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The B8 2009 Audi A4: A clear departure from Audi's plans to become less conservative

GermanNut submitted on 08/30/2007 Official AutoSpies Timestamp: 4:46 PM
from: www.autospies.com

[39] user comments | category: Spy Shots

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Tags: Audi, A4, A6, A8, R8, design, Bangle, conservative

Tag Links: Audi, A4, A6, A8, R8, design, Bangle, conservative

The B8 2009 Audi A4: A clear departure from Audi's plans to become less conservative

Not too long ago Johan de Nyschen, CEO of Audi North America said that Audi's conservative and understated image, which worked like a charm in Europe was not going to cut it in North America. In the land of the U.S. where flashy, big and noticeable designs are the consumers first choice, Audi knew it had to revamp its designs.

First came the R8 with its everyone turning their head exotic shape and then the A5 which clearly was a looker. Even though the A5 is the coupe version of the A4, Audi was supposed to become less conservative in their designs.

We see this with the Q7, its big and bold. You can't miss the damn thing coming at you. The R8 will turn heads like Lamborghini and the TT will also be noticeable by most passerbys,

Why then does Audi continue to keep their sedans (A4, A6 and A8) clearly their most important cars in terms of sales growth so bland and vanilla. Basically, each is just an extended version of the other. Now the same can be said of the interior too, which is shared between the A4, A5, A6 and even Q7.

Or is it that Audi has reached the level of BMW in terms of their design? Neither BMW nor Mercedes tinkers with their design all that much. Each is more evolutionary and few times do they make the step and create a revolutionary looking model such as the 7-series which started the Bangle-era. Perhaps because Audi sold a lot of previous model A4s, now they just needed to update the interior with better technology, provide a recognition factor with the LEDs and just evolve an already successful design.

What do you think this will do in terms of the future A6, A8 and even A7?

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S4cabriofoxone - 8/30/2007 5:05:48 PMView My AgentSpace

+2 Boost

GermanNut, what is the point of this article? It seems like you're just being an asshole. Why didn't you post this when the 3 Series sedan, G35 and new C-Class all turned out boring?

BTW, NONE of them are in fact bland. Beauty is more than skin-deep.

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david989 - 8/31/2007 6:01:46 AM

-3 Boost

The new A4 looks like nothing special. There is no passion or creativity behind it. They took the existing A4 body and added the A5 head and rear lights and that's the new A4. Pathetic and cheap. Lexus at least spends money on new designs and the best materials man has ever seen for their cars. Not so with Audi obiovusly. I think we can call the new A4 a recycled piece of junk. Typical German business manors. Offer an inferior and cheap product for an overpriced price.

There's a reason I am a Lexus fan. I used to be blind and like German and American cars but those days are thankfully over.

audirevolution - 8/31/2007 4:25:37 PM

+1 Boost

David,

Lexus

audirevolution - 8/31/2007 4:27:02 PM

0 Boost

David,

How does Lexus spend money on designs? All they did with the ES was take a Camry and change the badge. The LX is a Landcruiser. The RX is a Harrier. The GX is a Landcruiser as well. The SC is a Toyota Soarer. Wow. They sure are creative.

Atenza28 - 8/30/2007 5:19:08 PMView My AgentSpace

+1 Boost

Maybe they'll use the trickle down effect that BMW did. The Bangle era started with the 7, then the 5 (which was little less Bangled to some)and then the 3 (which was a lot less Bangled). Maybe they'll start with the next gen A8 then A6 and so forth.

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Rupert - 9/1/2007 6:54:26 PMView My AgentSpace

+1 Boost

They did do that, didn't they?
They A8 W12 was the first with the grill, then A6, then A3 (oddly) then A4...maybe the next A8 will be very different, it will have a new designer for sure (Walter di'Silva is going)

Neverfollow - 8/30/2007 5:32:59 PM

+2 Boost

I think this car is a very nice update. It's larger, better balanced, more powerful and incorporates some nice technical advances. The adjustable suspension sounds very interesting.

