At the Paris Motor Show in autumn 2004, the world premiere of the third generation Audi A4 with the factory designation "B7" took place. The car was built on the platform of its predecessor, but the modernization was so serious that a new index was separated for it in Ingolstadt. This model stood on the conveyor until 2008, after which it received a follower.
According to the European classification, the Audi A4 of the third generation is a premium representative of the D-class, which was offered in sedan, station wagon and convertible solutions with a soft roof.
The length of the car, depending on the type of body, is 4573-4586 mm, width - 1772-1777 mm, height - 1427-1518 mm. The wheelbase and ground clearance are identical for all modifications - 2648 mm and 130 mm, respectively.
The "third" Audi A4 was equipped with a wide variety of gasoline and diesel units, which were combined with 6-speed "mechanics" and "automatic", as well as a continuously variable variator directing torque to the front wheels (optional permanent four-wheel drive was offered).
The gasoline part of the "German" consists mainly of four-cylinder atmospheric and turbocharged units with a volume of 1.6 to 2.0 liters and a capacity of 102 to 220 "horses" of power, developing from 148 to 300 Nm of limiting torque. However, there were also naturally aspirated V6 engines: with a volume of 3.0-3.1 liters, they produce 218-255 horsepower and 290-330 Nm of torque. Turbodiesel versions were also installed on the car: "fours" with a volume of 1.9-2.0 liters, pulsating 115-170 forces and 285-350 Nm, and "six" for 2.5-3.0 liters, the return of which is 163-233 "mares" and 310-450 Nm.
Like its predecessor, the 3rd generation A4 is built on the PL46 platform with independent suspensions of both axles: a four-link structure in the front and a double-link structure in the rear. The steering device is distinguished by the presence of a hydraulic booster. The front wheels "flaunt" ventilated discs of the brake system, and the rear - discs without ventilation.
The owners of the “third A4” note that the car has an attractive appearance and premium interior, excellent controllability and brisk driving (especially with turbocharged engines), rich equipment and thoughtful soundproofing.
But not everything is as “colorful” as it seems at first glance: the car is expensive to maintain, it often has problems with electronics, and the ground clearance is low for Russian roads.
