The all-new Audi A4 is expected to hit showrooms in 2023. The A4 (B10) is set to offer a completely new lineup in the range with a switch to electrification on many of its models. According to Autocar, Audi will offer a choice of combustion engines, plug-in hybrids, and fully electric engines side by side combined with both front and Quattro all-wheel-drive systems.
The A4 carries great importance for the Audi brand, being one of its bestsellers, and now has its sights set further afield. Adding an electric version of the A4 to its portfolio, it will compete against the likes of the BMW i4 and the Tesla Model 3.
Reports suggest the fully electric versions of the A4 will be based around the Volkswagen Groups' new PPE (Premium Platform Electric) modular architecture that was designed for premium electric vehicles.
Electric and hybrid models will top the range of the next-generation Audi A4, which is due in 2023.
The 2023 A4 Styling & Tech
Early pictures from Autocar suggest the standard Audi A4 model will be sharper than the current design. Although it will not differ greatly from the electric version, a blank grille will distinguish the electric variants from the rest of the range, as well as small design elements for improved aerodynamics. Alongside the saloon, a five-door version with a liftback tailgate may be introduced as seen with the A6, although reports remain unclear.
As impressive as the design is, it’s what’s under the skin that should give the new A4 an edge over its rivals.
The new generation of the A4 will be equipped with all-wheel steering and an advanced system for autonomous driving.
Autocar also reports that the new iteration of the A4 will incorporate a range of digital and connectivity features, which will include a near-field communication system (NFC) developed in collaboration with Huawei. This clever piece of tech will enable contactless payment, which can be set up via the MyAudi app. Essentially, this will make paying for fuel, parking, drive-through restaurants, and other services hassle-free.
The A4's Powertrain
The main 2.0-liter four-pot turbocharged petrol unit (EA888) will probably be re-engineered to adhere to strict new Euro 7 emission standards. The engine will be attached with a mild hybrid system, with on-board charging, or a plug-in hybrid system allowing the car to use electric power only when the car is in motion.
Transmission will be limited to a seven-speed dual-clutch or an eight-speed torque converter auto. Although unconfirmed, a manual option may be removed from the range altogether.
Audi Sport had already confirmed in 2019 its intention to electrify the future RS4. The good news for the 2023 version is the rapid RS4 will keep its 2.9-liter V6 twin-turbo power unit and will be paired with an electric motor for the first time.
Reportedly, the plug-in hybrid RS4 will be boosting outputs beyond the current model's 456 HP. Showcasing a Quattro all-wheel-drive system and hybrid power, it places the RS4 at the forefront of the Audi brand.
The A4 E-Tron
The Audi A4 will also be offered in an e-tron version, available in 2024, powered only by an electric motor, which will be based on a different platform. The Premium Platform Electric (PPE) takes over the function of the (MLB) in the electric age; that is, the cars of the middle to upper class, namely from Audi and Porsche, will use said platform.
The two brands will also use it for its sedans and station wagons, as well as SUVs. In addition, the wheelbase and track width are variable. The A4 e-tron should be offered both with a single rear-wheel drive electric motor and with two motors to achieve all-wheel drive. Reportedly, there will also be a flagship electric model with an RS badge, which will provide exhilarating acceleration and a power output of around 350kW/800Nm using a dual motor.
As Autocar reports, the new Audi A4 should go on sale as early as 2023, so the presentation should take place in mid/late 2022. It should be noted that this is likely to be the last generation of the A4 that will come onto the market with internal combustion engines.
The future of the Ingolstadt-based company is firmly linked with the electrification of their vehicles. Audi boss Markus Duesmann recently announced that he would eventually be looking to halt the development of new gasoline or diesel engines, gradually removing combustion engines from the range altogether.