New Audi A4 sports models

Feb 14, 2008 -- The next phase in the roll-out of the all-new Audi A4 Saloon begins this week with the S line sports model, which intensifies visual impact and enhances driver appeal across the range. At the same time, access to a distinctive A4 S line has also become easier thanks to a new lead-in 120PS version of the popular 1.8 litre turbo FSI petrol engine. With the benefit of this highly efficient new unit, A4 range prices now start from £19,890 OTR, and new S line models are available from £23,490 OTR.

2008 Audi A4 S Line

Highlights:
• New Audi A4 S line sports specification available now for all versions of the A4 Saloon at a premium of £2,500 over the SE model in each case
• LED strip daytime running lights, Audi A4 S line suspension including 30 mm ride height reduction, 18-inch alloy wheels, body and interior upgrades
• S line launch coincides with introduction of new lead-in 120PS 1.8T FSI petrol engine available in conjunction with standard, SE and S line trim levels
• Audi A4 1.8T FSI 120PS, 0-62mph in 10.5 seconds, top speed 130mph, 39.8 mpg combined
• Multitronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) automatic now available in conjunction with 160PS 1.8T FSI petrol engine
• New engine brings a lead-in OTR price of £19,890 for A4 range, and £23,490 for A4 S line range

Not to be confused with the 1.8 litre turbo engine that has previously powered everything from the Audi TT to the Audi A6, the 160PS unit of the A3 and new A4 is completely new. In its latest 120PS configuration, it benefits from the same combination of turbocharging and FSI direct petrol injection for keen response and impressive overall efficiency. This is evident in the Audi A4 1.8T FSI (120PS) through its 0-62mph time of 10.5 seconds, top speed of 130mph and 39.8 mpg combined economy, delivered with a modest 169 g/km CO2 output.

The new 120PS engine is available exclusively in conjunction with a six-speed manual gearbox. For drivers who prefer the convenience of an automatic, though, the unique-in-class multitronic (CVT) is now available to order for the new A4 in conjunction with the 160PS version of the 1.8T FSI engine.

Multitronic defies the automatic transmission convention dictating that performance and efficiency must be sacrificed for increased comfort, and instead maintains the same 8.6-second 0-62mph time and 140mph top speed as the manual A4 1.8T FSI (160PS). Unusually by automatic transmission standards, the car’s 37.2 mpg combined consumption figure and 179 g/km CO2 output sit impressively close to that of the manual version (39.8 mpg, 169 g/km ).

The A4 1.8T FSI (120PS) is the first A4 model to be offered in standard specification. In addition to range-wide benefits normally associated with the executive class, such as a space-saving electromechanical parking brake, intelligent key access and an auto-opening boot lid, the car includes 16-inch alloy wheels, an 80 watt audio system with single CD drive and 6.5-inch display, electronic climate control, front and rear electric windows, and a split-fold rear seat.

Until now, all new A4 Saloon models have been available in the UK in even more comprehensively equipped SE form, and the S line specification new to the range this week takes this to the next level. The body of the A4 S line – which with S line sports suspension rides 30 mm lower than standard on 18-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels – has a unique S line look courtesy of exclusive front and rear bumper styling, extended side skirts and upgraded headlamps with xenon bulbs, which are fringed by LED daytime running lights.

Inside, it adds features including embossed part-leather S line sports seats with the option of contrasting stitching, a 3-spoke S line multifunction steering wheel and matt brushed aluminium inlays. The S line specification carries a premium of £2,500 over the equivalent A4 SE model, and is available in combination with all engine variants.