This story contains independent illustrations by CarScoops’ artist Josh Byrnes based on a number of 2023 Audi A4 prototypes we’ve spied over the past few months. The renderings are neither related to nor endorsed by Audi.
The upcoming B10-generation A4 will be the last mid-sized Audi fitted with an internal combustion engine. Sorry to all those with an addiction to fossil fuels but the axe is fast falling on petrol and diesel development, with battery-electric propulsion now Audi’s core focus.
On the bright side, our spies have snapped the subsequent A4 Avant testing with thin camouflage, indicating that an official reveal is fast on the cards. However, rather than waiting, we’ve peeled back the disguise, digitally illustrating what it’ll look like and sleuthed out everything else we can expect. Beyond the Avant (aka wagon) we’ve illustrated here and which will not make to North America, the 2024MY A4 range will include the sedan and the Allroad that will likely come to the States.
E Is For Elegant
Said to be inspired by last year’s A6 e-tron concept, the A4 trades the fussy lines of the current B9 generation for smoother transitions between convex and concave surfaces without, though, forgoing Audi’s evolutionary approach to redesigns. The more aerodynamic front-end sports a wider singleframe grille, digital matrix LED headlamps, clamshell hood and vertical intake elements.
Interestingly, the shooting-brake glasshouse exudes similarities with the latest C-Class wagon – coincidence, maybe? The view from the side also sports a unique shoulder line transitioning into the rear haunches for a staunch, squat aesthetic. Other notable details include a full-width LED rear taillight cluster, a large diffuser panel and steeply raked rear glass. The Allroad variant that will be based on the Avant you see here will ride higher and gain wheel arch trims, special roof rails and various other subtle upgrades to give people the impression of a crossover.
Under The Skin
Whilst we’ve yet to score a closer look at the A4’s new cabin, reports suggest it’ll mirror the dynamically angular theme set by the e-tron GT that’s pictured above and will feature fewer physical controls. It’ll also offer features such as Audi’s 12.3-inch virtual cockpit, third-generation modular infotainment platform (MIB 3), Car-to-X services, and Amazon Alexa voice assistant.
Semi-autonomous driver assist systems, including dynamic lane-steering, side exit warning, cross-traffic assist and surround-view cameras, will make everyday commuting just that little bit easier. It’ll also sport Audi’s drive select dynamic handling system for different levels of suspension tune from comfort to canyon-carving firm.
Power To Please
Riding upon a modified version of the MLB platform that underpins the current car, the new A4 will offer a range of fuel-efficient petrol and diesel engines. An updated TFSI 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine will be the default choice for many buyers. It will include partial electrification in the form of a 48-volt mild-hybrid setup, a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and available Quattro all-wheel-drive.
A plug-in hybrid borrowed from the Q5 is also on the cards, combining a 2.0-litre inline-four with a 141 hp electric motor and an 11.3-kWh lithium-ion battery for a total output of 362 hp. The PHEV theme will also cross into the ever-rapid RS4; unlike the down-sizing ethos over at Mercedes-Benz, Audi will pair an electric motor with its 2.9-litre, twin-turbocharged V6 for a projected output far greater than the 444hp (331 kW) of the current car.
The A4 range will also include a pure-electric A4 e-tron model based around the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture to rival BMW’s i4 sedan, though few other details are known about the car at this time.
Rivals And Reveal
The redesigned Audi A4’s primary competition comes from those ‘other’ Germans – the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and BMW 3-Series. Other worthy rivals include the Genesis G70, Lexus IS, Cadillac CT4, Volvo S60/V60, and Alfa Romeo Giulia.
Look for an official reveal for both the A4 and sportier S4 in late 2022 or early 2023 in sedan and wagon (Avant and A4 Allroad) guises, with the North American specification cars to wear a 2024 model year moniker. The much-anticipated RS4 Avant will follow shortly after.
