Article:
Sometimes an automaker will introduce a vehicle based on the platform of a “lesser” model. Sometimes this plan is employed when costs need to be cut to realize real savings. The concept is the shared platform can be changed enough to distinguish the upscale model from the standard one. Add in leather, a taut suspension, and upgraded powerplant options and you can doubtless pull it off. For Audi, the introduction of the all-new Audi A4 during the mid1990s permitted the German automaker to gain advantage from the success of the Volkswagen Passat, a midsize auto from its EU cousin. The plan worked, but it was only a brief move. Let’s take a look at the Audi A4 and its surge to the head of German automobile excellence.
For years, the Audi eighty outlined the smaller cars in Audi’s line up. By the early 1990s, the aging model was short of updating and the name itself would need to be changed with the 2 digit alphanumeric model designation lately adopted by Audi. Cost pressures, made the development of an all-new from-the-ground-up model very unlikely. Instead, Audi tapped Volkswagen and based the first Audi A4 on the successful VW Passat.
Platform sharing has been common amongst automakers for generations. General Motors regularly spreads it platforms across brand lines while Toyota and Honda have learned that their various Lexus and Acura luxury makes could share much with their prime quality and successful standard brands.
Still, the wheels of autodom are always turning and the first Audi A4 is now in its 4th generation and is constructed on its own platform. Indeed, the newest Audi A4 shares nothing with its VW cousin and is poised precisely to do battle with the BMW three Series, Mercedes C Class, the Volvo S60, and Cadillac’s Swedish built BLS.
So, what does today’s Audi A4 owners get for the money? Quite a lot! Read on:
A choice of 3 models including a sedan, a wagon, and a cabriolet
Two engine selections : a 2.0L I4 and a strong 3.2L V6
Front wheel drive or Quattro all wheel drive
A plethora of transmission selections including manual, automatic, and manumatic shifters
Major safety initiatives including power helped safety restraints, head and side air bags, antilock brakes
12 way power seat for the driver
Leather, aluminum, and clothe appointments
Premium 10 speaker sound system
16 in., five spoke amalgamate wheels
Base prices start around $28,000 for the sedan and climb to just over $37,000 for the cabriolet; all prices are barely lower than competing models from Mercedes and BMW.
Fortunately for Audi A4 lovers, the German automaker isn’t holding still and plans for a 5th generation Audi A4 are underway. The most recent model may switch to rear wheel drive and a coupe is receiving heavy examination. Irrespective of the final decisions, Audi A4 owners know that their favored model will keep abreast of the competition. This is excellent news for those wanting a car incorporating German engineering without the Mercedes or BMW price tag.
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By: tur
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