The new A4 is still some few days out, but thanks to this early preview I got a chance to see just what’s going on with the subtle yet appreciable – not to mention critical – changes to both the exterior and interior design over the outgoing car. With 12 million A4 sold worldwide, there’s a lot riding on this ninth-generation (“B9”) model, especially as it faces down the likes of BMW’s 3-Series and Mercedes-Benz’s C-Class.

Audi’s table is audibly groaning with the 2017 A4. Its handsome, hewn-from-solid-metal looks are timeless, but the roster of gadgetry, safety technology, and driver comfort are first-rate. Semi-autonomous driving in the city is a legitimate advantage over even the advanced smart cruise control systems other automakers offer, and gives a tantalizing glimpse of what truly self-driving cars will be like.

WE hope to host this beast for review soon!