2009 Audi A4 [ 2008 , 2007 ]

What: A larger A4 that's been gutted to improve performance.

When: Expected in the late summer or early fall of 2008.

Price Range: Roughly the same as a 2008 A4, about $30,000 for the base model.


New for 2009

There's a modified design and a few additional cabin features, but the biggest news about the 2009 Audi A4 is the change in powertrain to resemble the Audi A5. The 2009 A4's engine has been moved further back and now sits above the car's front axle, which reviewers report allows for better handling in addition to stretching the car's wheelbase. The longer wheelbase has also increased rear passenger legroom -- a previous reviewer complaint with the previous generation's sedans.

What the Auto Press Says

There have been very few test drives with the 2009 Audi A4, but preliminary reports describe outstanding engineering and sound build quality, enough to challenge the upscale midsize class leaders.

Here's what the press has to say about the coming 2009 Audi A4: 

  • "The A4 has grown a lot, just as the rest of its class continues to do. As good a car as it is, though, it's possible the increase in size may have left a hole in the U.S. marketplace." -- Motor Trend
  • "Audis are engineered, assembled, and appointed about as well as (and often better than) their countrymen. And the 2009 A4 is no exception." -- Car and Driver
  • "The A4 has grown a lot, just as the rest of its class continues to do. As good a car as it is, though, it's possible the increase in size may have left a hole in the U.S. marketplace." -- Motor Trend
  • "It's a passionately pragmatic and stylish choice for those clients who find the 3-series too cramped and boisterous and the C-class too conservative in appearance and ability." -- Automobile Magazine
  • "We had a chance to drive this all-new sedan on some wonderfully twisty roads and were thoroughly impressed with the improvements that Audi managed to squeeze out of an already stellar design." -- Road and Track
  • "The styling of the upcoming model reminds us of skin pulled tighter over the muscles and bones, and it favors the beautiful new A5 coupe." -- New Car Test Drive

Key Details

Audi is tightlipped concerning what features to expect in the 2009 A4, but the auto industry speculates the short list will include lane departure and blind spot warning systems, and an Audi Drive Select feature that allows drivers choose between a normal-, comfort- or sport-oriented ride.

Stay tuned for a full 2009 Audi A4 review. Also check out information on the 2008 Audi A4, available in showrooms today.