The new 2017 Audi A4 will have standard 2.0L TFPI engine we all know and love, but also gets a new Miller-cycle-style alteration of the compression and power stokes. When driven light, the valves close early on the intake stoke, reducing the volume of the air to be compress (and thereby reducing compression losses) The smaller intake volume means the compression ratio could be raised from 9.6:1 to 11.7:1, gaining back some of the power lost to the smaller intake volume. When driven in a sporty manner, the intake valves stay open longer, bring more air into the engine. These changes were made to maintain the car's power and performance when pushed hard, and to enchant it's efficiency when driven more typically.
All A4 models will launch, initially, with the seven-speed S-tronic dual-clutch transmission, but a manual is still under consideration for the US. Better yet, the manual may be available with Quattro all-wheel drive (which is standard on the S-tronic launch models). Sadly, we don't have any word, or even hints, whether that manual may become available in the American-spec Allroad.
Like its application in the new Audi A6, the 2.0 TFSI is rated at 252 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. The 2.0 TDI diesel engine is largely the same as the one we already know in the US from Audi and Volkswagen.
Inside the A4, the specification is raised, as well, with Alcantara door panel coverings as standard equipment on all cars, and Alcantara seat inserts included as part of an upgrade package. Open-pore woods, high-quality plastics, and Audi's hard-earned reputation for precision fit and finish are all in evidence in the cabin of the new A4. While the previous A4 was beginning to look a bit dated, both in terms of its design and materials, the new A4 is primed to take on the current class-leader, the latest Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
