IRVINE, CA - Since the A4 sedan debuted in 1996, Audi has made huge strides in North America. Sales have set records, consumers outside of the Snowbelt have discovered the benefits of the company's quattro all-wheel-drive system, and critics have ranked some of this German automaker's products as best in their class.

Audi wants to keep the momentum going, and has given its volume-selling A4 a significant mid-year update for 2006 and beyond. Technically, the revised A4 is a 2005.5 model, based upon the same foundation as the existing car. However, it has received a thorough restyling, new engines, an improved suspension, and fresh technology to keep it competitive in the hotly contested entry-luxury category.

Exterior design conforms to the new Audi corporate look, with a huge trapezoidal grille ringed by chrome, thin upswept headlamp lenses, and revised taillights that extend onto the trunk lid. A sharp crease adds character to the somewhat plain flanks of the new Audi A4, and fresh wheel designs help to further differentiate this updated version from older models.

Two new engines debut in the 2005.5 Audi A4. The standard direct-injection 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder is the same engine found in the 2006 Audi A3, making 200 horsepower and the majority of its peak torque between 1,800 rpm and 5,000 rpm for excellent mid-range response and a minimum of turbo lag when accelerating from a stop. Audi A4s equipped with this motor are expected to accelerate from rest to 60 mph in about seven seconds.