First, I've been able to confirm that the AutoExpress story about the A4 based AllRoad is in fact just a rumor. There are <b>no</a> plans at this time to make this into a production car. One thing that the AutoExpress article was correct about, is that Audi wants to see how successful the A6 based AllRoad is. If the A6 AllRoad is a huge hit, then the A4 AllRoad might be a reality.

Second, I've heard the name "Hunter" being associated with the A6 AllRoad that goes into production in February. I don't know if this is just an internal name that is being used, or if it's going to be the actual name of the final production version. I don't know about you, but "Audi Hunter" is pretty lame, AllRoad is much better. I sure hope that isn't the real name of the car.

Third, and last, I've heard that Audi has thought more seriously about an A3 based SAV (sport activity vechicle), and it would be similar in size to the Toyota Rav 4, Suzuki Sidekick (do they still make that??), Chevy Tracker, etc. I don't know if it would be based on an A3, or just use it's platform.

That's it from the rumor mill today. I've heard these from an "industry insider" that I feel is a fairly reliable source.

Matt

P.S. This same insider still says that we shouldn't expect a redesigned A4 any time soon. Although a debut at the 2001 Frankfurt show sounds about right to me.

sure hope we can edit messages after our next forum upgrade.

Matt

<img SRC="http://home.earthlink.net/~gofetch/kidz/images/kidz_in_explorer_s.jpg">
Hunter -- the yellow lab -- and Jazzy -- the black lab -- in their favorite vehicle. See, sport-utes <i><b>do</i></b> have a purpose... : )

BTW; the Sidekick is now the Vitara/Grand Vitara.

<a href="http://131.107.68.28/a4.org/registry/details.asp?car=909"><img SRC="http://131.107.68.28/a4org/LV4.jpg" BORDER=1 height=78 width=200></a>
<b>Rob O</b>

You can preview messages.

Plus you can kinda edit message is you catch it quickly enough. By backing up, making the change and then posting again. It'll overwrite the previous message.

The "Hunter" name sounds like a lame American truck name. All those Sierra, Silverado, Explorer, Durango or Cherokee all sound similar to the Hunter name.
As I have say before in A4 forum, the next A4 will not be appeared until fall of 2001 as Germany's Auto Motor and Sport enthuisast magazine indicated. After the bread-and-butter sedan, the Avant, the coupe and the convertible will be following next.
The next A4 1.8T will be standard with 180hp and the 2.8 will be replaced by the 3.0 unit which should bumps out around 210-225 hp in order to compete with BMW's 330 and Mercedes's GDI engine appeared on the next C-Class.
Since the magazine was about 2 months ago, I didn't read anything regarding an A4 "Hunter" or anything like that on the next A4 Avant.
The magazine claimed Audi will improves the rear-seat head and leg room along with bigger trunk space. Mechanically, Audi will gives less boost to the power steering in order to fulfill the criticism of some A4 owners and journalists (I think the current feel is perfect).
Auto Motor and Sport is a huge automotive publication in Germany, so I think its pretty reliable for some parts. I won't comment on the next A4 before the reality.
Tom
97 A4 1.8TQMS
99 BORA GLS 2.0
00 (OR 01) NEW BEETLE GLS 1.9TDI (ON ORDER)
98.5 A4 1.8TQAS WETTED

Just because you read it doesn't make it true.