Audi Facelifts The A4 Again – Updated MMI Touch, S4 TDI With 48V Hybrid System

Audi has facelifted the A4 sedan/Avant model yet again, however, changes are more substantial this time around, compared to the updates the model received in 2018. The new car now boasts 12V and 48V mild-hybrid drivetrains, improved connectivity features, and a sharper driving experience.

At the front, the Singleframe grille is now broader and flatter and is now flanked by standard-fit LED headlights (Matrix LED optional). Horizontal body lines further emphasize the car's width at both the front and rear fascias. The side view is defined by the bolder character lines above the fenders and the lower set shoulder line in between.

Three equipment lines are now on offer for the exterior: Basic, Advanced, and S line, including a more independent look for the S models and the A4 Allroad quattro. Customers can choose from 12 paint colours, including a new Terra Gray option.

On the inside, the main highlight of the interior is the new high-resolution TFT 10.1-inch MMI touch display which is now angled slightly towards the driver. The graphics have been updated and the menu structure is now tailored to be more user-friendly, akin to using a smartphone. It also features natural-language voice control and the search function is based on free text input.

The new MMI is Audi’s third-generation modular infotainment platform (MIB 3) that displays a separate communication box that bundles all connectivity tasks – such as the Audi connect services – and incorporates the Wi-Fi hotspot.

The Audi Connect and Audi Connect Plus have also been updated with new connected features, including traffic light information function which receives information from a centralised traffic light server (selected European cities) and displays a personal speed recommendation (to make the next green light) as well as the remaining time to the next green light if stationary.

Two interior packages: Design Selection and S line can be combined freely with the exterior packages for added customisability.

Audi will be offering the A4 sedan/Avant model lineup with six turbocharged engines (petrol and diesel engines included) globally. All petrol-powered variants feature the turbocharged 2.0 TFSI engine with different power outputs of 150 hp, 190 hp, and 245 hp. Two diesel power plants are on offer; a base 2.0 TDI which produces 190 hp and a larger 3.0 TDI which outputs 231 hp. For the European market launch, three engine variants will feature a 12V mild-hybrid (MHEV) system which is claimed to reduce fuel consumption by up to 0.3 litres/100km.

For the European market, the S4 TDI sedan/Avant are now equipped with a more powerful version of the 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel engine which outputs 347 PS and maximum torque of 700 Nm. The engine is built on a 48V main electrical system which powers an electric compressor and belt-drive alternator/starter motor. The 12V subsidiary electrical system is connected to the 48V main electrical system via a powerful DC/DC converter. A compact, air-cooled 0.5 kWh lithium-ion battery resides under the luggage compartment floor to store electrical charge.

Outside of Europe, Audi will offer the S4 sedan/Avant with a turbocharged 3.0 TFSI engine which produces 354 PS and 500 Nm of torque from 1,370 to 4,500 rpm. The S4 sedan accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds all the way to an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h.

Three transmissions are offered globally: a six-speed manual, seven-speed dual-clutch S Tronic or eight-speed automatic, depending on the market and engine variant.

Customers can also choose between a standard suspension setup and the sport suspension. There are also two adaptive suspension systems. One option is the comfort suspension with damper control, which reduces the ride height by 10 mm and offers better ride comfort. The other is the sport suspension, either with or without damper control, which is lowered by 23 mm.

The Audi A4 models and the S4 models will go on sale in Europe starting from May 2019. The A4 Allroad quattro will be made available later within Q2 of 2019.

For the latest deals on Audi vehicles, click here.