Rendering - India-bound 2016 Audi A4 launches next year

Will shed 100 kg thanks to a new platform. 

2015 will be an important year for VW Group-owned Audi, as it sets to replace two of its popular cars with their next generation models. The Q7 will be the first to get a successor at the Detroit Auto Show in January, while the A4's successor is expected to be revealed at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

This rendering of the new A4 is based on new prototypes of the car which are currently out testing with production ready bumpers, body panels and light elements. It's clear to see that the front fascia of the new A4 is inspired by the new TT sportscar, with thin headlights, a bolder Singleframe grille and crisply cut airdams in the bumper.

The overall dimensions of the new A4 are expected to mirror that of the current generation model, but the new A4 will feature a reported 100 kg weight loss. This comes thanks to the MLB Evo platform that underpins the car, which is, again reported, to use lightweight materials for construction.

Base variants of the A4 will use a 1.4 TFSI engine paired to a 6-speed manual transmission, though India is likely to continue getting the car with 2.0-liter petrol and diesel engines. The CVT gearbox will be ditched in favor of a 7-speed DSG though.

Also read: Audi A4 Premium Sport launched in India

With a lighter weight, fresher design and modern features, the new A4 is expected to put a worthy fight against rivals like the new C Class (which was launched in India today) and the new Jaguar XE.

Competitors: BMW 3 Series, Jaguar XE, Mercedes C Class
Expected Price: INR 30-40 lakhs, ex-Showroom
Launch date in Europe: 2015

[Rendering from CarAdvice]