As with all recent new models save for the S-class Mercedes, the A4 has grown in all dimensions.  The 2001 model is 69 mm longer, 33 mm wider and 3 mm taller than its predecessor.  One of the chief complaints against the old A4 was lack of rear-seat knee room; the new model has addressed this through a 25-mm longer wheelbase and  repackaging of the interior bits to enlarge the rear seat area.  The trunk is still quite roomy, able to swallow several large suitcases with ease.

Interior room aside, not much seems to have changed inside the cockpit.  The steering wheel is now a four-spoker, with the familiar four gauges separated by a navigation-trip computer screen.  It’s still a little bit too gray and dreary for our tastes, despite the wood strip inserts.  The fit and finish are sure to be as excellent as ever.

Five engines will be offered during launch, all of them new to the A4.  There's a 2.0 liter 4-cylinder good for 130 bhp, an upgrade from the previous base 1.8.  A 1.8 liter turbo with 150 bhp is replaced by—a 1.8 liter turbo with 150 bhp; however, this is a new engine with lower emissions.  A 3.0 V6 is available for the first time, with 220 bhp. No European would be complete without diesels, so two are offered: a 2.5 V6 and 1.9 inline 4, both turbos and both with prodigious amounts of torque at low rpm.  An S4 version with twin-turbo V6 will surely follow in a few months.  Front drive is standard, but the best versions are the ones with Quattro all-wheel drive.  Order a Quattro, and you’ll get a six-speed gearbox, too.  A continuously-variable automatic is an option.

Since the styling has improved, it's only appropriate that so has the driving.   The A4 exhibits a better ride, as well as improved steering response.  Front seat passengers will be protected by front and side airbags, and a curtain airbag running front to rear on both sides will also be standard.  Electronic traction and braking controls and the security of the all-wheel drive make for a formidable active safety package.  Prices start at £20,000 going all the way up to £30,000 for the 3.0 V6. 
The roofline may say that interior is cramped, but its not. The new A4 promises more interior space than its predecessor, thanks to a longer chassis and wider body.
It seems that multiple lamp clusters are the 'in thing' nowadays, as the A4 take on that same look. The new nicely chiseled look echo that of the Audi TT Coupe...but does it have the pace to match? Seems to, especially with the all-new engine line-up topped with a 3.0-liter 5-valve V6.