Audi took the wraps off its redesigned A4 Avant station wagon for the 2009 model year. Based directly on the new A4 Sedan, the Avant model is larger and more advanced than its predecessor.

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Compared to the old model, the proportions have been adjusted noticeably. The front overhang has been shortened, and the hood and the wheelbase have gained considerably in length. The newly developed five-link front axle has been shifted farther forward. This ensures that the axle loads are better distributed, thereby improving handling.

The new A4 Avant measures 15.42 feet in length, 4.72 inches longer than the previous model. The body structure is considerably more rigid and stronger, yet is around 10 percent lighter at the same time.

Visually, the Avant is very similar to the new Sedan. The flat D-pillars create a more dynamic silhouette than those of past A4 wagons. The new A4 Avant will roll off the production line on 16 inch and 17 inch alloy wheels.

As with the sedan, the interior is all-new, featuring more legroom, improved materials, and more comfort overall. The driver-oriented cockpit borrows many features from the larger A8, Audi says. Thanks to the new electro-mechanical parking brake, the manual parking brake was no longer necessary, creating more space in the center console area.

Audi claims a maximum storage space of 50.50 cubic feet is the largest luggage capacity in the wagon's competitive field. The 60/40 split-fold rear seats also come with the option of a load-through hatch with separate ski and snowboard bag.

Engines

While Europe will get the Avant with a choice of three diesel engine and two gasoline ones, Audi says the sole engine for North America will be a new turbocharged four-cylinder. All we know is that it will put out more than the 200 horsepower of the current turbo four, with a bump in torque numbers as well. Fuel economy should also be improved. All-wheel drive will be standard equipment across the range, driven by either a manual or automatic six-speed transmission.

Safety

Collision safety is improved by a combination of adaptive airbags, belt tensioners with variable belt force limiters and seat position sensors on the front seats to best protect occupants. In case of a rear-end collision, the backs of the front seats and the head rests support the upper body.

An electronic stabilization program (ESP) is standard, and can be partially switched off when driving under 44 mph. A new variable steering ratio system adjusts by nearly 100 percent depending on the speed driven.

High-tech features

Optional high-tech systems include the Audi parking system (a parking aid; standard for the A4 Avant Ambiente), Audi lane assist (the lane departure warning system) and Audi side assist (which warns of hazards when changing lane). Adaptive cruise control maintains the distance to the vehicle in front.

The Audi Music Interface (AMI) allows iPods and similar devices to be connected. The navigation systems with MMI Basic plus or with DVD including MMI are also further upgrade options. They permit the integration of cell phones as Bluetooth car phones and are combined with the competition-beating MMI operating system. A high-performance Bang & Olufsen audio system is available with a 505 watt, ten-channel amplifier that controls 14 speakers.

Packages

The new Audi A4 Avant will roll off the production line in the Attraction, Ambition, and Ambiente equipment lines. The dynamic S line offers the options of an exterior package and a sports package. The range of options includes luxury-class features such as air-conditioned comfort seats, the triple-zone climate control system, the advanced key which allows keyless access to the vehicle and vehicle start-up at the press of a button, and the dynamic cornering light system known as adaptive light. The large panoramic glass sunroof lights up the interior.