 and Q8 crossovers. The Singleframe grille is slightly wider and flatter, while the headlights (with available Matrix LED technology) and taillights feature new styling. On the sides, some of the lines have disappeared to create a cleaner look. There’s also a new Terra Grey body colour.
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Inside the updated Audi A4, the biggest change is the new 10.1-inch MMI touch display offering a menu structure that is said to be easier to use. The classic rotary control on the centre console has been eliminated in the process, although designers wisely incorporated a physical volume knob. As for the operating system, it includes natural-language voice control and understands many of the phrases used in everyday speech.
Drivers will also enjoy greater connectivity services either via the on-board interface or the myAudi app, allowing them to lock/unlock the vehicle and start the engine using a compatible smartphone. Though reserved for select European cities, one cool addition is traffic light information, which makes it possible to choose the car’s speed to match the next green light. The instrument cluster displays a personal speed recommendation as well as the remaining time to the next green light whenever the driver is waiting at a red traffic light.
Speaking of which, three instrument cluster variants are available: two partially analog driver information systems and, in conjunction with the MMI plus, the all-digital 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit plus.
With regard to performance, a total of six turbocharged engines will be offered globally. In Canada, the 2.0-litre four-cylinder TFSI will return, obviously, but it looks like power will be down from 248 to 241 horsepower as the press release states a rating of 245 PS. Torque is not specified (the current model produces 273 pound-feet). Meanwhile, there are no mechanical changes to the Audi S4, whose 3.0-litre V6 generates 349 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque.
A key upgrade here, as found in the new A6, is the 48-volt mild-hybrid system that improves fuel economy especially in city driving. A seven-speed S tronic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive will once again come standard, while a sport suspension is optional.
We’ll give you further details specific to the Canadian market as they become available.