Revamped Audi A4 Boosts Efficiency

Volkswagen AG's Audi unit says its fifth-generation A4 small car is as much as 21% more fuel efficient and 25% more powerful than the outgoing model. The redesigned vehicle also is lighter, larger and is the most aerodynamic vehicle in its class with a 0.23 coefficient of drag, according to the carmaker.

Audi released details and photos of the new front-wheel-drive A4 sedan on Monday and will publicly unveil it in September at the Frankfurt auto show. Sales in Europe will begin soon thereafter, followed by a mid-2016 launch in the American market. Wagon and all-wheel-drive versions also are planned.

The A4 rides on Volkswagen Group's revised MLB modular platform, which also carries Audi's Q7 large SUV. The architecture adds about an inch in length and a half-inch to the wheelbase and width, resulting in more interior legroom.

The use of high-strength steel and aluminum in the frame and body panels saves 265 lbs, Audi says.

A modest exterior facelift retains the A4's conservative styling to appeal to fleet and business customers in the U.S., Germany and China. Highlights include a slightly sharper, more masculine design with a wider grille, sloped roofline and prominent shoulder line. The wagon gets a roof-mounted spoiler.

Interior changes include redesigned seats, steering wheel, center console and dashboard. The latter includes an optional fully digital instrument cluster with a 12.3-inch liquid crystal display. Other features include a wi-fi hotspot Internet connection and an 8.3-inch screen with a new voice-control system. An Android-based detachable tablet for rear-seat entertainment and navigation will be available after launch.

A trio of turbocharged 4-cylinder gasoline engines and four diesels two four-bangers and two V-6s will be offered in Europe. The 3.0-liter V-6, which is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, generates 272 hp.

All 4-cylinder engines will be paired with Audi's new 6-speed manual gearbox or an optional dual-clutch system. The lightweight 6-speed uses a magnesium housing in place of aluminum and features a new differential, hollow shafts and a smaller clutch plate.

The most efficient engine is a 148 hp, 2.0-liter diesel rated at 74.3 mpg on the European driving cycle. Equipped with Audi's urea-based selective catalytic reduction technology, the engine emits 99 g/km of carbon dioxide.

Engine choices for the U.S. haven't been announced yet, but media reports speculate a diesel option will be included.

The new A4 gains a five-link suspension system front and rear. Adjustable shock absorbers and variable damping allow drivers to select between sport and comfort settings. Steering is accomplished through a new speed-sensitive, electromechanical system.