Still doesn't look like the 2.0TFSI will be offered but we'll have to wait and see. It would be nice if they gave it a little power boost to say 220hp or so.

I think the S5/A5 is wider than the A4 although it wouldn't make sense from a manufacturing point of view. Still, the photos of the S5/A4 make the car appear wider than the A4 giving it a much more aggressive stance. The lines don't curve as much above the wheel arches either making the A4 appear more conservative.

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S4cabriofoxone - 8/30/2007 6:41:41 PMView My AgentSpace

+1 Boost

The 2.0TFSI is coming- it just hasn't been in the press releases. I heard it will have some 220-230hp, which would render the A4 3.2 useless, IMO. The 200hp version already sold (especially in the A3 with DSG) provides ample oomph.

SixxFive - 8/30/2007 5:33:41 PM

-2 Boost

Personally I don't think that the new A4 is a clear departure for Audi to become less conservative. The A4 is clearly Audi's volume leader and they wanted to play it extra safe and the car looks like it = boring.

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S4cabriofoxone - 8/30/2007 6:40:04 PMView My AgentSpace

+1 Boost

Hey, take a look at the S-Line pictures. FAR from boring. Rear valance looks amazing.

monkeyrun - 8/30/2007 6:12:05 PM

0 Boost

Look at BMW 3-series ..... lol

The 99 Audi A4 is 10 times less boring.

reply to this comment

supermoto - 8/30/2007 6:17:30 PM

+1 Boost

I had a 2005 A4 for two years, and I think this new version is a pretty boring upgrade. I was hoping for more exciting styling and new engines, but no luck.

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S4cabriofoxone - 8/30/2007 6:44:19 PMView My AgentSpace

0 Boost

Again, I refer you to the new S-Line kit in on Fourtitude. It blows the B7 out of the water.

And the real difference, like I said, is under the skin. It will be a much better performance sedan. I can't wait for the new RS4! As if the one they have now isn't good enough...

What I find admirable about the B8 is that the B7 was already very attractive, but they just improved it where they needed to. "If it ain't broke, don't fix it."

Chip - 8/30/2007 7:03:28 PM

+1 Boost

S4, in my opinion, there was nothing wrong with the previous 3-series either. It was perfection. And now the current one blows it out of the water on every level.

Saying "If It aint broke, dont fix it" is a total cop out for this extremely disappointing new A4.

Not only does it look way too similiar to the outgoing model, the fact that they left new engines out of the mix shows that Audi was clearly not focusing much on this car.

I expected so much better from Audi.

S4cabriofoxone - 8/30/2007 10:56:58 PMView My AgentSpace

0 Boost

"Extremely disappointing?" Excuse me, but do you know something we don't?

The point of this car is not power, it's poise. It will have much better handling. It will look fantastic in person, I guarantee you. And to top it all off, it will once again have the most luxurious interior for under $40,000.

If 0-60 in 5.8 seconds isn't fast enough for you--the likely time for the A4 3.2--then by all means, shop somewhere else, or get an S4. The S5 has been clocked at 4.5, which means the S4 will be a definite improvement from the B6/B7.

What I think would be amazing is if they offered DSG in this car. They probably will after a refresh.

S4cabriofoxone - 8/30/2007 10:58:59 PMView My AgentSpace

0 Boost

BTW, Audi is apparently turning back time and developing another bi-turbo V6. It should have anywhere from 300-350hp, but if it had the latter it would push the S4 upmarket, which would push the RS4 upmarket, making a mess.

Chip - 8/31/2007 4:53:39 AM

-2 Boost

The point of this car is not power, it's poise. It will have much better handling.

An Audi having better handling than a BMW. Yeah buddy, let me hit that stuff youre smoking.

S4, you ignore reality.

Audi's have always been second rate. This new A4 cements that.

A 265hp common rail V6, competing against a 300+hp bi-turbo inline six. Good luck.

Excuses, Excuses.

bulldogz - 8/31/2007 10:09:22 AM

-1 Boost

but, but, but wait Chip, they'll then tell you that the 335 doesn't compete with the A4, that would be the S4, ya know the one that's not listed on their website as part of the A4 class, but has it's own section like the RS4? Confused? Every other lux car company has models that directly compete from Lexus to MB to BMW, yet only Audi slots their cars in between the others.

