With its next generation, arriving in 2008, Audi’s most popular model will undergo its biggest change yet. Beyond the usual styling evolution, the A4 will see a major change to its mechanical layout. Revised powertrain packaging will allow the engine to move four inches rearward, which should reduce front overhang and, together with an updated suspension and rear-biased Quattro, improve handling. The engine lineup, however, is little changed: a 2.0-liter FSI turbo four; a 3.2-liter V-6; and a 4.2-liter V-8 (in the S4). The sedan will be the only body style, as the convertible becomes an A5 and the wagon is dropped in favor of the Q5 crossover.

The release of the new Audi A4 Avant is expected to be around twelve months after the debut of the sedan, which puts its arrival sometime in early 2009.