Audi Discontinues A4 Shifts to New Naming Strategy

For decades, the Audi A4 has been a staple in the premium sedan segment. Yet recently, enthusiasts noticed its gradual disappearance from showrooms. Contrary to speculation about discontinuation, this change represents a strategic rebranding as Audi transitions toward electrification.

Audi has implemented a streamlined naming convention to distinguish between powertrain technologies. Under this system, combustion-powered models will bear odd-numbered designations (A3, A5, A7), while even numbers (A4, A6, A8) will identify electric vehicles. Thus, the familiar A4 hasn't been discontinued but reborn as the A5, with the former A5 coupe and convertible concluding production after the 2024 model year.

The A4 lineage traces back to the Audi 80, first introduced to the U.S. market in 1996. The inaugural B5-generation A4 shared its platform with the Volkswagen Passat, offering sedan and wagon configurations powered by a turbocharged 1.8-liter inline-four engine. Available transmissions included a five-speed manual or Porsche-developed Tiptronic automatic, with optional quattro all-wheel drive and a 3.0-liter V6 upgrade.

Subsequent generations introduced evolutionary improvements:

• B6 (2002): Added a convertible variant
• B7 (Mid-cycle refresh): Enhanced styling and technology
• B8 (2009-2016): Complete platform redesign
• B9 (2017-2025): Introduced A4 Allroad variant

As production concludes, approximately 112 A4 sedans remain available at U.S. dealerships. The final edition features:

• 2.0L turbocharged inline-four (261 hp)
• 12V mild hybrid system
• Seven-speed dual-clutch transmission
• Standard quattro all-wheel drive
• 0-60 mph in 4.8 seconds (Car and Driver testing)
• Base MSRP: $44,100

Effectively replacing the A4 sedan, the new A5 evolves from the current A5 Sportback five-door hatchback. Key enhancements include:

• Increased dimensions (wheelbase, length, width, height)
• 2.0L turbo-four (268 hp) with 48V mild hybrid
• Redesigned DSG dual-clutch transmission
• Starting price: $47,700

Audi's signature system continuously monitors traction conditions, automatically distributing torque between axles for optimal stability. Modern iterations employ electronic differentials for precision torque vectoring.

The dual-clutch gearbox utilizes two independent clutch modules for seamless gear changes. While delivering rapid shifts and improved efficiency, it requires specialized maintenance including periodic clutch pack replacement.

Both 12V and 48V configurations recuperate braking energy to assist acceleration and reduce engine load. The 48V system in the new A5 enables extended start-stop functionality and smoother transitions between driving modes.

This transition reflects Audi's commitment to electrification while maintaining combustion offerings for traditional buyers. The renamed A5 will compete against established rivals like the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, while future even-numbered EVs will challenge Tesla's Model 3 and Polestar 2.

The A4's rebranding marks a pivotal moment in Audi's history - honoring its engineering legacy while embracing electrification. For enthusiasts, the final 2025 A4 represents a collector's opportunity, while the new A5 continues the marque's tradition of premium sport sedans with enhanced technology and performance.