2016 Audi A4 sedan (India-bound) to feature more aggressive design - Rendering

Expected to be unveiled at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA 2015).

Digital mock-ups of the 2016 Audi A4 (codenamed B9), which was spied undergoing extreme weather testing recently, have been published by World Car Fans.

The set of rendered pictures, based on the spy shots, includes both the next generation A4 sedan and the A4 Avant (estate). Up front, the vehicle gets the hexagonal Singleframe grille, flanked by sharper looking headlamps. The new bumper lends an aggressive look to the fascia.

Set to be based on Volkswagen's second generation MLB platform, the A4 can be larger than before, to widen the gap between itself and the A3 sedan, suggests the report. But thanks to the use of high strength steel and aluminium in the car's structure, it's expected to be lighter by up to 100 kg.

Audi offers a wide range of engines on the A4, and that's unlikely to change. But the new 3-litre TFSI and TDI motors could be added to the range, as well. A plug-in hybrid version, with the system derived from the A3 e-tron, could make it to the range a later into the launch, while a diesel hybrid is said to be in development, too.

The new A4's transmission choices will include a 6-speed manual (unlikely to come to the Indian market) and a 9-speed automatic gearbox, while both front-wheel drive and Quattro all-wheel drive options (India unlikely) will be available.

Also read: 2015 Audi A1 (facelift) showcased at the Vienna Autoshow

The 2016 Audi A4 sedan has been confirmed for a launch this year, and is expected to make an appearance at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA 2015) that is to be held in September. Expect to see the car in the Indian market before mid-2016.

Competitors: BMW 3 Series, Mercedes C Class, Jaguar XE
Launch: Late 2015 or Early 2016 (in Europe)

[Source - World Car Fans]