For Audi, the year 2020 turned out to be mostly about launching the expensive stuff in India. The list included the Q8, A8 L, RS 7 Sportback and the RS Q8. Then, in October, the Q2 landed for the first time in the country and gave Audi an edge over its German, English and Swedish rivals in the affordable (relatively!) segment. Expanding that space will be the A4 facelift, which now has a confirmed launch date. Mark your calendars – the date is January 5, 2021.

Bookings for the sedan officially opened on December 21, 2020. If you book one before the launch date, Audi will throw in a 4-year comprehensive service package with the car. If you add the cost of that package with the savings it will offer, the resulting amount will be significant.

Like all other BS6-compliant (Bharat Stage 6) Audi models, the A4 facelift will arrive in a petrol-only guise. Under the bonnet will be the same engine-transmission combination that propels the Q2 SUV. The 2.0-litre, turbocharged petrol mill pumps out 188bhp/320Nm, while a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic handles transmission duties. With that powertrain, the sedan can hit 100kmph from a standstill in 7.3 seconds.

The refreshed A4 will be available in multiple trim levels. On the features front, the sedan will offer stuff such as a 10.1-inch MMI touchscreen infotainment system, Audi Connect Services, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, LED-powered headlamps and taillamps, powered seats, auto-dimming inner and outer rear-view mirrors and ambient lighting.

The A4 has been missing from the game for a worrying amount of time. We would have received it soon, had it not been for the infamous pandemic outbreak. Once launched, it will give the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class and the Jaguar XE a run for their money. Soon, the Swedes will join the party with the all-new S60.