Yorkregion.com - Wheels - New A4 Avant wagon boasts utility and comfort
New A4 Avant wagon boasts utility and comfort
The new A4 Avant wagon boasts what Audi claims has the largest in-class cargo carrying capability.
Wheels
Mar 08, 2008 03:20 PM
By: ROBINSON/BEINTEMA AUTOFILES
The all new Audi A4 is about to enter a new dimension as the Avant, for a long time the most sought-after premium sector wagon, returns with a largest-in-class load bay to add to the already long list of advances offered by the latest Audi compact executive sedan.
The successor to the long established sector leader underpins its expanded 1,430-litre load bay with the new, reconfigured suspension set-up with longest-in-class wheelbase that has already brought much improved driver appeal, and enhanced cabin space, to the latest A4 sedan.
Increased legroom boosts comfort for rear seat passengers in particular, and when all seats are filled, the load area with its versatile reversible load floor is the most accommodating in the class with a 490-litre capacity.
Access to the load bay can be facilitated by the optional powered tailgate, and loads can be secured using the standard luggage net and tie-down straps, or with the much praised telescopic bar and securing belt system first seen in the A6 Avant, also available at extra cost.
Depending on the engine chosen, there will be the option of either the latest six-speed manual gearbox, an extensively revised, faster-shifting six-speed tiptronic automatic transmission or an updated and even smoother version of the ultra-efficient multitronic continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).
A4 Avant customers will also be able to specify the unique-in-class Audi drive select option at extra cost.
Available in three specific packages, Audi drive select enables the driver to fine-tune the dynamic characteristics of the car, including suspension settings, steering behaviour, throttle response and transmission shift points, via dashboard-mounted controls to suit personal preferences or prevailing road conditions.
Driver assistance options will also include Audi side assist, which uses sensors to warn of vehicles approaching in mirror blind spots, and Audi lane assist, which guards against unintentional lane changes by activating steering wheel vibrations to alert the driver.