Audi has ramped-up the mid-size sedan fuel efficiency stakes with the launch of A4 2.0 TDI e.
Priced from $49,900, the A4 2.0 TDI e delivers fuel consumption as low as 4.8l/100kms and CO2 emissions as low as 124g/km (both figures for the six-speed manual model). The new A4 brings to 22 the number of Audi models sold in Australia with fuel consumption below 7.0l/100kms.
With 100kW of power from the fuel-sipping 2.0-litre engine, the A4 2.0 TDI has a top speed of 215km/h and takes 9.5 seconds to accelerate from zero to 100km/h.
The ‘e’ branding stands for ‘efficiency’ and the new A4 adds Start-Stop, regenerative braking and a Driver Efficiency Program to the engine management system. Using the Driver Efficiency Program – the dashboard display tells you when to change gears for maximum economy and offers real time fuel savings hints – can conserve fuel by up to 30 per cent.
Externally, the A4 2.0 TDI e features a reduced ride height, a partially enclosed radiator and aerodynamic underbody panel – all to minimize drag.
Longer gear ratios in the six-speed manual transmission reduce engine speeds.
Simultaneously, Audi has added the same technology – start-stop, brake energy recuperation and Driver Efficiency program – to other A4 models and the A5 2.0 TFSI.
The company is aiming to improve fuel efficiency by at least 10 per cent for every new model generation and by the year 2012 will have reduced its overall consumption by 20 per cent