Trust me, when they do comparos in mags, there is no RS4 vs. M3 vs. AMG, they use the S4 like everyone would assume. It's wacky.

S4cabriofoxone - 9/1/2007 2:43:50 PMView My AgentSpace

-1 Boost

"An Audi having better handling than a BMW. Yeah buddy, let me hit that stuff youre smoking.

S4, you ignore reality."

Oh, really? In fact, I feel the same way:

R8- amazing handling

RS4- amazing handling

S5- handling on par with the 335i

But even so, not ONCE did I say it would have handling that beats the 3er. I said it would handle much better than the last-gen A4. RE-READ MY POST!

Anyway, you should know by now that Audi is developing another bi-turbo V6.

I can't wait for it to come out, because I love the 335i and want Audi to challenge it with a vehicle that's not as pricey as the gorgeous S5. I am not a BMW hater; I am simply a German car fan, with other brands from other countries in my favor, also. You can't say the same.

rg12345 - 8/30/2007 6:33:16 PM

+3 Boost

The new A4 is a 95% new, not improved but NEW. Read www.audiworld.com, you will see what changed. Even the AC is quieter, cooler and using less power. Whole interior and exterior built from scratch. Tons of electric features that never existed before on the A4. Hydraulic suspension. New tranny. The only thing they kept are the engines. Nevigation is properly placed at a higher stance. All the buttons near the gear changer are great positioned. I know all this from pictures but also from driving the R8, the Q7, the new TT, they all feature very similar interior, great design and quality plus functionality. Looks like there are many buttons near the gear changer, but it's so simple to use: radio is for Radio. Navi is for navigation.... and so on .... If you can't get it you don't deserve to drive that car, but believe me you will get it.

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Chip - 8/30/2007 6:51:27 PM

-2 Boost

Liar. Unless you sell Audi's in Europe or have one in your garage....you didnt drive the R8.

Im sure Audi isnt just going to park one of those beasts outside the dealership and let every person who admires it take one for a spin.

Neverfollow - 8/30/2007 7:38:41 PM

+2 Boost

Chip,

Audi did provide a fleet of R8's in certain key markets for those that were on the list of potential buyers. A dealer could send about 20 people each to these events but needed to reserve those spots to those who were serious about getting one.

Chip - 8/31/2007 4:45:42 AM

-2 Boost

"Extremely disappointing?" Excuse me, but do you know something we don't?

Yeah, that this new A4 is totally boring anf underpowered...sure.

I drive a 335i coupe, so obviously, im biased. But Audi doesnt even give me a reason to enter their dealership to look at this car. So in my eyes, thats a failure.

No big power. No modern design.

PS: 0-60mph in 5.8 isnt fast enough for me....because my 335i does it in 4.8.

This car is still a second rate competitor. Say everything you want to convince yourself it isnt.

2009 A4.....last in line.

bulldogz - 8/31/2007 10:16:44 AM

0 Boost

Chip, as I mentioned above, you'd have to go with the S4, which I priced out on avg. about $52k. Not bad, but my wife's 335 cabrio was only $1k more and almost as fast (heavier than coupe).

Heyhuub - 8/31/2007 11:28:21 AM

+1 Boost

Well in Europe the A4 3.2 competes with the 330i. SO no problems there.

Rupert - 9/1/2007 6:58:19 PMView My AgentSpace

0 Boost

Chip - stop being so US focussed.
The A4 3.2 actually compete perfectly well with the 330i in Europe...one may say what is the 3.2 rival in the US? BMW may be the one that is missing a market.

S4cabriofoxone - 9/1/2007 7:07:36 PMView My AgentSpace

0 Boost

Chip, I know you have a 335i. That car was my favorite coupe for under $100K until the S5 came out, but I would still definitely consider a 335xi coupe as my winter car. It does everything very, very well, and it's the best-looking BMW on the market.

