As sexy and exciting as we all find the Audi R8 V12 TDI Le Mans, it isn't Audi's big story at this Geneva auto show. That honor goes to the 2009 Audi A4 Avant, the wagon version of the all-new A4 sedan.
Now larger than before, the Avant's wheelbase has been stretched by 6 inches and the overall length is up to 185 inches, about 5 inches longer than the previous model. Audi says the extra size opens up a little over an inch of extra knee room in back, while also increasing head-, shoulder and legroom... There's also more cargo volume and a standard 60/40 split fold-down rear seat.
In the United States, the A4 Avant will come with a four-cylinder engine only. Audi hasn't confirmed the specifications of the new engine, but it's said to have significantly more torque than the current 2.0T, which is rated at 200 hp. It will be hooked to a standard six-speed automatic transmission and send power to all four wheels. Audi's dual-clutch S-Tronic transmission will not be offered.
Sales of the 2009 Audi A4 Avant in the U.S. start this fall. Prices are expected to remain roughly the same as the current model, so figure around $30K to start. -- Scott Oldham, Inside Line Editor in Chief
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Wait a sec, no DSG, 4 banger only? Really? That's going to severely limit sales.
Also, the new roofline really limits utility. They could have made it a lot more practical in terms of shape.
This car looks HOT!!! *wolf howl* *heart visibly beating through chest*
The new EA 888 series 2.0T motor that will be installed in the B8 A4's should produce 211bhp and 258 lb/ft.
I wonder if an A5 Avant is in the works.
What? No manual tranny? Say it ain't so! I need to replace my 2000 A4 Avant (manual) and I've been waiting for the B8 Avant...now what?