The 2016 Q7 and 2017 R8 may be grabbing headlines now, but one of Audi’s more mainstream models could be next in line for a redesign.
Audi’s A4 sedan is due for some updates, and we may see the new version before the end of this year.
That new A4 will debut at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show this fall, with some sort of preview event before that, Audi technical chief Ulrich Hackenberg told Indian Autos Blog at the recent Geneva Motor Show.
Not much is known about the next-generation A4, but it’s expected to use the new Volkswagen Group MLB platform that will underpin a wide variety of midsize and full-size cars and SUVs.
The new platform could cut up to 220 pounds compared to the current A4, which dates to back to the 2009 model year.
A previous report also claimed the new A4 will introduce and electric version of Audi’s signature quattro all-wheel drive. Called e-Quattro, it’s rumored to use an electric motor to drive the rear wheels for added fuel efficiency.
A wide variety of powertrains will be available along with a new RS 4 performance model, which could trade the current chest-thumping V8 for a twin-turbocharged V6. Hopefully it will make it to the U.S. no matter what form it takes.
The 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show kicks off in September. If the new A4 really is going to be there, expect official confirmation from Audi in the coming months.