This would be in addition to the already confirmed plug-in hybrid RS4.
There have been a lot of interesting reports on the next-generation Audi A4 but we have only seen zero spy shots. First, it is thought that the Four Rings company tried to move the A4 to MQB platform. This would have pleased the bean-counters since the switch to MLB would have saved approximately $1 billion. But that is not what’s going to happen.
The switch to a plug in hybrid powertrain for RS4 Avant’s range-propping RS4 Avant is certain. Audi Sport has confirmed plans to electrify, the crown jewel in the A4 lineup. A new report from Autocar states that the performance wagon will keep the twin-turbo V6 engine and an electric motor. It will have 444 horsepower and 443 pounds-feet (600 Newton-meters) more torque than the current model.
The British publication claims that a fully-electric RS version is in development for the next A4. The zero-emissions model won’t be an electric version of the MLB architecture, but will instead be a dedicated EV model that rides on the PPE platform ( HTML6 E-Tron and Q6 Etron). The A4 Etron will be a separate model, and it will also have an RS version.
Logic says that the RS4 will keep its wagon body and the A4 RS E-Tron’s (name not confirmed), will have a different shape. Autocar says the electric A4 will feature a more practical liftback configuration, in line with the A6E-Tron and the HTML5 Sportback. The sporty version will use a dual-motor setup with Quattro all wheel drive and 469 horsepower and 590 lb-ft (800Nm).
According to the traditional A4, it will have a similar footprint to today’s model but with a rear structure that can accommodate a 14.4 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. This will be reserved for plug-in hybrid models that can provide enough juice to run for up to 62 mi (100 km) of electric range. A mild-hybrid powertrain is also being developed, as well as cleaner gasoline and diesel engines that meet Euro 7 regulations.
The A4 B10 will use all-wheel steering and a more advanced autonomous driving system. An air suspension will remain for the E-Tron model. To make way for dual-clutch torque-converter or seven-speed dual-clutch automatics, the manual gearbox that is currently available in certain parts of the world will be phased off the entry-level A4.
According to the report, Audi will launch the new A4 in the UK by 2023. This could indicate that an official unveiling will occur before the end of next years. It will be the last A4 with a combustion engine. Markus Duesmann, the company boss, has already stated that the A4 and A6 will be purely electric by 2030.