2008 Audi A4 to be smaller?

The general consensus among industry insiders is that the 2008 Audi A4 -- due at the end of 2007 -- will take inspiration from the Audi Roadjet Concept (shown right). Some reports even suggested the Roadjet was essentially a direct replacement to the current A4. However, its dimensions -- four inches longer, three inches wider, and two inches taller -- made this seem unlikely. In February, Audi's Martin Winterkorn was quoted as saying the Roadjet was the basis for a new line of cars positioned between the A4 and A6 -- this could include a new sportwagon, A5 coupe, and Q5. Today, spy photographer Hans G. Lehman said in a published report that the new A4 will actually be smaller than the current model. While most cars are continually growing in size with each generation, Audi wants to make the A4 more compact. Its overall length is said to shrink by three of four inches. It's unclear if this reduction can be attributed to shorter overhangs, but we suspect Audi may be trying to differentiate the "4" series from the new "5" lineup.