Pricing: 2009 Audi A4 Avant and sedan

Pricing for the new 2009 Audi A4 has just been released, with the sedan version starting at $32,700. It will come equipped with the  2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine, this time producing 211 hp, and as before,  will be available with a 3.2-liter V6 engine. All-wheel-drive comes on both. Later front-wheel drive models will also be available. Starting at $34,500, the A4 Avant wagon will be equipped with the four-cylinder engine mated with a 6-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Audi boasts better fuel economy in the new A4 line than the previous version due to various  engine tweaks.

Consumer Reports has recommended the previous version of the A4, but found that it had cramped rear seats. Audi has endeavored to address this shortcoming with the redesigned model boasting a larger interior with increased rear seat room.

The A4 includes a few new driver assistance options including a lane assist system that warns a driver if the car is moving to a lane without the turn signal, side assist which uses radar sensors that scan the area behind or alongside the vehicle to see if another vehicle is approaching. Audi braking guard, which works with adaptive cruise control to determine if a crash is imminent is reminiscent of a Volvo system. A flashing red light and an audible signal warn the driver. If that doesn’t work, the car will brake for a brief moment to get the driver’s attention.

The 2009 A4 will arrive at dealerships September 15th, although some dealers may have the vehicles available for test drives in mid-August.

—Liza Barth