Audi is about to lift the lid on the new generation of the A4, its competitor in the premium segment of mid-size cars, writes David Duffy.

Innovative technology and the advanced architecture of its styling point the way into the future.

Powerful yet economical petrol and turbo diesel engines provide the basis for excellent performance figures.

Audi has used two new petrol engines with aluminium engine block for the first time in the new A4: a 2.0-litre 130 horsepower inline four-cylinder unit and a 220 horsepower 3.0-litre V6. The tried-and-tested 1.8 T four-cylinder unit completes the choice of petrol engines.

The TDI range at launch includes the 130 horsepower 1.9-litre four-cylinder engine and the 180 horsepower 2.5 V6.

These engines put their power to the road via the front wheels or quattro permanent four-wheel drive. 5 or 6-speed manual gearboxes are available for the various A4 models, as is the continuously variable automatic transmission known as multitronic. This revolutionary Audi transmission technology which is making its debut in this vehicle class will be linked with the front-wheel drive versions of the new A4.

Audi says the aluminium suspension is pioneering. Its low unsprung mass provides the basis for exemplary dynamic handling. Good steering precision and exact handling complement the first-class ride comfort of the A4 saloon. The high safety standard of Audi vehicles has been systematically refined for the A4. The Electronic Stability Program ESP is part of the standard specification, as is the electronic brake assist system a new feature at Audi. This helps the driver during panic braking by increasing braking pressure and thus substantially reducing the stopping distance.

Audi's head airbag system, is standard on all Audi A4 models. This system covers almost the entire side window area, from the A-post to the rear compartment. The new, intelligent crash sensors for the front airbags detect the severity of an accident and thus ensure controlled activation of the airbags.

And passengers benefit from the further improved crash resistance of the A4 body and minimal deformation of the passenger compartment.