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Audi : Audi A4 Cabrio
The market launch of the production version of the four-seater model with fully automatic soft top will follow in Spring 2002. The exhibition model, which is 4.57 metres long and 1.77 metres wide, incorporates the classically elegant characteristics of the Audi Cabriolet in a new design, at the same time underlining the sporty image of the Audi brand. One thing is already certain: the uncompromising dynamism of the V6 engines, developing up to 162 kW (220 bhp), and the aluminium suspension, coupled with the elegant simplicity of Audi design and exclusive equipment will also characterise the production version of the A4 Cabriolet - the perfect basis for a new kind of driving experience.
The double radiator grille, distinct, round wheel arches and the basic line of the silhouette identify the Cabriolet as a member of the A4 model family. Nonetheless, with its powerful proportions and the unique characteristics of the front and tail ends, it exudes an extremely individual aura. The windscreen frame with its brushed aluminium surface and the aluminium strip along the waistline additionally underline this individuality. There's no question about it: the new Cabriolet is the emotional spearhead of the sporty A4 model family. Two powerful V6 engines provide the front-wheel-drive Audi A4 Cabriolet with the necessary propulsion: the new 162 kW (220 bhp) 3.0-litre unit with aluminium engine block and continuous camshaft adjustment and the 2.4-litre version boosted to 125 kW (170 bhp) will be available at market launch. With a peak torque of 300 or 230 Nm respectively, they make supreme traction from any speed as much fun as extremely swift acceleration from a standstill. At the same time, both engines are notable for their sporty six-cylinder sound and outstanding refinement - a combination that is extremely popular, especially with convertible drivers. The Audi A4 Cabriolet introduces a brand new dimension to transmission technology, unique in the convertible segment, in the form of the continuously variable multitronic. This transmission combines the dynamic qualities of a manual gearbox with the convenience of an automatic. And the multitronic adds to these strengths with the unique experience of continuously variable acceleration. Yet the sporting talents of the new A4 Cabriolet are by no means limited to the drive train sector. The lightweight aluminium suspension, based on the much-praised axle design of the A4 saloon, provides the ideal basis for maximum agility and, consequently, sheer driving pleasure. Four-link front suspension and trapezoidal-link rear suspension enable maximum steering precision and clearly defined handling with excellent cornering stability. Ride comfort also benefits from this ingenious axle design because a low unsprung mass also makes for a particularly sensitive response. A general characteristic for which the A4 saloon has already received unanimous praise in the automotive press, and which is accentuated even more clearly on this new model. Audi's development engineers have tuned the chassis components to improve sports performance even further. And they have also lowered the suspension - and consequently the centre of gravity - compared with the saloon and Avant models. This concept is ideally complemented by the high torsional rigidity of the Cabriolet body. It is a full 112 percent more rigid than its predecessor - a quantum leap. This gain benefits both dynamic performance and comfort. The car's safety also profits from the body's rigid structure. The Audi development engineers' objective was a level of stability and thus crash resistance that is equal in every way to that of the A4 saloon. This model has already demonstrated in impressive style just how effective its safety concept is in several crash tests, including the Euro NCAP test for which it was awarded four stars. The comprehensive safety package contains seat belts with belt-force limiter and belt tensioner, together with full-size front and side airbags. The side airbags integrated into the front seats are designed to protect the head and thorax. An active roll-over protection system provides additional safety if the car overturns. In this case, two protective bars, controlled by sensors, are triggered behind the rear seats within milliseconds. Together with the extremely rigid windscreen frame they help to preserve the necessary survival space both for the front and rear passengers if the car rolls over. The Electronic Stability Program ESP with hydraulic brake assist provides for maximum active safety. The Audi A4 Cabriolet has an electro-hydraulically operated hood with a heated glass rear window as standard equipment. Outstanding acoustic insulation and excellent suitability for winter conditions are attributes that can be taken for granted on the hood of an Audi Cabriolet. Another aspect that can be taken for granted is the outstanding material quality and finish of the interior. The interior design, perfectly matched to the styling of the exterior, gives the entire Audi A4 Cabriolet a homogenous overall impression. The striking centre console is the cornerstone of the distinctly sporty cockpit.. Round air vents with aluminium trim rings underline the dynamic overall appearance. In this way the interior of the Cabriolet is also kept deliberately distinct from that of the other A4 models, consequently demonstrating its exclusiveness. The Cabriolet's passengers also travel in style in terms of spaciousness. The wheelbase has been increased by 100 millimetres compared with the previous generation. This means considerable more room in all directions; the A4 Cabriolet is a full-size four-seater vehicle. 66 millimetres more knee room for the rear passengers, 36 millimetres more shoulder room at the front and as much as 67 millimetres in the back: these are just some of the figures that verify the leap between generations and that are confirmed by a generous feeling of space which can also be felt subjectively. The luggage compartment has also grown considerably compared with the previous model: thanks to its variable design it has a capacity of 315 litres when the hood is closed, and still a generous 246 litres with the roof down - a dimension that puts the Audi A4 Cabriolet streets ahead of key competitors. The new Audi A4 Cabriolet also sets a benchmark in its class with a tank volume of 70 litres. This also applies to the new model's range of equipment. The Audi A4 Cabriolet's standard specification includes numerous features that are often only available at extra cost elsewhere: for example, a fully automatic hood, automatic air conditioning and an active rollover protection system. Electric windows, central locking with radio remote control, Isofix child seat mountings on three seats and 16-inch alloy wheels are also part of the standard package. An equipment specification that sets standards. In addition, an extensive range of optional extras, from xenon headlights to the Audi telematics traffic service, offers numerous possibilities for customising every A4 Cabriolet to suit each customer's individual requirements. Pictures source: Audi AG
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