2009 Audi A4 is getting ready for its debut in Frankfurt in September. Under the camouflage on this photo, the 2009 Audi A4 sedan is showroom-ready.
Based on the same new modular-length platform as the Audi A5, the 2009 Audi A4 will be the second new car on that platform. Others that will use the new platform are the Audi Q5 and future versions of the Audi A6 and Audi A8. The layout of the new platform makes it possible to move the engine rearwards. Therefore the 2009 Audi A4 will be less front-heavy than the current model. The front overhang will be about six inches shorter, and together with the better weight distribution it will improve the 2009 Audi A4's handling considerably.
It's no secret that Audi is aiming to make the 2009 Audi A4 as sporty as the BMW 3-Series. Engines will range from the new 1.8-liter TFSI starting at 130 hp up to a 4.2-liter V-8 in the S version. In the middle, there will be several gas engines and a diesel with up to 240 hp. We won't be surprised if an Audi RS4 appears sometime during the 2009 model year with the direct-injected 4.2-liter V-8 with 420 horsepower.
Front-wheel drive will be standard, and quattro will be optional. As in all recently redesigned and
new Audis, the new quattro system will be rear-biased with a nominal 40/60 split.