Audi S4: 25 Questions on the 25quattro

The guys from Fourtitude had the chance to ask some questions to Christian Bokich, Audi of America's A4/S4 Product Manager.

2.) Why the S4 instead of an A4 2.0T like the A4 DTM?

We wanted to find a great way to bring more attention to the S4. The A4 got a thorough upgrade in the 2.0T and 3.2 FSI engines, as well as brakes and suspension. The S4 has always been an excellent vehicle with its V8 engine, manual and automatic transmission offerings, but it was definitely the S4's turn for a highlight. This was also a chance for Audi of America to show our enthusiast customers that we are proactively seeking out projects with Audi AG and quattro GmbH to bring over the great niche packages that become available in Europe from time to time. We jumped on that opportunity.

5.) Why Avus Silver?

Avus Silver is a stunning color that makes the car stand out. Its easy to use colors like red/yellow/bright blue, but this color is refined and bold in its own right.

8.) We've seen black painted grilles now on the Q7 S-line and new TT coupe. Was this the first implemenation of the gloss black Audi grille and whose idea was it?

To my knowledge, yes. Audi is known for understatement, but all markets around the world, including Germany, recognize that Audi cars have an opportunity stand out a bit more in a tasteful and refined way. This was one of those opportunities.

The painted grille idea came from quattro GmbH.

9.) We really like the red tow hook. It looked tough in a motorsport kind of way. Will we ever see any more red tow hooks from Audi?

Not for a while. The real story is that quattro GmbH worldwide head Mr. Frohwein wanted it on the DTM kit because our DTM race cars in europe have rear red tow hooks. I agree that this touch was necessary. Why? Because it’s a point of authenticity. Any time we can have this level of attention to detail (which we do, more often than not), we take it.

In regards to authenticity, Audi of America asked for and received one of the Le Mans RS 4 safety cars after the June 2005 race that was sent to California in August 2005 to 'The Quail' event during the Monterey week just before the Pebble Beach Concours. With its strobe lights on top, Le Mans decals, and German license plates, it was shown at during fall 2005 west coast auto shows.

The RS 4 safety car was then sent to Sebring, Florida for the March 2006 '12 Hours of Sebring' race with different decals. Having this car being the pace car in the race was a great photo op and showed Audi's place as being an authentic sporty and sophisticated German luxury car brand.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, Audi A4, Audi S4

Source: Fourtitude

Audi S4: 25 Questions on the 25quattro

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