Audi has launched the updated A4 saloon.
The refreshed A4 is a key rival to the recently revealed, sixth-generation BMW 3-series and the recently-updated Mercedes-Benz C-class. The reworked A4 gains a host of detailed styling and changes to its interior – all of which are aimed at setting it apart from the current model. Among the visual tweaks is a subtly altered front-end exterior styling. It features more curvaceous headlamp assemblies with reworked LED running lamps now appearing as a continuous band.
Other changes include greater contouring to the bonnet, a new six-corner single-frame grille – which is painted grey on four-cylinder models and black on six-cylinders – as well as a re-profiled bumper carrying trapezoidal-shaped fog lamps. At the rear, there are new tail lamps with altered LED graphics and a new bumper.
Inside, Audi has attempted to provide the face-lifted A4 with higher perceived quality and greater ease of use. This is achieved through a new steering wheel design, higher quality dashboard and centre console trim applications, detailed design changes to the switchgear (which Autocar India has often been critical of) and alterations to the optional MMI (multi-media interface).
The 2012 A4 comes in three engine options, a 1.8 TFSI petrol, 2.0TDI Diesel and 3.0TDI diesel with Quattro all-wheel drive.
According to Audi, the new A4 petrol 1.8 TFSI has an ARAI-certified fuel-economy figure of 15.6 kpl while the 2.0-TDI diesel gives 16.5kpl. With the launch of the updated A4, Audi now has the youngest fleet in India. It is now concentrating on expanding its sales and service network, especially in smaller towns.
2012 Audi A4 prices: (Ex-Maharashtra)
1.8 TFSI Petrol: Rs 27.33 lakh
2.0 TDI Diesel: Rs 29.38 lakh
3.0 TDI Diesel Quattro: Rs 38 lakh
Also read: New Audi A4 review, test drive
Also read: New BMW 3-series review, test drive