Audi A4 has been one of the renowned compact class executive cars from the house of Audi since 1994. The Audi A4 is based on Volkswagen Group ‘B’ series platform, and consequently the Audi A4 cars have been categorized under four generations to date, viz B5, B6, B7, and B8.
2010 Audi A4
The A4 has been marketed in all forms, ranging from sedan, coupe, and convertible down to saloon, cabriolet and estate/wagon (Avant).
B5 (Typ 8D, 1994–2001)
The first-generation Audi A4 was introduced into the market as a four-door saloon/sedan during 1994, which was built on Volkswagen’s B5 (PL45) automotive platform. Featuring the infamous Quattro four-wheel drive system, the initial version of the Audi A4 could deliver enough power punch with the 2.8 liter 12-valve V6 engine, to impress its potential customers.
Audi A4 Sedan
In the subsequent year, Audi Avant, a wagon form of A4 was introduced into the market.
B5 facelift (1998–2001)
The Audi A4 got its first facelift during 1997, including brand new headlights, door handles, rear lights, and minor cosmetic changes. However, it wasn’t just about the facial facelift, as the A4 also received a 2.5 litre V6 Turbocharged Direct Injection (TDI) diesel engine that could deliver 148bhp, while the 2.8 litre 12-valve V6 was upgraded to 2.8 litre 30-valve V6 engine. A six-speed manual Quattro gearbox was made available, and a high performance version labeled as Audi S4 became a part of the A4 line-up.
B6 (Typ 8E/8H, 2001–2005)
Based on Volkswagen Group B6 (PL46) platform, the third generation A4 vehicles were launched in the new millennium.
It had the same flare as that of the Audi A6 and various models received power or displacement upgrades. These vehicles marked the emergence of powerful A4 cars, which had distinct styling, plethora of luxury and safety features, and delivered impeccable performance.
B7 (Typ 8E/8H, 2005–2008)
During 2005, Audi decided to improvise on suspension geometry, steering setting, navigation systems, and even chassis.
Audi A4 B7
They introduced a new range of internal combustion engine, and were launched with tall trapezoidal shaped front grille assembly, reminiscent of the Audi A6
B8 (Typ 8K, 2008–present)
The latest generation Audi A4 cars were unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show during the year 2007. This time Audi decided to keep the saloon/sedan as well as the estate/wagon models.
Audi A4 B8
The Avant received an amazing response and was soon rolled out into the market during March 2008.