Audi has revealed its new BMW 3 Series and Mercedes C-Class rival prior to its official debut at the Frankfurt Show. Audi talks extensively of the new A4 being the most dynamic car in the class, though however detailed the technical changes are, you might be forgiven from not noticing them from the outside. That's because Audi has played it very safe with the styling, the new A4 differing only in minor detail design-wise - at a glance anyway. That's surprising, as underneath that relatively unadventurous re-style is a car that promises to be a far more appealing choice for the driver. Audi has moved the front axle forward by 154mm, reducing the front overhang and improving weight distribution. Add completely redesigned suspension utilising a number of lightweight aluminium components and a wider track, and the oft-criticised dynamics of the outgoing A4 look certain to be improved. That suspension and longer wheelbase is carried by a far stiffer platform too, Audi using lightweight, yet high-strength steel to add torsional rigidity while also adding to crash protection.

Offered with a range of engines and transmissions enhanced from the outgoing model, five engines will be offered with outputs ranging from 143bhp to 265bhp from launch. Further models, including range-topping V8 S4 and RS4 are likely to follow to challenge rivals from AMG and BMW's M division, while at the more sensible end of the range naturally aspirated petrol entry-level engines are also likely to join the line-up in the future. Transmissions again follow the outgoing car, with six-speed manual, a Tiptronic automatic and Multitronic continuously variable transmission being offered, combined with either front-wheel drive or quattro permanent all-wheel drive. Driver aids feature extensively in the A4's technical make up. There's ESP and ABS with all the usual incorporated control systems that aid stability, traction and braking control, but Audi has also added dynamic steering to the A4. This system alters the speed and ratio of the A4's steering to suit the driving situation, being light and quick when manoeuvring, and weighting up and becoming less direct as speed increases to aid high-speed stability. The system can also help mitigate understeer and oversteer by reacting in conjunction with the ESP system and providing a degree of corrective steering input.

It's just one of a number of new systems that allow the A4 driver to influence their car's response, Audi's new 'drive select' enabling changes in suspension and adjusting accelerator response and Tiptronic shift points via the selection of comfort, auto or dynamic modes on the centre console. That console can be fitted optionally with Audi's MMI infotainment interface and satellite navigation system along with full iPod integration. The A4's interior and controls are all certain to remain the benchmark in the class for both functionality and design clarity. Space too, has been improved thanks to that longer wheelbase, Audi also claiming that there's no loss of boot space between the front-wheel drive and quattro models. No specific details of UK trims are currently available, though German sales of the A4 start in November, the UK likely to get right-hand drive models early next year.

Prices will be confirmed nearer the A4's UK launch date.

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