Take a close look at the black Audi A4 shown here. Notice how far forward the front axle centerline is? That's because you're looking at a mule of the next-generation A4, due for launch at the end of 2007. To give the new A4 better weight distribution and sportier handling, Audi engineers have devised a new gearbox and front differential layout that's allowed them to move the front axle centerline forward almost four inches. The new platform will radically change the A4's proportions: Although the new car will be about four inches longer overall, the front overhang will be dramatically shortened.
Audi will build an SUV and a coupe off its next-gen A4 architecture, according to boss Martin Winterkorn. A third variant, called the Sportback and closely related to the Roadjet concept revealed at the Detroit show, is under study but not yet confirmed for production.
The Q5 compact sport crossover SUV will launch as a 2009 model in 2008. The vehicle isn't related to VW's upcoming crossover, which appeared as a concept at the Geneva auto show. While the VW is based on the Golf platform, the longitudinal-engine platform of the A4 means it's a bigger vehicle with a more sophisticated AWD system. Audi's compact 4.2-liter FSI engine will fit under the hood, making it the only competitor in the BMW X3 class available with a V-8.
The A5 coupe launches in early 2007 in Europe, with the U.S. launch following closely. It's a two-door with a trunklid, not the speculated hatchback or four-door coupe model (though a four-door coupe to take on the Mercedes CLS might well follow later, based on the A6). The A5 is more than just a two-door A4; all body panels are different. Audi calls it a new segment for the company; it'll compete with coupe versions of the BMW 3 Series, and the Mercedes CLK. That said, it isn't entirely new for Audi-remember the quattro and Coupe GT of the mid-1980s?
The as-yet-unconfirmed Sportback would hit the market as a 2009 model. Interest from the American dealers was muted, which may harm its chances of making production, but the European markets seem receptive to an Audi with a better ratio of passenger space to external dimensions. Winterkorn wants Audi to grow to 1.4 million cars a year worldwide by 2015, up from one million now, hence the push to model proliferation.