However, just because the A4/A5 isn't as fast doesn't make it less of a car. Before you spout off on a press release, I'd wait until it comes out, and maybe you could, ya know, DRIVE IT?!

BTW, I'd definitely spend the extra money to get an S4/S5 over a 335xi, coupe or sedan. There's a special appeal you get with an "S" car. It definitely has its niche in the market.

1evlaudi - 8/30/2007 8:49:30 PMView My AgentSpace

-3 Boost

Gnut you have a good point

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Audi4Life - 8/31/2007 7:39:52 AM

+1 Boost

now u have to be stupid this car is just coming out and the s4 b8 hasn't come out yet so how can u compare it to an i model from bmw? and if u don't think the new a4 is modern then i guess they just didn't design it specially for you

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1evlaudi - 8/31/2007 12:33:53 PMView My AgentSpace

+1 Boost

David

please, once again, would you stop making a fool out of yourself, Lexus spends so much money on new design, that's why the LS looks like the Camry, which is itself a ES...no doubt Lexus is at the forefront of elaborate and original designs...LOL
You have no idea of what goes on when it comes to design and produce a car for the world market. If this car is not to your liking, fine, say so, but don't try to convince us of otherwise and don't tell us some stupid comments on Lexus and their best materials in the world.

I sold Lexus and Audi, I am still selling Audi, Lexus was a total disapointment. Some might look nice, but there is absolutely no substance in their product and when you start to neat pick they can not hold against an Audi. The finish is very superficial.

So keep living in your dream world and when you have something factual and relevant to say, then say it.

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1evlaudi - 8/31/2007 12:38:25 PMView My AgentSpace

+1 Boost

Chip

even though you are entitle to your opinion, and you express it quite frankly, when you make a statement like Audi is a second rate car, you might want to tell us it is your opinion. If you think that is a fact then it would be nice to try to elaborate and sustain your theory with documents, sales number(worldwide, as the US is not the world), press articles, you know something.
Until then enjoy your BMW.

reply to this comment

Neverfollow - 8/31/2007 1:04:29 PM

0 Boost

Look people, the car's not even out yet. This is the first year for this design. You can't unload your gun completely on the first volley. Like the BMW 3er, more powerful engines are in the works for the coming years. Look for a bi-turbo 3.0 which will replace the 3.2 and do battle with the midpriced 335. The A4 will most likely have 4 petrol engines to choose from in th very near future. Look for a more powerful 2.0T with probably 220-230hp, a bi-turbo 3.0T with about 300+hp, an FSI V8 with 355hp and ultimately the RS4 with a V8 producing close to 500hp. Just for fun, there will also be a 3.0TDI for those "tree hugger" types out there.

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Rupert - 9/1/2007 6:59:24 PMView My AgentSpace

+1 Boost

A 3.0 tdi hardly hugs trees...still has 230 hp...

mini22 - 8/31/2007 4:19:14 PM

+2 Boost

You all can bitch about how dull German Car designs are or whether Audi will ever offer enough power in it's sedan to challenge BMW and Mercedes. Bottom line there all going to sell like hotcakes. Euro German cars as well as Lexus simply sell. The brands are established enough that the've become like "Zerox" copiers or "Kleeenez" Tissues. If you want a nice performing luxury car you have 5 choices and 2 wannabe's.Mercedes,BMW,Audi,Lexus,Infiniti with Jaguar and Cadillac the wannabe's. You won't go wrong with any of them in terms of driving pleasure over a standard sedan. You pay more but then you get more.Lexus and Jaguar have the best JD Power ratings but so what. It's down to individual choice. The A4 is a slightly bigger evolution of the previous car but Audi does not care. It will sell all they can make.

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S4cabriofoxone - 9/1/2007 7:05:00 PMView My AgentSpace

+1 Boost

I don't think Jaguar is a wannabe- put Acura there instead.

johnct - 8/31/2007 6:08:59 PM

+1 Boost

I will hold my judgement until I see the A4 in person, but form the photos I have seen it isn't different enough to trade in my 06 A4.

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