2009 Audi A4 Avant at Geneva
February 20, 2008 by George Skentzos
With the Geneva Motor Show fast approaching, manufacturers are in a frenzy trying to stand out from the competition. Audi’s contribution is the A4 Avant, a stylish wagon which proves that a practical family car doesn’t have to be boring.
The new A4 Avant measures 4.70 metres in length which is almost 12 centimeters longer than its forerunner model, increasing boot capacity to a competitive 490-litres.
Launching in European markets later this year, the A4 Avant is available with four engine variants – two petrol, two diesel.
The most powerful of the range is the 3.2 FSI, developing 195kW and 330Nm, the V6 power plant is capable of launch the A4 Avant to 100km/h in just 6.4 seconds – despite fuel economy dropping by 1.5-litres compared to its predecessor. The 1.8 TFSI offers a far more humble 118kW with a spirited 250Nm from 1500rpm.
The diesel category is led by the 3.0 TDI, which produces 176kW and a mountain of torque with 500Nm on tap from 1500rpm, actually outstripping the 3.2 FSI in the sprint to 100km/h by 0.1 seconds when mated to the manual transmission. A 2.0 TDI is also available in two versions – a 105kW and a 125kW.
Six-speed manual and tiptronic transmissions (optional for the 3.2 FSI) are available for the A4 Avant range. For the 1.8 TFSI unit and the 2.0 TDI engine generating 105 kW (143 hp), the continuously variable multitronic transmission is also an option.
The 3.2 FSI and the 3.0 TDI come equipped with quattro permanent all-wheel drive as a standard feature. It distributes the forces under normal driving conditions at a ratio of 40 : 60 between the front and rear axle – a configuration that perfectly harmonizes the overall dynamic character of the new A4 Avant.
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Very Nice! This should have been voted most beautiful car!
Agree Duck. This is a far better looking wagon. Well done Audi
Nice wagon… cant help thinking it looks a little BMW-ish from the rear.
Now that is a beautiful looking car!
I love these new audis and i would buy one but only a v8 revs very high,audis were not always this good.
Ace really good car and an improvment over the outgoing model.
TP of course would rather have a Lancer but then he/she/it does wera rose coloured milkbottles as spectacles.
And yep the diesels faster than a petrol. Ho Ho Hum.
Its a pity Audi are just getting toooo expensive for most.
I agree with all of the above. This would be the prettiest wagon on sale today. Interior-wise, it’s a tough call between this and the Lancer, but I’d eventually give the gong here.
I like the ‘Tie Down’ rails each side of the load space in the boot (if thats what they are??) This is something more cars need, especially FWD’s and Utes. Best way to secure a load.
All the new series A4’s are good looking cars no matter which model they are sedan or wagon. Good job again Audi!
Stylish looking wagon.
Would it be possible down the track for CA to put the 1.8TFSI
head to head with Skoda’s Octavia wagon 1.8TFSI? Dynamically and performance wise I wonder how far apart they would be?
glass house is too big amkes car awkarwd looking
wanna know wat else is awkward looking?
the thought of adam herrons fat ass in a thong.
:)
sick.
Very attractive, a few weeks ago i dreamt about this car, goes to show how Audi design can have a lasting impression on a person. I just wish Audi had completely flat-folding rear seats to be a bit more practical. In a few years time i may consider purchasing an A4 Avant over the new Q5, but in reality i think with the rougher roads in Auzland the Q5 would be best suited to holiday exploring.