Spied: Audi’s next-gen A4 sedan

AUDI’S next-generation A4 is starting to take shape after its launch was pushed back to allow more styling and suspension tweaks ahead of the new model’s launch.

Our spy images show the reworked small luxury sedan due sometime in 2016 – it should also spawn a wagon version that will roll into an SUV-styled Allroad model – gains more coupe-like styling as it prepares to tackle the segment’s latest newcomer, the Jaguar XE, as well as traditional rivals the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class and even the Lexus IS.

Sitting on the Volkswagen Group’s new MLB (modular longitudinal) platform shared with the all-new Q7, the A4 appears to be gaining a wider rear track that will help with on-road performance.

Also helping will be a weight loss of up to 100kg as Audi replaces much of the previous model’s architecture with a combination of high-strength steel, aluminium and carbon fibre-reinforced plastics.

Also gaining a big makeover are the headlights and tail lamps, with the forward-facing beams gaining a new-look, R8-style LED signature as part of the daytime running light cluster.

A key part of the new A4’s architecture is planning for alternative drivetrains. The new A4 is expected to offer tradtional choices of petrol and diesel engines sending drive to the front or all four wheels, but should include a version wearing the brand’s e-tron badge – either as a full electric vehicle or a plug-in petrol or diesel hybrid.

Transmissions are expected to stay as either a six-speed manual gearbox or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.