Audi rolls out an updated version of the A4 lineup, with a revised look and new engines. The new A4 (internal code name: B7), succumbs to Audi's gaping maw grille, but at least the high style inside continues largely as before. In Europe, a staggering ten different engines are offered, including four diesels, but our engine count remains the same-two for the A4 and one for the S4. Both A4 powerplants are new and feature gasoline direct injection. The base 2.0-liter turbo four makes 197 horsepower (up from 170 hp for the current 1.8T), while the new 3.2-liter V-6 is good for 252 hp, easily bettering the 3.0-liter's 220 hp. The S4's 4.2-liter V-8 remains at 340 horsepower. Five-speed and six-speed manuals again are offered, with a CVT for front-wheel-drive models and a six-speed Tiptronic for Quattros. The new A4 sedan and Avant wagon should land on our shores in March-of 2005, that is-with the S4 to follow a month or so later.
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